The Sonoran Desert surrounding Gilbert, Arizona rises from 1,200 feet to over 3,000 feet at nearby mountains, creating diverse camping environments from mesa flats to rugged foothills. Temperatures fluctuate dramatically with winter nights dropping to the 40s and summer days regularly reaching 110°F. Campers have access to both primitive BLM land and full-service resorts in close proximity to Phoenix metropolitan amenities.
What to do
Hiking through varying terrains: Usery Mountain Regional Park offers multiple trail options for different skill levels, from easy family walks to challenging mountain routes. A camper noted, "The park has tons of trails for hiking and MTN biking" and "Wonderful hiking trails around the park."
Morning wildlife viewing: Eagle View RV Resort positions visitors near excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. According to one camper, "We saw wild horses, woodpeckers, and heard the distant coyotes carrying on." Plan early morning outings for best wildlife spotting before temperatures rise.
Desert night photography: Despite proximity to Phoenix, some camping areas provide night sky photography opportunities. One camper at Usery Mountain Regional Park mentioned, "The light pollution at night being so close to Phoenix" creates "beautifully silhouetted saguaro cacti" against the sky – a unique photographic opportunity.
What campers like
Concrete camping pads: Many RV parks near Gilbert feature well-maintained concrete pads, particularly appreciated during monsoon season. A visitor to Monte Vista RV Resort observed, "All the sites are back-in but all have concrete parking pads and patio. Gravel surrounds each campsite and we have noticed maintenance crews raking the gravel every other day."
Secluded camping spots: Some camping areas offer isolated sites despite proximity to urban areas. One visitor to Usery Mountain Regional Park shared, "Our site #48 Buckhorn was really spacious and private. Great views all around."
Direct park access: Multiple RV parks provide special access to adjacent recreational facilities. At Mesa Gardens RV Park, a camper noted, "RV park backs up to a park with a coded gate so easy access to playground/big grass area for dogs."
What you should know
Permit requirements: Several dispersed camping areas require permits with specific rules. One camper reported about Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping, "Easy to get a permit from the ranger station. Just email your name, address, phone number and driver's license number to sm.fs.mesa_ohs@usda.gov and you'll get your permit within 2 days for free."
Road conditions for dispersed camping: Access roads to free camping areas often present challenges. A camper at Hackamore Road noted, "The road is a bit tricky. I got here pretty smooth on my RWD Xterra, so while 4WD isn't necessary, I wouldn't come out here without high clearance and decent suspension."
Age restrictions: Several RV resorts operate as age-restricted communities. One visitor to Valle Del Oro stated, "This community has so many organized activities for residents. They have almost everything you would need on site. Everything for activities, concerts, games and shows."
Tips for camping with families
Morning activities: Schedule family hikes and outdoor activities before 10am during warmer months. A visitor to Eagle View RV Resort mentioned, "Walking paths and trails are throughout the park" making it convenient for early morning family walks before temperatures rise.
Traveler
