Best Campgrounds near Florence, AZ

Dispersed camping opportunities dominate the landscape near Florence, Arizona, with both established campgrounds and primitive sites scattered throughout the region. Cottonwood Canyon Road Dispersed and Superstition Mountain State Trust land provide free camping options with minimal amenities for self-sufficient campers. Rancho Sonora RV Park offers more developed facilities including showers, electrical hookups, and water for those seeking comfort. The region includes a variety of accommodation types from basic tent camping to RV sites with hookups, and even cabin options at some locations like Rancho Sonora.

A permit system governs many camping areas around Florence, particularly on Arizona State Trust lands which require an annual family pass purchased in advance. "We were actually a bit south of this but the app won't let me add a new camping area. This is on AZ State Trust land and a permit is required," notes one camper. Road conditions vary significantly, with some dispersed areas accessible only via rough, washboarded roads that may challenge vehicles without high clearance. The climate presents typical desert conditions with extreme summer heat making winter and spring the preferred camping seasons. Campgrounds near Superstition Mountain experience substantial temperature variations between day and night. Cell service exists in many areas but remains spotty in more remote locations.

Campers consistently mention the spaciousness of dispersed sites as a major benefit, with adequate distance between camping spots providing privacy even on busy weekends. A recent review highlighted that "sites are spacious and well dispersed, but the free-roaming cattle make this less than ideal for tent/car campers." The surrounding desert landscape offers scenic views of mountains and abundant cactus forests. Off-road enthusiasts appreciate the extensive trail networks near Cottonwood Canyon and Superstition Mountain for ATV and dirt bike riding. Noise levels vary significantly between locations, with some areas experiencing considerable traffic from off-road vehicles during daylight hours while remaining quiet at night. Several reviewers mention encountering free-range cattle throughout the camping areas, which may be a consideration for tent campers.

Best Camping Sites Near Florence, Arizona (210)

    1. Cottonwood Canyon Rd. Dispersed

    11 Reviews
    Queen Valley, AZ
    13 miles

    "Turn off Hwy 74 between Apache Junction and Florence, Turn East on Cottonwood Canyon Rd. and there is dispersed camping with ZERO amenities starting in about 2 thru 5 miles on both sides of the road."

    "No amenities but perfect place to base out of for off-roading adventures. This place is really popular, so it’s a cool place to ride with other people and check out their rigs."

    2. Lost Dutchman State Park Campground

    83 Reviews
    Superstition Mtn, AZ
    30 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."

    3. Picacho Peak State Park Campground

    43 Reviews
    Picacho, AZ
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 466-3183

    $50 / night

    "Great stop off or home base to see a lot of great arizona attractions like saguaro national park, tombstone and tucson."

    "We stayed on the western edge of "C" loop so the sunsets were unobstructed and magnificent. The peak looms over the Campground and the layout is perfect to take in all the surroundings."

    4. Rancho Sonora RV Park

    2 Reviews
    Florence, AZ
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 868-8900

    "Located in the Cactus Forrest. Lots of pristine scenery."

    5. Cactus Forest Boondock

    2 Reviews
    Florence, AZ
    8 miles
    +1 (928) 202-2769

    $35 - $45 / night

    "Took our kids here to run around and camp a few weekends in a row,loved it will be back again!"

    6. Picacho-Tucson NW KOA

    17 Reviews
    Picacho, AZ
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 466-2966

    "Couldn’t drive any longer so used my KOA app on the road and booked it. Pulled in after hours and folder was waiting with map and site number."

    "Right next to the I10 so real easy to get to. Big roomy level spaces, we had a premium spot."

    7. Superstition Mountain AZ state trust dispersed

    6 Reviews
    Queen Valley, AZ
    16 miles
    Website

    "Good location for camping not far from Gold Canyon AZ. Numerous different campsites of different sizes. A few large sites that can fit multiple RVs."

    "Trails from the site. Beautiful! Our 43-foot RV did just fine as Kevin went super slow and carefully steered the best route up the road. Worth it!!!"

    8. Cactus Forest Dispersed

    33 Reviews
    Marana, AZ
    31 miles
    Website

    "However, watch where you step AND where you drive!!!!"

    "Not that far of a drive from a highway exit, I was pleasantly surprised by the peaceful seclusion."

    9. Pinal County Fairgrounds

    2 Reviews
    Coolidge, AZ
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 723-7881

    "There is no designated camp zones it is a very dry area ofcourse being in the middle of Arizona. But we were prepared with sleeping pads and tent tarps for comfort."

    "I stayed up front for the first week then around back fot the second week. Nice place to stay. Jen, the camp host was very friendly and welcoming. Totally recommend."

    10. Mesa-Apache Junction KOA

    18 Reviews
    Apache Junction, AZ
    27 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."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 210 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Recent Reviews near Florence, AZ

758 Reviews of 210 Florence Campgrounds


  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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. 29, 2025

    Redrock Trail Head Dispersed

    Quiet and peaceful, but be aware of cholla cacti

    This is a nice spot to camp, whether it just be an overnight or for multiple days. It was peaceful and serene when I visited in April, with very few people around. The dirt road in is pretty short and smooth (my Toyota Corolla did just fine), and there were at least a few viable sites. I pitched a tent without any problems. There seems to be a shooting range somewhere nearby since I could hear what sounded like shots in the distance at times, but that was minimal and didn’t interrupt my stay.

    I recommend this spot, but be aware of the cacti, as it was kind of like a cholla forest. I visited with my dog and we definitely had to be cautious when setting up camp and just moving about. Walking on the road we drove in on was fine, but walking around the campsite itself was more of an issue since there were cholla balls scattered throughout. You should be fine if you’re careful, but I’d suggest reconsidering if you have a dog with you and that dog doesn’t have shoes/boots.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 12, 2025

    Cactus Forest Dispersed

    Beauty all around

    If you want to see blooming cacti, this is the place.

    Unreal sunsets too.


Guide to Florence

Camping near Florence, Arizona, offers a unique blend of stunning desert landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an action-packed getaway, this area has something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Exploring: There are numerous trails to discover. For instance, at Lost Dutchman State Park Campground, one reviewer mentioned, "Lace up your boots and conquer one of the park's diverse hiking trails. From challenging climbs to scenic strolls, there's a path for every level."
  • Off-Roading: If you enjoy off-roading, Gilbert Ray Campground is a great spot. A visitor shared, "Dust off your UTVs and get ready for a blast! The washboard washes offer thrilling rides for off-road enthusiasts."
  • Wildlife Watching: The area is rich in wildlife. A camper at Usery Mountain Regional Park noted, "Waking up to the giant saguaros was a treat!"

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the breathtaking scenery. One review for Catalina State Park Campground said, "The campsite is surrounded by stunning desert landscapes, with majestic saguaro cacti and rugged mountains providing a picturesque backdrop."
  • Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the well-maintained amenities. A visitor at Picacho Peak State Park Campground mentioned, "Great hot showers and clean facilities."
  • Spacious Campsites: Campers enjoy the roomy sites. One reviewer at McDowell Mountain Regional Park stated, "Nice large private sites with a wonderful view of the mountains and desert."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Gilbert Ray Campground, lack showers and water hookups. A camper noted, "Sites have electric hook-ups, but no site water hook-ups and no showers."
  • Weather Considerations: The heat can be intense, especially in summer. A visitor at Lost Dutchman State Park Campground mentioned, "It gets a little warm during the summer - after all, it is AZ."
  • Wildlife Caution: Be aware of local wildlife. One camper at Cactus Forest Dispersed warned, "Watch out for jumping chollas and keep your furry friends close."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots with amenities. A parent at Catalina State Park Campground said, "The camp hosts were orderly and extremely friendly and available."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a mix of activities. One family at Usery Mountain Regional Park enjoyed, "There are tons of trails and the views are awesome."
  • Safety First: Keep an eye on kids, especially around wildlife. A camper at Cactus Forest Dispersed noted, "I came across packs of coyotes rolling through at night and early morning."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Picacho Peak State Park Campground mentioned, "Some sites are spaced further apart than others but overall, decently distanced."
  • Use Electric Hookups: Many campgrounds offer electric hookups, which can be a lifesaver. A visitor at Gilbert Ray Campground appreciated, "Enjoyed this campsite and all it has to offer - electrical hookup for our RV."
  • Be Prepared for Dust: Roads can be dusty, so be ready for that. A camper at Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area noted, "The road is in the worst condition, we have a 25ft RV and it was impossible to get through."

Florence, AZ camping offers a variety of experiences, from serene desert landscapes to thrilling outdoor activities. Whether you're a family, an RV enthusiast, or just looking for a peaceful getaway, there's something for everyone in this beautiful area.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Florence, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, Florence, AZ offers a wide range of camping options, with 210 campgrounds and RV parks near Florence, AZ and 44 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Florence, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Florence, AZ is Cottonwood Canyon Rd. Dispersed with a 4.3-star rating from 11 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Florence, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 44 free dispersed camping spots near Florence, AZ.