Camping options around Gilbert, Arizona range from developed campgrounds to dispersed sites on public lands. The Sonoran Desert landscape provides a backdrop for several established campgrounds including Lost Dutchman State Park, which offers tent, RV, cabin, and glamping accommodations approximately 20 miles northeast of Gilbert. Usery Mountain Regional Park in nearby Mesa provides additional developed camping with tent and RV sites. Both locations maintain year-round operations with amenities like electric hookups, water access, and picnic tables, while dispersed camping opportunities exist at Bulldog Canyon and along Hackamore Road for those seeking more primitive experiences.
Permits and regulations vary significantly across the region's camping areas. Arizona State Trust Land requires annual permits ($15-21) for dispersed camping at locations like Peralta Road and Cottonwood Canyon. Tonto National Forest areas may require Tonto Passes, while county and state parks typically operate reservation systems with defined stay limits. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F, making winter and spring the preferred camping seasons. Many dispersed sites lack amenities, requiring visitors to pack in water and pack out waste. As one camper noted about Bulldog Canyon, "There's no cell service which makes this place a perfect place to just get away without having to go forever away from the valley."
The Superstition Mountains provide a dramatic backdrop for many camping areas east of Gilbert. Campers frequently mention the stunning desert views, particularly at sunrise and sunset. Lost Dutchman State Park receives consistently high ratings for its proximity to hiking trails and mountain vistas. A visitor described it as "one of the best campsites to wake up in." Dispersed camping areas offer more solitude but often come with challenges like dust from off-road vehicles and limited shade. Several reviewers note the importance of high-clearance vehicles when accessing more remote sites. The region's camping areas balance accessibility with desert wilderness experiences, providing options for both weekend getaways and longer stays within an hour's drive of Gilbert.
$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."
"Outstanding layout, great hosts, spectacular location. "
"Campsite 6 is the first one on the right, across from the Camp Host site, and as close to the entrance has you’re gonna get."
"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."
"We loved this park in the Arizona Desert. Close to everything, yet set up to feel like you're in your own little village. "
"Made fast friends with the neighbors, got tons of recommendations from anyone walking or biking for things to do nearby."
$10 - $80 / night
"I use the north entrance off Bush highway. I've camped here 5 or 6 times. No water or bathrooms. Leave no trace. You need a permit and gate code. Most ATVers but not loud during the week."
"This is a nice area if you like to off road. We take our trailer out for the weekend to get out of the city. It’s an hour from Tempe/ Phoenix."
$29 - $49 / night
"It's close to lots of amenities and great for anyone who just needs a place to park and stay or the more adventurous type."
"We were close to so many things yet the space was on a very quiet street/area."
"Gravel surrounds each campsite and we have noticed maintenance crews raking the gravel every other day. Close to all the fun stuff on the Superstition Mountains."
$48 - $55 / night
"Great campground centerally located to Phoenix and Scottsdale. Was only planning to stay 2 nights but ended up extending my stay. Full hookups and laundry/showers in house."
"It's on BLM land, so you are out of the reach of the Arizona Land Permits. The road is a bit tricky."
"It’s got great views of the mountains, TONS of awesome trails to walk/ride love the access to the little ghost town nearby."
TravelerMade reservations off internet and ended up next to dumpsters and a fence. After getting rig into site the water and electricity was on wrong side and way too far away. Found Campground Attendant and she moved us to a site that was 100% better and 100% nicer. Alot of long termers and they are all nice. Are right is 35ft and turns in park are almost tight, but all roads are paved. Would stay there again.
LegendHewitt Station OHV area is quite lovely, but seems to be a 24-hour open-air gun range. We were a little nervous about camping here, not knowing the sobriety, or degree of responsibility of the people's shooting here. The road, once you are past the parking lot becomes quite rutted, although there are several obvious campsites with fire rings. We felt much safer staying in the parking lot.
TravelerI’ve tried to camp out here 3 times now and it is utterly ridiculous the amount of people in loud trucks, and side by sides blaring loud music. Tons of people drinking and shooting guns all the way in to the 2-3am hours of the night. I do not recommend anything about this spot if you’re looking for a peaceful quiet stay. Nothing like being woke up at midnight because you’re surrounded by people drinking and being loud shooting guns 20 feet from your vehicle.
LegendWe had already bought our $20 permit, but all we saw were signs saying no motorized vehicles in the Arizona state land Trust areas north of Phoenix. I did look it up online eventually and found out that all of the Arizona State trust land north of Phoenix was closed to camping and motor vehicles starting in March of 2025.
LegendWhen we drove by in February. 2026, the Arizona State Trust sign said that the area was closed to motorized vehicles. We saw several RVs parked here anyway, but chose to stay on adjacent US bureau of Land reclamation land.
GuideConfusing system for making reservations. Pass the library and check in at the booth. Then 2.2 mile drive to Willow campground. Early spring high temps so rattlesnakes were active. I camped in tent only site which required parking and short walk. Lots of hiking and biking trails
ScoutVery relaxing not far from shopping and restaurants. I left stuff at the campground and had no problems
ScoutGreat mtn bike trails!
TravelerExperienced problem with electrical and Scooter was very helpful in finding and correcting the challenge.
Arizona's desert camping areas near Gilbert offer varied terrain from 1,200 to 2,800 feet elevation. The Superstition Mountain range creates natural barriers with dramatic temperature changes between exposed desert and shaded canyon areas. Winter nights can drop below 40°F while maintaining pleasant daytime temperatures in the 60-70°F range, creating ideal conditions for seasonal campers.
Hiking at base of mountains: Lost Dutchman State Park provides direct access to numerous trails with varying difficulty levels. "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," notes camper Chad E.
Mountain biking nearby trails: Usery Mountain Regional Park offers extensive mountain biking opportunities across different skill levels. "We absolutely love this campground. Close to everything, including some awesome Mountain Biking from green to double black diamond trails," shares Marty P.
Observe wildlife and night skies: Bulldog Canyon provides more remote experiences for wildlife viewing. "For us Washingtonians, camping in the desert amongst the saguaros was perfect. Sunsets were so pretty. We heard coyotes in the night, which was exciting," notes a visitor. Plan for evening temperatures that drop quickly after sunset.
Well-maintained facilities: The Mesa-Apache Junction KOA receives high marks for its upkeep. "The spaces have very little shade if any! The KOA features a small fenced playground with a tetherball, swing set, merry go round, and a table with an umbrella," explains one camper detailing the amenities.
Spacious camping areas: Usery Mountain Regional Park offers generously sized sites. "Our site #48 Buckhorn was really spacious and private. Great views all around. Table and fire pit. The park has tons of trails for hiking and MTN biking," reports Julie F.
Desert landscape immersion: The Sonoran Desert environment creates unique camping backdrops. "Beautiful sunset, amazing view of moon rising over mountains. Heard some coyotes in the night, which was exciting. Enjoyed hiking the trails and exploring the landscape," shares a visitor about their experience at Lost Dutchman State Park.
Permit requirements: Bulldog Canyon requires advance permits that recently changed in cost and duration. "They also just changed the price from $6 for 6 months to $80 for the year," notes Matt F. about the area's access requirements.
Site reservations fill quickly: Plan well ahead for popular camping areas. "Suggest you make reservations well ahead for busy winter months!" advises a Lost Dutchman visitor. Many campgrounds book completely during peak season from November through March.
High clearance vehicles needed: Many dispersed camping sites require appropriate vehicles. "You might be able to get back there without 4x4 but certainly it is strongly recommended. Very rough road and about a 2 mile drive," warns a camper about accessing remote camping spots.
Age restrictions at some sites: Not all campgrounds welcome children. "When she showed up, she was told she would have to leave as children were not welcome. They should've caught this in the reservation information weeks in advance," warns a visitor about age restrictions at one RV resort.
Noise considerations: Sound carries in desert camping areas. "The campground was great! Clean and nice bathrooms with showers, nice places to park. Gorgeous views of the mountains. The only complaint is that it's a little crowded," notes a visitor.
Playground access: The Mesa Gardens RV Park provides kid-friendly amenities. "RV park backs up to a park with a coded gate so easy access to playground/big grass area for dogs. Park is fully fenced with gate. Very clean and well kept," reports Julie S., making it suitable for families.
Site selection caution: Check dimensions carefully when booking RV sites. "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. Roads are narrow and there are unforgiving drop offs on the sides," advises an RVer.
Central convenience: Some RV parks offer strategic locations for exploring the region. "Great campground centrally located to Phoenix and Scottsdale. Was only planning to stay 2 nights but ended up extending my stay. Full hookups and laundry/showers in house," notes a reviewer.
Winter stays: Snowbirds find ideal conditions from November through April. "One of my favorite winter camp spots," shares a camper about the moderate temperatures during cooler months when daytime highs average 65-75°F.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Gilbert, AZ?
According to TheDyrt.com, Gilbert, AZ offers a wide range of camping options, with 264 campgrounds and RV parks near Gilbert, AZ and 61 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 89 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Gilbert, AZ?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 61 free dispersed camping spots near Gilbert, AZ.
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