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Best Campgrounds near Chandler, AZ

854 Reviews

Dispersed camping options near Chandler, Arizona range from established campgrounds to remote public lands, with most sites concentrated within a 30-minute drive of the city. Tonto National Forest and the Superstition Mountains provide numerous camping opportunities, while developed facilities like Lost Dutchman State Park and Usery Mountain Regional Park offer amenities for both tent and RV campers. Many campgrounds feature electric hookups, showers, and picnic tables, while dispersed camping areas on Arizona State Trust Land provide more primitive experiences. Several RV resorts cater to those seeking full hookup sites, with Mesa-Apache Junction KOA and Encore Mesa Spirit offering cabin accommodations as alternatives to traditional camping.

Permits are required for camping on Arizona State Trust Land, with annual family permits costing approximately $20. The Sonoran Desert climate creates challenging camping conditions during summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 100°F, making winter and spring the preferred camping seasons. Bulldog Canyon and Peralta Road dispersed camping areas require specific permits and sometimes high-clearance vehicles for access. Many sites in the region have minimal or no facilities, requiring campers to pack in water and pack out trash. Fire restrictions are common during dry periods, and campers should check current regulations before planning trips. A reviewer noted: "This is Arizona State Trust Land so a permit is required but can be purchased and downloaded from their website at a cost of $21.00 and it is valid for 1 year for the family pass."

The Superstition Mountains provide dramatic backdrops for camping experiences near Chandler, with Lost Dutchman State Park receiving consistently high ratings for its stunning views and hiking opportunities. Several campers mention the abundant off-road trails available near dispersed camping areas, making the region popular with ATV and dirt bike enthusiasts. Water access points are limited but valued, with sites near the Salt River or Bartlett Lake highly sought after. Noise levels vary considerably between established campgrounds and dispersed areas, with some reviewers mentioning weekend parties in popular dispersed camping zones. According to one camper, "Mesquite Wash is one of the most beautiful spots in the Sonoran desert! There are so many amazing views! Great for hiking or off-roading." Proximity to Phoenix means most campgrounds offer good cell service, though more remote areas may have limited connectivity.

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Best Camping Sites Near Chandler, Arizona (242)

    1. Lost Dutchman State Park Campground

    83 Reviews
    Superstition Mtn, AZ
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 982-4485

    $35 - $99 / night

    "It kind of poked off the main loop away from other neighbors which is why we picked it, very close to the mtb trail and easy access to the trail leading to siphon draw. Very little shade."

    "One of my favorite trails in Arizona."

    2. Usery Mountain Regional Park

    35 Reviews
    Apache Junction, AZ
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 984-0032

    "Outstanding layout, great hosts, spectacular location. "

    "Campsite 6 is the first one on the right, across from the Camp Host site, and as close to the entrance has you’re gonna get."

    3. Encore Mesa Spirit

    8 Reviews
    Mesa, AZ
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "We loved this park in the Arizona Desert.  Close to everything, yet set up to feel like you're in your own little village. "

    "Made fast friends with the neighbors, got tons of recommendations from anyone walking or biking for things to do nearby."

    4. Mesa-Apache Junction KOA

    18 Reviews
    Apache Junction, AZ
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 982-4015

    "This KOA sits on the outskirts of Apache Junction, which itself isn't Phoenix proper but an eastern suburb. The RV park has all of the basics: power, water, sewer plus a pool and a level, clean site."

    "We had plenty of space between us and adjacent sites. The whole KOA has some nice touches as far as landscaping, sites with grills, etc. Very clean and well kept."

    5. Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance

    27 Reviews
    Fort Mcdowell, AZ
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 610-3300

    $10 - $80 / night

    "I use the north entrance off Bush highway. I've camped here 5 or 6 times. No water or bathrooms. Leave no trace. You need a permit and gate code. Most ATVers but not loud during the week."

    "This is a nice area if you like to off road. We take our trailer out for the weekend to get out of the city. It’s an hour from Tempe/ Phoenix."

    6. Mesa Gardens RV Park

    2 Reviews
    Salt River, AZ
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 964-1102

    $48 - $55 / night

    "Great campground centerally located to Phoenix and Scottsdale. Was only planning to stay 2 nights but ended up extending my stay. Full hookups and laundry/showers in house."

    7. Holiday Village

    2 Reviews
    Tempe, AZ
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 962-1694

    $37 / night

    8. Pinnacle Farms South

    4 Reviews
    Guadalupe, AZ
    16 miles
    Website

    $50 / night

    "Our 19’ trailer was in a quiet, private spot next to a large grassy area sometimes used for canine agility."

    "The RV spot was between date palms and next to the dog agility course. The tent sites were in the back and seemed nice and private."

    9. Monte Vista RV Resort

    3 Reviews
    Mesa, AZ
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "Gravel surrounds each campsite and we have noticed maintenance crews raking the gravel every other day. Close to all the fun stuff on the Superstition Mountains."

    10. Towerpoint Resort (55+)

    2 Reviews
    Mesa, AZ
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 832-4996
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Recent Camping Photos near Chandler, AZ

167 Photos of 242 Chandler Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Chandler, AZ

854 Reviews of 242 Chandler Campgrounds

  • Julie F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Lost Dutchman State Park Campground

    Close to PHX, great hikes

    We love the Superstition mountains. Lost Dutchman campground is great. Has everything and is close to hwy and Phoenix. Lots to do in the area, lots of hikes straight from the campground. Homes were close to our campsite, but the view of the mountains was great!

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 4, 2025

    Mesa Gardens RV Park

    Hidden fees and rules

    The park was fine. Not my preference but wanted to be as close to my son visiting as possible so it worked.

    However the site I was on wasnt easy at all to get into with my 29ft trailer. After multiple attempts of trying to be on the gravel behind the concrete pad like others I stay partially on the concrete pad since there were no rules specified about this. I arrived on a Friday evening (labor day weekend). Tuesday the manager came by and said something. She was super nice. I explained the events of getting into the spot with the traffic in the park and that I triple checked the rules on it. Since I was leaving the next morning she let me stay as is.

    Today though I got an email about a balance. So if you book less than a 30day stay you pay a fee of $4. And the electric charge that is listed for Monthly stays is charged for a few nights as well.

    I would stay again though. I mean the location was convenient for my visit. It was a well kept park. Just a few unknowns that I wish I knew before booking

  • Ethan B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 26, 2025

    Peralta Road Dispersed Camping

    Camping not available

    Was a great site before, but now all the camp sites are blocked and no longer allowed. This area will be missed it was very convenient.

  • cThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 17, 2025

    Vekol Valley Road

    Quiet place

    Tons of nice level spots, just dry and hot in summer, not much shade

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 1, 2025

    Mesa-Apache Junction KOA

    Clean friendly easy

    We stayed 4 nights in July. Staff friendly and helpful. Clean quiet nice level sites FHU everything worked great. Wi-Fi is poor. Will stay here again.

  • Jeana R.
    Jul. 9, 2025

    Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground

    Love it

    Woke up to a donkey eating out watermelon, making donkey noises and rolling on the ground so cute!! Campsites always clean, clean bathrooms, great prices..staff always very helpful and friendly!! Visit every summer

  • M
    Jun. 30, 2025

    Towerpoint Resort (55+)

    Paradise for all senior adults

    Towerpoint is not the biggest resort but not the smallest either. It was perfect for us. Everyone was very friendly, often waving to strangers. The price includes so many amenities such as pickleball, a wood shop, pottery, stained glass, shuffleboard, tennis, fitness classes and line dancing, classes for a variety of things including Spanish and sign language. The list just goes on and on.  Additional amenities such as massages, laundry services and a grill right at the resort and concert series among so many others are offered at a reasonable price. There is something for everyone. We will be going back this Winter and have recommended it to many others.

  • Jonathan E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 27, 2025

    Vekol Valley Road

    Quiet, Secluded, and Convenient

    Very easy to get to with my Toyota Corolla. There are quite a few pull-outs on the road with sites and there is enough brush in the area to feel pretty secluded. I saw a jackrabbit or something similar right after dusk, so there is at least some small wildlife in the area. In all, it was quiet and peaceful and I would stay here again. Plus, there is what seems to be a dried-out, rocky riverbed nearby that I walked around with my dog, which was nice!

Guide to Chandler

Camping near Chandler, AZ, offers a great mix of outdoor fun and beautiful scenery. Whether you're into hiking, biking, or just relaxing under the stars, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Biking: Explore the trails at Usery Mountain Regional Park. Campers rave about the mountain bike trails, with one reviewer saying, "There are mountain bike trails connected to this campground that were very fun!"
  • Visit Historical Sites: Check out the nearby Lost Dutchman State Park. One visitor mentioned, "Immerse yourself in the legendary lore of the Lost Dutchman's Gold Mine," making it a perfect spot for history buffs.
  • Water Activities: Head to Lake Pleasant Regional Park for boating and fishing. A camper noted, "Beautiful views of the lake, plenty to do," highlighting the lake's recreational opportunities.

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers at Picacho Peak State Park love the stunning sunsets. One reviewer said, "Amazing sunsets!!" which adds to the park's charm.
  • Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at McDowell Mountain Regional Park mentioned, "The bathrooms are immaculate, and the staff is friendly and helpful."
  • Spacious Campsites: Campers enjoy the roomy sites at Burnt Corral Campground. One reviewer shared, "Plenty of spots near the water," making it a great choice for those who want space.

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Cactus Forest Dispersed, have no facilities. A camper warned, "It has no facilities or even pit toilets," so come prepared.
  • Wildlife Encounters: Be ready for wildlife, especially at Cactus Forest Dispersed. One camper noted, "I came across 6 rattlesnakes," so keep an eye out!
  • Road Conditions: If you're heading to Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping, be aware that the roads can be rough. A visitor mentioned, "The road is in the worst condition," so a sturdy vehicle is a must.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Pleasant Harbor RV Resort that offer amenities. One camper said, "The views were beautiful. I stayed 10 days and as a single woman I felt very safe."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. A family at Lake Pleasant Regional Park enjoyed fishing and relaxing, saying, "Relaxed and fished off the shoreline."
  • Pack Snacks and Games: Keep the kids entertained with snacks and games. A camper at Usery Mountain Regional Park mentioned, "Overall a quiet campground," making it a nice spot for family bonding.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookup Availability: Make sure to check if the campground has electric and water hookups. A visitor at McDowell Mountain Regional Park noted, "The sites are very nicely kept/clean."
  • Be Prepared for Limited Cell Service: Some areas, like Lost Dutchman State Park, have limited cell service. One camper said, "Cell service can be limited in certain areas," so plan accordingly.
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Since some campgrounds lack stores, like Cactus Forest Dispersed, a camper advised, "You will likely only run into swarms of flies," so be ready with bug spray and supplies.

Camping around Chandler, AZ, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for adventure or a peaceful getaway.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best campgrounds near Chandler, AZ?

The Chandler area offers diverse camping options within a short drive. Lost Dutchman State Park Campground is a top choice with stunning Superstition Mountain views, well-maintained sites, and excellent hiking trails. Sites are spacious though some are located further from restrooms. For those seeking free dispersed camping, Peralta Road Dispersed Camping provides a true desert experience with multiple pull-offs where you can find your perfect spot among the Sonoran Desert landscape, especially beautiful in spring. Other notable options include Usery Mountain Regional Park with its spectacular hiking and White Tank Mountain which offers excellent photo opportunities and family-friendly trails.

Are there campsites with electric, water, and full hookups near Chandler?

Usery Mountain Regional Park offers excellent hookup options with an outstanding layout and spectacular location near Chandler. The campground provides well-designed sites with utility connections in a beautiful desert setting with hiking trails for all experience levels. Mesa-Apache Junction KOA is another quality option with full hookups, including water, electric, and sewer connections. The park is well-maintained and accommodates various RV sizes. For those needing reliable utilities while exploring the Chandler area, these established campgrounds provide the infrastructure necessary for comfortable extended stays, unlike the numerous dispersed camping options in the region that offer no amenities.

What RV parks and resorts are available in Chandler, Arizona?

The Chandler area offers several quality RV accommodation options. Stardust trailer park in nearby Cave Creek provides a charming experience with serene surroundings and a friendly atmosphere, making it perfect for relaxing while enjoying Arizona's beauty. Pleasant Harbor RV Resort offers another excellent option with lakeside amenities. For those seeking age-restricted communities, Towerpoint Resort (55+) in Mesa provides well-maintained facilities with full hookups. Monte Vista RV Resort features comfortable amenities in a convenient location. Many parks in the region offer amenities like swimming pools, laundry facilities, and easy access to Phoenix metro attractions while providing the comfort of full hookups.

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