Best Campgrounds near Scottsdale, AZ

Scottsdale is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Scottsdale is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Find the best campgrounds near Scottsdale, AZ. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Best Camping Sites Near Scottsdale, Arizona (239)

    1. McDowell Mountain Regional Park

    19 Reviews
    Rio Verde, AZ
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (602) 506-2930

    $32 / night

    "Nice park just outside of Scottsdale. Fun mountain bike trails. Clean bathrooms. Quiet in late December. Only 5 or 6 tent campers here. $22 night for tent site. We parked in our van."

    "Gorgeous views, very spaced out sites, and access to great mountain biking and hiking trails. Even the overflow area where we had to spend a couple of nights has a very nice bathroom and shower."

    2. Usery Mountain Regional Park

    35 Reviews
    Apache Junction, AZ
    19 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. Lost Dutchman State Park Campground

    82 Reviews
    Superstition Mtn, AZ
    26 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."

    4. Cave Creek Regional Park

    15 Reviews
    Cave Creek, AZ
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (623) 465-0431

    "Surrounded by homes but for its proximity to town its sunset views are fab. Close to a Frys and Home Depot. My onlllly reason for 4/5 stars is the surrounding homes have very noisy dogs."

    "We have always looked forward to our quiet nights away from usual civilization and would stay awake to hear the coyotes howl, along with the rest of the wildlife."

    5. Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance

    27 Reviews
    Fort Mcdowell, AZ
    18 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."

    6. Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground

    64 Reviews
    Peoria, AZ
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (602) 506-2930

    $15 - $300 / night

    "We stayed in late September and had no neighbors next to us so we felt like we were in the desert. There was no direction that had a bad view."

    "It was an great way to be exposed to trails I may not have chosen on my own."

    7. Eagle View RV Resort at Fort Mcdowell

    10 Reviews
    Fort Mcdowell, AZ
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 789-5310

    $41 - $84 / night

    "We have met great people here and enjoy that you can walk or bikeride directly from the RV Park. The park is always clean and well cared for, and we like that its not in the city center."

    "Walking paths and trails are throughout the park. A dog park is available. Town is about 10 minutes away on a winding back road."

    8. Box Bar

    7 Reviews
    Rio Verde, AZ
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 595-3301

    $8 - $80 / night

    "It's very nice up on Box bar rd as well 5 minute walk to the river. I've seen a skunk a couple of wild horses and several shooting stars. It's definitely a must see area. Enjoy Arizona"

    "At Box Bar there is a small dam that holds the water in just enough for a calm small lake to appear. There is also quicker waters that can be kayaked or floated on."

    9. WestWorld RV Park

    3 Reviews
    Scottsdale, AZ
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 312-6802

    $57 / night

    "Great location! Nice views of the compound which normally hosts car and horse shows. Electric and water available as hookup. Common dump site available upon entry as well as during your stay."

    "This is a great place to camp if you are attending a WestWorld event since you will be right next to all of the facilities."

    10. McDowell Regional Park-Ironwood

    4 Reviews
    Rio Verde, AZ
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (602) 506-2930

    "Lots of hiking to do around if you're looking for something flat (but close access to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve if you're looking for something more strenuous)."

    "We stayed in site 27 which was close to the kids playground.  We only stayed for 1 night .  Lots of bikers at this location.  "

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Showing results 1-10 of 239 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Scottsdale, AZ

868 Reviews of 239 Scottsdale Campgrounds



Guide to Scottsdale

Camping near Scottsdale, AZ, offers a mix of stunning desert landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an action-packed getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Biking: Explore the numerous trails around the area. Campers at Usery Mountain Regional Park rave about the mountain bike trails, with one reviewer saying, "There are mountain bike trails connected to this campground that were very fun!"
  • Off-Roading: For those who love a thrill, Lost Dutchman State Park Campground is a great spot. One visitor described it as "Off-Roading Nirvana," highlighting the exciting rides through stunning desert landscapes.
  • Fishing and Water Sports: If you're into water activities, Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground is perfect. A reviewer mentioned, "The views from my spot were pretty epic," while enjoying fishing off the shoreline.

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers love the breathtaking scenery. One visitor at Houston Mesa Campground said, "The abundance of trees creates a peaceful and shady environment, perfect for escaping the Arizona sun."
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds, like McDowell Mountain Regional Park, are praised for their cleanliness. A camper noted, "The bathrooms are immaculate, and the staff is friendly and helpful."
  • Spacious Campsites: Campers appreciate the roomy sites at places like Burnt Corral Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "Plenty of spots near the water," making it a great choice for those who enjoy a little space.

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Lake Pleasant Regional Park, lack showers and have basic facilities. A visitor pointed out, "No hot water in bathrooms. No showers."
  • Seasonal Access: Certain campgrounds, such as Tortilla Campground, are only open from October to March. A camper noted, "Beautiful surroundings and a great value," but be mindful of the seasonal restrictions.
  • Wildlife Encounters: Expect to see wildlife, especially at places like Houston Mesa Campground. One camper shared, "Deer in campground in trees! The bathrooms are immaculate!"

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with nearby hiking trails and swimming holes. At Houston Mesa Campground, one family enjoyed the "endless opportunities for exploration and adventure."
  • Safety First: Ensure your campsite is safe for kids. A reviewer at Usery Mountain Regional Park mentioned, "It was nice to use the electric outlets to charge our devices," which can be handy for keeping devices charged.
  • Plan for Comfort: Choose campgrounds with clean facilities. Campers at McDowell Mountain Regional Park appreciated the "clean restrooms, and fire pits."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookups: Make sure the campground has the right hookups for your RV. Campers at Lake Pleasant Regional Park noted, "Water and electric," which is essential for a comfortable stay.
  • Be Mindful of Space: Some sites can be close together. A visitor at Burnt Corral Campground mentioned, "Some sites were very overgrown," so choose wisely for privacy.
  • Explore Off-Roading Options: If you have an ATV, campgrounds like Lost Dutchman State Park are ideal. One camper said, "Those are buzzing around all over the place going to and coming from off-roading trails."

Camping in Scottsdale, AZ, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors, with plenty of options to suit every camper's needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Scottsdale, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, Scottsdale, AZ offers a wide range of camping options, with 239 campgrounds and RV parks near Scottsdale, AZ and 58 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Scottsdale, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Scottsdale, AZ is McDowell Mountain Regional Park with a 4.7-star rating from 19 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Scottsdale, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 58 free dispersed camping spots near Scottsdale, AZ.

What parks are near Scottsdale, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 9 parks near Scottsdale, AZ that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.