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, AZ (246)
1. Lost Dutchman State Park Campground
Superstition Mtn, Arizona81 Reviews•301 Photos•570 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•241 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
3. Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance
Fort Mcdowell, Arizona25 Reviews•63 Photos•489 SavesNO 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.
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•221 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. Mesa-Apache Junction KOA
Apache Junction, Arizona13 Reviews•21 Photos•50 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
6. Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground
Peoria, Arizona65 Reviews•203 Photos•441 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
7. Tortilla Campground
Tortilla Flat, Arizona16 Reviews•90 Photos•19 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.
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
Tortilla Flat, Arizona16 Reviews•35 Photos•164 SavesCommerical 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
Fort Mcdowell, Arizona10 Reviews•25 Photos•79 Saves- Pets
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- RVs
$41 - $84 / night
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
- Cabins
Pet-friendly camping near Mesa
Usery Mountain Regional Park
241 Saves
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance
489 Saves
NO 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.
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
221 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
50 Saves
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
Tortilla Campground
19 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.
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
Canyon Lake Marina & Campground
164 Saves
Commerical Site, Please call for information, Tel: (480)288-9233, Paved Boat Launch
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
Recent Reviews in Mesa
813 Reviews of 246 Mesa Campgrounds
- T
Teresa 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.
- JJOSEPH
Traveler
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
- LLacey W.Scout
State land trust/Inspiration Point
Closed
Coordinates led to a cattle guard that is fenced closed. No access to the site. You could park next to the road though.
- CChad E.Traveler
Lost Dutchman State Park Campground
Far enough…yet not to far.
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.
Lots of good hiking, Ghost Town, good views. Worth every second. Easily our favorite quick camping trip.
- llisa K.Traveler
West Pinal County Park
I’m the volunteer camp host
I’m Lisa, the volunteer camp host here from October through Easter. I’m often on-site and happy to help! Here’s what you need to know to enjoy your stay: • About the Park: This is a peaceful, primitive, and clean county-run park. We offer shaded picnic tables, six spotless port-a-jons, and a dumpster for trash (access the side doors, as the lid is locked). Please respect the 10 mph speed limit to minimize dust and maintain the park’s tranquility. Campfires are not allowed on the ground; please use your barbecue or an appropriate fire container. • Reservations: Reserve ahead during winter months as we often fill up. Large RVs should plan carefully as sites are limited. Smaller rigs, please select an appropriately sized site to help us accommodate everyone. For reservations, use the website, not the app (it doesn’t always show specific sites). Need help? Reach me on-site or call the office weekdays at (520) 866-6920. • Amenities in the Park: • A large, fenced area for off-leash dog exercise. • Shaded picnic tables and clean port-a-jons. • Nearby Amenities: • Gas Station/Showers: Less than a mile west at the I-8/84 interchange. • Dump & Fill: Wild West RV Park (4 miles east) offers self-serve for $20. • Stay Limits: Maximum 14-day stay. After that, you must leave for seven days before returning. • Nearby Services: • Stanfield (10 miles east): Dollar store, El Rancho market and restaurant (highly recommended), laundromat, post office, and Circle K. • Maricopa (20 minutes north) or Casa Grande (30 minutes east): Larger stores and provisions. • Local Highlights: • Dwarf Car Museum (5 miles north): Ernie’s handcrafted, ¾-scale classic cars are a must-see. Open daily, 9–4. • Rooster Cogburn’s Ostrich Ranch (Picacho Peak): One of my favorite spots for an inexpensive, fun day! Feed a variety of fascinating animals and enjoy the unique experience.
Wherever your journey takes you, may you be blessed and happy. 🙏💕✨
Roman R.Traveler
Burnt Corral Campground
Great convenience with fishing
Stayed a long weekend with the family and had great time. Fishing within walking distance. Bathrooms are clean and a water spiket/faucet available.
- GGregg T.Guide
Maddock Road Dispersed - AZ State Trust Land
Spacious
Lots of room all rvs except little ol me, but only for a couple weeks.
- SShawnGuide
West Pinal County Park
A hidden gem
Pretty, some freeway noise from the 8, great camp host. Hiking trails. Just porta potties and dumpster, but you can dump and get water 4 miles away. Most any sized rig can fit. Dirt roads are in pretty darn good shape.
- DDebbie H.Traveler
Leaf Verde RV Resort
Nice Park
This is a huge park. 1365 sites. Crammed in pretty tight, but fairly clean and very nice staff. Most of the sites are pull thru so that’s a bonus.
Joseph P.Scout
Lamplighter Mobile Park
Mobile trash park
This is to Mike the owner,
Just wanted to let you know that you are a poor excuse for a human being. We were going to move anyway, but you pushed it ahead, so now my disabled wife and I are in the desert. Thanks.
- Joseph P.Scout
Lamplighter Mobile Park
Trailer park in Apache Junction AZ.
Business as usual at The lamplighter they specialize in stealing your home throwing you in the street the new manager is an outright liar she lies in open court their concern is themselves and nothing else places infested with rats cockroaches dopers to the family to help start the neighborhood watch we evicted so there's no neighborhood watch anymore but there's lots of dopers I've witnessed the manager the new manager coming out of a dope house in her own risk and you owner Mike pure trash and what can you meet that award-winning staff he has there you have a manager that sleeps with residents numerous residents I believe her last name is basua
Enzo M.Scout
Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - West Entrance
Bulldog Canyon (all entrances) is an OHV Sport area first, Camp spot second
Thanks to the efforts of the environaz- mentality of the last 40 years there are horribly few true sanctioned OHV areas for folks to legally use and enjoy offroad Motorsports, neither FREE or PAID. So OHV owners have nearly zero options. Bulldog Canyon is one those tiny few chances for those OHVers. Campers need to be cognizant of this and respect the OHV'er, not demand OHV'ers respect THEM! If you are looking for a pure silent CAMPground, and are of the "get off my lawn" and or "man/woman shouts at clouds" type, look elsewhere. There are PLENTY of options for such inflexible campers to demand adherence to THEIR level of enjoyment. Bulldog isn't free, OHVers pay for the unlimited access - when allowed that access - to trails WITHOUT time/day/hour exceptions. So if you're a camper, bring some earplugs if the sounds of all-hours OHVers is disturbing to you. Bulldog Canyon is a fantastic area for those campers who enjoy the OHV. I no longer can use an OHV but I enjoy seeing these younger generations doing what mine and earlier gens once took for granted nearly everywhere unrestricted. Highly recommend Bdog Canyon for the fun-lovers and young-at-hearts. For the HOA-loving types, sincerely consider elsewhere for your benefit and those of others.
Roy G.TravelerVekol Valley Road
Very Convenient
This place is right off the highway. Plenty of level places to park. We drive a van but I think most sizes of RV would have no trouble here. Lots of room to turn around. Pretty view of the mountains. There's highway noise but we were all alone.
Lisa M.
Ranger
Roadrunner Campground - Lake Pleasant
Beautiful view overlooking the lake
We’ve stayed here several times and roadrunner campground is my favorite because it’s up above the lake and has a beautiful view. There are several poles through spots as well as back and spots. Electric and water are available. Showers are so so. Spots are fairly level and paved.
- Lisa M.Ranger
Lost Dutchman State Park Campground
Amazing view and great hikes
We only got to stay here one night, but it is very beautiful. At the base of the Superstition mountains, which are awesome. Out of the city, so nice and quiet. All the sites are paved and fairly level. There are many sites that have pull through, electric, and water. The showers were good. Many hiking trails in the area. Would love to stay here a little longer.
LeaScout
Pinnacle Farms South
Fantastic place to relax and listen to the birds.
Friendly host, clean facilities, Nice comfy spot for a tent. I enjoyed my stay very much.
Steven H.Scout
Encore Paradise RV
A good place to camp in Phoenix
We camped for two nights at this resort which is primarily for mobile homes or seasonal campers. Nice facilities (pool, laundry, etc). No picnic tables at the sites though.
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 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 81 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.