Best Campgrounds near New River, AZ
Dispersed camping opportunities surround the New River area of Arizona, with options ranging from developed campgrounds to primitive sites on public lands. The region includes several established campgrounds like Lake Pleasant Regional Park and Cave Creek Regional Park, offering both tent and RV sites with various amenities. Several dispersed camping areas are available on nearby BLM land and State Trust Land, including the Old Airstrip Camping & Staging Area and Maddock Road Dispersed, which provide more rustic experiences without developed facilities. Pleasant Harbor RV Resort offers cabin accommodations in addition to traditional camping options.
Camping in the New River region requires preparation for desert conditions, with temperatures that can reach extreme highs during summer months. Many campgrounds remain open year-round, though fall through spring typically offers more comfortable weather. A visitor commented, "Clean, well spaced camping just outside of Phoenix! Easy access to trails." Water conservation is essential at dispersed sites as most primitive camping areas lack drinking water. Developed campgrounds typically provide water hookups, while some also offer electric and sewer connections. Cell service varies throughout the area but tends to be stronger near established campgrounds and weaker in more remote dispersed locations. Permit requirements differ by land management agency, with State Trust Land requiring specific permits while BLM areas are typically free to use.
Several campgrounds in the area feature exceptional amenities for those seeking more comfort. Cave Creek Regional Park receives consistently high ratings for its cleanliness and spacious sites. As one camper wrote, "The sites are spacious and spaced well enough apart from each other." Lake Pleasant-area campgrounds offer water recreation opportunities that appeal to many visitors. Campgrounds closer to Phoenix provide convenient access to urban amenities while still offering desert landscapes and wildlife viewing opportunities. RV-friendly options include multiple resorts with full hookups, though some like Pioneer RV Resort have age restrictions. Primitive camping areas appeal to those seeking more solitude and fewer neighbors, though they require visitors to pack in all supplies and pack out all waste.
