Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Fort Mcdowell, AZ has a lot to offer. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Fort Mcdowell. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.
The campground has 138 sites: 68 sites with electric (50/30/20 amp service) and water and the remainder non-hookup sites on paved roads for tents or RVs. Every site has a picnic table and a fire pit with an adjustable grill gate. There are no size restrictions on RVs. Well-mannered pets on leashes are welcome, but please pick after your pets. The office at Lost Dutchman is open until 7 p.m. for campsite check-in, but after hours (with campsite reservations) you can grab a map by the ranger station and head straight to your campsite! If you are staying multiple nights, check-in with the camp host, or a ranger to get a vehicle tag.
$25 - $89 / night
NO CAMPING First 2 miles and 300 feet on either side of the road/trail VEHICLES MUST STAY ON DESIGNATED ROADS - but past those designated no camping zones, camping is allowed unless otherwise posted.
This space is very large so it may be best to divide it by the access points. The point I'll be using is Access #3- Forest Road (FR) 10, south entrance: This access point is reached from Apache Junction. From Mesa: Travel 15 miles east on the Superstition Freeway (US 60) to the Idaho Street exit. Follow Idaho Street north 4½ miles to McKellips. Turn right on McKellips and travel ½ mile to the Wolverine Pass Road and turn left. Follow it for 7/8 mile and turn right on Tonto Road. Travel north on Tonto Road for ¼ mile to Cactus and turn left. Follow Cactus to McDowell Road and follow it to FR 10 gate.
Set in the northeast Valley of metro Phoenix, McDowell Mountain Regional Park covers 21,099 acres in the lower Verde River basin. Campers choose from 76 individual sites for tent or RV camping, which can accommodate up to a 45-foot RV. These developed sites have water and electrical hook-ups, plus a dump station, picnic table, and barbecue fire ring, while all restrooms offer flush toilets and showers. Group camping is also available.
McDowell Mountain activities range from biking, hiking, and horseback riding on over 50 miles of multi-use trails to picnicking, stargazing, and plenty of park-organized programs and events.
$32 / night
Lake Pleasant Regional Park offers 148 sites for RV and tent camping within the campgrounds (does not including primitive camping sites) Each "Developed Site" has water, electricity, dump station, a covered ramada, a picnic table, a barbecue grill and fire ring. Each "Semi-Developed Site" and tent site has a covered ramada, a picnic table, a barbecue grill and fire ring, unless otherwise acknowledged in the description or camping map. Restroom and/or shower facilities are available at both types of campsites. All sites in the campground may be reserved online at www.maricopacountyparks.org/. Campgrounds Desert Tortoise Campground has 74 campsites: 25 Developed Sites, 39 Semi-Developed Sites, and 10 Tent Sites. Roadrunner Campground offers 71 sites for RV and tent camping. All sites are Developed. Large groups can reserve the Desert Tortoise Group Campground. The Group Campground includes a parking area for RVs, picnic tables, and ramadas. The use of this area is by reservation only and requires a minimum commitment of 10 camping units. Shoreline Camping Lake Pleasant Regional Park also has shoreline/primitive camping during most of the year, depending on water levels. Shoreline camping is only permitted within designated areas for such use, when available. Day-of availability will be on a first-come, first-served basis and can only be reserved during business hours at the park. For information on camping fees, click on this link to be redirected to the "Fees" page. The first phase or re-introducing primitive/shoreline camping will be rolled out in late January 2021, with the area of the Dirt Spillway. Future areas will be included in phases at later dates. Campers must park in designated parking areas. Tent camping will be permitted along the shoreline within the designated area. No vehicles will be permitted to park along the shoreline within the area. Check-in time the day of arrival shall occur no earlier than 2 p.m. Campers must check out the day of departure by 12 p.m. (noon). Boat-In Camping Boat-in camping is now available at the 10 Lane Parking Lot. Roughly 30 assigned parking spaces have been designated for such use. Each camping/parking space is approximately 45 feet long by 12 ft. wide to accommodate most boat trailers and towing vehicles. Reservations are required. Day-of availability is on a first-come, first-served basis, and can only be reserved during business hours at the park. Boaters must camp on the waters of Lake Pleasant – no shoreline camping available at this time. Camping is not permitted within the parking lot/camp space. Boat-in camping is a great option for fisherman looking to fish in the late evening/early morning hours. Boat-in campers must arrive and check-in before the park closes at night (8 pm).
$15 - $300 / night
Tortilla Campground is a winter campground just outside of the Phoenix metropolitan area. From October through April each year, urban dwellers take advantage of cooler temperatures and enjoy boating, fishing, hiking, rock climbing and scenic driving throughout the surrounding Tonto National Forest. Campers awake to a scenic backdrop of rugged bluffs, saguaro cactus and desert skies. The campground is located directly across from Tortilla Flat Restaruant and general store, which is just a short walk away.
The area is rich with human history, scenery and outdoor recreation. The campground lies along the Canyon Lake Apache Trail Scenic Byway, a former Apache Tribal route turned stagecoach road. Visitors may hear stories of lost cowboys and gold mining. The drive to the campground provides ample scenery and a vista point perfect for photography and wildlife viewing. The campground is just down the road from Canyon Lake which provides a number of recreational opportunites such as kayaking, fishing, and boating. The Superstition Wilderness has a well-developed trail system, and the western end of the wilderness receives heavy use during the cooler times of the year. Use caution as trail conditions can be fair or poor, and several are unsuitable for horses. Also make sure to check out many of the developed recreation sites along Canyon lake for shoreline and fishing dock access, but keep in mind these sites require a day pass not included in the camping fees.
The Superstition Wilderness Area is starkly beautiful and untamed. A series of dams has created numerous lakes along the Salt River. Blossoming plants bring the desert to life each spring with vibrant wildflowers. This area is a photographers dream with plenty of opportunities to capture Bighorn Sheep, Deer, and other desert widlife. The area can be harsh for travelers not equipped to meet nature on her own terms. Soaring temperatures and little water are typical conditions in the summer. In winter, temperatures are typically pleasant during the day but drop significantly at night. Visitors should come prepared for anything, even the occasional rain or snow.
Fish Creek Vista Point is approx. 7 miles east on AZ-88, this area provides great views of the desert and an accessible interpretive trail great for learning about the history of the area.
$20 / night
Bartlett Flat Bartlett Reservoir and the Arizona Upland phase of the Sonoran Desert. This site offers beautiful vistas of the surrounding mountains. Bartlett Flat has primitive boat launch opportunities for small boats. River Access Point (RAP) for Verde River. There are no designated campsites at this shoreline area but camping along the shore is allowed. High water levels will limit the amount of available shoreline in this area.
$41 - $84 / night
Commerical Site, Please call for information, Tel: (480)288-9233, Paved Boat Launch
NO CAMPING First 2 miles and 300 feet on either side of the road/trail VEHICLES MUST STAY ON DESIGNATED ROADS - but past those designated no camping zones, camping is allowed unless otherwise posted.
This space is very large so it may be best to divide it by the access points. The point I'll be using is Access #3- Forest Road (FR) 10, south entrance: This access point is reached from Apache Junction. From Mesa: Travel 15 miles east on the Superstition Freeway (US 60) to the Idaho Street exit. Follow Idaho Street north 4½ miles to McKellips. Turn right on McKellips and travel ½ mile to the Wolverine Pass Road and turn left. Follow it for 7/8 mile and turn right on Tonto Road. Travel north on Tonto Road for ¼ mile to Cactus and turn left. Follow Cactus to McDowell Road and follow it to FR 10 gate.
Set in the northeast Valley of metro Phoenix, McDowell Mountain Regional Park covers 21,099 acres in the lower Verde River basin. Campers choose from 76 individual sites for tent or RV camping, which can accommodate up to a 45-foot RV. These developed sites have water and electrical hook-ups, plus a dump station, picnic table, and barbecue fire ring, while all restrooms offer flush toilets and showers. Group camping is also available.
McDowell Mountain activities range from biking, hiking, and horseback riding on over 50 miles of multi-use trails to picnicking, stargazing, and plenty of park-organized programs and events.
$32 / night
Tortilla Campground is a winter campground just outside of the Phoenix metropolitan area. From October through April each year, urban dwellers take advantage of cooler temperatures and enjoy boating, fishing, hiking, rock climbing and scenic driving throughout the surrounding Tonto National Forest. Campers awake to a scenic backdrop of rugged bluffs, saguaro cactus and desert skies. The campground is located directly across from Tortilla Flat Restaruant and general store, which is just a short walk away.
The area is rich with human history, scenery and outdoor recreation. The campground lies along the Canyon Lake Apache Trail Scenic Byway, a former Apache Tribal route turned stagecoach road. Visitors may hear stories of lost cowboys and gold mining. The drive to the campground provides ample scenery and a vista point perfect for photography and wildlife viewing. The campground is just down the road from Canyon Lake which provides a number of recreational opportunites such as kayaking, fishing, and boating. The Superstition Wilderness has a well-developed trail system, and the western end of the wilderness receives heavy use during the cooler times of the year. Use caution as trail conditions can be fair or poor, and several are unsuitable for horses. Also make sure to check out many of the developed recreation sites along Canyon lake for shoreline and fishing dock access, but keep in mind these sites require a day pass not included in the camping fees.
The Superstition Wilderness Area is starkly beautiful and untamed. A series of dams has created numerous lakes along the Salt River. Blossoming plants bring the desert to life each spring with vibrant wildflowers. This area is a photographers dream with plenty of opportunities to capture Bighorn Sheep, Deer, and other desert widlife. The area can be harsh for travelers not equipped to meet nature on her own terms. Soaring temperatures and little water are typical conditions in the summer. In winter, temperatures are typically pleasant during the day but drop significantly at night. Visitors should come prepared for anything, even the occasional rain or snow.
Fish Creek Vista Point is approx. 7 miles east on AZ-88, this area provides great views of the desert and an accessible interpretive trail great for learning about the history of the area.
$20 / night
Bartlett Flat Bartlett Reservoir and the Arizona Upland phase of the Sonoran Desert. This site offers beautiful vistas of the surrounding mountains. Bartlett Flat has primitive boat launch opportunities for small boats. River Access Point (RAP) for Verde River. There are no designated campsites at this shoreline area but camping along the shore is allowed. High water levels will limit the amount of available shoreline in this area.
$41 - $84 / night
Traveler
The campsite is good, quiet, easily accessible and I met some friendly neighbors. I love all the cacti as well. There is quite a bit of trash and glass around. Full Verizon cell service and nice warm weather in December.
Scout
Beautiful park. Expensive but worth every penny. Unbelievable amenities
Guide
The road in is a little rough, but ok. Two week stay limit, but that's pretty standard for BLM properties. There's no facilities so be prepared. Good level land and plenty of room. Wild burros wander through occasionally, and coyotes make their presence known as well. Fantastic views and quiet atmosphere, so far. Been here two nights and plan to stay for at least another week.
Traveler
Dirt road is a bit washboard but very manageable by any vehicle.
Spots line the road to the left & right as you travel down the road. cell Service can be excellent or poor depending on site you choose (avoid the ones in the dips/valleys if its a concern for you)
No facilities, just good ol’ convenient Arizona boondocking.
I came in mid December and there were only a handful of others.
Scout
Coordinates led to a cattle guard that is fenced closed. No access to the site. You could park next to the road though.
Traveler
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. Worth every second. Easily our favorite quick camping trip.
GuideDirt road in but very drivable. Lots of available places to pull off and camp. Beautiful scenery. In sight of I17 but no sound from it at all. No available shade but my solar set up needs full sun, so it's perfect for me. Will definitely come back
Guide
As soon as I got there, I got the dog out and what do we immediately find? Used drug needles littering the ground around a fire ring. Definitely not somewhere I'd feel comfortable staying the night.
Traveler
Stayed a long weekend with the family and had great time. Fishing within walking distance. Bathrooms are clean and a water spiket/faucet available.
ScoutApproachable, very good spot near the highway, also with a camper van.
Guide
Lots of room all rvs except little ol me, but only for a couple weeks.
Scout
This is to Mike the owner,
Just wanted to let you know that you are a poor excuse for a human being. We were going to move anyway, but you pushed it ahead, so now my disabled wife and I are in the desert. Thanks.
ScoutBusiness as usual at The lamplighter they specialize in stealing your home throwing you in the street the new manager is an outright liar she lies in open court their concern is themselves and nothing else places infested with rats cockroaches dopers to the family to help start the neighborhood watch we evicted so there's no neighborhood watch anymore but there's lots of dopers I've witnessed the manager the new manager coming out of a dope house in her own risk and you owner Mike pure trash and what can you meet that award-winning staff he has there you have a manager that sleeps with residents numerous residents I believe her last name is basua
Scout
Thanks to the efforts of the environaz- mentality of the last 40 years there are horribly few true sanctioned OHV areas for folks to legally use and enjoy offroad Motorsports, neither FREE or PAID. So OHV owners have nearly zero options. Bulldog Canyon is one those tiny few chances for those OHVers. Campers need to be cognizant of this and respect the OHV'er, not demand OHV'ers respect THEM! If you are looking for a pure silent CAMPground, and are of the "get off my lawn" and or "man/woman shouts at clouds" type, look elsewhere. There are PLENTY of options for such inflexible campers to demand adherence to THEIR level of enjoyment. Bulldog isn't free, OHVers pay for the unlimited access - when allowed that access - to trails WITHOUT time/day/hour exceptions. So if you're a camper, bring some earplugs if the sounds of all-hours OHVers is disturbing to you. Bulldog Canyon is a fantastic area for those campers who enjoy the OHV. I no longer can use an OHV but I enjoy seeing these younger generations doing what mine and earlier gens once took for granted nearly everywhere unrestricted. Highly recommend Bdog Canyon for the fun-lovers and young-at-hearts. For the HOA-loving types, sincerely consider elsewhere for your benefit and those of others.
Ranger
We’ve stayed here several times and roadrunner campground is my favorite because it’s up above the lake and has a beautiful view. There are several poles through spots as well as back and spots. Electric and water are available. Showers are so so. Spots are fairly level and paved.
RangerWe only got to stay here one night, but it is very beautiful. At the base of the Superstition mountains, which are awesome. Out of the city, so nice and quiet. All the sites are paved and fairly level. There are many sites that have pull through, electric, and water. The showers were good. Many hiking trails in the area. Would love to stay here a little longer.
Scout
Friendly host, clean facilities, Nice comfy spot for a tent. I enjoyed my stay very much.
Guide
I really like the place, however, and this is a big however. The road in is 20 miles or so, and it's all unprepared, so for a smaller vehicle like mine, I had to be very careful. That 20 miles takes about an hour and a half. Remember everything you need before coming into child's. It's a long day if you have to run to the store Trust me, I spent 5 hours there and back. Hot springs are a mile from my campsite. River seems pretty nice. Gonna wet a worm see if the sucker's. biting although there are a couple protected species of suckers.
Scout
We camped for two nights at this resort which is primarily for mobile homes or seasonal campers. Nice facilities (pool, laundry, etc). No picnic tables at the sites though.
Traveler
Permit required for the gate code. Camping available 2 miles in. Need a 4x4. It's definitely worth the hastle as these spots are beautiful and clean. A lot of OHV so it kicks up dust.
Scout
The county has closed camping on Peralta road, signs are up, and trenches have been dug so no access is available.
GuideThis State Park campground located in the Superstition Mountains is a frequent quick camp spot for me if I don feel like trying to beat the crowds to some favorite local dispersed sites.
They offer sites with electric and water, and sites for dry camping, along with some cabins and group sites you can reserve. The sites offer as much privacy as one can expect in the desert and are not super close together, except for the site numbers 70+ which are only available in winter typically. There are plenty of hiking trails and activities in the park and nearby. The bathrooms and showers are clean and well maintained, and they even have a small dog “park” for your best pal to run off some energy.
Favorite things about the park: The views and the wild life. We have seen so many beautiful birds, from quail and owls to roadrunners and vultures, along with several different types of squirrels, lizards, hare, and coyotes.
RangerIf traveling near Phoenix you should make this state campground a number one option.
The towering superstition mountain range is a beautiful site and while we were there we were able to watch a hiker who was rescued. This hiker was not injured, just afraid to come back down the trail. Guess going up is easier than coming down.
The site we had had power and water. The showers in the restrooms were not great but something is better than nothing.
Scout
September 21, 2024: We’ve dispersed camped here many times in last three years, took a trip out there today and every dispersed access point is plowed up with very deep trenches not allowing vehicles or rigs to access. Sad affair with squatters taking advantage and leaving trash, there was not a soul in sight. Maybe they’ll reopen it later when it cools down.
Traveler
Beautiful desert camping, lots of birds and wildlife. I heard coyotes in the middle of the night that woke me up, and was glad for a rooftop tent.
TravelerArea is marked and needs permit as well. As a foreigner I can't buy the permit online since only US address can be entered and will be reverted for the credit card payment so no way to stay there legally.
Maybe going in person or call them can get me a permit but yeah not this way.
Anyway the spot is nice and levelled if it would be usable 🙂
Traveler
We liked it there. Nobody else on Friday night, plenty of space
The typical rumble strip dirt road to this point but easily doable.
Service: 1 bar Verizon
Camping near Fort McDowell, Arizona, offers a mix of stunning desert landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an action-packed getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.
Camping near Fort McDowell, Arizona, has something for everyone, from breathtaking views to family-friendly activities. Just be prepared for the unique challenges and joys that come with desert camping!
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Fort Mcdowell, AZ?
According to TheDyrt.com, Fort Mcdowell, AZ offers a wide range of camping options, with 254 campgrounds and RV parks near Fort Mcdowell, AZ and 68 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Fort Mcdowell, AZ?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Fort Mcdowell, AZ is Lost Dutchman State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 80 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Fort Mcdowell, AZ?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 68 free dispersed camping spots near Fort Mcdowell, AZ.
What parks are near Fort Mcdowell, AZ?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 9 parks near Fort Mcdowell, AZ that allow camping, notably Tonto National Forest and Prescott National Forest.
