Mesa-Apache Junction KOA offers cabin camping with full hookups and various site options for RVs ranging from standard to premium patio sites. Located about 45 minutes from Phoenix, this campground serves as a convenient base for exploring the Sonoran Desert landscape. The surrounding area features numerous hiking trails, wildlife viewing opportunities, and family-friendly attractions within easy driving distance.
What to do
Visit Ostrich Ranch nearby: At Picacho-Tucson NW KOA, campers can explore local attractions within a short drive. "We stayed here one night. We've stayed at a lot of KOAs across the country and this is the cleanest one I've ever been to. Excellent facilities- laundry, bathrooms, pool area, dog run, and clear tent spots. Staff was so helpful and the camp store was well stocked. 10 minutes from Picacho Peak hiking and don't miss the Ostrich Ranch!" said Rae M.
Explore hiking trails: White Tank Mountain offers extensive trail networks for hikers of all abilities. "Located about 203rd Avenue, on the westside of Phoenix, in Waddell Arizona is a tiny little Campground with phenomenal views. There are numerous horseback, hiking and biking trails," writes Staci R. The park features trails suitable for mountain bikers and horseback riders as well as hikers.
Stargaze away from city lights: Many campsites in the area provide excellent night sky viewing opportunities. "Fantastic park for seeing the stars and getting away from Phoenix city lights. 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," reports Chenery K. about White Tank Mountain. The desert environment creates ideal conditions for stargazing during clear nights.
What campers like
Spacious desert sites: Lost Dutchman State Park Campground receives high marks for its layout and views. "Nestled right at the base of the Superstition Mountains - this is a great location that is close to excellent hiking and riding. Also close to a unique drive out to Canyon Lake! For the very fit cyclist you can ride from this location out this lake. It's an amazing and very challenging ride indeed," notes Brad B.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently praise the condition of facilities at Usery Mountain Regional Park. "This is a lovely regional park to stay in. The sites are well maintained and the visitor center is worth a look. Wonderful hiking trails around the park. Will stay again!" writes Christine S. The park maintains well-kept bathrooms and shower facilities.
Desert landscapes: The unique Sonoran Desert environment surrounding Maricopa offers distinctive camping experiences. "Stayed one night on thru-trip. Wow, seems like best of the Sonoran Desert. Beautiful. Well kept park, safe, quiet, with clean single shower/bathroom stalls that are spacious, but some do not have hooks to hang stuff," says Mark M. about Usery Mountain Regional Park.
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience railroad noise throughout the day and night. According to Meagan B. at Picacho-Tucson NW KOA, "Stay for a couple nights on the way up from Tucson. It was perfect and quiet except the trains which is not the fault of the facility. The laundry was perfect although busy and a little small."
Heat management: Desert temperatures require planning, especially during summer months. "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. Since we could not use the pool we had a game day with corn hole, washers, and ladder ball," shares Riley B. about their stay at Mesa-Apache Junction KOA.
Yurt camping options: While traditional yurt camping near Maricopa, Arizona is limited, some resorts like Sun Life RV Resort offer alternative accommodations. For true yurt camping, Maricopa, Arizona visitors typically need to venture to more remote areas of the state where canvas structures provide a balance between tent camping and cabin amenities.
Tips for camping with families
Pool facilities: For families seeking relief from heat, look for campgrounds with swimming options. "Really happy with this koa journey. Thoughtfully organized with large pull through spots, picnic tables and local cactus flare. Good for a roadtrip stop," notes Caitlin B. about Mesa-Apache Junction KOA.
Playground access: Phoenix Metro RV Park provides family-friendly amenities. "We stored our RV here for several years and they were easy to deal with. No hassles. The RV Park itself is nice and has a swimming pool and a little social area where they have game nights and parties," mentions Nick S.
Educational opportunities: Many area campgrounds offer ranger programs and nature activities. "I've also joined two ranger-led hikes here (Black Rock Loop for sunrise hikes) as well as a county-sponsored astronomy night with access to multiple large telescopes and an astronomy presentation," shares Chenery K. about White Tank Mountain.
Tips from RVers
Reservation timing: Book well ahead for winter months when snowbird season fills campgrounds. "This is a nice spot close to home and easy to get to. 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," advises Chris P. about Usery Mountain Regional Park.
Elevation and temperature: Site selection can impact comfort levels in desert conditions. "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," cautions Terri D. about Lost Dutchman State Park.
Site spacing: RV sites vary significantly in privacy and space between units. "We arrived just after dark yesterday and will leave this morning. Convenient campground for a stay after visiting family in Phoenix before heading to Tucson. Wider sites than normal at a city RV park. Clean bathrooms, though a tad dated. Quiet. Standard KOA amenities of pool, hot tub, playground, and dog park," reports Kim G. about Mesa-Apache Junction KOA.
