Best Campgrounds near Dateland, AZ

Camping near Dateland, Arizona, offers a unique blend of desert beauty and outdoor adventure. With several campgrounds in the area, you can find the perfect spot to unwind and explore.

What to do

• Stargazing: The clear desert skies make for incredible stargazing opportunities. One camper mentioned, "Prepare to be dazzled by the spectacular night sky. Witness a dazzling display of stars, planets, and even the Milky Way on a clear night" at the Painted Rock Petroglyph Site And Campground.
• Off-roading: If you enjoy off-roading, the area around Kofa National Wildlife Refuge is perfect for you. One visitor shared, "Dust off your UTV and explore the surrounding desert terrain. The area offers plenty of exciting trails for off-road enthusiasts."
• Hiking: There are several trails nearby for hiking. A reviewer at Saddle Mountain BLM noted, "Saddle Mountain is fun to hike but strenuous. The area is quiet and easy to get to."

What campers like

• Peaceful surroundings: Many campers appreciate the tranquility of the area. One camper at Painted Rock Petroglyph Site And Campground said, "The lack of crowds creates a peaceful and uncrowded atmosphere, ideal for those seeking solitude."
• Spacious campsites: Campers enjoy the large sites available. A visitor at Kofa National Wildlife Refuge mentioned, "There are lots of great spots. Clean, quiet and great views of mountains."
• Friendly hosts: Campground hosts often receive praise for their hospitality. One camper at Tier Drop RV Park noted, "Great people and great staff very well kept would return."

What you should know

• Limited amenities: Many campgrounds, like Painted Rock Petroglyph Site And Campground, lack basic facilities. A reviewer pointed out, "Be prepared for the lack of amenities like showers and laundry facilities."
• Reservations required: Some campgrounds, such as Painted Rock Petroglyph Site And Campground, now require reservations. One camper mentioned, "New rules. No walk-ins allowed."
• Cell service can be spotty: Expect limited cell service in many areas. A visitor at Kofa National Wildlife Refuge noted, "Cell service was non-existent for the majority of my trip."

Tips for camping with families

• Choose spacious sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites, like Saddle Mountain BLM, where "the sites are big, and there is lots of room without worrying about obstacles."
• Plan for activities: Bring along games or outdoor activities to keep kids entertained. One family shared their experience at Kofa National Wildlife Refuge, saying, "It’s all about exploration out here."
• Pack essentials: Since some campgrounds lack amenities, ensure you have everything you need. A camper at Painted Rock Petroglyph Site And Campground advised, "Pack accordingly and embrace the rustic charm of this remote desert escape."

Tips from RVers

• Check road conditions: Some roads can be rough, so it's wise to check before heading out. A reviewer at Kofa National Wildlife Refuge mentioned, "You’ll want high clearance for sure."
• Look for RV-friendly spots: Campgrounds like Tier Drop RV Park are big rig friendly, making them a great choice for RVers. One visitor said, "The sites here are long and wide enough for our 40’ fifth wheel."
• Be prepared for limited services: Many campgrounds do not offer water or electric hookups. A camper at Saddle Mountain BLM noted, "No water that we came across."

Camping near Dateland, Arizona, provides a fantastic opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors, but it's essential to be prepared for the unique challenges of desert camping.