Best Campgrounds near Chandler, AZ

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.

Best Camping Sites Near Chandler, Arizona (243)

    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 Reviews near Chandler, AZ

860 Reviews of 243 Chandler Campgrounds


  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 5, 2025

    Hackamore Road Dispersed

    The Beginning

    I went and personally checked out this dispersed camping area that's about half a click or so away from the Goldfield Ghost Town.

    Hackamore Road is a straight up OHV Trail, and last night I learned that on a total whim.

    I'm confident enough to hop on here and say that it was a pretty nice experience overall. There were some dudes shredding it pretty late last night, (pretty sure I overheard them mentioning their tire got flat).

    So expect a little bit of company; although no one bothered me

    The coyotes started howling around 4am, but they started dying down after they had migrated.

    I'm a country guy so the sounds don't really bother me, but if you're particular about your sleep I would recommend bringing a camping trailer + earmuff combo.

    The ground is hard as concrete, but I have no complaints. I got some of the best sleep I've had in a long time.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    BLM - North Maricopa Mountains Wilderness

    Convenient for nigth crashing

    1 star for super easy access, 1 star for flat easy to level and 1 star for beautiful stars sky. Other than that no more stars. You can hear the highway very loudly, it seems we could have drove a little further and probably better but we were tired, I can not see camping in there. It was super hot and no breeze at all. We arrived by 8pm and left 4:30am

  • Hans V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 21, 2025

    BLM - North Maricopa Mountains Wilderness

    Perfect stopover

    Instead of staying under the power lines like many people mentioned (and indicated by the app), we drove a little bit further away from the main road and found a perfect spot for an overnight stay on our way to Phoenix. It was very hot though at day and night in September. Nothing extraordinary but free. Road is OK, gravel with some bumps, but driven slowly our Jeep Grand Cherokee towing an A-frame did fine even when arriving in the dark

  • Hans V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 21, 2025

    Cave Creek Regional Park

    Cactus place

    Nice campground, serene with a large cactus next to every spot. Power and water at the spot, toilets & bathrooms available.

  • Stacy R.
    Sep. 20, 2025

    High Chaparral RV Park

    100 Out of 10 – The Ultimate Adult RV Community in Arizona!

    We stayed 4-months last winter as snowbirds at High Chaparral RV Resort, and all I can say is this place is a 100 out of 10! This isn’t just an RV resort—it’s a full-on adult community bursting with FUN and SUN. The management here goes above and beyond to keep everyone entertained. From casino nights with real tables, dealers, and prizes, to bingo nights, live concerts, unbelievable cookouts, pickleball tournaments, frisbee golf, ladies’ luncheons, and the guys’ morning coffee gatherings—there is ALWAYS something happening. It’s impossible to be bored here. The 24-hour pool and spa was perfect for relaxing any time of day, and the whole community vibe makes you feel like you’re part of one big family. The staff is beyond amazing—friendly, helpful, and genuinely fun to be around. High Chaparral is hands-down the best adult RV community in Arizona. If you’re looking for sunshine, friendship, endless activities, and memories that will last a lifetime, this is the place to be. We can’t wait to come back!

  • 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.


Guide to Chandler

Camping sites near Chandler, Arizona span across diverse terrain from low desert flats to nearby mountain foothills. The Superstition Mountains create a dramatic backdrop for campers at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,500 feet. Winter months (November-March) see overnight temperatures dropping into the 40s, requiring adequate sleeping gear even when daytime temps reach the 70s.

What to do

Off-road adventures: The Bulldog Canyon area requires a permit but offers excellent trails for vehicles with decent clearance. "Easy to get a permit from the ranger station. Just email your name, address, phone number and driver's license number to sm.fs.mesa_ohs@usda.gov and you'll get your permit within 2 days for free. I love that it's not far out of town but an easy place to forget you live in town," notes a visitor to Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping.

Agricultural experiences: Camping at working farms provides a unique alternative to traditional campgrounds. At Pinnacle Farms South, campers can purchase fresh produce and eggs while enjoying rural scenery. "We enjoyed seeing the vintage trailers used for Airbnb stays and the lush grassy area for tent camping. There was a self-serve farm stand where we purchased fresh eggs, dates and homemade zucchini bread," shares one camper.

Hiking opportunities: The base of the Superstition Mountains offers trails for all ability levels. A camper at Lost Dutchman State Park Campground reports, "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."

What campers like

Accessible winter camping: Many snowbirds appreciate the moderate winter temperatures that make outdoor activities comfortable year-round. "One of my favorite winter camp spots," notes a visitor to Mesa-Apache Junction KOA, who appreciates the "clean facilities, beautiful surroundings, full amenities."

Spacious campsites: Several campgrounds offer well-designed sites with adequate space between neighbors. At Usery Mountain Regional Park, a camper mentions "Our site #48 Buckhorn was really spacious and private. Great views all around. Table and fire pit. The park has tons of trails for hiking and MTN biking."

Wildlife viewing: The desert comes alive with animals, especially during early morning and evening. "Heard some coyotes in the night, which was exciting. Enjoyed hiking the trails and exploring the landscape," reports a camper who gave Lost Dutchman State Park 4 stars.

What you should know

Permit requirements: Multiple areas require specific permits that must be acquired in advance. "This is a little hole," reports a camper at Bulldog Canyon, noting that the price "just went up to $80 a year for a pass" and there's a requirement to "camp 2 miles from the road."

Mixed noise levels: Some campgrounds experience significant noise issues despite their natural settings. "The scenery was beautiful, but didn't love the fact that people were blaring their music here until 2AM in the morning," reports a visitor at Lost Dutchman State Park.

Access challenges: Many roads leading to dispersed camping sites require appropriate vehicles. "It was a fun dirt road. You might be able to get back there without 4x4 but certainly it is strongly recommended. Very rough road and about a 2 mile drive," warns one Bulldog Canyon visitor.

Tips for camping with families

Pools and amenities: When temperatures climb, swimming facilities become essential for families. "We loved this park in the Arizona Desert. Close to everything, yet set up to feel like you're in your own little village. The amenities at this park are outstanding and the neighbors are super friendly. We loved the three pools, multiple hot tubs and modern showers and laundry rooms," shares a visitor to Encore Mesa Spirit.

Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer nature programs that enhance children's experiences. Usery Mountain Regional Park "offers tons of programs for everyone like night hikes and scorpion hunts," according to one reviewer.

Playground access: Some campgrounds provide playgrounds or access to nearby recreational facilities. Mesa Gardens RV Park "backs up to a park with a coded gate so easy access to playground/big grass area for dogs," notes a recent visitor.

Tips from RVers

Site selection challenges: RV sites vary significantly in access and layout. "Highly recommend this park with spacious sites and great views of the Superstition Mountains and night lights of Phoenix. Carefully review the site you select to be sure it will accommodate your rig. Roads are narrow and there are unforgiving drop offs on the sides," cautions a visitor to Lost Dutchman State Park.

Full service options: Several RV resorts offer amenities that simplify longer stays. "Great staff, awesome upgraded amenities. Large RV sites good for Large Rigs," notes a visitor to Monte Vista RV Resort.

Winter reservations: The high season for RVers runs November through March, requiring advance planning. A camper at Usery Mountain Regional Park advises, "Do consider reserving a spot with ample time, they tend to get booked really quick especially during the winter time."

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.