Camping in Mesa, AZ
Looking for the best campgrounds near Mesa, AZ? Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Mesa. Discover great camping spots near Mesa, reviewed by campers like you.
Best Camping Sites Near Mesa, Arizona (246)
1. Lost Dutchman State Park Campground
83 Reviews•319 Photos•578 SavesSuperstition Mtn, ArizonaThe campground has 138 sites: 68 sites with electric (50/30/20 amp service) and water and the remainder non-hookup sites on paved roads for tents or RVs. Every site has a picnic table and a fire pit with an adjustable grill gate. There are no size restrictions on RVs. Well-mannered pets on leashes are welcome, but please pick after your pets. The office at Lost Dutchman is open until 7 p.m. for campsite check-in, but after hours (with campsite reservations) you can grab a map by the ranger station and head straight to your campsite! If you are staying multiple nights, check-in with the camp host, or a ranger to get a vehicle tag.
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- RVs
$25 - $89 / night
2. Usery Mountain Regional Park
33 Reviews•104 Photos•255 SavesApache Junction, Arizona- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
3. Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance
26 Reviews•64 Photos•492 SavesFort Mcdowell, ArizonaNO CAMPING First 2 miles and 300 feet on either side of the road/trail VEHICLES MUST STAY ON DESIGNATED ROADS - but past those designated no camping zones, camping is allowed unless otherwise posted. Must have a permit.
This space is very large so it may be best to divide it by the access points. The point I'll be using is Access #3- Forest Road (FR) 10, south entrance: This access point is reached from Apache Junction. From Mesa: Travel 15 miles east on the Superstition Freeway (US 60) to the Idaho Street exit. Follow Idaho Street north 4½ miles to McKellips. Turn right on McKellips and travel ½ mile to the Wolverine Pass Road and turn left. Follow it for 7/8 mile and turn right on Tonto Road. Travel north on Tonto Road for ¼ mile to Cactus and turn left. Follow Cactus to McDowell Road and follow it to FR 10 gate.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
$10 - $80 / night
4. McDowell Mountain Regional Park
20 Reviews•43 Photos•222 SavesRio Verde, ArizonaSet in the northeast Valley of metro Phoenix, McDowell Mountain Regional Park covers 21,099 acres in the lower Verde River basin. Campers choose from 76 individual sites for tent or RV camping, which can accommodate up to a 45-foot RV. These developed sites have water and electrical hook-ups, plus a dump station, picnic table, and barbecue fire ring, while all restrooms offer flush toilets and showers. Group camping is also available.
McDowell Mountain activities range from biking, hiking, and horseback riding on over 50 miles of multi-use trails to picnicking, stargazing, and plenty of park-organized programs and events.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
$32 / night
5. Mesa-Apache Junction KOA
13 Reviews•21 Photos•52 SavesApache Junction, Arizona- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
6. Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground
65 Reviews•203 Photos•443 SavesPeoria, ArizonaLake Pleasant Regional Park offers 148 sites for RV and tent camping within the campgrounds (does not including primitive camping sites) Each "Developed Site" has water, electricity, dump station, a covered ramada, a picnic table, a barbecue grill and fire ring. Each "Semi-Developed Site" and tent site has a covered ramada, a picnic table, a barbecue grill and fire ring, unless otherwise acknowledged in the description or camping map. Restroom and/or shower facilities are available at both types of campsites. All sites in the campground may be reserved online at www.maricopacountyparks.org/. Campgrounds Desert Tortoise Campground has 74 campsites: 25 Developed Sites, 39 Semi-Developed Sites, and 10 Tent Sites. Roadrunner Campground offers 71 sites for RV and tent camping. All sites are Developed. Large groups can reserve the Desert Tortoise Group Campground. The Group Campground includes a parking area for RVs, picnic tables, and ramadas. The use of this area is by reservation only and requires a minimum commitment of 10 camping units. Shoreline Camping Lake Pleasant Regional Park also has shoreline/primitive camping during most of the year, depending on water levels. Shoreline camping is only permitted within designated areas for such use, when available. Day-of availability will be on a first-come, first-served basis and can only be reserved during business hours at the park. For information on camping fees, click on this link to be redirected to the "Fees" page. The first phase or re-introducing primitive/shoreline camping will be rolled out in late January 2021, with the area of the Dirt Spillway. Future areas will be included in phases at later dates. Campers must park in designated parking areas. Tent camping will be permitted along the shoreline within the designated area. No vehicles will be permitted to park along the shoreline within the area. Check-in time the day of arrival shall occur no earlier than 2 p.m. Campers must check out the day of departure by 12 p.m. (noon). Boat-In Camping Boat-in camping is now available at the 10 Lane Parking Lot. Roughly 30 assigned parking spaces have been designated for such use. Each camping/parking space is approximately 45 feet long by 12 ft. wide to accommodate most boat trailers and towing vehicles. Reservations are required. Day-of availability is on a first-come, first-served basis, and can only be reserved during business hours at the park. Boaters must camp on the waters of Lake Pleasant – no shoreline camping available at this time. Camping is not permitted within the parking lot/camp space. Boat-in camping is a great option for fisherman looking to fish in the late evening/early morning hours. Boat-in campers must arrive and check-in before the park closes at night (8 pm).
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- RVs
$15 - $300 / night
7. Tortilla Campground
16 Reviews•90 Photos•23 SavesTortilla Flat, ArizonaOverview
Tortilla Campground is a winter campground just outside of the Phoenix metropolitan area. From October through April each year, urban dwellers take advantage of cooler temperatures and enjoy boating, fishing, hiking, rock climbing and scenic driving throughout the surrounding Tonto National Forest. Campers awake to a scenic backdrop of rugged bluffs, saguaro cactus and desert skies. The campground is located directly across from Tortilla Flat Restaruant and general store, which is just a short walk away.
Recreation
The area is rich with human history, scenery and outdoor recreation. The campground lies along the Canyon Lake Apache Trail Scenic Byway, a former Apache Tribal route turned stagecoach road. Visitors may hear stories of lost cowboys and gold mining. The drive to the campground provides ample scenery and a vista point perfect for photography and wildlife viewing. The campground is just down the road from Canyon Lake which provides a number of recreational opportunites such as kayaking, fishing, and boating. The Superstition Wilderness has a well-developed trail system, and the western end of the wilderness receives heavy use during the cooler times of the year. Use caution as trail conditions can be fair or poor, and several are unsuitable for horses. Also make sure to check out many of the developed recreation sites along Canyon lake for shoreline and fishing dock access, but keep in mind these sites require a day pass not included in the camping fees.
Natural Features
The Superstition Wilderness Area is starkly beautiful and untamed. A series of dams has created numerous lakes along the Salt River. Blossoming plants bring the desert to life each spring with vibrant wildflowers. This area is a photographers dream with plenty of opportunities to capture Bighorn Sheep, Deer, and other desert widlife. The area can be harsh for travelers not equipped to meet nature on her own terms. Soaring temperatures and little water are typical conditions in the summer. In winter, temperatures are typically pleasant during the day but drop significantly at night. Visitors should come prepared for anything, even the occasional rain or snow.
Nearby Attractions
Fish Creek Vista Point is approx. 7 miles east on AZ-88, this area provides great views of the desert and an accessible interpretive trail great for learning about the history of the area.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- RVs
- Tents
$20 / night
8. Canyon Lake Marina & Campground
16 Reviews•35 Photos•170 SavesTortilla Flat, ArizonaCommerical Site, Please call for information, Tel: (480)288-9233, Paved Boat Launch
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- RVs
9. Eagle View RV Resort at Fort Mcdowell
10 Reviews•25 Photos•83 SavesFort Mcdowell, Arizona- Pets
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- RVs
$41 - $84 / night
10. Encore Mesa Spirit
8 Reviews•14 Photos•34 SavesMesa, ArizonaAGE QUALIFIED RESORT Discover Arizona with Mesa Spirit RV Resort...the hub of Arizona's activities and attractions including golfing, fishing, spring training, sporting events, shopping, spas, dining, casinos, the Grand Canyon, and so much more...not to mention the beautiful Arizona winter weather! Located in Mesa, Arizona, just west of the beautiful Superstition Mountains, Mesa Spirit RV Resort is a pet friendly, adult community featuring 1,667 spaces with full hook-ups, even big rigs are welcome! Mesa Spirit is ideally located near all of the Central Arizona attractions, entertainment and sporting events - including Spring Training facilities. No RV? No problem! See our list of the latest homes available for sale and rent. Or, visit our on-site Sales and Rental Office. This hidden gem in the desert, Mesa Spirit offers extensive activities and special events programs during the winter season. Events and programs are staffed and ran by the Activities Department with the support of our wonderful resident volunteers. With the wide variety of seasonal activities, you will find lots of fun and exciting things to do while at Mesa Spirit. There is something for everyone...Catch the Spirit! Catch the Spirit at Mesa Spirit RV Resort! Whether you're planning a retreat for a group of friends or a getaway for two, there's no shortage of unique activities to explore at Mesa Spirit RV Resort. Plan activities upon arrival or visit this page before your departure to plan ahead. Looking for more? Our friendly staff can fill you in on all of the great ways to make your stay a memorable experience.
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- RVs
- Cabins
Recent Reviews near Mesa, Arizona
823 Reviews of 246 Mesa Campgrounds
- DDavid G.
Traveler
Pinal County Fairgrounds
Nice place to stay forca short stay or for 2 weeks
I stayed here for 2 weeks. I stayed up front for the first week then around back fot the second week. Nice place to stay. Jen, the camp host was very friendly and welcoming. Totally recommend.
- N
Nicholas P.
Scout
Picacho-Tucson NW KOA
Clean, Friendly, and Safe
This KOA is a good place for families and it has a lot of amenities. The sites are close together and not private unless you have a patio site for an extra cost. The sites by the playground and clubhouse area are noisy during the day with children playing as children do. There is road noise and frequent trains which didn't bother me. There is also a neighboring horse ranch which had loud music for a while. This park is well-maintained, clean, friendly, and safe, but it can be noisy. It is also very busy and the wifi is very slow and unreliable. Only 15 minutes from Picacho Peak State Park. If you're looking for a quiet place I would not recommend it. If you have children and enjoy a neighborhood/community atmosphere it's a great place to be. The staff does a good job of driving around and maintaining the grounds. They also escort you to your site.
KJ G.ScoutPinal County Fairgrounds
Quick practical spot
We were dry /primitive campers saving our coins here and there camping! This was an easy quick $10 but I do recommend getting there before closing hrs. As you have to call the camp host to let you in. There is no designated camp zones it is a very dry area ofcourse being in the middle of Arizona. But we were prepared with sleeping pads and tent tarps for comfort. But for 10 bucks you can’t beat that! There was an animal 4H fair of some sort going on which we enjoyed even through all our sleep! The animals did seem to “sleep with us!” There is showers and easy convience to I-10/I20? Also Walmart/standard fast food defiantly more RV friendly but with the right gear you should be fine! I love supporting places like this over the hotel industry
tay M.Scout
White Tank Mountain Regional Park
Very nice place
Really cool spot lots of activities for the whole family very clean an lots of friendly people enjoying the place also
Julie F.
Guide
Peralta Regional Park Primitive Remote Campsites
Rustic campsites, super quiet and beautiful area
Very close to popular hiking trails. We enjoyed the rustic campsite. The camp host was very friendly and helpful (Darell).
- aaron F.Guide
Vekol Valley Road
Great spot lots of cactus
This was a great spot out in the Sonoran desert . Tons of land to explore, I drove in about five miles and had no trouble finding a level spot . Beautiful saguora cactus and prickly pear, barrel, etc. I plan on hitting this spot again o my way back west. Highly recommend.
Starseed P.
Legend
Lost Dutchman State Park Campground
Very nice shelter
This shelter is a two-room rock shelter at the top of blood mountain. Just behind the shelter is a great spot for a nice view and milestone photo.
- mmatt F.Traveler
Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance
Beautiful, price just went up to $80 a year for a pass. but have to camp 2 miles down a ohv
Our first night we campednat the 2nd or 3rd campsite which wasn't too difficult to get to. Big rocks and ruts but no biggie. The next morning we woke up to a forest ranger saying we had to camp 2 miles from the road. We took our 30 foot camper the 2 miles and boy was it insane off roading for a travel trailer! Dont recommend it as my tire exploded a week later probably from the abuse. The 2 miles rule seems like it is a new rule and they say it's to stop erosion but it seems to stop campers. Because there's only 2 camp spots past 2 miles deep but tons of other awesome campsites on the way. They also just changed the price from $6 for 6 monthes to $80 for the year
- tay M.Scout
White Tank Mountain
Honestly relaxing vibe
Really cool place something for everybody if ur active an wanna see nature an good views or if you just want a nice relaxing place to get away but don’t gotta go to far.. you will not be disappointed 👍🏽☀️🏜️
- Starseed P.Legend
Lake Pleasant Dispersed Camp
Perfect for winter base
Stayed here for the past 2 years overwinter. 6 months, $15 pass, 36 foot skoolie with zero issues. Close to everything you need as a boon docker/nomad.
- LLawrence H.Traveler
Encore Foothills West
Good location and friendly neighbors
My stay here was very nice. It's an active park so lots of activities and the location is great. Full hookups and large sites.
- Starseed P.Legend
Maddock Road Dispersed - AZ State Trust Land
Wide open desert land
Parked here last two years, 6 months at at time over winter. Quiet, spacious, close to water, stores, lake pleasant. If you drive to the back, off new river road, you can find less people and traffic.
- Michael R.Scout
Sycamore Creek Recreation Area
Interesting place
Nice location with dispersed camping options. When we were setting up a man came up & warned us that it was a popular spot for Nudists. He was not wrong. Be prepared to run into some interesting people.
- CConner F.Guide
Maddock Road Dispersed - AZ State Trust Land
Convenient and beautiful
So thankful for this desert and the solitude it brought. The further off carefree you get, the more solitude you’ll find. It’s been pretty windy (25-30mph gusts) which causes a lot of dust but it’s gorgeous and warm during the day, even in January. Recommend black canyon city for laundry and hiked on the black canyon trail. Shell by this spot is pricey so make sure to get some stuff at Walmart in Anthem or somewhere else, however the shell is super convenient when in a pickle. Tons of stuff within 15-20 minutes such as groceries, shooting ranges, hiking, trails for the ATV/offroaders. I’d definitely visit again and recommend it. Also, great AT&T service, was able to work off hotspot from Tues-Friday with no incidence.
- CConner F.Guide
Box Bar Road Dispersed
Gorgeous spot but little service
It’s gorgeous. Not very many spots but love being right by the river. With this being said it’s tucked in there by the mountains so it gets colder than desert overnight and has wildlife around plus little to no service for AT&T. However, if I didn’t need service this would’ve been perfect since my dog loves the water.
- TTeresa A.Guide
White Tank Mountain Regional Park
Couple nights while visiting area
We stayed at the Willow Campground for two nights while visiting family and friends in the Surprise area. Hiked the Waterfall and Black Loop Trail for a little exercise as well. Didn’t do any others as our dog had an encounter with a stray cholla ball. This would be the only concern for those traveling with pets. There are quite a few lose even along trails. Other than that the facilities are clean and well kept. Fresh water and showers are available.
- TTeresa A.Guide
Mesa-Apache Junction KOA
Visiting the area
We stayed a couple of nights while visiting family and friends in the area. Gave us a chance to refill water and propane, take some long hot showers and generally recharge before heading back out on the road. Great facilities - very clean and friendly staff.
- JJOSEPHTraveler
Old Corral
Trash, broken glass and human waste
This was an open spot at night, and we needed to park, so we did, and saw the place covered in broken bottles, paint brushes, garbage, and up the hill someone has been using the bathroom all over the grounds and leaving nasty toilet paper all over. The horse pen is full of broken bottles and empty gun casings, you can see that people come up here to trash the place.
- ssteven H.Traveler
Sycamore Creek Recreation Area
Cramped dirt roads
Not a fan. Won’t be back with my trailer.
- MMichael W.Traveler
Vekol Valley Road
Great views!
We chose to keep going until we hit actual BLM land, maybe one mile from the highway. The views were phenomenal and very little noise. The moon and stars were beautiful too.
It looked like there was BLM land on the North side of I8, which we’ll check out the next time we pass through here.
Even though the road is a little bumpy, any rig and trailer can make it!
- BBrandon M.Scout
Lost Dutchman State Park Campground
Lost Dutchman Camping
Camped here with my family. The scenery was beautiful, but didn’t love the fact that people were blaring their music here until 2AM in the morning.
Spencer A.Traveler
Canyon Lake Marina & Campground
Solid overall with awesome lake access
Enjoyed our December visit to Lake Marina campsite 201. Will say campsites are close together. Awesome families close to us made it fun. Need to show up with the mindset that you will be around a lot of people. The lake access is hard to beat. Awesome to sit and watch the kids play on the beach. Can fish 30 ft from your campsite.
- GGregg T.Guide
Dispersed Camping off hwy 74
Wide open state land
Yes, I paid the$15 fee and I've been here a couple weeks. People are pretty great. I had Christmas Eve dinner with a bunch of other campers. A lot of fun
- GGregg T.Guide
State land trust/Inspiration Point
Kicked us out
From what i gather, some dimbasses were taking pit shots at the free roam cattle...I guess they thought they were not owned. Regardless, we had been there about a week when we were abruptly told to pack up and get out of here. So I did. Liked the spots though.
Greg H.Scout
Peralta Road Dispersed Camping
No dispersed camping or trail riding.
This really ticks me off. One of the more beautiful spots to spend a day has been closed to campers and trail riders. We were shocked to see all access except to the park and trailhead are closed. I agree a few camping spots were over used but that shouldn't have closed the whole area. This is shameful and a government power grab!
Chelsey W.TravelerDispersed Camping off hwy 74
Nice, quiet, friendly site with some trash and glass
The campsite is good, quiet, easily accessible and I met some friendly neighbors. I love all the cacti as well. There is quite a bit of trash and glass around. Full Verizon cell service and nice warm weather in December.
- LLinda H.Scout
Monte Vista RV Resort
Monte Vista
Beautiful park. Expensive but worth every penny. Unbelievable amenities
Guide to Mesa
Camping near Mesa, Arizona, offers a mix of stunning desert landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a place to park your RV, there are plenty of options to explore.
What to do:
- Hiking and Exploring: There are numerous trails for all skill levels. One camper mentioned, “Lace up your boots and conquer one of the park's diverse hiking trails. From challenging climbs to scenic strolls, there's a path for every level and every desire” at Lost Dutchman State Park Campground.
- Off-Roading: If you have a UTV or enjoy off-roading, you’re in luck! A visitor shared, “Dust off your UTVs and get ready for a blast! The washboard washes offer thrilling rides for off-road enthusiasts” at the same campground.
- Fishing and Water Sports: For those who love water activities, Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground is a great choice. One reviewer said, “The views from my spot were pretty epic. Relaxed and fished off the shoreline.”
What campers like:
- Scenic Views: Campers rave about the breathtaking scenery. A visitor at Picacho Peak State Park Campground noted, “Great views and epic sunsets. We stayed on the western edge... the sunsets were unobstructed and magnificent.”
- Spacious Campsites: Many campgrounds offer well-spaced sites. A camper at Usery Mountain Regional Park mentioned, “The sites are very nicely kept/clean. The bathrooms are immaculate, and the staff is friendly and helpful.”
- Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like McDowell Mountain Regional Park are popular for families. One reviewer said, “Gorgeous views, very spaced out sites, and access to great mountain biking and hiking trails.”
What you should know:
- Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground, have limited facilities. A camper pointed out, “No hot water in bathrooms. No showers... but there was only one functioning bathhouse.”
- Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared for wildlife! A visitor at Cactus Forest Dispersed shared, “I came across 6 rattlesnakes... packs of coyotes rolling through at night.”
- Road Conditions: If you're heading to places like Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping, be aware of rough roads. One camper warned, “The road is in the worst condition... it was impossible to get through.”
Tips for camping with families:
- Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like Lost Dutchman State Park Campground, which offers plenty of space and activities. A family shared, “There is plenty to see around the area. Park is well maintained.”
- Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a plan for hiking and exploring. One camper noted, “Great hikes right from the campground” at Picacho Peak State Park Campground.
- Pack Snacks and Drinks: It’s always good to have snacks on hand, especially when exploring. A visitor at Usery Mountain Regional Park mentioned, “The facilities were clean and well kept.”
Tips from RVers:
- Check Hookup Availability: Some campgrounds, like Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground, offer electric hookups, while others do not. A camper noted, “Water and electric... but no beach for swimming.”
- Be Mindful of Space: RVers at McDowell Mountain Regional Park appreciated the spacious sites. One said, “Nice large private sites with a wonderful view of the mountains and desert.”
- Plan for Dump Stations: Make sure to know where dump stations are located. A visitor at Burnt Corral Campground mentioned, “There is a boat launch adjacent to the campground so most campers also had boats.”
Camping around Mesa, AZ, has something for everyone, from stunning views to exciting activities. Just be prepared for the desert environment and enjoy your adventure!
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Mesa, AZ?
According to TheDyrt.com, Mesa, AZ offers a wide range of camping options, with 246 campgrounds and RV parks near Mesa, AZ and 54 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Mesa, AZ?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Mesa, AZ is Lost Dutchman State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 83 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Mesa, AZ?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 54 free dispersed camping spots near Mesa, AZ.
What parks are near Mesa, AZ?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 9 parks near Mesa, AZ that allow camping, notably Tonto National Forest and Prescott National Forest.
Keep Exploring