Equestrian camping near Gold Canyon, Arizona provides access to desert terrain with elevations ranging from 1,600 to 4,000 feet across the surrounding mountains. The Superstition Mountain wilderness area creates a dramatic backdrop for camping, with temperature variations of up to 30 degrees between day and night during winter months. Water sources are limited throughout the region, requiring campers to bring adequate supplies for both humans and animals.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: The McDowell Mountain Regional Park offers extensive riding trails for equestrians with varying skill levels. According to Chad E., "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."
Mountain biking: McDowell Mountain Regional Park has dedicated mountain biking trails that connect to equestrian routes. "Mikes of mountain biking trails which were spectacular. We've ridden lots of places and this is definitely one of my favorite. Trails are not difficult technically but a great workout and so pretty," notes Mike M.
Wildlife viewing: The desert ecosystem supports diverse wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the year. At Usery Mountain Regional Park, visitors regularly spot desert wildlife. "Heard some coyotes in the night, which was exciting. Enjoyed hiking the trails and exploring the landscape," reports Rebecca G. from Lost Dutchman State Park.
Archaeological sites: Tonto National Monument is accessible from several camping areas and features Puebloan cliff dwellings. "Across the road, lies the Tonto National Monument which shows off some terrific examples of early Puebloan cliff dwellings," notes a visitor to Windy Hill Campground.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Peralta Regional Park Primitive Remote Campsites offers well-spaced sites suitable for horse trailers. One camper noted, "Each campsite has plenty of space in between. Literally no complaints at all," while another mentioned, "We enjoyed the rustic campsite. The camp host was very friendly and helpful (Darell)."
Clean facilities: Most established campgrounds maintain good bathroom facilities. At Usery Mountain Regional Park, a camper observed, "Restroom and shower facilities were clean" and "The sites are well maintained and the visitor center is worth a look."
Reliable water access: Bartlett Flat provides shoreline camping with water sources. "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," notes one visitor, while another adds, "Spots are right on the water, but can get a little busy so would recommend coming early."
Night sky viewing: The area offers excellent stargazing opportunities away from city lights. A camper at Lost Dutchman noted, "Beautiful sunset, amazing view of moon rising over mountains," while another mentioned "the light noise from Phoenix makes for beautifully silhouetted saguaro cacti."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F between May and September. "It was 90 the day we left (~March 23rd), night temp was cool and windows left open," reports Mark M. from Usery Mountain Regional Park.
Wildlife awareness: Rattlesnakes are common throughout the region. A camper at Peralta Regional Park reported, "Amazing stay! Came across a rattle snake when hiking. Very quiet and peaceful."
Campsite availability: Lost Dutchman State Park fills quickly during peak season. "Suggest you make reservations well ahead for busy winter months!" advises Debbie W., while Loyal B. notes it's "One of my favorite winter camp spots."
Road conditions: Some access roads require high-clearance vehicles. "The roads are quite rugged from the rains," reports a Peralta Regional Park camper, while another advises about Bartlett Flat, "If you want to be more secluded keep following the shore line NW, however the more you travel the more ground clearance you'll need."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming locations: Box Bar shoreline provides safe river access for children. A visitor observed, "This is a fun spot to swim and picnic. This is free and not on Tonto National Forest, so you don't need a Tonto Pass."
Educational opportunities: Goldfield Ghost Town offers historical learning experiences adjacent to camping. "It was fun to walk right up to the town and walk around. Cowboy Dan who owns and runs the steakhouse is hilarious and his wait staff was helpful and accommodating. They have train rides and you can visit a mine," reports Alisa P.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience varied noise levels. "Camped here with my family. The scenery was beautiful, but didn't love the fact that people were blaring their music here until 2AM in the morning," reports Brandon M. from Lost Dutchman.
Site selection: Choose sites based on specific family needs. Julie F. from Usery Mountain Regional Park recommends, "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."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric and water hookups are available at select campgrounds. "Clean facilities, beautiful surroundings, full amenities. We loved staying with a big group of teardrop trailers and home built campers," notes Loyal B. from Lost Dutchman State Park.
Site positioning: Consider trailer size when selecting 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 Terri D.
Dump station locations: Plan ahead for wastewater disposal. "While you can dump there for free; you cannot find it without a treasure map, a devining rod, and a map of the stars," cautions an RVer about facilities at Windy Hill Campground.
Generator restrictions: Rules vary significantly between campgrounds. One camper at Windy Hill noted, "This place takes the prize for the most generator impacted site that we've ever stayed in our lifetimes, which is saying something."
