The New River area lies within the northern reaches of the Sonoran Desert at approximately 2,000 feet elevation, creating a transition zone between desert lowlands and higher mountain terrain. Camping options range from established sites with full amenities to primitive desert locations with few facilities. Temperatures can fluctuate dramatically between day and night, with summer highs regularly exceeding 105°F and winter nights dropping below 40°F.
What to do
Horseback riding access: Several campgrounds near New River provide direct access to equestrian trails. Cave Creek Regional Park features specialized camping facilities for those traveling with horses. "My visit was to the Cave Creek Regional Park...One cool extra is that several of the sites have a 16x16 foot pipe corral on them, so you can camp with your horse without keeping him tied to your trailer overnight. They also have horse rentals just outside the park," notes Chenery K.
Mountain biking trails: The terrain around White Tank Mountain offers varied riding options for cyclists of all skill levels. "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...Maricopa trail runs through the park," reports Ellen W. at White Tank Mountain.
Educational programs: Participate in ranger-led activities at several area parks. "I've also joined two ranger-led hikes here (Black Rock Loop for sunrise hikes) as well as a county-sponsored astronomy night with access to multiple large telescopes and an astronomy presentation. Check the park website for their activities calendar," suggests Chenery K.
What campers like
Desert camping with modern amenities: The campgrounds in this region balance desert experiences with comfortable facilities. "Cactus place. Nice campground, serene with a large cactus next to every spot. Power and water at the spot, toilets & bathrooms available," reports Hans V. about Cave Creek Regional Park.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The Sonoran Desert ecosystem offers chances to observe native species. "Tons of spread out dispersed camp sites. Miles of desert and washes to explore with tons of dispersed camping sites...Nearby washes lead to tons of trails near castle hot springs that can lead to various abounded mine sites," shares Caitlin S. about Boulders OHV Area.
Yurt camping options: For those seeking alternatives to tent or RV camping, yurt accommodations provide a unique New River, Arizona experience. Mesa-Apache Junction KOA offers options for those looking for yurt camping near New River. "The spaces are really close together and separated by a row of rocks. Up front they have 4 little single room cabins that say there can sleep 6 but have no bathrooms. There are some upgraded RV spaces that have outside grill areas with sinks and counter space," explains Krista Z.
What you should know
Gate closure restrictions: Some parks enforce strict entrance policies. "Nothing on website said gate closes and can't get back in after 9 pm," reports Nicole E. about Cave Creek Regional Park. Plan your outings accordingly or risk being locked out overnight.
Seasonal considerations: The extreme summer heat impacts camping comfort significantly. "Obviously not ideal camping in the summer but GREAT for the fall/winter/spring months," advises Caitlin S. about Boulders OHV Area.
Site selection strategies: Campground layouts vary considerably in terms of privacy and views. "I recommend sites 19 or 20 which are literally on the hiking loop for Ironwood. My campsite was pretty typical with a rocky flat area to set up my tent, a grill and picnic table. My site had no shade which was ok when I visited in early spring but would have been way too hot to have stayed here during late spring or summer," shares Crystal C. about White Tank Mountain.
Tips for camping with families
Nature center activities: Several parks offer educational programming suitable for children. "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," mentions Chenery K. about Cave Creek Regional Park.
Playground access: Look for campgrounds with built-in recreation areas. "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," notes Chenery K. about Cave Creek Park.
Water activities: For a break from desert heat, consider camping options near water sources. "Great campsites off the forest road. Amazing views of the mountains. Cement picnic table and fire ring provided. Basic bathrooms available. Steep decline into the river right next to the sites. Travel to the dam and reservoir for great water views!" suggests Gillian C. about Mesquite Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: The amount of privacy between sites varies significantly. "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," explains Christopher W. about Cave Creek Regional Park.
Electric hookup availability: Confirm which specific hookups are available before booking. "The campground itself is very clean. It is quiet and the campsites all have electric and water hookups, picnic table and fire pit. There is an older area, sites 1 through 42, which offers more space in between the spaces. the newer area, sites 43 through 55 are closer to each other, but still doesn't feel crowded," details Ellen W. about Lost Dutchman State Park Campground.
Dump station locations: Plan ahead for waste management needs. "This is a nice spot close to home and easy to get to. My site was a pull through...more a side of the road spot. No shade here at all but otherwise pretty decent. My spot had water and electric. Nice dump station on the way out too," advises Chris P. about Usery Mountain Regional Park.
