Best Campgrounds near Paradise Valley, AZ

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!