Desert landscapes and mountain views frame the camping options surrounding Higley, Arizona. Located within Maricopa County at approximately 1,250 feet elevation, the region features stark terrain transitions from desert floor to mountain terrain. Winter temperatures typically range from 40-70°F with summer highs often exceeding 105°F, creating distinct camping seasons that impact water needs and site selection.
What to do
Hiking through diverse terrain: Cave Creek Regional Park offers trails ranging from easy walks to challenging paths with significant elevation gain. "The park has beautiful hiking trails and a great nature center, which offers activities," according to Ellen W. "The campground has tons of trails for hiking and MTN biking," notes Julie F., who stayed at Usery Mountain Regional Park.
Stargazing experiences: The desert sky provides excellent night viewing opportunities despite some light pollution from nearby Phoenix. "Beautiful sunset, amazing view of moon rising over mountains. Heard some coyotes in the night, which was exciting," shares Rebecca G. about her experience at Lost Dutchman State Park Campground. White Tank Mountain offers similar opportunities where "you can literally hike right out of your campsite and be in the middle of everything."
Water recreation options: While Higley itself is dry desert terrain, nearby Roosevelt Lake offers swimming and boating. A camper at Windy Hill Campground notes, "We like to put on life jackets and just float in the refreshing cool water so the end of the closed boat launch was heaven for us." Reservations are essential during peak spring months when water levels attract the most visitors.
What campers like
Desert plant diversity: The Sonoran Desert environment features unique vegetation that creates distinctive camping backdrops. At White Tank Mountain, campers appreciate the "lush desert campground" that's "quiet and well run." Another camper mentions the "so many beautiful desert plants, some Saguaros, Yuca, Agave" that create an appealing natural setting.
Short-drive access: Many campers appreciate the proximity to urban areas while still feeling removed. "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," writes Chad E. about Lost Dutchman. Michael F. calls it "our go to when we want to get away but don't have a lot of time to drive far."
Spacious campsite layouts: Many area campgrounds offer well-spaced sites that provide privacy despite being in developed campgrounds. "The sites are well maintained and the visitor center is worth a look," notes Christine S. about Usery Mountain. At Mesa-Apache Junction KOA, a camper observed, "We got a pull through and had plenty of space. You can even upgrade to a pavilion space which has a grill and sink to use."
What you should know
Limited shade coverage: Most campgrounds in this desert region offer minimal natural shade. "My site had no shade which was ok when I visited in early spring but would have been way too hot to have stayed here during late spring or summer," reports one Crystal C. about White Tank Mountain. Consider portable shade structures during warmer months.
Wind conditions impact comfort: Strong desert winds can disrupt camping experiences. "It's named windy hill for a reason. Stake everything by down well and don't leave shade pop up tents up while you're out, they might be gone to the wind when you get back," advises Candy P. about Windy Hill Campground.
Yurt camping options near Higley: For alternatives to traditional tent or RV setups, yurt camping around Higley provides solid structures with canvas walls. Sun Life RV Resort offers yurt rentals with basic furnishings, while some sites at Phoenix Metro RV Park provide similar structures. Yurt options typically include solid flooring and basic furniture, making them popular for campers seeking minimal setup.
After-hours access restrictions: Some parks implement gate closures after specific hours. "Nothing on website said gate closes and can't get back in after 9 pm," warns Nicole E. about Cave Creek Regional Park. Check specific campground policies regarding night access when making reservations.
Tips for camping with families
Playground and activity accessibility: Several campgrounds feature child-friendly amenities. Mesa-Apache Junction KOA provides "a small fenced playground with a tetherball, swing set, merry go round, and a table with an umbrella." Another camper mentions that at Cave Creek Regional Park, "The park has beautiful hiking trails and a great nature center, which offers activities."
Bathroom facilities: When camping with children, clean bathroom access becomes more important. "Clean facilities, beautiful surroundings, full amenities," notes Loyal B. about Lost Dutchman State Park. Another camper mentions "clean single shower/bathroom stalls that are spacious" at Windy Hill.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience varying noise levels. "Didn't love the fact that people were blaring their music here until 2AM in the morning," reports Brandon M. about his family camping experience at Lost Dutchman. Consider campsite location within the campground to minimize potential disruptions.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for vehicle size: Many campgrounds offer different site configurations for various RV sizes. At Lost Dutchman, Terri D. advises, "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."
Hookup availability varies: Different campgrounds offer varied utility connections. Picacho-Tucson NW KOA provides full hookups, where a camper reports, "Nice camp with full hookups. We stayed here to get away and visit Rooster Cogburns Ostrich farm." Chris P. notes about Usery Mountain Regional Park, "My site was a pull through...more a side of the road spot. No shade here at all but otherwise pretty decent. My spot had water and electric. Nice dump station on the way out too."
Reservation timing considerations: Securing sites during peak seasons requires advance planning. "Suggest you make reservations well ahead for busy winter months!" recommends Debbie W. about Lost Dutchman. Winter months bring significant influx of visitors seeking to escape colder climates elsewhere.
