The Rio Verde area sits at approximately 1,600 feet elevation in the Sonoran Desert, creating diverse camping microclimates between the higher desert terrain and the Verde River corridor. Winter overnight temperatures can drop below freezing at riverside camping areas, while summer daytime temperatures often exceed 110°F. The significant temperature variations require campers to prepare for both heat and cold regardless of season.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: McDowell Mountain Regional Park offers extensive trail systems with varying difficulty levels. "Mikes 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," notes one visitor to McDowell Mountain Regional Park.
Kayaking opportunities: The Verde River provides calm sections perfect for paddling near Box Bar. "The Rio Verde runs right through here and is the main attraction. At Box Bar there is a small dam that holds the water in just enough for a calm small lake to appear. There is also quicker waters that can be kayaked or floated on," according to a visitor to Box Bar.
Wildlife viewing: The desert-river transition zone creates opportunities for spotting diverse wildlife. "We saw wild horses, woodpeckers, and heard the distant coyotes carrying on," reports one camper at Eagle View RV Resort. Mornings and evenings offer the best viewing times when animals are most active.
What campers like
Direct river access: The Verde River provides swimming and fishing opportunities. "Box Bar shoreline is located right on the Verde River. The parking/camping is about two minutes walking distance from the river. This is a fun spot to swim and picnic," explains a visitor to Box Bar.
Spacious campsites: Many Rio Verde area campgrounds provide ample room between sites. "Very nice clean campground and extremely private! Huge sites with picnic tables and fire rings," says one camper about McDowell Mountain Regional Park.
Desert night skies: While not completely free from light pollution, the night sky offers remarkable viewing. "You won't get a 'dark sky' night here, but the light noise from Phoenix makes for beautifully silhouetted saguaro cacti," notes a visitor to Usery Mountain Regional Park.
What you should know
Permit requirements: Some dispersed camping areas require permits or passes. "Easy to get a permit from the ranger station. Just email your name, address, phone number and driver's license number to sm.fs.mesa_ohs@usda.gov and you'll get your permit within 2 days for free," explains a camper at Bulldog Canyon.
Road conditions: Access roads vary significantly between campgrounds. "The road in, from the marina is a well-maintained dirt road. A couple of dispersed campsite can be seen just before you arrive, riverside of the road," notes one camper about Tonto National Forest Riverside Campground.
Weekend crowds: Popularity increases dramatically Friday through Sunday. "Weekends tend to be busier at all camping areas, particularly during favorable weather periods. You can choose your own camping spot, and there are many existing stone fire rings and pits that are spaced out decently across the area. The earlier you arrive, the more spots you'll have to choose from; most are filled by sundown."
Tips for camping with families
Easy water access: Several sites provide safe water recreation for children. "Little further back from where the rv congregate, so it's quiet and peaceful, boat traffic isn't too bad and the shore line is great for kids to swim," shares a visitor to Bartlett Flat.
Playground facilities: Some developed campgrounds include play areas. "We stayed in site 27 which was close to the kids playground. We did do a short 3 mile hike and it was very nice on the Granite and then Wagner trail," notes a visitor to McDowell Regional Park-Ironwood.
Wildlife education opportunities: The desert environment provides natural learning experiences. "The park is fantastic for a desert hike. The paths are well marked and the trails are filled with cacti and large diversity of wildlife. When we went it was incredibly hot and its important to bring lots of water," advises a McDowell Mountain visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Carefully review site dimensions and access before booking. "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," cautions a visitor to Lost Dutchman State Park.
Utility access: Electric and water hookups are available at developed campgrounds but not all provide sewer connections. "The utilities are easy to find and use, but only have water and electric. Both 30 and 520 amp available! Town is close so groceries and other things are available there."
Leveling requirements: Many sites require minimal leveling. "Campsite is clean and very easy to reserve ahead of time on the supported website which is very easy to use and see all the items open. Individual sites are paved and level, but have no development like patio or vegetation."
