Best Camping near 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, AZ (248)
1. Lost Dutchman State Park Campground
Superstition Mtn, Arizona78 Reviews•296 Photos•535 SavesThe 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
Apache Junction, Arizona33 Reviews•104 Photos•225 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
3. Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance
Fort Mcdowell, Arizona26 Reviews•64 Photos•478 SavesFREE permit required from the Mesa Ranger District office at 5140 E. Ingram St, Mesa, AZ 85205; 480-610-3300. Permits can be requested online or by email. The permit will be emailed to you within 48 hours (except weekends and holidays).
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
4. McDowell Mountain Regional Park
Rio Verde, Arizona20 Reviews•43 Photos•207 SavesSet 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. Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground
Peoria, Arizona65 Reviews•203 Photos•427 SavesLake 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
6. Mesa-Apache Junction KOA
Apache Junction, Arizona12 Reviews•21 Photos•46 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
7. Tortilla Campground
Tortilla Flat, Arizona16 Reviews•90 Photos•8 SavesOverview
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.__
Facilities
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. Eagle View RV Resort at Fort Mcdowell
Fort Mcdowell, Arizona10 Reviews•25 Photos•76 Saves- Pets
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- RVs
$41 - $84 / night
9. Canyon Lake Marina & Campground
Tortilla Flat, Arizona15 Reviews•33 Photos•161 SavesCommerical Site, Please call for information, Tel: (480)288-9233, Paved Boat Launch
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- RVs
10. Encore Mesa Spirit
Mesa, Arizona8 Reviews•14 Photos•34 SavesAGE 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
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Showing results 1-10 of 248 campgrounds
Pet-friendly camping near Mesa
Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance
478 Saves
FREE permit required from the Mesa Ranger District office at 5140 E. Ingram St, Mesa, AZ 85205; 480-610-3300. Permits can be requested online or by email. The permit will be emailed to you within 48 hours (except weekends and holidays).
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
McDowell Mountain Regional Park
207 Saves
Set 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
$32 / night
Mesa-Apache Junction KOA
46 Saves
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
Tortilla Campground
8 Saves
Overview
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.__
Facilities
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
$20 / night
Eagle View RV Resort at Fort Mcdowell
76 Saves
- Pets
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
$41 - $84 / night
Recent Reviews In Mesa
789 Reviews of 248 Mesa Campgrounds
Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance
My favorite area
Permit required for the gate code. Camping available 2 miles in. Need a 4x4. It's definitely worth the hastle as these spots are beautiful and clean. A lot of OHV so it kicks up dust.
Peralta Road Dispersed Camping
No more camping
The county has closed camping on Peralta road, signs are up, and trenches have been dug so no access is available.
Lost Dutchman State Park Campground
SUPERStition Views
This State Park campground located in the Superstition Mountains is a frequent quick camp spot for me if I don feel like trying to beat the crowds to some favorite local dispersed sites.
They offer sites with electric and water, and sites for dry camping, along with some cabins and group sites you can reserve. The sites offer as much privacy as one can expect in the desert and are not super close together, except for the site numbers 70+ which are only available in winter typically. There are plenty of hiking trails and activities in the park and nearby. The bathrooms and showers are clean and well maintained, and they even have a small dog “park” for your best pal to run off some energy.
Favorite things about the park: The views and the wild life. We have seen so many beautiful birds, from quail and owls to roadrunners and vultures, along with several different types of squirrels, lizards, hare, and coyotes.
Lost Dutchman State Park Campground
Spectacular views
If traveling near Phoenix you should make this state campground a number one option.
The towering superstition mountain range is a beautiful site and while we were there we were able to watch a hiker who was rescued. This hiker was not injured, just afraid to come back down the trail. Guess going up is easier than coming down.
The site we had had power and water. The showers in the restrooms were not great but something is better than nothing.
Peralta Canyon / Gold Canyon Dispersed Camping - PERMANENTLY CLOSED
Dispersed camping not allowed currently
September 21, 2024: We’ve dispersed camped here many times in last three years, took a trip out there today and every dispersed access point is plowed up with very deep trenches not allowing vehicles or rigs to access. Sad affair with squatters taking advantage and leaving trash, there was not a soul in sight. Maybe they’ll reopen it later when it cools down.
Wild West Ranch & RV Resort
Love this park! Huge sites, great people
We love this park! It’s in the desert and has huge level sites that are spread out so you aren’t packed in close together. They have emus and chickens that are so neat! The new owner is super sweet and has done a lot to make the park great again. We love it here and don’t want to leave!
Tonto National Forest Dispersed Camping at Lake Roosevelt
Coyotes!
Beautiful desert camping, lots of birds and wildlife. I heard coyotes in the middle of the night that woke me up, and was glad for a rooftop tent.
Dispersed Camping off hwy 74
Requires permit
Area is marked and needs permit as well. As a foreigner I can't buy the permit online since only US address can be entered and will be reverted for the credit card payment so no way to stay there legally.
Maybe going in person or call them can get me a permit but yeah not this way.
Anyway the spot is nice and levelled if it would be usable 🙂
Encore Countryside
Avoid
Poorly managed with arbitrary fees charged. Park is not a "resort", it's just an old rundown trailer park with a lot of very old park models.New management is awful.
Maddock Road Dispersed - AZ State Trust Land
State trust land
No problems except for the people on drugs. Be careful and lock up before you leave to go anywhere.
Desert Sands RV Park
חשפניות בבאר שבע
רקדניותחשפנותבתלאביב:ביןבידורלביקורתחברתיתתלאביב,המוכרתבכינוי"העירשלאנרדמת",מציעהמגווןרחבשלבידורלילי,אשרביניהםנמנותגםמועדוניחשפנות.התעשייההזו,אףעלפישנתפסתלעיתיםקרובותכחלקבלתינפרדמהבידורהמבוגרים,מעוררתגםויכוחיםעזיםוביקורתחברתית.מועדוניהחשפנותבתלאביבמציעיםשללהופעותומופעיםאשרמגווניםבהתאםלדרישותהקהל.המבקריםבמועדוניםאלומחפשיםבידורוהתרגשות,אךמאחוריהקלעיםעומדותסיפוריםשלרקדניותאשרלאתמידמרוצותמהמצבהנוכחי.המרחבהחברתיוהתרבותיבופועלתתעשייתהחשפנותבתלאביבמורכב.מחד,ישנםקולותהטועניםכיהתעשייהמאפשרתביטויעצמיואוטונומיהלנשיםהמופיעותבה.מאידך,קולותביקורתייםמדגישיםאתהצדדיםהפחותמועדפיםשלהעניין,כגוןהתייחסותמזלזלתואובייקטיביזציהשלהאישה.המאבקיםהמשפטייםוהחברתייםסביבנושאזהרביםומגוונים.בשניםהאחרונות,נערכוקרבותבבתיהמשפטעלשאלותשלזכויותוחופשעבודהמולהצורךלהגןעלכבודהאדםולמנועהפליהושימושלרעה.עדיין,קהלהמבקריםוהתומכיםבמועדוניםאלוממשיךלהיותרחבומגוון.עלרקעזה,עולההשאלהעלהתפקידשלהמדינהוהחברהבפיקוחובקביעתמדיניותבתחוםזה.האםישלחזקאתהפיקוחעלמועדוניהחשפנותלשםשמירהעלכבודהרקדניותוהקהלהרחב,אושמאישלאפשרחופשפעולהרחביותרתוךכדישמירהעלהזכויותהפרטיותוהעסקיותשלבעליהמועדונים?הוויכוחסביבתעשייתהחשפנותבתלאביבממחישאתהמתחביןחירותלביןזכויותאדם,ומדגיםאתהאתגריםהעכשווייםשלהחברההישראליתבטיפולבשאלותשלמוסר,תרבותוכלכלה.זהודיוןשמשקףגםאתהצורךלהתמודדעםתופעותחברתיותנוספות,כגוןשוויוןמגדריוהתמודדותעםדימוייגוףומיניות.בסופושלדבר,הדיוןעלרקדניותחשפנותבתלאביבמציעהזדמנותלחשובמחדשעלהדרכיםבהןחברהיכולהלקדםתרבותרחבהיותרשלכבוד,הוגנותושוויון,תוךכדישמירהעלעקרונותשלחופשפרטיוביטויעצמי.
Stardust trailer park
Location is great
Stardust Trailer Park in Cave Creek is a serene spot with clean facilities, friendly staff, and beautiful desert views.
Stardust trailer park
Fantastic unique place
Stardust Trailer Park in Cave Creek, Arizona, is a hidden gem worth raving about! This park offers a unique and charming experience for those looking to enjoy the beauty of Arizona while feeling right at home. The park's serene surroundings and friendly atmosphere make it a perfect spot for relaxation and adventure. Whether you're looking to unwind in nature or explore the nearby attractions, Stardust Trailer Park has something for everyone. I highly recommend checking it out for a memorable stay in Cave Creek!
Lost Dutchman State Park Campground
Great place to Stay
Fairly close to our home (30 miles) but we love to do 1-2 nighters here when we have the time. There is plenty to see around the area. Park is well maintained. Spots are close but not too close to each other. Its a little elevated so the valley views are great. Gets a little warm during the summer - after all it is AZ. Theres an old Gold Mine nearby to visit.
Saguaro Cove
Remote Camping
Takes a little 4 wheeling to get there or you can access it from the water. Basic dispersed camping but gets a little warm during the summer months. Views are nice and its a nice pack it in, pack it out spot.
Canyon Lake Marina & Campground
Fun lake, weekends exceptionally busy
Been staying here off and on for over a decade. Great place to hang out with the family. Water hookup and electrical hookup. No sewer. They have a truck that will come pump your tank for a small fee. You can launch your boat and then bring to the campsite and tie off for easy access. Lots of parking available. You have to pay for extra vehicles. Dolly the Steamboat is available to ride around the lake and ticket purchase is at the marina. There is also a restaurant and bar at the marina. The campground has a mix of available sites. Day use also. Large grassy area for kids to play. Drive in can seem daunting if you haven’t experienced it before. Not bad, however. Hauled a 32’ 5th wheel with no problems at all.
Lake Pleasant Dispersed Camp
Sign "No Mortorized vehicles allowed"
Could not Enter. Closed
Picket Post
Quick Night
Good place to pull off in a pinch for free. You do hear road noise. Close to Arizona Trail, where it crosses 60 so you can hike both directions if you decide to, or take the trail up to the top of the mountain. Very beautiful area
White Canyon Wilderness Dispersed
Shooting range
If you can get past the shooting range, it’s very beautiful
Leaf Verde RV Resort
The high life
This RV Park has it all..Run by professionals. They even escort you to your space.Facilities are great, they have all of them, lit paved walkways.large spaces, wifi works
Picacho-Tucson NW KOA
Ok
Not freen 55 plus
Pleasant Harbor RV Resort
Beautiful Vista
Very large park with many different levels of camping experiences. From dry camping to full on glamping ! I stayed at Vista Pt. Dry camp. The views were beautiful. I stayed 10 days and as a single women I felt very safe. Security makes it's rounds and you can't get into the park after leaving without your pass. The one thing I would mention the drive up to the PT is rather steep, but there were different sized rigs up there is it is doable. I didn't use the amenities as I was away most days visiting with my daughter who lives in the valley.
Box Bar Road Dispersed
Fun spot
This is a great spot and easy to get to. Lots of shaded areas. You can camp next to your car , wich there might be campers running generators, or you can hike towards the river and set up camp to get away from that. Close to the river with several walk in spots to play in.
Stardust trailer park
Fabulous and fun
My wife and I had the time of our life staying at stardust trailer park. It is located really close to 2 fun biker bars, we stayed for a month and just happened to be there during bike week. The energy and vibes were immaculate. Property is well kept with clean bathrooms and a friendly manager.
State land trust/Inspiration Point
Weekdays are best
State land trust, good spot for a few nights. Gunshots in the distance, but no incidents/casualties lol. Pulled my 31ft TT back into a spot for a week. Close 10 min drive to stores like WinCo and Safeway and gas stations. Quite weekdays, loud weekends due to motor vehicles breaking the rules. (Not a ohv area but treated as such)
Box Bar Road Dispersed
Easy Drive In
We don’t have an offroad car, so it is always nice when the gravel road is well managed. No heart aches getting in and finding an open area to camp. I was pleasently surprised at the many little nooks of privacy that you could set up camp. Outhouses are well maintained. Bring your own water though and you do need to pay ahead of time, there are no pay boxes on site.
Goldfield Ghost Town Dry Camping
Camping for one night
Camping for one night and it was 30$. Very clean restrooms and showers!
We were almost only campers there and lots of spots available. Closest campgounds were full or expensive.
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 248 campgrounds and RV parks near Mesa, AZ and 53 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 78 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Mesa, AZ?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 53 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.