Equestrian camping options around Queen Valley, Arizona offer varied terrain across desert landscapes at elevations ranging from 1,800 to 4,000 feet. The region experiences temperature swings of up to 30 degrees between day and night, particularly during spring and fall camping seasons. Most equestrian-friendly areas provide access to dirt roads suitable for trail riding but require bringing all water for horses.
What to do
Desert hiking trails: Lost Dutchman State Park provides several hiking options with mountain views. "Lots of good hiking, Ghost Town, good views. Worth every second. Easily our favorite quick camping trip," notes Chad E., while Rebecca G. adds, "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."
Wildlife watching opportunities: Early mornings and evenings offer the best chance to spot desert wildlife. At McDowell Mountain Regional Park, campers can observe desert creatures. "At night the coyotes sing you to sleep and also wake you up in the morning," reports Larry G., who also mentions, "Desert surround's and lots you singing coyotes at night and early morning!"
Mountain biking routes: The regional parks maintain dedicated biking trails of various difficulties. "Miles of mountain biking trails which were spectacular. We've ridden lots of places and this is definitely one of my favorite. Trails are not technically difficult but a great workout and so pretty," shares Mike M. from McDowell Mountain Regional Park.
Water recreation: For those willing to travel 30-40 minutes from Queen Valley, Bartlett Flat offers lake activities. "Nice area kids loved the water and my buddy caught some fish," writes one camper, while another mentions, "Little further back from where the rv congregate, so it's quiet and peaceful, boat traffic isn't to bad and the shore line is great for kids to swim."
What campers like
Desert stargazing: Clear skies make Queen Valley excellent for astronomy. At Lost Dutchman State Park Campground, Terri D. describes "great views of the Superstition Mountains and night lights of Phoenix," while at Usery Mountain, another camper notes, "You won't get a 'dark sky' night here, but the light noise from Phoenix makes for beautifully silhouetted saguaro cacti."
Proximity to civilization: Many campgrounds offer wilderness experiences while remaining accessible to towns. At Usery Mountain Regional Park, Christine S. appreciates that it's "close to town and very well maintained," while Crystal F. notes it's "close to town and easy to find yet fast enough away for a great view of the night sky."
Spacious campsites: Compared to other regions, many Queen Valley area campgrounds offer ample space between sites. Julie F. describes her site at Usery Mountain as "really spacious and private. Great views all around. Table and fire pit." Similarly, at McDowell Mountain Regional Park, Larry G. reports "extremely private" sites with "huge sites with picnic tables and fire rings."
Trail accessibility: The network of trails makes it easy to access riding paths directly from camps. Marty P. mentions Usery Mountain Regional Park being "close to everything, including some awesome Mountain Biking from green to double black diamond trails." At Peralta Regional Park Primitive Remote Campsites, a camper mentions it's "very close to popular hiking trails."
What you should know
Limited water resources: Most campgrounds have minimal or no water sources. At Oak Flat Campground, Carlos B. notes, "Two pit toilets are the only amenities... There is no water, however, so be prepared with as much as you'll need."
Temperature fluctuations: Desert nights get significantly colder than days year-round. A camper at McDowell Mountain warns, "At night the coyotes sing you to sleep and also wake you up in the morning," while another camper at Usery Mountain states, "Night temp was cool and windows left open."
Campsite reservations needed: Popular parks fill quickly during peak seasons. At Usery Mountain, Jose G. advises, "Do consider reserving a spot with ample time, they tend to get booked really quick especially during the winter time." Similarly, at Lost Dutchman State Park, Debbie W. suggests, "make reservations well ahead for busy winter months!"
Varied road conditions: Access to some equestrian trails requires navigating rough roads. At Oak Flat Campground, Carlos B. describes "Paved road to the turnoff for the campsite and then dirt but not too rough," noting "there are definitely some roads farther on that are extremely uneven granite dells."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly riding paths: Several areas offer gentler trails suitable for younger riders. At Box Bar Shoreline Area, a ranger reviewer notes, "Many kids were putting in and going around the bend, getting back out, and doing it over and over again! The water is cool and refreshing in the Arizona sun."
Water activities close by: Plan day trips to water recreation areas. Nolan S. describes Box Bar: "This is a fun spot to swim and picnic. This is free and not on Tonto National Forest, so you don't need a Tonto Pass... Only 45 minutes from Mesa. We usually go to the salt river but I noticed that this area and water is much cleaner!"
Toilet facilities vary: Restroom quality differs significantly between parks. At Goldfield Ghost Town Dry Camping, Alisa P. reports, "The restrooms are clean and the camp host was very helpful," while at Bartlett Flat, a camper warns about human waste issues, noting people should "pack out your waste which is toxic to wildlife."
Educational opportunities: Consider trips to historical sites and nature centers. At Goldfield Ghost Town, Alisa P. mentions, "They have train rides and you can visit a mine," adding that "the coffee shop opens at 9 and they have a great menu for breakfast, lunch and snack time."
Tips from RVers
Electric/water access points: Some parks offer partial hookups for equestrian campers. At McDowell Mountain Regional Park, Larry G. notes, "No sewer, however electric and water are available and conveniently located," while at Usery Mountain Regional Park, Marty P. mentions "large spaces with water, power and super clean."
Site size considerations: Check campground details for rig accommodations. At Lost Dutchman State Park, Terri D. advises, "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."
Generator restrictions: Be aware of noise policies at various campgrounds. At McDowell Mountain, there are no generators allowed according to campground features, which one reviewer implies makes for a "peaceful" environment with natural sounds predominating.
Winter visitation advantages: The cooler months offer prime camping conditions. John D. from McDowell Mountain notes the park can get "bit warm to hot May to October," while Loyal B. calls Lost Dutchman "one of my favorite winter camp spots."
