The Duncan area sits at approximately 3,600 feet elevation in Arizona's high desert region, where temperatures can fluctuate dramatically between day and night. This region along the Arizona-New Mexico border offers RV campers access to both desert landscapes and mountain terrain within an hour's drive. Several campgrounds near Duncan accommodate both short-term and extended stay travelers with varying levels of amenities and access to natural attractions.
What to do
Soak in thermal springs: Hot Well Dunes Recreation Area offers two small pools filled with natural thermal water. "The tubs are clean and flow as long as the sun is shining. At night they stop flowing which is a bummer when it's too hot out to get in during the day," reports one camper at Hot Well Dunes Recreation Area.
Explore historic Silver City: Located about 45 minutes from Duncan, Silver City offers a well-preserved historic district. "You can walk to the old town from here. It was $40 for the night which we thought ok," mentions a visitor to Silver City RV Park.
Visit local farmers markets: The region hosts seasonal farmers markets with local produce. "We discovered the local Gila Farmers Market on Wednesday mornings just a short drive away. It was filled with amazing people, fresh produce, and handmade goods," notes a camper from Buckhorn RV Park.
What campers like
Desert wildlife viewing: The area offers opportunities to observe native species. "We set up just off the dirt camp road, with a short walk to the pools, and pit toilets, and woke each morning to Gambel Quail and Mourning Doves," shares a visitor at Hot Well Dunes Recreation Area.
Spacious sites with privacy: Many RV parks provide ample space between sites. "The sites are long and spacious, level, gravel, wide with shrubbery and some fencing between, adding lots of privacy," notes a guest at Rose Valley RV Ranch.
Affordable overnight stops: Several rv campgrounds near Duncan, Arizona offer economical options. "Can't beat $10 for a tent. We slept under 2 pistachio trees with fresh nuts. Showers included, very friendly staff," shares a visitor at Alaskan RV Park.
What you should know
Limited amenities at remote locations: Services decrease significantly outside town areas. "Very remote, but version service was great," notes a camper about Hot Well Dunes Recreation Area.
Weather considerations: High desert conditions bring strong winds and temperature fluctuations. "It is SUPER windy most days so be prepared. Very secluded. One hour to town," reports a camper at Hot Well Dunes.
Cash-only policies: Some RV parks near Duncan have specific payment requirements. "The lots are pretty level of the people are really nice. 10 bucks for electric only 24 full hook up cash. It's right off the freeway," explains a visitor.
Noise factors: Transportation corridors affect some campgrounds. "Spent one night here. The park is very nice. Level spots and full hook ups $26. The bad part it was only a couple hundred feet from the train tracks and there were several that went through in the middle of the night," reports a visitor at Mountain View RV.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with green spaces: Some rv campgrounds in the Duncan, Arizona area offer common areas. "The RV sites all have full hookups and are situated around the perimeter of the very large greenspace and dog park, all sites have expansive views in all directions," shares a camper at Ridge Park RV.
Find parks with onsite food options: Some locations offer convenient dining. "There is a food truck next to the store that offers burgers, hotdog and Mexican food for a reasonable price," notes a Mountain View RV visitor.
Consider accessibility needs: Terrain varies significantly between campgrounds. "There are only around 14 designated sites, but there are many other tucked away spots where you are welcome to set up camp. Just be careful to stay out of the soft sand, or off the popular OHV trails," advises a Hot Well Dunes camper.
Tips from RVers
Plan for dust and wind: The desert environment affects equipment and comfort. "The sand can be very thick in some areas so I'm not sure if we'll drive. Be sure to scout spots before you pull in," cautions a Hot Well Dunes visitor.
Check for size restrictions: Some RV campgrounds in Duncan and surrounding areas accommodate larger rigs better than others. "We travel with our fifth wheel and a utility trailer aka triple tow. It's hard to find Rv parks that can accommodate 60 plus feet rigs," notes a visitor at Lordsburg KOA.
Consider connectivity needs: Signal quality varies throughout the region. "The WiFi was excellent, the cable has 40 some channels, the provided paper only listed 20 stations," reports a Lordsburg KOA camper.
Verify shower policies: Some parks charge extra for shower use. "If a person wants to take a shower, let's say for 5 minutes, that cost you $3, for yourself, and three more dollars for your spouse, add that up daily then multiply by weekly and then by monthly," warns a Ridge Park RV visitor.
