Mesa, Arizona camping areas sit at approximately 1,240 feet elevation in the Sonoran Desert, where temperatures can exceed 105°F during summer months and drop to comfortable 70°F highs in winter. The camping season extends year-round, though fall through spring offers more moderate temperatures. Most campgrounds near Mesa require reservations well in advance, especially for the popular November through March high season.
What to do
Hiking trails at Lost Dutchman: Explore multiple difficulty levels of hiking at Lost Dutchman State Park Campground, located at the base of the Superstition Mountains. "Lots of good hiking, Ghost Town, good views. Worth every second. Easily our favorite quick camping trip," reports Chad E. The park features several loop-type trails accessible directly from the campground.
Mountain biking access: Usery Mountain Regional Park offers extensive mountain biking trails ranging from beginner to advanced. "Close to everything, including some awesome Mountain Biking from green to double black diamond trails," notes Marty P. The trails connect to the larger Tonto National Forest system for longer rides.
Stargazing opportunities: White Tank Mountain provides good night sky viewing despite proximity to Phoenix. "Beautiful sunset, amazing view of moon rising over mountains. Heard some coyotes in the night, which was exciting," shares Rebecca G. For best viewing, camp at sites facing away from the city lights.
What campers like
Large, private sites: Cave Creek Regional Park offers spacious campsites with room to spread out. "Sites are far enough apart that you have enough room to spread out. You don't feel like you are on top of your neighbors," explains Christopher W. The older section (sites 1-42) provides more space between sites than the newer section.
Clean facilities: The Mesa-Apache Junction KOA maintains high cleanliness standards. "Bathrooms and campsite are clean, pool and spa are nice," states Blair A. Another camper adds, "Very clean and the people were very nice and helpful. We got a pull through and had plenty of space."
Desert wildlife viewing: Camping near Mesa provides opportunities to see desert wildlife in natural habitats. "Heard some coyotes in the night, which was exciting. Enjoyed hiking the trails and exploring the landscape," mentions Rebecca G. Morning and evening hours offer the best wildlife viewing times.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly during winter months. "Suggest you make reservations well ahead for busy winter months!" advises Debbie W. about Lost Dutchman State Park. Sites can book up 6+ months in advance for peak season.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience moderate noise levels. "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," notes Brandon M. Cave Creek Regional Park tends to be quieter than some other options.
Gate closure times: Some parks restrict nighttime access. "Nothing on website said gate closes and can't get back in after 9 pm," warns Nicole E. Check specific gate hours when making reservations to avoid being locked out after evening activities.
Temperature extremes: Summer camping requires careful planning. "Was 90 the day we left (~March 23rd), night temp was cool and windows left open," explains Mark M. about Usery Mountain Regional Park. Daytime temperatures regularly exceed 100°F from May through September.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: White Tank Mountain offers family-friendly amenities. "The park has beautiful hiking trails and a great nature center, which offers activities and the regional library. There are a couple of playgrounds in the park as well," mentions Ellen W. The nature center hosts educational programs appropriate for children.
Tent camping locations: For families seeking tent sites, Mesa-Apache Junction KOA offers dedicated areas. "Loved the designated tent area. Everything was in great condition and the staff were extremely friendly and helpful," shares Christie N. These sites provide more separation from RVs.
Educational opportunities: Cave Creek Regional Park provides learning experiences. "The park has a large Nature Center with lots of desert creatures inside including a big fat rattlesnake, gila monster, black widow spider and some scorpions to safely check out up close," explains one visitor. Their outdoor theater hosts ranger programs suitable for all ages.
Tips from RVers
Site selection advice: Picacho-Tucson NW KOA offers different site options for RVers. "The sites are close together and not private unless you have a patio site for an extra cost," explains Nicholas P. For more privacy at Lost Dutchman, Terri D. suggests: "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."
RV park alternatives: For those seeking yurt camping near Mesa, Arizona, Sun Life RV Resort and Palm Gardens RV Resort offer alternatives to traditional RV setups with various accommodation types. These resorts provide full hookups while allowing access to the same recreational opportunities as camping.
Winter camping advantages: Winter months provide the most comfortable RV camping conditions. "This is one of many outstanding Arizona State Parks. Sites are clean and most level with mix of electric and non electric," notes Debbie W. The mild winter climate makes Mesa an ideal destination for snowbird RVers.
