Rio Verde camping areas sit at approximately 1,400 feet elevation with seasonal temperature fluctuations ranging from 40°F winter nights to summer highs exceeding 100°F. The region's desert terrain features saguaro cacti, mesquite trees, and wildlife including javelinas and coyotes. Water sources remain limited with most facilities concentrated around Bartlett Lake and the Verde River.
What to do
Mountain biking access: McDowell Mountain Regional Park offers extensive trail networks for riders of all skill levels. "Fun mountain bike trails. Clean bathrooms. Quiet in late December. Only 5 or 6 tent campers here," notes Janet M. about McDowell Mountain Regional Park.
Swimming holes: Bartlett Flat provides direct lake access for cooling off during hot months. "We love camping here, its so close to home and it's dispersed! We usually camp right on the water," reports Alaina C. about Bartlett Flat where shoreline camping permits direct water access.
Ghost town exploration: Visit historic mining sites within walking distance of your campsite. "It was fun to walk right up to the town and walk around. Cowboy Dan who owns and runs the steakhouse is hilarious and his wait staff was helpful and accommodating," shares Alisa P. about the historic attractions at Goldfield Ghost Town.
What campers like
Desert wildlife viewing: Overnight visitors frequently report coyote sightings and calls. "At night the coyotes sing you to sleep and also wake you up in the morning. You can also see the fountain from most of the campsites which goes off every hour!" says Larry G. about his stay at Lost Dutchman State Park Campground.
Night sky visibility: The desert surroundings offer stargazing opportunities despite some light pollution from Phoenix. "Beautiful sunset, amazing view of moon rising over mountains. Heard some coyotes in the night, which was exciting," reports Rebecca G. after visiting Lost Dutchman.
River access: The Verde River provides natural swimming areas with cooler water than reservoir options. "Box Bar shoreline is located right on the verde fiver. The parking/camping is about two minutes walking distance from the river. This is a fun spot to swim and picnic," shares Nolan S. about Box Bar Shoreline Area.
What you should know
Limited equestrian facilities: Though several campgrounds accommodate horses, most require self-contained setups. "Great spots for your horse and trailer. Good size corral. More space on the pit side. Stay a week or month! Great trails out from camp. Water at corrals," notes Lindy B. about Goldfield Ghost Town Dry Camping.
Weekend crowding: Popular sites fill quickly Friday through Sunday. "Probably one of our favorite dispersed spots to date. Roads are nice and had no problem pulling our 22' trailer in. Spots are right on the water, but can get a little busy so would recommend coming early," advises Alex H. about Bartlett Flat.
Wind conditions: Open spaces around lakes create wind tunnels affecting tent camping. "The wind can really whip across the lake when it picks up, and it makes it hard to pitch a tent or run a stove. I recommend setting up camp up by the trees if you don't plan on boating/fishing/RV camping," suggests Whither W. about lakeside camping.
Tips for camping with families
Shoreline selection: Choose camping spots away from high-traffic boat launch areas. "Little further back from where the rv congregat, so it's quiet and peaceful, boat traffic isn't to bad and the shore line is great for kids to swim," recommends B.O. about Bartlett Flat.
Educational programs: Ranger activities provide learning opportunities about desert ecosystems. "The camp hosts are incredibly friendly and helpful, adding to the welcoming atmosphere. Our kids adore playing in the dirt and exploring the trees," shares Brad and Britany B. about Houston Mesa Campground.
Toilet facilities: Most dispersed sites require bringing portable toilets. "People do venture off into the Forrest area to use the restroom. That is my only concern is people do not pack out their toilet paper or their human feces. Please keep this area beautiful," reminds Lindsey S. about maintaining natural areas.
Tips from RVers
Cell coverage: Most sites offer limited connectivity for essential communications. "Reasonable cell coverage with Verizon. Close drive to home and nice setup that makes you feel like you are in the woods," reports Rick G. about Houston Mesa Campground.
Dump station access: Plan waste management carefully as some facilities charge additional fees. "There is a dump station with potable water. There is also rest rooms with showers. Located in the center of North Scottsdale conveniently near lots of great dining, shopping and entertainment, for a reasonable price," notes Al G. about WestWorld RV Park.
Summer heat preparations: Shade structures are essential during warmer months. "Very nice clean campground and extremely private! No sewer, however electric and water are available and conveniently located. NO shade however and in the summer it is HOT!" warns Larry G. about desert camping conditions.
