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Best Campgrounds near Paradise Valley, AZ

851 Reviews

Paradise Valley, Arizona has numerous camping options within a short drive in the surrounding Sonoran Desert landscape. Established sites at Lost Dutchman State Park, Usery Mountain Regional Park, and Cave Creek Regional Park provide developed campgrounds with amenities like electric hookups, water access, and restrooms. The region also features dispersed camping opportunities on Arizona State Trust Land, particularly in areas like Bulldog Canyon and Peralta Road. Most developed campgrounds accommodate both tent and RV camping, with several parks offering full hookups for larger rigs, while primitive sites cater to those seeking a more rustic experience.

Permits and regulations vary significantly across the camping areas surrounding Paradise Valley. Arizona State Trust Land requires annual permits that cost approximately $20 for family access, while many dispersed sites in Tonto National Forest require a Tonto Pass. Most developed campgrounds in the regional parks system require reservations, especially during the popular winter and spring months when temperatures are mild. Summer brings extreme heat, often exceeding 100°F, making camping challenging without proper preparation and abundant water supplies. Road conditions to dispersed sites frequently require high-clearance vehicles, particularly after rainfall. According to one visitor, "This is Arizona State Trust Land so a permit is required. This can be purchased online for $15/individual or $20/family of 4."

Campers report high satisfaction with sites that balance natural scenery with reasonable access to amenities. The Superstition Mountains provide a dramatic backdrop for several camping areas east of Paradise Valley, with hiking trails accessible directly from many campgrounds. Reviewers frequently mention appreciating the desert landscape while noting the importance of shade structures during warmer months. Noise levels vary significantly between locations, with some dispersed areas experiencing weekend activity from off-road vehicles. Several visitors mentioned the value of finding more remote pullouts for quieter experiences. Developed campgrounds generally receive positive reviews for cleanliness and maintenance, with Lost Dutchman State Park frequently praised for its mountain views and trail access. A recent review noted, "The place is gorgeous. Close to town and funky roadside attractions. No WiFi but decent cell. Very clean, well maintained and quiet."

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Best Camping Sites Near Paradise Valley, Arizona (244)

    1. Usery Mountain Regional Park

    35 Reviews
    Apache Junction, AZ
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 984-0032

    "Outstanding layout, great hosts, spectacular location. "

    "Campsite 6 is the first one on the right, across from the Camp Host site, and as close to the entrance has you’re gonna get."

    2. Lost Dutchman State Park Campground

    83 Reviews
    Superstition Mtn, AZ
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 982-4485

    $35 - $99 / night

    "It kind of poked off the main loop away from other neighbors which is why we picked it, very close to the mtb trail and easy access to the trail leading to siphon draw. Very little shade."

    "One of my favorite trails in Arizona."

    3. McDowell Mountain Regional Park

    19 Reviews
    Rio Verde, AZ
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (602) 506-2930

    $32 / night

    "Gorgeous views, very spaced out sites, and access to great mountain biking and hiking trails. Even the overflow area where we had to spend a couple of nights has a very nice bathroom and shower."

    "No sewer, however electric and water are available and conveniently located. NO shade however and in the summer it is HOT! Desert surround's and lots you singing coyotes at night and early morning!"

    4. Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground

    65 Reviews
    Peoria, AZ
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (602) 506-2930

    $15 - $300 / night

    "We stayed in late September and had no neighbors next to us so we felt like we were in the desert. There was no direction that had a bad view."

    "It was an great way to be exposed to trails I may not have chosen on my own."

    5. Cave Creek Regional Park

    18 Reviews
    Cave Creek, AZ
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (623) 465-0431

    "Surrounded by homes but for its proximity to town its sunset views are fab. Close to a Frys and Home Depot. My onlllly reason for 4/5 stars is the surrounding homes have very noisy dogs."

    "We have always looked forward to our quiet nights away from usual civilization and would stay awake to hear the coyotes howl, along with the rest of the wildlife."

    6. Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance

    27 Reviews
    Fort Mcdowell, AZ
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 610-3300

    $10 - $80 / night

    "I use the north entrance off Bush highway. I've camped here 5 or 6 times. No water or bathrooms. Leave no trace. You need a permit and gate code. Most ATVers but not loud during the week."

    "This is a nice area if you like to off road. We take our trailer out for the weekend to get out of the city. It’s an hour from Tempe/ Phoenix."

    7. Desert's Edge RV Park

    7 Reviews
    Phoenix, AZ
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (623) 587-0940

    "We arrived after the office was closed, but they had our bathroom keys and paperwork ready for us in the box outside the office."

    8. Encore Mesa Spirit

    8 Reviews
    Mesa, AZ
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "We loved this park in the Arizona Desert.  Close to everything, yet set up to feel like you're in your own little village. "

    "Made fast friends with the neighbors, got tons of recommendations from anyone walking or biking for things to do nearby."

    9. WestWorld RV Park

    3 Reviews
    Scottsdale, AZ
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 312-6802

    $57 / night

    "Great location! Nice views of the compound which normally hosts car and horse shows. Electric and water available as hookup. Common dump site available upon entry as well as during your stay."

    "This is a great place to camp if you are attending a WestWorld event since you will be right next to all of the facilities."

    10. Eagle View RV Resort at Fort Mcdowell

    10 Reviews
    Fort Mcdowell, AZ
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 789-5310

    $41 - $84 / night

    "Walking paths and trails are throughout the park. A dog park is available. Town is about 10 minutes away on a winding back road."

    "We have met great people here and enjoy that you can walk or bikeride directly from the RV Park. The park is always clean and well cared for, and we like that its not in the city center."

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Recent Camping Photos near Paradise Valley, AZ

158 Photos of 244 Paradise Valley Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Paradise Valley, AZ

851 Reviews of 244 Paradise Valley Campgrounds

  • Alisa P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 17, 2025

    Goldfield Ghost Town Dry Camping

    Fun Ghost town and Camping

    We happened upon this cool campground on our way to the state park that doesn’t have check in until 2 even though when I called at 9 they had tons of sites open. The Goldmine sites are clean and level. All have fire pits and most have a picnic table. It was fun to walk right up to the town and walk around. Cowboy Dan who owns and runs the steakhouse is hilarious and his wait staff was helpful and accommodating. They have train rides and you can visit a mine. The coffee shop opens at 9 and they have a great menu for breakfast, lunch and snack time. The restrooms are clean and the camp host was very helpful. We were able to unload our side by side and we traveled up to Tortilla Flats where you can have lunch and then onto Apache Lake and campground. That road does require 4 WD but we did see a Tesla on it so I guess if you like a challenge and don’t have 4WD then anything is possible!!
    Great spot and cheaper than the state park for dry camping $30 here and the same price for hook ups here $50.

  • Alisa P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 16, 2025

    Apache Lake Marina & Resort

    Middle of no where but amazing

    This is out in the middle of nowhere but simply amazing location. The lake has amazing views and park is nice and level. Has a grocery store and restaurant as well. Worth the trip to stay at this lake.

  • Alisa P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 16, 2025

    Canyon Lake Marina & Campground

    Nice location on the water

    This campground is right on the water. Close to Tortilla Flat which is a cool spot for the whole family. Lots of boats in the marina but we never say one on the lake. We did see kayakers and paddle boards those were venturing up the river. Road is very twisty on the way here but paved the whole way. Great spot!

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 5, 2025

    Hackamore Road Dispersed

    The Beginning

    I went and personally checked out this dispersed camping area that's about half a click or so away from the Goldfield Ghost Town.

    Hackamore Road is a straight up OHV Trail, and last night I learned that on a total whim.

    I'm confident enough to hop on here and say that it was a pretty nice experience overall. There were some dudes shredding it pretty late last night, (pretty sure I overheard them mentioning their tire got flat).

    So expect a little bit of company; although no one bothered me

    The coyotes started howling around 4am, but they started dying down after they had migrated.

    I'm a country guy so the sounds don't really bother me, but if you're particular about your sleep I would recommend bringing a camping trailer + earmuff combo.

    The ground is hard as concrete, but I have no complaints. I got some of the best sleep I've had in a long time.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    BLM - North Maricopa Mountains Wilderness

    Convenient for nigth crashing

    1 star for super easy access, 1 star for flat easy to level and 1 star for beautiful stars sky. Other than that no more stars. You can hear the highway very loudly, it seems we could have drove a little further and probably better but we were tired, I can not see camping in there. It was super hot and no breeze at all. We arrived by 8pm and left 4:30am

  • Hans V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 21, 2025

    BLM - North Maricopa Mountains Wilderness

    Perfect stopover

    Instead of staying under the power lines like many people mentioned (and indicated by the app), we drove a little bit further away from the main road and found a perfect spot for an overnight stay on our way to Phoenix. It was very hot though at day and night in September. Nothing extraordinary but free. Road is OK, gravel with some bumps, but driven slowly our Jeep Grand Cherokee towing an A-frame did fine even when arriving in the dark

  • Hans V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 21, 2025

    Cave Creek Regional Park

    Cactus place

    Nice campground, serene with a large cactus next to every spot. Power and water at the spot, toilets & bathrooms available.

Guide to Paradise Valley

Camping near Paradise Valley, Arizona, offers a mix of stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a place to park your RV, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Biking: There are numerous trails for hiking and biking. At Usery Mountain Regional Park, one camper shared, “There are mountain bike trails connected to this campground that were very fun!” Another review noted, “Tons of trails and the views are awesome,” making it a great base for outdoor enthusiasts.

  • Exploring History: Visit the nearby Lost Dutchman State Park, where one reviewer mentioned, “Immerse yourself in the legendary lore of the Lost Dutchman's Gold Mine.” This park is not just about camping; it’s a chance to learn about local history while enjoying nature.

  • Water Activities: If you enjoy water sports, Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground is a great choice. A visitor said, “There are lots of great trails for hiking in the park,” and you can also enjoy boating and fishing on the lake.

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. One camper at Burnt Corral Campground said, “The lake with the mountains in the background is breathtaking.” Another noted, “Beautiful waterfront sites and seems like a great spot for fishing and water sports.”
  • Clean Facilities: Many campers appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A review for Lost Dutchman State Park Campground highlighted, “Park is well maintained,” which is a big plus for families and first-time campers.
  • Spacious Campsites: Campers enjoy the spaciousness of the sites. At McDowell Mountain Regional Park, one visitor mentioned, “Nice large private sites with a wonderful view of the mountains and desert.”

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Lake Pleasant, lack showers and have limited bathroom facilities. A camper noted, “Showers were lukewarm at best,” so be prepared for that.
  • Wildlife Encounters: Expect to see wildlife, especially at places like Saddle Mountain BLM. One camper shared, “Wild burros and coyotes set the soundtrack,” which adds to the experience but also means you should keep food secured.
  • Road Conditions: Some areas may have rough roads. A visitor at Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping mentioned, “The road is in the worst condition,” so a vehicle with good clearance is recommended.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with amenities like restrooms and picnic areas. Pleasant Harbor RV Resort offers a safe environment, as one camper noted, “I felt very safe. Security makes its rounds.”
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. One family at Usery Mountain Regional Park enjoyed the “diverse hiking trails,” which cater to all skill levels.
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having food on hand is essential, especially if you’re at a campground without a market. A camper at Burnt Corral Campground mentioned, “We went kayaking and just relaxed on the shore of the lake,” highlighting the need for snacks during outdoor fun.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookup Availability: Some campgrounds, like Lake Pleasant, have electric hookups, while others do not. A visitor noted, “Water and electric” were available, making it easier for RVers.
  • Be Mindful of Space: RVers at McDowell Mountain Regional Park appreciated the “spaced out sites,” which provide a bit of privacy.
  • Plan for Waste Disposal: Ensure you know where to dump waste. A camper at Pleasant Harbor RV Resort mentioned, “Dump station and water fill up included,” which is a helpful feature for RV travelers.

Camping near Paradise Valley, Arizona, offers a unique blend of adventure, beauty, and community. Whether you're in a tent or an RV, there's something for everyone to enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Paradise Valley, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, Paradise Valley, AZ offers a wide range of camping options, with 244 campgrounds and RV parks near Paradise Valley, AZ and 53 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Paradise Valley, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Paradise Valley, AZ is Usery Mountain Regional Park with a 4.8-star rating from 35 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Paradise Valley, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 53 free dispersed camping spots near Paradise Valley, AZ.

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