Best Campgrounds near Salt River, AZ

The Salt River area in Arizona has camping that ranges from developed parks to more remote spots in the desert. Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground works well for people who like to fish, with both electric and non-electric sites along the shoreline. Usery Mountain Regional Park has good hiking trails and views, plus clean bathrooms and hot showers that many campers appreciate. If you want something more basic, Bulldog Canyon has dispersed camping without facilities, but you'll need to carry out your trash and follow Leave No Trace practices. You can take a day trip to the Grand Canyon from the area if you have time. Always check current fire rules before your trip since they change with the seasons. It's smart to book ahead at the main campgrounds, especially when it's busy. Many people come to watch wildlife around the Salt River. The campgrounds here work for short trips or longer stays depending on what you're looking for. Make sure you bring enough water since it gets very dry. Many sites don't have much shade, so a portable canopy helps. The mix of desert landscapes and things to do makes the Salt River worth the trip for most campers.

Best Camping Sites Near Salt River, Arizona (239)

    1. Usery Mountain Regional Park

    35 Reviews
    Apache Junction, AZ
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 984-0032

    "Outstanding layout, great hosts, spectacular location. "

    "Stumbled upon this great little spot while looking for some stealth camping near the salt river. Great sites, nice park, water & electricity at each site."

    2. Lost Dutchman State Park Campground

    82 Reviews
    Superstition Mtn, AZ
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 982-4485

    $35 - $99 / night

    "It kind of poked off the main loop away from other neighbors which is why we picked it, very close to the mtb trail and easy access to the trail leading to siphon draw. Very little shade."

    "One of my favorite trails in Arizona."

    3. Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance

    27 Reviews
    Fort Mcdowell, AZ
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 610-3300

    $10 - $80 / night

    "FYI the entrance that this references is actually further west than shown on the map. Less than a mile west of the bridge over Salt River at Pebble Beach."

    "I use the north entrance off Bush highway. I've camped here 5 or 6 times. No water or bathrooms. Leave no trace. You need a permit and gate code. Most ATVers but not loud during the week."

    4. Encore Mesa Spirit

    8 Reviews
    Mesa, AZ
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "We loved this park in the Arizona Desert.  Close to everything, yet set up to feel like you're in your own little village. "

    "Made fast friends with the neighbors, got tons of recommendations from anyone walking or biking for things to do nearby."

    5. McDowell Mountain Regional Park

    19 Reviews
    Rio Verde, AZ
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (602) 506-2930

    $32 / night

    "Gorgeous views, very spaced out sites, and access to great mountain biking and hiking trails. Even the overflow area where we had to spend a couple of nights has a very nice bathroom and shower."

    "No sewer, however electric and water are available and conveniently located. NO shade however and in the summer it is HOT! Desert surround's and lots you singing coyotes at night and early morning!"

    6. Eagle View RV Resort at Fort Mcdowell

    10 Reviews
    Fort Mcdowell, AZ
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 789-5310

    $41 - $84 / night

    "Walking paths and trails are throughout the park. A dog park is available. Town is about 10 minutes away on a winding back road."

    "We have met great people here and enjoy that you can walk or bikeride directly from the RV Park. The park is always clean and well cared for, and we like that its not in the city center."

    7. Mesa-Apache Junction KOA

    17 Reviews
    Apache Junction, AZ
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 982-4015

    "This KOA sits on the outskirts of Apache Junction, which itself isn't Phoenix proper but an eastern suburb. The RV park has all of the basics: power, water, sewer plus a pool and a level, clean site."

    "We had plenty of space between us and adjacent sites. The whole KOA has some nice touches as far as landscaping, sites with grills, etc. Very clean and well kept."

    8. Mesa Gardens RV Park

    1 Review
    Salt River, AZ
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 964-1102

    $48 - $55 / night

    "Great campground centerally located to Phoenix and Scottsdale. Was only planning to stay 2 nights but ended up extending my stay. Full hookups and laundry/showers in house."

    9. Holiday Village

    2 Reviews
    Tempe, AZ
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 962-1694

    $37 / night

    10. Towerpoint Resort (55+)

    2 Reviews
    Mesa, AZ
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 832-4996
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Showing results 1-10 of 239 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Salt River, AZ

861 Reviews of 239 Salt River Campgrounds



Guide to Salt River

Camping near Salt River, Arizona, offers a mix of stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're into hiking, fishing, or just soaking up the sun, there’s something for everyone.

What to do

  • Hiking: Explore the numerous trails around the area. Campers rave about the hiking options, with one saying, "There are tons of trails and the views are awesome" at Usery Mountain Regional Park. Another camper noted, "Great hiking trails directly from the campground" at Cave Creek Regional Park.
  • Fishing: The lakes around Salt River are perfect for fishing. One visitor at Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground mentioned, "Relaxed and fished off the shoreline," highlighting the great fishing opportunities.
  • Off-Roading: If you have a UTV, you’re in for a treat. A camper at Lost Dutchman State Park Campground described it as "Off-Roading Nirvana," with thrilling rides through stunning desert landscapes.

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Many campers appreciate the well-maintained restrooms and showers. One reviewer at Cave Creek Regional Park said, "Facilities were clean round the clock, shower water was hot."
  • Spacious Campsites: Campers enjoy the roomy sites. A visitor at McDowell Mountain Regional Park mentioned, "Gorgeous views, very spaced out sites," making it a comfortable spot for families.
  • Beautiful Scenery: The views are a big hit. A camper at Lost Dutchman State Park Campground noted, "Its a little elevated so the valley views are great."

What you should know

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground, lack showers, which can be a downside for some. A reviewer pointed out, "No hot water in bathrooms. No showers."
  • Busy on Weekends: Expect crowds during weekends. A camper at Canyon Lake Marina & Campground mentioned, "Been staying here off and on for over a decade. Great place to hang out with the family," but noted it gets exceptionally busy.
  • Wildlife: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. A visitor at Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground mentioned, "There are wild burros in the park," adding to the charm of the area.

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots with amenities. One camper at Pleasant Harbor RV Resort felt safe as a single woman, saying, "Security makes its rounds and you can't get into the park after leaving without your pass."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. A family at Usery Mountain Regional Park enjoyed the "mountain bike trails connected to this campground that were very fun!"
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having food on hand can save you trips to the store. A camper at Canyon Lake Marina & Campground appreciated the convenience store, saying, "The convenience store was a cool feature saving me from having to drive 20min to get some drinks."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Hookups: Make sure your campground has the necessary hookups. A visitor at McDowell Mountain Regional Park mentioned, "The sites are very nicely kept/clean," which is a plus for RVers.
  • Be Prepared for Limited Cell Service: Some areas have spotty reception. A camper at Lost Dutchman State Park Campground advised, "Keep in mind that cell service can be limited in certain areas."
  • Bring Your Own Water: Some campgrounds, like Bartlett Flat, do not have drinking water available. A camper noted, "Ground is mostly level on desert sand," but be sure to bring your own supplies.

Camping near Salt River, Arizona, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors. With beautiful campgrounds and plenty of activities, it’s a perfect getaway for families and adventurers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Salt River, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, Salt River, AZ offers a wide range of camping options, with 239 campgrounds and RV parks near Salt River, AZ and 52 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Salt River, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Salt River, AZ is Usery Mountain Regional Park with a 4.8-star rating from 35 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Salt River, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 52 free dispersed camping spots near Salt River, AZ.

What parks are near Salt River, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 9 parks near Salt River, AZ that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.