Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Gilbert, AZ has a lot to offer. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Gilbert is surrounded by family-friendly activities. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Gilbert, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.
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. Must have a permit.
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.
$10 - $80 / night
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
AGE QUALIFIED RESORT Discover Arizona with Mesa Spirit RV Resort...the hub of Arizona's activities and attractions including golfing, fishing, spring training, sporting events, shopping, spas, dining, casinos, the Grand Canyon, and so much more...not to mention the beautiful Arizona winter weather! Located in Mesa, Arizona, just west of the beautiful Superstition Mountains, Mesa Spirit RV Resort is a pet friendly, adult community featuring 1,667 spaces with full hook-ups, even big rigs are welcome! Mesa Spirit is ideally located near all of the Central Arizona attractions, entertainment and sporting events - including Spring Training facilities. No RV? No problem! See our list of the latest homes available for sale and rent. Or, visit our on-site Sales and Rental Office. This hidden gem in the desert, Mesa Spirit offers extensive activities and special events programs during the winter season. Events and programs are staffed and ran by the Activities Department with the support of our wonderful resident volunteers. With the wide variety of seasonal activities, you will find lots of fun and exciting things to do while at Mesa Spirit. There is something for everyone...Catch the Spirit! Catch the Spirit at Mesa Spirit RV Resort! Whether you're planning a retreat for a group of friends or a getaway for two, there's no shortage of unique activities to explore at Mesa Spirit RV Resort. Plan activities upon arrival or visit this page before your departure to plan ahead. Looking for more? Our friendly staff can fill you in on all of the great ways to make your stay a memorable experience.
Commerical Site, Please call for information, Tel: (480)288-9233, Paved Boat Launch
$41 - $84 / night
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TravelerCamping near Gilbert, Arizona, offers a mix of stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a place to park your RV, there are plenty of options to explore.
Hiking and Biking: There are numerous trails for hiking and biking. For example, at Usery Mountain Regional Park, one camper mentioned, “There are mountain bike trails connected to this campground that were very fun!” Another reviewer noted, “Tons of trails and the views are awesome,” making it a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
Exploring History: Visit the nearby Lost Dutchman State Park, where one visitor shared, “There’s an old Gold Mine nearby to visit.” This adds a fun historical twist to your camping trip.
Water Activities: At Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground, you can enjoy fishing and boating. One camper said, “Beautiful views of the lake, plenty to do,” highlighting the recreational opportunities available.
Camping around Gilbert, Arizona, offers a variety of experiences, from stunning views to family-friendly activities. Whether you’re in a tent or an RV, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Gilbert, AZ?
According to TheDyrt.com, Gilbert, AZ offers a wide range of camping options, with 240 campgrounds and RV parks near Gilbert, AZ and 52 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Gilbert, AZ?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Gilbert, AZ is Lost Dutchman State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 83 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Gilbert, AZ?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 52 free dispersed camping spots near Gilbert, AZ.
What parks are near Gilbert, AZ?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 9 parks near Gilbert, AZ that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.
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