Equestrian camping near Fort McDowell, Arizona offers access to the surrounding Sonoran Desert landscape with elevations ranging from 1,350 to 3,000 feet. The area experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 100°F, while winter months provide mild daytime temperatures in the 60-70°F range. Several campgrounds maintain designated equestrian facilities with trails connecting to broader regional trail systems.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: At McDowell Mountain Regional Park, riders can access over 40 miles of trails with varying difficulty levels. "Fabulous. Perfect trails. Campground very nice and great people... Mikes of mountain biking trails which were spectacular. We've ridden lots of places and this is definitely one of my favorite," notes Mike M.
Ghost town exploration: The Goldfield Ghost Town offers a unique day trip while camping with horses. "Great spots for your horse and trailer. Good size corral. More space on the pit side. Stay a week or month! Great trails out from camp. Water at corrals," reports Lindy B.
Water recreation: For riders wanting to cool off after trail rides, nearby Bartlett Flat provides shoreline camping with water access. "Little further back from where the rv congregate, so it's quiet and peaceful, boat traffic isn't to bad and the shore line is great for kids to swim," mentions a reviewer.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: The camp areas at Lost Dutchman State Park Campground provide ample room for equestrian setups. "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," advises Terri D.
Desert wildlife viewing: Campers appreciate the natural habitat surrounding equestrian sites. "Seen roadrunner, quail, and doves, rabbits. A few coyotes howled at the moon at night, which was pretty cool to, off in the distance," reports a visitor to Goldfield Ghost Town.
Varied terrain for different skill levels: The trails near Usery Mountain Regional Park accommodate riders of various abilities. "We absolutely love this campground. Close to everything, including some awesome Mountain Biking from green to double black diamond trails. Large spaces with water, power and super clean," shares Marty P.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many equestrian sites fill quickly during peak season. "They tend to get booked really quick especially during the winter time," warns Jose G. about Usery Mountain Regional Park.
Water availability: While most equestrian sites provide water access for horses, availability varies by location. Some campgrounds offer water directly at corrals while others require hauling water from central locations.
Terrain challenges: Some trails present rocky conditions requiring proper hoof protection. "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," notes Chris P.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly trails: Look for shorter loop trails suitable for young riders. "Fun mountain bike trails. Clean bathrooms. Quiet in late December. Only 5 or 6 tent campers here. $22 night for tent site," reports Janet M. about McDowell Mountain Regional Park.
Educational opportunities: Houston Mesa Campground offers nearby historical sites for family learning. "2 miles East on Houston Mesa rd. Away you can drive to shofly Indian ruins... Overall I still give the Campgrounds 5 stars," shares a reviewer.
Swimming access: After riding in hot weather, families appreciate cooling off options. "Our 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," mentions a visitor to Usery Mountain.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for large rigs: Choose pull-through sites when available with your horse trailer. "Very nice peaceful park. At night the coyotes sing you to sleep and also wake you up in the morning. You can also see the fountain from most of the campsites which goes off every hour!" notes Larry G. about McDowell Mountain.
Power considerations: Check amperage availability at equestrian sites. "No sewer, however electric and water are available and conveniently located. NO shade however and in the summer it is HOT! Desert surround's and lots you singing coyotes at night and early morning!" advises another RVer about McDowell Mountain.
Dump station locations: Know where dump stations are located before arrival. "Nice little campground. Spots are close together but a decent amount of nature separates you and gives you some privacy. Bathrooms were clean," reports Michael S. about Houston Mesa Campground.
