Camping areas around Coolidge, Arizona range from developed RV resorts to primitive campsites at higher elevations. Temperatures in summer months routinely exceed 100°F in lower desert campgrounds, while higher elevation options like Pioneer Pass maintain temperatures 15-20 degrees cooler. Many campgrounds implement fire restrictions during peak dry seasons from May through September.
What to do
Hiking nearby trails: Lost Dutchman State Park Campground offers extensive trail networks for all skill levels. "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," notes Rebecca G.
Visit historical attractions: Picacho-Tucson NW KOA provides convenient access to nearby historical sites. "We tent camped here one night. We've stayed at a lot of KOAs across the country and this is the cleanest one I've ever been to. 10 minutes from Picacho Peak hiking and don't miss the Ostrich Ranch!" reports Rae M.
Mountain biking options: Usery Mountain Regional Park maintains dedicated mountain biking trails ranging from beginner to advanced. "We absolutely love this campground. Close to everything, including some awesome Mountain Biking from green to double black diamond trails," states Marty P.
What campers like
Desert vegetation: Picacho-Tucson NW KOA features native plant landscaping throughout the property. "So many beautiful desert plants, some Saguaros, Yuca, Agave… Really lovely, clean KOA with awesome wifi," shares Sophia.
Mountain views: Upper Pinal Campground sits at higher elevation with panoramic vistas. "The trip to the top of pinal Mountains is a journey, very cool and beautiful scenic views, the road is not the best, especially if you don't have a higher clearance vehicle," advises Michael L.
Clean facilities: Mesa-Apache Junction KOA maintains well-kept restrooms and common areas. "I stayed here for two nights while I was in the Phoenix area. This KOA has some nice touches as far as landscaping, sites with grills, etc. Very clean and well kept," says Sarah M.
What you should know
Road conditions: Pioneer Pass Campground requires careful driving on unpaved roads. "Be careful in the Winter months. Probably beautiful. Had to turn around and drive all the way back. Do not go unless you have a 4x4 or are positive about the condition at the top," warns Thomas P.
Noise considerations: Mesa-Apache Junction KOA has some ambient noise from nearby areas. "This campground is large and the spots have plenty of space. Campground staff is great. No complaints... we love it here!" notes Sarina.
Campsite availability: Upper Pinal Campground has extremely limited space. "Upper Pinal campground is tiny. There are literally 3 campsites surrounding a 100 foot wide dirt turnaround in the center. The campground does not take reservations so it's a long way to drive with a good chance you won't find an open site," explains Krista Z.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Picacho-Tucson NW KOA offers dedicated play areas. "This KOA is a good place for families and it has a lot of amenities. The sites are close together and not private unless you have a patio site for an extra cost. The sites by the playground and clubhouse area are noisy during the day with children playing as children do," reports Nicholas P.
Temperature planning: Pioneer Pass Campground provides cooler camping options during hot months. "The campground is nestled in a secluded canyon amongst the Ponderosa Pines and next to an intermittent mountain stream. The campground and bathrooms were clean. Each site has a nice fire pit with a grill gate and a concrete picnic table," shares Ryan D.
Yurt camping options: While traditional yurt camping near Coolidge, Arizona isn't widely available at public campgrounds, some private resorts like Sun Life RV Resort offer yurt accommodations for those seeking alternatives to tent or RV camping.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Lost Dutchman State Park Campground offers varied RV sites with different views. "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," advises Terri D.
Utility connections: Mesa-Apache Junction KOA provides full hookup sites. "We arrived just after dark yesterday and will leave this morning. Convenient campground for a stay after visiting family in Phoenix before heading to Tucson. Wider sites than normal at a city RV park. Clean bathrooms, though a tad dated. Standard KOA amenities of pool, hot tub, playground, and dog park," notes Kim G.
Amenities for longer stays: For those seeking yurt camping near Coolidge, Arizona or extended-stay options, Usery Mountain Regional Park offers clean facilities with amenities. "This is a nice spot close to home and easy to get to. My site was a pull through...more a side of the road spot. No shade here at all but otherwise pretty decent. My spot had water and electric. Nice dump station on the way out too," reports Chris P.
