Best Campgrounds near Cave Creek, AZ

The camping areas around Cave Creek, Arizona range from developed parks to more rustic forest settings. Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground has plenty of room for both tents and RVs, with basic amenities like restrooms, picnic tables, and fire rings that make camping there pretty comfortable. If you head to White Spar Campground in Prescott National Forest, you'll camp under pine trees in a more basic setting that connects directly to hiking trails. You can drive to both campgrounds on good roads, though some of the back areas might need a vehicle with better clearance. Many people choose Lake Pleasant because you can go boating and fishing right there. White Spar tends to be quieter and feels more removed from town. The Sonoran Desert landscape surrounds these camping areas, with interesting plants and animals to see. Be ready for temperature changes - desert nights can get cold even when days are hot. Bring extra water and something for shade or sun protection, particularly in summer months. If you want to take longer trips, the Grand Canyon and Colorado River aren't too far away. Cave Creek has camping that works whether you like established campgrounds or more out-of-the-way places. Spring and fall typically have the best camping weather. Just check if anything's closed for the season before you go. The beautiful desert setting and different camping choices make this area worth visiting.

Best Camping Sites Near Cave Creek, Arizona (254)

    1. Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground

    64 Reviews
    Peoria, AZ
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (602) 506-2930

    $15 - $300 / night

    "We stayed in late September and had no neighbors next to us so we felt like we were in the desert. There was no direction that had a bad view."

    "It was an great way to be exposed to trails I may not have chosen on my own."

    2. Cave Creek Regional Park

    17 Reviews
    Cave Creek, AZ
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (623) 465-0431

    "My visit was to the Cave Creek Regional Park (since there's no "official" description of what Cave Creek Rec Area is defined as, and the website link goes to an outdated Maricopa County webpage)."

    "Well maintained facility just outside of the quaint little town of Cave Creek. Lots of room between sites, which each have a picnic table in a beautiful desert landscape."

    3. McDowell Mountain Regional Park

    19 Reviews
    Rio Verde, AZ
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (602) 506-2930

    $32 / night

    "Gorgeous views, very spaced out sites, and access to great mountain biking and hiking trails. Even the overflow area where we had to spend a couple of nights has a very nice bathroom and shower."

    "No sewer, however electric and water are available and conveniently located. NO shade however and in the summer it is HOT! Desert surround's and lots you singing coyotes at night and early morning!"

    4. Pleasant Harbor RV Resort

    18 Reviews
    Peoria, AZ
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (623) 235-6140

    "RV camping on big water in Arizona! We have stayed here a couple of times. Make sure to book a spot up on cliff overlooking the water. Great sunsets. Free shuttle to haul kayak to boat ramp."

    "We keep a boat at Lake Pleasant and are part of the Arizona Yacht Club so we are up here all the time."

    5. Stardust trailer park

    5 Reviews
    Carefree, AZ
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 800-2654

    $70 / night

    "Stardust Trailer Park in Cave Creek, Arizona, is a hidden gem worth raving about!"

    "Stardust Trailer Park in Cave Creek is a serene spot with clean facilities, friendly staff, and beautiful desert views."

    6. Maddock Road Dispersed - AZ State Trust Land

    10 Reviews
    Peoria, AZ
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (602) 542-4631

    "Numerous campsites available in an area along State Road 74 and New River/Lake Pleasant Roads, at least 2 or 3000 acres with hundreds of establish campsites."

    "Recommend black canyon city for laundry and hiked on the black canyon trail."

    7. Pioneer RV Resort 55+

    7 Reviews
    Anthem, AZ
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (623) 465-7465

    $39 - $543 / night

    "While out-running a winter storm in Northern Arizona we headed South."

    "I’m not real keen on high occupancy parks but I wanted to stay near Phoenix - just not in Phoenix. Here to attend my grandsons graduation. Close to major shopping and restaurants. Extremely quiet."

    8. Bartlett Flat

    15 Reviews
    Rio Verde, AZ
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 595-3300

    "If you want to be more secluded keep following the shore line NW, however the more you travel the more ground clearance you’ll need so bring a vehicle with a little off road abilities of you want to be"

    "Great place to get a little bit off road but not really get too off road…."

    9. Dispersed Camping off hwy 74

    10 Reviews
    Peoria, AZ
    16 miles

    "This was a major travel destination for RV’rs and campers passing through, or staying for a while in close proximity to Phoenix. Major disappointment."

    "The further you get away from the main road the less people. Will stay here again."

    10. Old Airstrip Camping & Staging Area

    19 Reviews
    Anthem, AZ
    21 miles

    "This is a staging area for off road vehicles, so there are a lot of quads, ATV, and OHV there. But no one seemed to be running around at all hours of the night like at other areas."

    "Really cool cactus variations all around, you can hear coyotes. And there are wild burros in the area you can def hear them and during the week it's likely you will see them!"

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Showing results 1-10 of 254 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Cave Creek, AZ

972 Reviews of 254 Cave Creek Campgrounds



Guide to Cave Creek

Camping near Cave Creek, Arizona, offers a fantastic mix of outdoor adventures and beautiful scenery. Whether you're into hiking, biking, or just soaking up the sun, there’s something for everyone in this area.

What to do

  • Hiking and Biking: The trails around Lost Dutchman State Park Campground are perfect for both hiking and biking. One camper mentioned, "Lace up your boots and conquer one of the park's diverse hiking trails. From challenging climbs to scenic strolls, there's a path for every level."
  • Exploring History: Check out the nearby Gold Mine. A visitor shared, "There's an old Gold Mine nearby to visit," making it a fun stop for those interested in local history.
  • Water Activities: At Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground, you can enjoy boating and fishing. One reviewer noted, "We stayed at Lake Pleasant for 2 weeks... There are lots of great trails for hiking in the park."

What campers like

  • Spacious Campsites: Campers appreciate the roomy sites at Houston Mesa Campground. One family said, "We love the ample space at each campsite, allowing us to park comfortably and spread out for a relaxing stay."
  • Clean Facilities: Many visitors rave about the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A camper at Usery Mountain Regional Park remarked, "The facilities were clean and well kept."
  • Scenic Views: The breathtaking scenery is a big hit. A reviewer at McDowell Mountain Regional Park said, "Gorgeous views, very spaced out sites, and access to great mountain biking and hiking trails."

What you should know

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground, lack showers and drinking water. A visitor pointed out, "No hot water in bathrooms. No showers."
  • Road Noise: If you're sensitive to noise, be aware that some sites, such as those at White Spar Campground, can be close to highways. One camper mentioned, "Quite a bit of highway noise."
  • Cell Service: Expect limited cell service in certain areas. A camper at Houston Mesa Campground noted, "While Verizon service isn't optimal, it's manageable."

Tips for camping with families

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with nearby trails and swimming holes. A family at Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground enjoyed, "There are wild burros in the park."
  • Spacious Sites: Choose campgrounds with larger sites, like Usery Mountain Regional Park, where families can spread out and enjoy their space. One camper said, "The park offers spacious campsites."
  • Plan for Fun: Bring bikes and outdoor games. A visitor at McDowell Mountain Regional Park shared, "Great for bikeriding enthusiasts."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Hookups: Make sure the campground has the right hookups for your RV. A camper at Point of Rocks RV Campground mentioned, "Great trails, super nice people, clean bathrooms and showers."
  • Be Prepared for Heat: Arizona summers can be intense. A visitor at Verde Ranch RV Resort advised, "The Arizona heat can be intense during the summer months."
  • Look for Amenities: Choose campgrounds that offer amenities like pools and recreation rooms. A camper at Verde Valley RV and Camping Resort noted, "The off-leash dog park, pickleball court, and hot tub/pool are just a few to name that we use!"

Camping near Cave Creek, Arizona, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, whether you're in a tent or an RV. With plenty of activities and beautiful spots to explore, you're sure to have a memorable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Cave Creek, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, Cave Creek, AZ offers a wide range of camping options, with 254 campgrounds and RV parks near Cave Creek, AZ and 68 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Cave Creek, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Cave Creek, AZ is Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 64 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Cave Creek, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 68 free dispersed camping spots near Cave Creek, AZ.

What parks are near Cave Creek, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 8 parks near Cave Creek, AZ that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.