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Best Campgrounds near San Tan Valley, AZ

755 Reviews

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.

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Best Camping Sites Near San Tan Valley, Arizona (234)

    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

    "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. 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. 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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Showing results 1-10 of 234 campgrounds

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Recent Camping Photos near San Tan Valley, AZ

175 Photos of 234 San Tan Valley Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near San Tan Valley, AZ

755 Reviews of 234 San Tan Valley Campgrounds

  • 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!

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 4, 2025

    Mesa Gardens RV Park

    Hidden fees and rules

    The park was fine. Not my preference but wanted to be as close to my son visiting as possible so it worked.

    However the site I was on wasnt easy at all to get into with my 29ft trailer. After multiple attempts of trying to be on the gravel behind the concrete pad like others I stay partially on the concrete pad since there were no rules specified about this. I arrived on a Friday evening (labor day weekend). Tuesday the manager came by and said something. She was super nice. I explained the events of getting into the spot with the traffic in the park and that I triple checked the rules on it. Since I was leaving the next morning she let me stay as is.

    Today though I got an email about a balance. So if you book less than a 30day stay you pay a fee of $4. And the electric charge that is listed for Monthly stays is charged for a few nights as well.

    I would stay again though. I mean the location was convenient for my visit. It was a well kept park. Just a few unknowns that I wish I knew before booking

  • Ethan B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 26, 2025

    Peralta Road Dispersed Camping

    Camping not available

    Was a great site before, but now all the camp sites are blocked and no longer allowed. This area will be missed it was very convenient.

  • cThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 17, 2025

    Vekol Valley Road

    Quiet place

    Tons of nice level spots, just dry and hot in summer, not much shade

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 1, 2025

    Mesa-Apache Junction KOA

    Clean friendly easy

    We stayed 4 nights in July. Staff friendly and helpful. Clean quiet nice level sites FHU everything worked great. Wi-Fi is poor. Will stay here again.

  • M
    Jun. 30, 2025

    Towerpoint Resort (55+)

    Paradise for all senior adults

    Towerpoint is not the biggest resort but not the smallest either. It was perfect for us. Everyone was very friendly, often waving to strangers. The price includes so many amenities such as pickleball, a wood shop, pottery, stained glass, shuffleboard, tennis, fitness classes and line dancing, classes for a variety of things including Spanish and sign language. The list just goes on and on.  Additional amenities such as massages, laundry services and a grill right at the resort and concert series among so many others are offered at a reasonable price. There is something for everyone. We will be going back this Winter and have recommended it to many others.

  • Jonathan E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 29, 2025

    Redrock Trail Head Dispersed

    Quiet and peaceful, but be aware of cholla cacti

    This is a nice spot to camp, whether it just be an overnight or for multiple days. It was peaceful and serene when I visited in April, with very few people around. The dirt road in is pretty short and smooth (my Toyota Corolla did just fine), and there were at least a few viable sites. I pitched a tent without any problems. There seems to be a shooting range somewhere nearby since I could hear what sounded like shots in the distance at times, but that was minimal and didn’t interrupt my stay.

    I recommend this spot, but be aware of the cacti, as it was kind of like a cholla forest. I visited with my dog and we definitely had to be cautious when setting up camp and just moving about. Walking on the road we drove in on was fine, but walking around the campsite itself was more of an issue since there were cholla balls scattered throughout. You should be fine if you’re careful, but I’d suggest reconsidering if you have a dog with you and that dog doesn’t have shoes/boots.

  • Jonathan E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 27, 2025

    Vekol Valley Road

    Quiet, Secluded, and Convenient

    Very easy to get to with my Toyota Corolla. There are quite a few pull-outs on the road with sites and there is enough brush in the area to feel pretty secluded. I saw a jackrabbit or something similar right after dusk, so there is at least some small wildlife in the area. In all, it was quiet and peaceful and I would stay here again. Plus, there is what seems to be a dried-out, rocky riverbed nearby that I walked around with my dog, which was nice!

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 12, 2025

    Cactus Forest Dispersed

    Beauty all around

    If you want to see blooming cacti, this is the place.

    Unreal sunsets too.

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

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.

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