Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Mesa, AZ
Looking for the best pet-friendly campgrounds near Mesa? Finding a place to camp in Arizona with your dog is easier than ever. These scenic and easy-to-reach Mesa campsites are perfect for camping with dogs.
Best Dog-Friendly Sites Near Mesa, AZ (182)
1. Usery Mountain Regional Park
33 Reviews•104 Photos•247 SavesApache Junction, Arizona- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
2. 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.
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
3. 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
4. Mesa-Apache Junction KOA
13 Reviews•21 Photos•51 SavesApache Junction, Arizona- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
5. Tortilla Campground
16 Reviews•90 Photos•21 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
6. Canyon Lake Marina & Campground
16 Reviews•35 Photos•167 SavesTortilla Flat, ArizonaCommerical Site, Please call for information, Tel: (480)288-9233, Paved Boat Launch
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- RVs
7. Eagle View RV Resort at Fort Mcdowell
10 Reviews•25 Photos•80 SavesFort Mcdowell, Arizona- Pets
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- RVs
$41 - $84 / night
8. Hackamore Road Dispersed
10 Reviews•8 Photos•79 SavesApache Junction, ArizonaCamping on public lands away from developed recreation facilities is referred to as dispersed camping. Most of the remainder of public lands are open to dispersed camping, as long as it does not conflict with other authorized uses or in areas posted "closed to camping," or in some way adversely affects wildlife species or natural resources. Dispersed camping is allowed on public land for a period not to exceed 14 days within a 28 consecutive day period. The 28 day period begins when a camper initially occupies a specific location on public lands. The 14 day limit may be reached either through a number of separate visits or through 14 days of continuous overnight occupation during the 28 day period. After the 14th day of occupation, the camper must move outside of a 25 mile radius of the previous location until the 29th day since the initial occupation. The purpose of this special rule is to prevent damage to sensitive resources caused by continual use of any particular areas. In addition, campers must not leave any personal property unattended for more than 10 days (12 months in Alaska). Campsite Selection Dispersed camp sites are located along most secondary roads and may not be marked. Popular locations can be recognized by the telltale flat disturbed area that has been used as a camp site before. Not all flat spots are sites. If possible, please use existing sites to avoid creating new disturbances. To further protect your public lands, campers must not dispose of any refuse, hazardous materials, sewage, or in any manner pollute the surrounding area.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
9. Burnt Corral Campground
19 Reviews•104 Photos•409 SavesRoosevelt, ArizonaOverview
Burnt Corral Campground and Recreation Area (elevation 1914') is about 5.8 miles south of Roosevelt Dam along the Apache Trail (AZ Hwy 88) along the shoreline of Apache Lake. It is nestled amongst the saguaros, mesquites, and palo verdes, and offers opportunities to boat, swim, fish, relax, hike, and sightsee.
Recreation
Burnt Corral Campground offers something for almost everyone. Motorboating, fishing, water-skiing, and paddlesports are very popular because of the developed and undeveloped lake access from within the campground. Others may enjoy hiking nearby trails, being challenged by local jeep trails, or practicing their landscape photography, or simply relaxing with a good book.
Natural Features
Burnt Corral Campground is situated in what may be the most stunning Sonoran Desert landscape in Arizona. The contrast of sunshine, clear blue water, and saguaro's surrounded by the Four Peaks and Superstition Wilderness' is a magnificant sight to see. While shade is scarce in the desert, campsites are situated amongst mature mesquite and palo verde trees, and desert chaparral. Apache Lake is 17 miles long making it the longest in the chain of reservoirs on the lower Salt River below Roosevelt Dam.
Nearby Attractions
Roosevelt Dam, Apache Lake Marina, Tortilla Flats, Tonto National Monument (Cliff Dwellings), Roosevelt Lake, Apache Trail Scenic Byway (AZ Hwy 88), Spines to Pines Scenic Byway (AZ Hwy 288). The City of Globe and Town of Payson are only an hour away.
- Pets
- Fires
- Reservable
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
$20 - $40 / night
10. Cave Creek Regional Park
15 Reviews•34 Photos•260 SavesCave Creek, Arizona- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
Recent Dog-Friendly Reviews in Mesa
625 Reviews of 182 Mesa Campgrounds
- m
matt F.
Scout
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.
Guide
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.Guide
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.Traveler
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.Traveler
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!
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.
- 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.
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.
Guide to Mesa
Discover the best spots for pets-allowed camping near Mesa, Arizona, where you and your furry friends can enjoy the great outdoors together.
Tips for camping with dogs near Mesa
- Ensure your pet stays hydrated by taking advantage of the drinking water available at Usery Mountain Regional Park.
- Keep your dog on a leash while exploring the scenic trails at McDowell Mountain Regional Park to ensure their safety and the comfort of other campers.
- Bring along a pet-friendly blanket for your dog to relax on at the spacious sites of Tortilla Campground.
Dog-friendly activities while camping near Mesa
- Enjoy hiking and biking on the extensive trails at McDowell Mountain Regional Park, perfect for active dogs.
- Take your pet for a stroll along the picturesque paths at Usery Mountain Regional Park, where you can both soak in the stunning desert views.
- Explore the nearby OHV trails at Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance for an adventurous day out with your dog.
Pet-friendly campgrounds include
- Canyon Lake Marina & Campground, where you can enjoy lakeside camping with your pet.
- Mesa-Apache Junction KOA, offering a range of amenities and a welcoming atmosphere for pets.
- Encore Countryside, a well-reviewed RV park that provides a friendly environment for both you and your furry companions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Mesa, AZ?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Mesa, AZ is Usery Mountain Regional Park with a 4.8-star rating from 33 reviews.
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Mesa, AZ?
TheDyrt.com has all 182 dog-friendly camping locations near Mesa, AZ, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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