Camping spots near Peoria, Arizona offer varied terrain with elevation ranges from 1,180 to 2,704 feet across the region. The desert landscape features distinctive basalt rock formations at White Tank Mountains formed by volcanic activity 30 million years ago. Most dispersed sites require campers to be self-sufficient with no facilities, though established campgrounds provide full hookups and amenities.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: White Tank Mountain Regional Park hosts numerous native desert animals visible during early morning and evening hikes. "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," notes a White Tank Mountain visitor.
Water recreation access: Lake Pleasant offers multiple options for boating, swimming, and fishing with designated launch points. A camper at Pleasant Harbor RV Resort reports, "Free shuttle to haul kayak to boat ramp," making water access more convenient for non-motorized watercraft.
Hiking trail exploration: The region features networks of trails ranging from easy to difficult, often with unique geological features. "The most popular one is the waterfall trail, but you need to drive to the trailhead for this. It is paved for the first half mile (shortly after the petroglypghs) and then it is a rocky, gravel path," explains a Maricopa County Park Lake Pleasant visitor.
What campers like
Desert wildlife encounters: Wild burros frequently visit camping areas, providing unique viewing opportunities. A camper at Roadrunner Campground shares, "Burros would hang out in our camp grazing grass completely unfazed by the barking dogs and screaming kids."
Proximity to urban amenities: Many camping locations balance wilderness feel with quick access to supplies. "Close to shopping and anything we needed it was great," mentions a camper at the Maddock Road dispersed camping area.
Range of camping options: From fully developed to primitive sites, the area provides choices for different comfort levels. At Old Airstrip Camping & Staging Area, a visitor notes, "Good level land and plenty of room. Wild burros wander through occasionally, and coyotes make their presence known as well."
What you should know
Access limitations: Road conditions vary significantly across camping areas with many requiring high-clearance vehicles. "The road in is a little rough, but ok. Two week stay limit, but that's pretty standard for BLM properties," explains one camper at the Old Airstrip area.
Weather considerations: Temperature extremes affect camping comfort with summer highs reaching dangerous levels. The best camping seasons are late fall through early spring when temperatures moderate.
Permit requirements: Different land management agencies have varying rules and fees. For state trust land camping, a visitor explains, "A $15 annual permit is required and a maximum stay of 14 days per year is allowed," though enforcement varies by location.
Site availability patterns: Weekends see significantly higher usage, particularly at free sites. "Since it was a nice weekend there were a gazillion trucks with their OHVs. I must say I didn't really mind, plus if you have 4x4 you can access more distant parts of the area for calm and privacy," shares an Old Airstrip camper.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with amenities: Sites with restrooms and developed facilities provide easier family camping experiences. A visitor at White Tank Mountain Regional Park notes, "Cleanest flush toilets and showers (free) I've ever seen in a campground."
Visit educational facilities: Several parks offer nature centers with family programming. "The park has an excellent nature center, great hiking, archaeology and good water/power hook-ups," shares a White Tank Mountain Regional Park visitor.
Look for child-friendly activities: Some areas have designated facilities for children. "Very nice place... lots of activities for the whole family very clean an lots of friendly people enjoying the place also," reports a camper at White Tank Mountain Regional Park.
Plan for wildlife encounters: While exciting, wildlife requires proper preparation. "Be careful and lock up before you leave to go anywhere," advises a camper about storing food securely in areas with wildlife.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Choose sites based on accessibility and size requirements. A camper at Pleasant Harbor RV Resort explains, "Large clean spots. All spots are fenced descent pool and small store if you need anything. We stayed in the loop near the entrance. Quite loud with all the cars coming and going."
Utility availability: Many established campgrounds offer varying hookup options. "360 full hook ups. 100 water and electric only spots. Lots of dry camping spots. Heated pool, laundromat and on site restaurant," notes a Pleasant Harbor RV Resort visitor.
Off-grid preparation: Dispersed camping areas require self-sufficiency. "No facilities so be prepared," advises a camper at Old Airstrip Camping & Staging Area, emphasizing the need to bring all supplies.
Cell service reliability: Network coverage varies by location and provider. "Strong WiFi. Kids were able to zoom without any issues," reports a Pleasant Harbor RV Resort visitor, while another camper mentions "Good cell phone service (Verizon - I got 3-4 bars of 4G, which got me 75+ mb/s download speed)" at Old Airstrip.
