Dispersed camping opportunities near Rio Verde, Arizona offer desert landscapes with desert mountain views and riverside camping options. Several locations provide amenities ranging from primitive camping with basic facilities to more developed sites with electric hookups. Camping sites vary from 1,600 to 2,600 feet in elevation, with significant temperature fluctuations between day and night even during summer months.
What to do
Mountain biking on maintained trails: McDowell Mountain Regional Park features extensive bike paths suitable for various skill levels. "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 difficult technically but a great workout and so pretty," notes Mike M. about McDowell Mountain Regional Park.
Shoreline fishing: Bartlett Reservoir provides good fishing opportunities in a scenic setting. "Great fishing lake! The drive is beautiful and towns of Carefree and Cave Creek are pleasant and unique. If you go in monsoon season, you're sure to see some amazing skies!" shares Audrey R. about the Bartlett Reservoir area.
Off-highway vehicle trails: Bulldog Canyon offers permitted access for OHV enthusiasts. "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," advises Whitney W., adding that while "better to have a 4 wheel drive with decent clearance for some of the trails," most camping spots are accessible without venturing too deep.
What campers like
Desert stargazing opportunities: Cave Creek Regional Park provides dark sky viewing despite proximity to Phoenix. "While I prefer to be further out, sometimes it's nice to be somewhere with all the services... Surrounded by homes but for its proximity to town its sunset views are fab," mentions Kiley S. about Cave Creek Regional Park.
Riverside camping access: Box Bar Road offers close water access for pets and campers. "We've been down in this area a few times now. I've always found it to be very quiet and peaceful. Even Fri and Sat, it's pretty low-key," reports Michael M. about Box Bar Road Dispersed camping area.
Well-spaced campsites: Usery Mountain provides privacy between sites. "Our site #48 Buckhorn was really spacious and private. Great views all around. Table and fire pit. The park has tons of trails for hiking and MTN biking," shares Julie F., though she notes "the only downside is the light pollution at night being so close to Phoenix."
What you should know
Permit requirements: Some dispersed areas require permits or passes. "The price from $6 for 6 months to $80 for the year," notes Matt F. about Bulldog Canyon, also mentioning a new rule requiring camping "2 miles from the road" in some areas, which can create challenges for travel trailers.
Limited cellular coverage: Service varies widely by location and carrier. "Very quiet peaceful park. 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!" shares Larry G., adding that "town is close so groceries and other things are available there."
Desert hazards: Prepare for spiny plants and wildlife. "This 'campground' is in the middle of cactus, dirt, and things that stab you. The only real redeeming quality is the view. If you come out here for an amazing sunrise or sunset you will not be disappointed," cautions Krista Z., reminding visitors "it's hot during the day, cool at night, and full of things that will sting/bite you."
Tips for camping with families
Look for established camping areas: Ironwood Campground offers family amenities in a natural setting. "This campground is really beautiful. The sites are spaced out and in general it's very quite (although the park is popular with mountain bikers). Lots of hiking to do around if you're looking for something flat," recommends Albert V. about McDowell Regional Park-Ironwood.
Consider water access locations: Bartlett Flat offers swimming opportunities. "This is a great spot and easy to get to. Lots of shaded areas. You can camp next to your car, which there might be campers running generators, or you can hike towards the river and set up camp to get away from that. Close to the river with several walk in spots to play in," advises Patrick C.
Check for educational programs: Some parks offer nature activities. "The park has beautiful hiking trails and a great nature center, which offers activities," mentions Ellen W., noting that "some hiking trails are within walking distance of the campground, others you will need to drive to."
Tips from RVers
RV-friendly hookups: Eagle View RV Resort provides full amenities. "We have camped here 3 of the past 4 years. It is a great location: close to the big city facilities, but out of the hustle and bustle," shares Mike R. about Eagle View RV Resort. "Individual sites are paved and level, but have no development like patio or vegetation. The views of the desert and mountain are awesome, and wild horses are sometimes around."
Temperature management: Prepare for extreme temperature fluctuations. "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., adding that "huge sites with picnic tables and fire rings" provide space but little protection from the elements.
Gate access timing: Some parks restrict entry after hours. "Nothing on website said gate closes and can't get back in after 9 pm," cautions Nicole E. about her otherwise positive stay at Cave Creek Regional Park.
