Phoenix's desert landscape ranges from 1,100 to 2,500 feet in elevation with surrounding mountains reaching over 4,000 feet. Temperatures can vary by 30 degrees between summer and winter, with summer highs routinely exceeding 105°F. Yurt camping near Phoenix offers more temperature-stable accommodations than tents during extreme seasons.
What to do
Hiking varied terrain: Cave Creek Regional Park features multiple trails suitable for all skill levels. "I liked staying here. The sites are spacious and spaced well enough apart from each other," notes Kristin C. about Cave Creek Regional Park.
Explore desert wildlife: The nature centers at multiple parks provide educational opportunities. "The park has 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," shares Chenery K. about White Tank Mountain.
Night sky viewing: Despite proximity to Phoenix, many campgrounds offer decent stargazing. "Campsites are behind a rise, so you see stars, not city lights," explains Rusty T. about the White Tank Mountain park experience.
What campers like
Desert landscape immersion: Many campgrounds maintain natural desert vegetation. "Lush desert campground. Quiet and well run. Very clean," writes Lynn C. about the White Tank Mountain camping experience.
Clean facilities: Usery Mountain Regional Park receives consistent praise for maintenance. "This is a lovely regional park to stay in. The sites are well maintained and the visitor center is worth a look," mentions Christine S. about Usery Mountain Regional Park.
Proximity to urban amenities: Most Phoenix-area camping remains close to services while feeling remote. "While I prefer to be further out, sometimes it's nice to be somewhere with all the services... Close to a Frys and Home Depot," explains Kiley S. about Cave Creek Regional Park.
What you should know
Gate closing times: Some parks restrict after-hours access. "Nothing on website said gate closes and can't get back in after 9 pm," warns Nicole E. about Cave Creek Regional Park.
Weather preparation: Temperature fluctuations require planning. "It'll be hot during the day and very cold at night depending on the time of year," cautions Krista Z. about staying at Mesa-Apache Junction KOA.
Reservation requirements: Popular sites fill quickly, especially in winter. "If we could actually get a spot to camp here again it would be nice... Do consider reserving a spot with ample time, they tend to get booked really quick especially during the winter time," advises Jose G. about Usery Mountain Regional Park.
Limited privacy options: Some campgrounds have minimal site separation. "The spaces are really close together and separated by a row of rocks," notes Krista Z. about the Mesa-Apache Junction KOA layout.
Tips for camping with families
Educational programs: Seek out ranger-led activities for children. "The nature center here was very cool and I always recommend stopping in... I've also joined ranger-led hikes here as well as a county-sponsored astronomy night with access to multiple large telescopes and an astronomy presentation," recommends Chenery K.
Playground access: Several parks include play areas. "There are a couple of playgrounds in the park as well," mentions Ellen W. about White Tank Mountain.
Yurt camping options: For families seeking more comfort than tents, Phoenix yurt camping alternatives exist. "This KOA had some really awesome features and gives you most of the convenience of a hotel with the ability to bring your RV and your personal items with you without the hotel price tag," shares Krista Z. about the Mesa-Apache Junction KOA.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Research specific campsites based on rig size. "Highly recommend this park with spacious sites and great views of the Superstition Mountains and night lights of Phoenix. Carefully review the site you select to be sure it will accommodate your rig. Roads are narrow and there are unforgiving drop offs on the sides," advises Terri D. about Lost Dutchman State Park.
Hookup variety: Water and electric connections vary by location. "The campground itself is very clean. It is quiet and the campsites all have electric and water hookups, picnic table and fire pit," notes Ellen W. about White Tank Mountain.
Dump station access: Most established campgrounds provide dump stations. "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. Nice dump station on the way out too," mentions Chris P. about Usery Mountain Regional Park.
