Dispersed camping near Phoenix offers varied terrain from flat desert landscapes to mountain foothills with elevations ranging from 1,000-2,500 feet. Summer temperatures often exceed 110°F during daytime hours, making fall through spring the prime camping seasons. Many dispersed sites along Highway 74 and state trust lands provide no facilities but allow for spacious camping with desert vistas.
What to do
Hike the Waterfall Trail: At White Tank Mountain Regional Park, this popular trail is partially paved for the first half mile. "The waterfall only runs after heavy rain... There was water in the 'pool' and it is scenic so it was worthwhile to go despite no running falls. There are restrooms, a picnic area and a playground near this trailhead," notes Lee D. about White Tank Mountain.
Watch hot air balloons: Early risers at dispersed sites near Phoenix can catch spectacular aerial views. "Awoke to hot air balloons on the horizon! Great walks! Lovely and remote!" shares Tamra J. about her experience at Maddock Road Dispersed - AZ State Trust Land.
Explore desert wildlife: The nature center at Cave Creek Regional Park houses local wildlife displays. "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," writes Chenery K.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the ample room between sites at Cave Creek Regional Park. "The sites are spacious and spaced well enough apart from each other," notes Kristin C. about Cave Creek Regional Park.
Desert landscape: The natural vegetation and desert setting create a unique camping atmosphere. "Nice campground, serene with a large cactus next to every spot. Power and water at the spot, toilets & bathrooms available," reports Hans V. about his stay at Cave Creek Regional Park.
Proximity to water recreation: Lake Pleasant offers boating opportunities near camping areas. "RV camping on big water in Arizona! We have stayed here a couple of times. Make sure to book a spot up on cliff overlooking the water. Great sunsets. Free shuttle to haul kayak to boat ramp," recommends Margaret T. about Pleasant Harbor RV Resort.
What you should know
Night access restrictions: Some parks limit entry after certain hours. "Nothing on website said gate closes and can't get back in after 9 pm," warns Nicole E. about Cave Creek Regional Park, highlighting the importance of checking park rules before planning evening activities.
Train noise at certain locations: Some campgrounds experience regular train disturbances. "There's a train that goes by at least five times a day and night and a freeway just a few blocks away. So it's not super quiet, however, the noise hasn't really bothered me either," mentions Cheri H. about Sundial Mobile & RV Park.
Permit requirements: State trust lands require permits for legal camping. "A $15 annual permit is required and a maximum stay of 14 days per year is allowed... Please purchase the permit, it is a small fee and someone does have to eventually pick up the trash that inconsiderate people leave behind," explains Rick & Terri J. about dispersed camping options.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: "There are a couple of playgrounds in the park as well," mentions Ellen W. about White Tank Mountain Regional Park, making it one of the more dog friendly campgrounds near Phoenix for families with both children and pets.
Educational opportunities: Nature centers provide learning experiences for children. "The nature center here was very cool and I always recommend stopping in if there is one available, if nothing else to get a better idea of what kind of wildlife to watch out for in the area you are visiting," advises Crystal C.
Group-friendly sites: "My visit was to the Cave Creek Regional Park... 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," shares Chenery K., highlighting amenities that accommodate larger family gatherings.
Tips from RVers
Limited 55+ restrictions: Finding age-inclusive RV parks can be challenging. "Simple and affordable RV park. Pretty much the ONLY one we could get ahold of in the phoenix area that isn't 55+," explains Juliet L. about Sundial Mobile & RV Park, making it noteworthy for younger RVers seeking pet-friendly campgrounds near Phoenix.
Site marker visibility: "I got in after dark and it was very difficult to find my reserved spot. The site markers are so small that you can't read them from your car unless it's daylight," cautions Cheri H., suggesting arrival during daylight hours.
Campground accessibility: Desert's Edge RV Park provides convenient access to northern Arizona attractions. "Not super close to anything, but wound up exploring Jerome and Sedona to the North and most of Phoenix to the South while I was there with my 35ft rig," explains William F., noting how this location serves as a good base for exploring beyond Phoenix.
