The Sonoran Desert surrounds Chandler Heights, Arizona with temperatures ranging from 40°F in winter nights to over 110°F in summer days. Located at approximately 1,400 feet elevation, the area experiences less than 10 inches of rainfall annually, creating distinctive desert camping conditions where shade structures become essential equipment for most of the year.
What to do
Hiking the Superstition Mountains: At Lost Dutchman State Park Campground, trails range from easy nature walks to challenging mountain treks. "Perfect for just getting away for the weekend. Only a 45 minute drive from the house, yet far enough that you still feel like you got away. Lots of good hiking, Ghost Town, good views," notes Chad E.
Horseback riding options: Several trails accommodate equestrians with select camping sites offering horse facilities. "They also have horse rentals just outside the park (seasonal, no summer rentals) and several events monthly such as guided hikes that you can find on their online events calendar," explains a visitor to Cave Creek Regional Park.
Stargazing opportunities: While light pollution from Phoenix impacts some areas, many spots still offer decent night sky viewing. "Beautiful sunset, amazing view of moon rising over mountains. Heard some coyotes in the night, which was exciting. Enjoyed hiking the trails and exploring the landscape," mentions Rebecca G. about her experience at Lost Dutchman.
What campers like
Spacious sites with desert landscaping: Cave Creek Regional Park receives praise for its site layout. "The sites are far enough apart that you have enough room to spread out. You don't feel like you are on top of your neighbors," notes Christopher W. The park features natural desert landscaping with each site positioned among native plants.
Clean facilities: The well-maintained amenities consistently earn positive reviews. "Campsite is clean and very easy to reserve ahead of time on the supported website which is very easy to use and see all the items open," states Brad B. about Lost Dutchman State Park.
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk bring active wildlife periods. "Enjoyed hiking the trails and exploring the landscape," says Rebecca G., while another camper at Usery Mountain Regional Park mentions, "The sites are well maintained and the visitor center is worth a look. Wonderful hiking trails around the park."
What you should know
Summer heat requires preparation: From May through September, daytime temperatures routinely exceed 100°F. "It was 90 the day we left (~March 23rd), night temp was cool and windows left open," reports Mark M. about camping at Usery Mountain Regional Park in spring.
Reservation requirements vary by season: Winter months demand advance planning. "Suggest you make reservations well ahead for busy winter months!" advises Debbie W. about Lost Dutchman State Park Campground.
Limited shade at most sites: Natural shade is scarce in this desert environment. "No shade here at all but otherwise pretty decent. My spot had water and electric," notes Chris P. about Picacho-Tucson NW KOA, reflecting a common situation throughout the region.
Yurt camping options: For those seeking alternatives to traditional tent or RV camping, yurt accommodations exist near Chandler Heights, Arizona. These structures provide solid shelter from desert conditions while maintaining a camping experience. "Clean camp with full hookups. We stayed here to get away and visit Rooster Cogburns Ostrich farm," reports Jeffrey P. about his stay at a facility offering alternative accommodations.
Tips for camping with families
Ranger programs: Mesa-Apache Junction KOA offers family-oriented activities. "The KOA features a year round heated pool and jacuzzi. The pool area was fenced and had some chairs, tables, and what appeared to be covered grills," notes a visitor.
Playgrounds and recreation areas: Several campgrounds include child-friendly facilities. "The KOA features a small fenced playground with a tetherball, swing set, merry go round, and a table with an umbrella," reports a Mesa-Apache Junction KOA guest.
Proximity to attractions: Many sites provide convenient access to family-friendly destinations. "We stayed a couple of nights while visiting family and friends in the area. Gave us a chance to refill water and propane, take some long hot showers and generally recharge before heading back out on the road," shares Teresa A. about Mesa-Apache Junction KOA.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Windy Hill Campground campers suggest carefully checking site specifications. "Depending on the time of year it can be rowdy and crowded. Week days are relaxing and quiet," advises Candy P.
Weather preparedness: The region's name offers clues about conditions. "It's named windy hill for a reason. Stake everything down well and don't leave shade pop up tents up while you're out, they might be gone to the wind when you get back," warns Candy P. about Windy Hill Campground.
Dump station locations: Some facilities have limited services. "There seem to be one super secret place to dump your trailer water, grey & black. While you can dump there for free, you cannot find it without a treasure map," reports Alejandro D. about Windy Hill, suggesting RVers should research waste disposal options before arrival.
