Best Campgrounds near San Tan Valley, AZ

Camping options around San Tan Valley, Arizona range from developed RV resorts to primitive dispersed sites in the surrounding desert. Established campgrounds include Lost Dutchman State Park and Usery Mountain Regional Park, both offering tent and RV sites with varying amenities. For those seeking cabin accommodations, The Cozy Peach at Schnepf Farms provides glamping-style options in a farm setting, while Mesa-Apache Junction KOA offers cabin rentals alongside traditional camping spaces. Several dispersed camping areas exist on public lands, including Peralta Road and Cottonwood Canyon Road dispersed camping areas, which provide more primitive experiences.

Access to camping areas varies by location and management agency. Most dispersed camping sites require permits, particularly those on Arizona State Trust lands. A camper noted, "Beautiful area, easy to get to, someone did come by to check permits (Arizona Land Trust permits, only $20 per family per year I think)." Travelers should plan accordingly for weather conditions in this desert region, where summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F from May through September, making fall through spring the most comfortable camping seasons. Developed campgrounds typically remain open year-round with amenities like water and electric hookups, while dispersed sites offer no facilities. Road conditions to established campgrounds are generally good, while accessing dispersed sites may require high-clearance vehicles.

Campground reviews highlight the contrast between developed and primitive camping experiences in the region. RV resorts like Monte Vista receive praise for their amenities, with one visitor noting it "lives up to its Name 'Resort'" with "concrete parking pads and patio" plus "meticulously maintained" facilities. More rustic options appeal to those seeking solitude and natural settings. The campgrounds near the Superstition Mountains provide scenic views and access to hiking trails, making them popular destinations. Visitors frequently mention the desert landscape, mountain vistas, and stargazing opportunities as highlights of camping in this region. Proximity to Phoenix metro area amenities while still offering natural surroundings makes San Tan Valley a practical basecamp for exploring central Arizona.

Best Camping Sites Near San Tan Valley, Arizona (236)

    1. Lost Dutchman State Park Campground

    83 Reviews
    Superstition Mtn, AZ
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 982-4485

    $35 - $99 / night

    "It kind of poked off the main loop away from other neighbors which is why we picked it, very close to the mtb trail and easy access to the trail leading to siphon draw. Very little shade."

    "One of my favorite trails in Arizona."

    2. Usery Mountain Regional Park

    35 Reviews
    Apache Junction, AZ
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 984-0032

    "Outstanding layout, great hosts, spectacular location. "

    "Campsite 6 is the first one on the right, across from the Camp Host site, and as close to the entrance has you’re gonna get."

    3. Mesa-Apache Junction KOA

    18 Reviews
    Apache Junction, AZ
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 982-4015

    "This KOA sits on the outskirts of Apache Junction, which itself isn't Phoenix proper but an eastern suburb. The RV park has all of the basics: power, water, sewer plus a pool and a level, clean site."

    "We had plenty of space between us and adjacent sites. The whole KOA has some nice touches as far as landscaping, sites with grills, etc. Very clean and well kept."

    4. Cottonwood Canyon Rd. Dispersed

    11 Reviews
    Queen Valley, AZ
    16 miles

    "No amenities but perfect place to base out of for off-roading adventures. This place is really popular, so it’s a cool place to ride with other people and check out their rigs."

    "This is a very popular off road spot for Motocross motorcycles, Jeeps, ATV's, and Side by Sides so be prepared for some dust and some noise from vehicles. There are lots of trails to ride."

    5. The Cozy Peach at Schnepf Farms

    1 Review
    Queen Creek, AZ
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 987-3100

    $185 - $265 / night

    "We were here for a local event so we were able to do some nearby hiking and drinking at the incredible local Olive Mill across the road. "

    6. Peralta Road Dispersed Camping

    9 Reviews
    Gold Canyon, AZ
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (602) 542-4631

    "Drive through the town of Gold Canyon AZ, and you quickly leave behind the sprawl of suburban Phoenix, but embrace the sprawling landscape of the Sonoran Desert which is brimming with life in the spring"

    "* It's Arizona...but there's GREEN stuff everywhere.

    • Great view of the mountains here.
    • Saguaro cacti everywhere.
    • I fed some carrots to a horse this morning.
    • The main road is pretty"

    7. Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance

    27 Reviews
    Fort Mcdowell, AZ
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 610-3300

    $10 - $80 / night

    "I use the north entrance off Bush highway. I've camped here 5 or 6 times. No water or bathrooms. Leave no trace. You need a permit and gate code. Most ATVers but not loud during the week."

    "This is a nice area if you like to off road. We take our trailer out for the weekend to get out of the city. It’s an hour from Tempe/ Phoenix."

    8. Hackamore Road Dispersed

    13 Reviews
    Apache Junction, AZ
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (623) 580-5500

    "It's on BLM land, so you are out of the reach of the Arizona Land Permits. The road is a bit tricky."

    "It’s got great views of the mountains, TONS of awesome trails to walk/ride love the access to the little ghost town nearby."

    9. Encore Countryside

    6 Reviews
    Apache Junction, AZ
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "Great Campground, close to everything."

    10. Monte Vista RV Resort

    3 Reviews
    Mesa, AZ
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "Gravel surrounds each campsite and we have noticed maintenance crews raking the gravel every other day. Close to all the fun stuff on the Superstition Mountains."

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Recent Reviews near San Tan Valley, AZ

763 Reviews of 236 San Tan Valley Campgrounds


  • Alisa P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 17, 2025

    Goldfield Ghost Town Dry Camping

    Fun Ghost town and Camping

    We happened upon this cool campground on our way to the state park that doesn’t have check in until 2 even though when I called at 9 they had tons of sites open. The Goldmine sites are clean and level. All have fire pits and most have a picnic table. 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. They have train rides and you can visit a mine. The coffee shop opens at 9 and they have a great menu for breakfast, lunch and snack time. The restrooms are clean and the camp host was very helpful. We were able to unload our side by side and we traveled up to Tortilla Flats where you can have lunch and then onto Apache Lake and campground. That road does require 4 WD but we did see a Tesla on it so I guess if you like a challenge and don’t have 4WD then anything is possible!!
    Great spot and cheaper than the state park for dry camping $30 here and the same price for hook ups here $50.

  • Alisa P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 16, 2025

    Apache Lake Marina & Resort

    Middle of no where but amazing

    This is out in the middle of nowhere but simply amazing location. The lake has amazing views and park is nice and level. Has a grocery store and restaurant as well. Worth the trip to stay at this lake.

  • Alisa P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 16, 2025

    Canyon Lake Marina & Campground

    Nice location on the water

    This campground is right on the water. Close to Tortilla Flat which is a cool spot for the whole family. Lots of boats in the marina but we never say one on the lake. We did see kayakers and paddle boards those were venturing up the river. Road is very twisty on the way here but paved the whole way. Great spot!

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 11, 2025

    Picacho Peak RV Resort

    Top Notch Place

    Friendly staff and full timers, super clean, beautiful view of Peak and amazing hiking trail. I could definitely see myself spending winters here. So many activities for residents

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 5, 2025

    Hackamore Road Dispersed

    The Beginning

    I went and personally checked out this dispersed camping area that's about half a click or so away from the Goldfield Ghost Town.

    Hackamore Road is a straight up OHV Trail, and last night I learned that on a total whim.

    I'm confident enough to hop on here and say that it was a pretty nice experience overall. There were some dudes shredding it pretty late last night, (pretty sure I overheard them mentioning their tire got flat).

    So expect a little bit of company; although no one bothered me

    The coyotes started howling around 4am, but they started dying down after they had migrated.

    I'm a country guy so the sounds don't really bother me, but if you're particular about your sleep I would recommend bringing a camping trailer + earmuff combo.

    The ground is hard as concrete, but I have no complaints. I got some of the best sleep I've had in a long time.

  • Stacy R.
    Sep. 20, 2025

    High Chaparral RV Park

    100 Out of 10 – The Ultimate Adult RV Community in Arizona!

    We stayed 4-months last winter as snowbirds at High Chaparral RV Resort, and all I can say is this place is a 100 out of 10! This isn’t just an RV resort—it’s a full-on adult community bursting with FUN and SUN. The management here goes above and beyond to keep everyone entertained. From casino nights with real tables, dealers, and prizes, to bingo nights, live concerts, unbelievable cookouts, pickleball tournaments, frisbee golf, ladies’ luncheons, and the guys’ morning coffee gatherings—there is ALWAYS something happening. It’s impossible to be bored here. The 24-hour pool and spa was perfect for relaxing any time of day, and the whole community vibe makes you feel like you’re part of one big family. The staff is beyond amazing—friendly, helpful, and genuinely fun to be around. High Chaparral is hands-down the best adult RV community in Arizona. If you’re looking for sunshine, friendship, endless activities, and memories that will last a lifetime, this is the place to be. We can’t wait to come back!

  • Stacy R.
    Sep. 20, 2025

    Tonto Creek Trail RV Park

    Quiet Desert Gem with Beautiful Mountain Views

    We loved our stay at Tonto Creek Trail RV& MHC! From the start, the staff was warm and welcoming, making us feel right at home. The park is peaceful, clean, and well-maintained—exactly what we were looking for in a relaxing getaway. The location couldn’t be better. Nestled in Tonto Basin, the park is just minutes from Roosevelt Lake, which was perfect for fishing, boating, and soaking in the views. We also enjoyed exploring the nearby Tonto National Forest trails—ideal for hiking and ATV adventures. As pet owners, we were thrilled that pets stay free! The community is very pet-friendly, which made traveling with our furry family stress-free. The grounds are safe and quiet, with beautiful mountain views all around, giving us plenty of space to relax after a day of exploring. Between the friendly community vibe, the great amenities, and the unbeatable location, this is a hidden gem in Arizona. We’re already planning our next trip back to Tonto Creek Trail RV—highly recommend it!

  • Julie F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Lost Dutchman State Park Campground

    Close to PHX, great hikes

    We love the Superstition mountains. Lost Dutchman campground is great. Has everything and is close to hwy and Phoenix. Lots to do in the area, lots of hikes straight from the campground. Homes were close to our campsite, but the view of the mountains was great!


Guide to San Tan Valley

San Tan Valley camping options provide access to classic Sonoran desert landscapes at elevations ranging from 1,500-2,000 feet. Winter temperatures typically range from 40-70°F, making October through April the primary camping season. Most established campgrounds stay open year-round despite summer temperatures regularly exceeding 105°F from June through August.

What to do

Mountain biking trails: 20+ miles available at Usery Mountain Regional Park. The trail system includes options from beginner to technical routes. A visitor noted, "Wonderful hiking trails around the park. Close to everything, including some awesome Mountain Biking from green to double black diamond trails."

Sunrise viewing: Best from Lost Dutchman State Park eastward sites. The campground offers direct views of the Superstition Mountains silhouette against the morning sky. "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," reports one camper.

Ghost Town exploration: 1.5 miles from Hackamore Road dispersed camping. Free parking is available at the entrance of the historic mining town recreation. "I love camping here. We were here for a week last year, came back as our first spot on the trip this year and it was awesome again," according to a camper who appreciated the access to the nearby attraction.

What campers like

Desert wildlife viewing: Coyotes, quail, and desert birds active at dawn. Cottonwood Canyon Road Dispersed offers regular wildlife encounters. "Camp was raided by quail early in the morning and we had some cows visit but they didn't come too close," one camper reported about their desert experience.

Night sky observation: Minimal light pollution in dispersed areas. Though Phoenix glow affects some views, the silhouettes created can enhance the experience. A camper at Hackamore Road Dispersed noted, "You won't get a 'dark sky' night here, but the light noise from Phoenix makes for beautifully silhouetted saguaro cacti."

Uncrowded winter camping: January-February weekdays offer solitude. Temperatures typically range from 40-75°F during this period. At Lost Dutchman State Park, a visitor observed, "Winter months are the most comfortable camping seasons. Suggest you make reservations well ahead for busy winter months!"

What you should know

Permit requirements: State Trust Land camping requires annual permits. The cost is $21 per year per family for a recreational permit allowing access to designated camping areas. A Cottonwood Canyon camper advised, "We got a state land trust family pass for the area just in case we needed it."

Road conditions: Severe washboarding occurs on popular dispersed camping routes. Some access roads require high-clearance vehicles, particularly after rain. "The roads are a little rough, just take it slow. There are a lot of sites," recommends a visitor at Hackamore Road.

Weekend noise levels: Off-highway vehicles frequent dispersed camping areas Friday-Sunday. Sound carries across the desert landscape, especially in the cooler months when more visitors arrive. A Mesa-Apache Junction KOA camper seeking a quieter experience noted, "Gave us a chance to refill water and propane, take some long hot showers and generally recharge before heading back out on the road."

Tips for camping with families

Fire safety: Check current restrictions before planning campfires. Summer and fall typically have fire bans in effect due to extreme fire danger. "We took some time to come scout it out and found some great spots with fire pits made of stone," advised a visitor at Cottonwood Canyon.

Water planning: Pack 2 gallons per person per day minimum. Temperatures can change rapidly, increasing water needs unexpectedly. A camper at Usery Mountain Regional Park appreciated that their site had "water and electric. Nice dump station on the way out too."

Educational programs: Ranger-led activities available at established parks. These typically include desert ecology, history, and wildlife topics. "They offer tons of programs for everyone like night hikes and scorpion hunts," noted a visitor about Usery Mountain Regional Park.

Tips from RVers

Campsite selection: Request shade structures when available at established campgrounds. Summer temperatures make shade essential for comfort. At The Cozy Peach at Schnepf Farms, "You can rent airstreams, campers, cabins, and all the glorious camping alternatives."

Leveling challenges: Bring extra leveling blocks for dispersed camping. Desert terrain often features unexpected slopes and uneven surfaces. A camper noted about Hackamore Road: "The site sits a nice distance back from the CG entrance road. Parking area was large enough to accommodate a couple of vehicles."

Site types: Pull-through sites available at Mesa-Apache Junction KOA. These provide easier access for larger rigs and less experienced drivers. A visitor observed, "Thoughtfully organized with large pull through spots, picnic tables and local cactus flare. Good for a roadtrip stop."

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find desert camping near San Tan Valley?

The Sonoran Desert around San Tan Valley offers excellent desert camping opportunities. Peralta Road Dispersed Camping near Gold Canyon provides multiple pull-offs where you can set up camp surrounded by desert flora, especially beautiful in spring. Another option is Cottonwood Canyon Rd. Dispersed, located between Apache Junction and Florence with camping spots 2-5 miles along both sides of the road. This area is popular with off-road enthusiasts but has zero amenities, so bring everything you need. Remember to obtain an Arizona State Trust pass before camping at these dispersed sites, and practice Leave No Trace principles in these sensitive desert environments.

What RV parks are available in San Tan Valley, AZ?

Several RV parks serve the San Tan Valley area. Stardust Trailer Park in nearby Cave Creek offers a charming experience with serene surroundings and a friendly atmosphere, making it perfect for relaxing while enjoying Arizona's beauty. For more amenities, Usery Mountain Regional Park provides an outstanding layout with full hookups in a spectacular location featuring great hiking trails, proximity to lakes, and opportunities to see wild mustangs in the Salt River. The sites are well-spaced and the park is professionally managed. Additional options include Mesa-Apache Junction KOA and Monte Vista RV Resort, both offering full hookups, laundry facilities, and convenient access to San Tan Valley.

Are there affordable camping alternatives to hotels near San Tan Valley?

Absolutely! Several affordable camping options near San Tan Valley provide excellent alternatives to hotels. Lost Dutchman State Park Campground offers developed sites with stunning mountain views at a fraction of hotel costs. For completely free options, try Box Bar Road Dispersed, which provides easy access to shaded areas and the river. You can camp beside your car or hike closer to the river for more seclusion. Mesquite Wash Dispersed is another no-cost option located about 20 miles northeast of Fountain Hills along SR 87. While these dispersed sites lack amenities, they offer authentic desert experiences with tremendous savings compared to area hotels.