White Tank Mountain Regional Park offers camping sites with electric and water hookups just 30 minutes west of Phoenix. Campsites are spaced apart on gravel and sand with both pull-through and back-in options available. The area features distinctive Sonoran Desert landscapes with saguaro cacti, desert wildlife, and hiking trails that range from easy to challenging. Temperatures from April through October regularly exceed 100°F, making winter months more comfortable for outdoor activities.
What to do
Explore desert trails: White Tank Mountain has multiple hiking paths for different skill levels. "Super clean trails with amazing views and saguaro cacti for days," notes Michelle W. The park includes the popular Waterfall Trail which is paved for the first half mile with petroglyphs visible along the route.
Visit the library and nature center: Educational opportunities exist right within the park system. "The park has a beautiful nature center, great hiking trails and a great nature center, which offers activities and the regional library," mentions Ellen W. This makes the park suitable for both recreational and educational visits.
Stargaze away from city lights: The positioning of some campgrounds creates ideal conditions for astronomy. At Skyline Regional Park, campsites are "behind a rise, so you see stars, not city lights," according to Rusty T. The park occasionally hosts "county-sponsored astronomy night with access to multiple large telescopes and an astronomy presentation."
What campers like
Spacious RV sites: Campgrounds in the area provide generous spacing between rigs. At Sonoran Desert RV Park, "sites are long and wide enough for our 40' fifth wheel and F450 truck" and "decently spaced for a private CG," according to MickandKarla W. The park also features specialized sites called "PETHouse sites where you have a private dog run."
Clean facilities: Reviewers consistently mention the upkeep of amenities. "Very clean and well maintained. Right next to the commissary and AAFES. Bathhouse is excellent. Laundry is free," writes Luis G. about Saguaro Skies - Luke AFB Famcamp (available to military personnel).
Agricultural settings: Beyond traditional campgrounds, farm stays provide unique camping near Goodyear. "This is a working farm. The RV spot was between date palms and next to the dog agility course," reports The School for Y. about their stay at Pinnacle Farms South, where campers can purchase "eggs, homebaked goodies, and other produce anytime using a self-pay box."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer heat makes camping challenging without proper preparation. "This is a nice place to visit is the cooler months of the year due to no shade and low elevation. We visited in January which was perfect," shares Christine S. about White Tank Mountain.
Elevation challenges: Some areas have terrain that requires careful navigation. At Skyline Regional Park, "Beware of paths that seem fit for a two-wheeled vehicle but were created by ATVs which can often climb into and out of these washes with no problem. I drove through one that almost ripped off the tail end of my 17 foot TT," cautions Butch K.
Site arrangements: Layout details matter when planning where to stay. "Spaces are tight but it's clean and everybody is very nice," notes Jerry H. about Leaf Verde RV Resort. Another reviewer mentions that "Regular pull-through spots are kind of like buddy spots as your doors face each other. Back in and deluxe sites are decent sized."
Tips for camping with families
Visit seasonal fruit harvests: Children can experience agriculture hands-on at certain locations. Pinnacle Farms South provides access to seasonal produce where "camping out in tent with fire going next to Lemmon trees" creates a unique experience according to Melanie S., who adds there's "Stove and sink to cook and clean up showers to wash up and bathroom."
Choose parks with activity amenities: Some resorts offer recreational facilities beyond camping. "The pool is refreshing and if you aren't into swimming there is a pool table, dog park and shuffle board to keep you busy," shares Jen H. about their family's experience at Leaf Verde.
Look for accessible trails: Family-friendly parks include pathways suitable for various abilities. White Tank Mountain Regional Park has "a short (.6 mile) ADA-accessible trail" and "several hiking trails directly accessible from the campground," which Lee D. notes are "well-marked."
Tips from RVers
Water availability varies: Not all parks provide water hookups. At Skyline Regional Park, "There is no water. Neither potable or non-potable," warns Castaway I., who also notes "If you use off air antenna for TV, you won't get any channels here."
Breed restrictions exist: Some RV parks maintain specific pet policies. "We went through the extensive application to stay a night and then called back and were told we could not have a reservation because our dog was 'mixed'... if our dog was a purebred Lab she would be permitted," reports Jeff H. about one location's unique pet policy.
Phone reception considerations: Cell service can be unreliable at certain parks. "If you use Verizon, there is little or no signal most of the time," mentions Castaway I., which is important information for those needing to stay connected while enjoying pet-friendly camping near Goodyear.
