Desert camping options near New River provide access to the Sonoran Desert landscape at elevations between 1,400 and 2,000 feet. Temperatures range from summer highs over 105°F to winter lows in the 40s. Several dispersed camping areas don't have running water, so campers must bring sufficient supplies for themselves and their pets, especially during warmer months.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: At Cave Creek Regional Park, the Nature Center displays desert creatures including rattlesnakes, gila monsters, and scorpions. "They have 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, plus a big outdoor enclosure for a desert tortoise," notes Chenery K.
Hiking with varied difficulty levels: Trail networks connect throughout the area with options for all skill levels. Ellen W. explains that Cave Creek Regional Park "has beautiful hiking trails and a great nature center, which offers activities. Some hiking trails are within walking distance of the campground, others you will need to drive to."
Kayaking and boating activities: Lake Pleasant offers water recreation with shuttle service for equipment. "Free shuttle to haul kayak to boat ramp," mentions Margaret T., while Cindy M. adds, "Beautiful lake! Lots of shoreline access for swimming. Roadrunner campground is very nice. Quiet and beautiful views."
Cycling on desert trails: Bring bikes for transportation and recreation when staying at accessible campgrounds. Catherine J. from Stardust trailer park shares, "I brought my car on the trip but didn't need it as I biked and walked mostly everywhere. This is a phenomenal location."
What campers like
Spacious campsite layouts: At Cave Creek Regional Park, the sites provide ample room. Kristin C. confirms, "I liked staying here. The sites are spacious and spaced well enough apart from each other." Christopher W. adds, "The 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."
Well-maintained facilities: Clean bathrooms and showers make a difference for campers. "The site was level and the surface is a corse sand that is raked between campers. Concrete picnic table and very elaborate fore ring with multiple cooking levels," reports Allison D.
Unobstructed desert views: Maricopa County Park Lake Pleasant offers scenic vistas. Linda T. shares, "The campsites are clean and private. The views are awesome, especially at sunset and sunrise." Another camper adds, "While I prefer to be further out, sometimes it's nice to be somewhere with all the services... for its proximity to town its sunset views are fab."
Wildlife encounters: The chance to see native wildlife adds to the experience. At Lake Pleasant, "Wild donkeys from old miners back in the day still roam around. They are very accustomed to humans so won't hesitate to steal food," explains Justin M. The presence of wild burros is mentioned by multiple campers at various sites.
What you should know
Gate closure restrictions: Campgrounds may restrict late-night entry. Nicole E. warns about Cave Creek Regional Park, "Nothing on website said gate closes and can't get back in after 9 pm."
Seasonal temperature variations: Old Airstrip Camping & Staging Area provides primitive camping with no temperature control facilities. William M. notes, "There's no facilities so be prepared. Good level land and plenty of room. Wild burros wander through occasionally, and coyotes make their presence known as well."
Permit requirements: Some dispersed camping areas require permits. Christopher H. comments about Dispersed Camping off hwy 74, "Unfortunately, the state has closed this area down. Brand new 'No Motor Vehicle' signs installed. This was a major travel destination for RV'rs and campers passing through."
Site limitations for non-senior campers: Age restrictions apply at certain campgrounds. At Pioneer RV Resort, reviewers note, "Wanted to camp at a site but you have to be 55, I am 52 and wasn't allowed there. Unbelievable."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for children: Lake Pleasant offers family-friendly swimming options. "Great summer fun. Large spacious sites. Several camping options available. Lake swimming not your thing? Pool available with showers and store," shares Marc S. from Pleasant Harbor RV Resort.
Desert wildlife education: Take advantage of nature centers for educational opportunities. "The best part of this park is the outdoor theater seating for events and HUGE picnic area with paved parking, shaded tables, and even a basketball hoop," explains Chenery K. about Cave Creek Regional Park.
Cabin options for dog-friendly stays: When tent camping isn't ideal for families with pets, alternative accommodations exist. Pleasant Harbor RV Resort offers dog-friendly cabin options with Bryan S. noting, "Large clean spots. All spots are fenced descent pool and small store if you need anything."
Cactus safety awareness: Be cautious with children and pets around desert plants. Elisabeth Q. advises about Old Airstrip Camping, "We had our two dogs with us and just kept them on the leash so we had no negative cactus experiences."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Various levels of service are available across campgrounds. At Cave Creek Regional Park, "The campground itself is very clean. It is quiet and the campsites all have electric and water hookups, picnic table and fire pit," reports Ellen W. Larry G. adds about Lake Pleasant, "Utilities are convenient and easy to use. Nice and very clean rest rooms conveniently located throughout the park."
RV site leveling: Most established campgrounds provide level sites. "The sites are rustic, they've water and electricity, no sewer. There's a dump station as you leave the park," explains Ted S. about Pleasant Harbor RV Resort.
Reception and connectivity: Cell service varies by location. At Old Airstrip Camping, Russell C. reports, "Really good cell phone service (Verizon - I got 3-4 bars of 4G, which got me 75+ mb/s download speed)."
Road conditions for access: Check road quality before bringing larger rigs. "The road in is a little rough, but ok," notes William M., while Alex H. adds, "Gravel road leading to the area is well kept and our truck had no issues getting to the area. Awesome views when we setup camp with plenty of space."
