Desert camping options near Goodyear, Arizona range from established campgrounds with full hookups to rustic dispersed sites in the Sonoran Desert. Located at the southwestern edge of the Phoenix metropolitan area, Goodyear sits at approximately 1,000 feet elevation where summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F between May and September. Winter camping conditions are mild with daytime temperatures in the 60s-70s and overnight lows sometimes dipping into the 30s.
What to do
Hiking desert trails: White Tank Mountain Regional Park offers multiple trail options ranging from easy to challenging. "Lots of well marked trails and access to water and facilities as well as access to a county library and education center at the entrance," notes one visitor about White Tank Mountain. The park includes the popular Waterfall Trail with petroglyphs and seasonal water features.
Stargazing opportunities: Despite proximity to urban areas, several campgrounds offer decent night sky viewing. "Campsites are behind a rise, so you see stars, not city lights," reports a camper at White Tank Mountain. For optimal viewing, arrive during a new moon phase and use red-filtered flashlights to preserve night vision.
Mountain biking adventures: Usery Mountain Regional Park provides excellent mountain biking terrain with trails for all skill levels. "Close to everything, including some awesome Mountain Biking from green to double black diamond trails," shares one visitor. Trail maps are available at park entrance stations and visitor centers.
What campers like
Large, well-spaced sites: Many campers appreciate the generous spacing between sites at Maricopa County parks. At Cave Creek Regional Park, "The sites are spacious and spaced well enough apart from each other." Another visitor notes, "There is an older area, sites 1 through 42, which offers more space in between the spaces."
Clean, accessible facilities: Campground cleanliness receives consistent praise. "The campground itself is very clean. It is quiet and the campsites all have electric and water hookups, picnic table and fire pit," according to one Cave Creek visitor. Another camper noted, "Restroom and shower facilities were clean."
Proximity to urban amenities: While offering natural settings, most campgrounds remain close to conveniences. "Convenient campground for a stay after visiting family in Phoenix before heading to Tucson. Wider sites than normal at a city RV park," reports a camper at Mesa-Apache Junction KOA. Many campgrounds are within 15-30 minutes of grocery stores and restaurants.
What you should know
Gate closure times: Some parks restrict nighttime entry and exit. "Nothing on website said gate closes and can't get back in after 9 pm," warns a Cave Creek Regional Park visitor. Check park websites for specific gate hours before booking, especially if planning evening activities outside the park.
Limited shade coverage: Desert campgrounds typically offer minimal natural shade. "No shade here at all but otherwise pretty decent," notes a camper at Usery Mountain Regional Park. Consider bringing canopies or awnings, particularly during warmer months when temperatures frequently exceed 90°F.
Seasonal considerations: Summer heat can be extreme. The Phoenix area regularly experiences temperatures above 110°F from June through August. Winter (November-March) provides the most comfortable camping weather with daytime highs in the 60s-70s. "We stay here every year for a week," shares a Boulders OHV Area visitor about their preferred season. "Obviously not ideal camping in the summer but GREAT for the fall/winter/spring months."
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: Take advantage of nature centers and ranger programs. "The park has beautiful hiking trails and a great nature center, which offers activities and the regional library. There are a couple of playgrounds in the park as well," shares a White Tank Mountain visitor. Many parks offer junior ranger programs during peak season.
Pool access for cooling off: Several campgrounds feature swimming pools, particularly valuable during warmer months. Mesa-Apache Junction KOA "features a year round heated pool and jacuzzi. The pool area was fenced and had some chairs, tables, and what appeared to be covered grills."
Playground availability: Phoenix Metro RV Park provides family-friendly amenities beyond camping. "The RV Park itself is nice and has a swimming pool and a little social area where they have game nights and parties," notes a visitor. Check campground websites for playground hours and age restrictions.
Tips from RVers
Arrival timing recommendations: Many RVers suggest arriving during daylight hours for easier setup. "We arrived just after dark yesterday and will leave this morning," shares a Mesa-Apache Junction KOA visitor, highlighting the challenges of nighttime arrival. Winter visitors should note earlier sunset times around 5:30-6:00 PM from November through February.
Site selection strategy: Choose sites based on your priorities for space, accessibility, or proximity to facilities. "Campsite #70 was the best! Great view of the stars," recommends a visitor to Usery Mountain Regional Park. Many campgrounds allow online site selection during reservation.
Hookup availability: Most established campgrounds offer water and electric hookups. "The campsites all have electric and water hookups, picnic table and fire pit," confirms a Cave Creek Regional Park visitor. Some parks like Mesa-Apache Junction KOA provide full hookups including sewer connections, while dispersed camping areas like Boulders OHV offer no hookups.
