Best Campgrounds near San Tan Valley, AZ

The desert camping areas near San Tan Valley, Arizona include several options within an hour's drive. Lost Dutchman State Park Campground sits 19 miles away with both electric and non-electric sites that work well for different camping setups. Kids have plenty to do here, which helps when camping with families. The park sits in the Sonoran Desert where you can hike trails and see classic desert plants and wildlife. About 20 miles from San Tan Valley, Usery Mountain Regional Park has good camping spots with nice drives through the area and chances to spot wild mustangs by the Salt River. The campsites are well-kept, and you can reach lakes without going too far. Fall and spring bring the best camping weather in this area, while summer gets really hot - bring extra water if you camp then. Picacho Peak State Park Campground lies 38 miles away and puts you in a good spot to visit Saguaro National Park or make a trip into Tucson. Each camping area has its own feel - some with more space between sites than others, and different sized spots for your gear. You can find quiet places or spots with more things to do depending on what you want. Always look up any closures before you go, especially during extreme weather seasons. The different landscapes around San Tan Valley give you lots of camping choices.

Best Camping Sites Near San Tan Valley, Arizona (228)

    1. Lost Dutchman State Park Campground

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

    $25 - $89 / 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

    17 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

    "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."

    "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."

    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. 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."

    7. Peralta Road Dispersed Camping

    8 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"

    8. Encore Countryside

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

    "Great Campground, close to everything."

    9. 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."

    10. Superstition Mountain AZ state trust dispersed

    6 Reviews
    Queen Valley, AZ
    17 miles
    Website

    "Good location for camping not far from Gold Canyon AZ. Numerous different campsites of different sizes. A few large sites that can fit multiple RVs."

    "Trails from the site. Beautiful! Our 43-foot RV did just fine as Kevin went super slow and carefully steered the best route up the road. Worth it!!!"

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Recent Reviews near San Tan Valley, AZ

749 Reviews of 228 San Tan Valley Campgrounds



Guide to San Tan Valley

Camping near San Tan Valley, Arizona, offers a mix of stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an action-packed getaway, this area has something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Exploring: There are numerous trails to discover. At Lost Dutchman State Park Campground, one reviewer mentioned, "Lace up your boots and conquer one of the park's diverse hiking trails. From challenging climbs to scenic strolls, there's a path for every level."
  • Off-Roading: If you enjoy off-roading, Usery Mountain Regional Park is a great spot. A visitor shared, "Dust off your UTVs and get ready for a blast! The washboard washes offer thrilling rides for off-road enthusiasts."
  • Fishing and Boating: For water activities, check out Canyon Lake Marina & Campground. One camper noted, "You can launch your boat and then bring it to the campsite and tie off for easy access."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. A review for Burnt Corral Campground states, "This is one of our favorite campgrounds. Plenty of spots near the water."
  • Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the well-maintained restrooms and showers. At McDowell Mountain Regional Park, a visitor said, "The bathrooms are immaculate, and the staff is friendly and helpful."
  • Spacious Campsites: Campers enjoy having room to spread out. One review for Usery Mountain Regional Park mentioned, "The sites are very nicely kept/clean."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping, have few facilities. A camper warned, "The road is in the worst condition... it was impossible to get through."
  • Busy Weekends: Popular spots can get crowded, especially on weekends. A visitor at Canyon Lake Marina & Campground noted, "Been staying here off and on for over a decade. Great place to hang out with the family. Weekends exceptionally busy."
  • Wildlife: Be prepared for wildlife encounters. One camper at Peralta Canyon mentioned, "We always put away our food/trash at night."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids. At Mesa-Apache Junction KOA, a reviewer said, "The staff were helpful and friendly. The place was impeccably maintained."
  • Plan for Activities: Bring bikes or hiking gear. A family at Usery Mountain Regional Park enjoyed, "There are mountain bike trails connected to this campground that were very fun!"
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Keep everyone happy with plenty of food. One camper at Burnt Corral Campground said, "There is shade from the trees, but the pollen does come down a lot."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookups: Make sure your campground has the necessary hookups. A visitor at Picacho-Tucson NW KOA mentioned, "Big roomy level spaces, we had a premium spot."
  • Be Mindful of Noise: Some campgrounds can be noisy. One camper at Mesa-Apache Junction KOA noted, "A bit noisy at night from traffic but almost all campgrounds are."
  • Plan for Waste Disposal: Know where to dump your tanks. A camper at Canyon Lake Marina & Campground shared, "They have a truck that will come pump your tank for a small fee."

Camping in San Tan Valley, AZ, offers a variety of experiences, from serene nature to thrilling adventures. Whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking comfort, this area has something to fit your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near San Tan Valley, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, San Tan Valley, AZ offers a wide range of camping options, with 228 campgrounds and RV parks near San Tan Valley, AZ and 47 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near San Tan Valley, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near San Tan Valley, AZ is Lost Dutchman State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 82 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near San Tan Valley, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 47 free dispersed camping spots near San Tan Valley, AZ.

What parks are near San Tan Valley, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 8 parks near San Tan Valley, AZ that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.