Lost Dutchman State Park Campground offers seasonal camping opportunities 30 miles northeast of Queen Creek at the base of the Superstition Mountains, with elevations around 2,000 feet. Winter temperatures typically range from 40-70°F while summer temperatures can exceed 100°F, making November through April the most comfortable camping season. Most campsites require advance reservations during peak winter months when snowbirds flock to the area.
What to do
Hiking the Sonoran desert trails: Usery Mountain Regional Park features trails suitable for all experience levels, from easy nature walks to challenging mountain climbs. Located about 20 minutes from Queen Creek, the park offers particularly good hiking during cooler months. According to Julie F., "The park has tons of trails for hiking and MTN biking. The only downside is the light pollution at night being so close to Phoenix."
Stargazing at night: Despite some light pollution from nearby Phoenix, the desert campsites provide decent night sky viewing. Rebecca G. from Lost Dutchman State Park Campground notes, "Beautiful sunset, amazing view of moon rising over mountains. Heard some coyotes in the night, which was exciting. Enjoyed hiking the trails and exploring the landscape."
Horseback riding: Several campgrounds offer access to horse trails, with some sites at Cave Creek Regional Park even featuring pipe corrals for campers with horses. The nearby riding stables operate seasonally. As Brad B. mentions about Lost Dutchman State Park Campground, "Nestled right at the base of the Superstition Mountains - this is a great location that is close to excellent hiking and riding."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many glamping options close to Queen Creek, Arizona feature well-separated sites that provide privacy despite being in developed campgrounds. At Cave Creek Regional Park, Christopher W. mentions, "The sites are far enough apart that you have enough room to spread out. You don't feel like you are on top of your neighbors."
Clean facilities: The desert campgrounds maintain surprisingly clean bathroom facilities. At Usery Mountain Regional Park, Janet H. notes, "Restroom and shower facilities were clean," while also appreciating that her site was "raked and free of any trash, and a good distance from neighboring site."
Year-round availability: Unlike mountain campgrounds that close seasonally, most glamping sites near Queen Creek remain open throughout the year. Loyal B. shares about Lost Dutchman, "Clean facilities, beautiful surroundings, full amenities. We loved staying with a big group of teardrop trailers and home built campers. The area is beautiful and user friendly facilities. One of my favorite winter camp spots."
What you should know
Advance reservations essential: Popular glamping destinations near Queen Creek book quickly, especially during winter months. As Jose G. advises about Usery Mountain Regional Park, "Do consider reserving a spot with ample time they tend to get booked really quick especially during the winter time."
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience varying noise levels from neighboring sites or nearby transportation. Brandon M. notes about Lost Dutchman, "The scenery was beautiful, but didn't love the fact that people were blaring their music here until 2AM in the morning."
Site selection matters: At many desert campgrounds, sites vary significantly in size, layout and proximity to amenities. Terri D. suggests, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several glamping facilities near Queen Creek offer designated play areas for children. At Mesa-Apache Junction KOA, Riley B. reports, "Since we could not use the pool we had a game day with corn hole, washers, and ladder ball. All in all a nice place to stay."
Educational opportunities: The visitor centers at most parks provide learning experiences about desert ecology. Mark M. from Usery Mountain notes, "Wow, seems like best of the Sonoran Desert. Beautiful. Well kept park, safe, quiet, with clean single shower/bathroom stalls that are spacious."
Weather preparation: Desert temperatures fluctuate dramatically between day and night, requiring appropriate clothing and gear. Ryan D. from Pioneer Pass Campground advises, "The campground is nestled in a secluded canyon amongst the Ponderosa Pines and next to an intermittent mountain stream. The views on the drive up from Globe to the campground at 5,900 feet are gorgeous."
Tips from RVers
Access considerations: Some glamping sites near Queen Creek have limited access for larger rigs. Thomas P. from Pioneer Pass cautions, "Do not go unless you have a 4x4 or are positive about the condition at the top. It was 67° in Globe this day. I have an E350 dually and I was sliding."
Site amenities: Many RV sites include unique features beyond standard hookups. Grace D. from Mesa-Apache Junction KOA shares, "You wouldn't know it on your drive from the freeway to this KOA, but it's a pleasant, well-run RV/Cabin/Tent campsite. The sites are spacious, hosts friendly and informative. There's a pool and jacuzzi, a number of machines in the laundry, and the showers have doors."
Premium sites available: For longer stays, consider upgrading to sites with added amenities. As Sarina notes about Mesa-Apache Junction KOA, "We stay here every year for a week. The campground is large and the spots have plenty of space. Campground staff is great. No complaints... we love it here!"
