McDowell Mountain Regional Park provides tent and RV campsites with water and electric hookups about 20 miles northeast of Scottsdale. Temperatures range from below freezing in winter to over 100°F in summer. Desert camping near Scottsdale requires preparation for extreme temperature shifts, with many campgrounds located between 1,500-3,000 feet elevation where wildlife like coyotes and wild horses are commonly seen.
What to do
Mountain biking: Explore extensive trail networks at McDowell Mountain Regional Park. "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 technically difficult but a great workout and so pretty," notes Mike M. The park features both beginner and intermediate trails with clear markers.
Hike desert trails: Observe native wildlife with early morning or evening hikes when temperatures are cooler. "The park is fantastic for a desert hike. The paths are well marked and the trails are filled with cacti and large diversity of wildlife," reports Ethan K. Many trails feature educational signage about Sonoran Desert plants.
Water activities: Cool off at nearby lakes like the Verde River access points. Box Bar Recreation Area provides free shoreline access. "Where else in phoenix can you pitch a tent 50 feet from a river?" writes Emily B. The small dam creates a calm swimming area popular with families during summer months.
What campers like
Desert wildlife viewing: Observe natural animal behaviors at Cave Creek Regional Park. "At night the coyotes sing you to sleep and also wake you up in the morning," shares Larry G. Many campers report seeing wild horses, javelinas, and desert birds during early morning hours.
Proximity to town while feeling remote: Enjoy convenience without crowds at several campgrounds. "Maricopa County Park in Cave Creek is very well taken care of. The park has beautiful hiking trails and a great nature center, which offers activities," notes Ellen W. Most established campgrounds are within 30-45 minutes of Scottsdale amenities.
Spacious campsites: Set up without crowding at Lost Dutchman State Park Campground. "Nestled right at the base of the Superstition Mountains - this is a great location that is close to excellent hiking and riding," reports Brad B. Many sites include ramadas for shade during midday heat.
What you should know
Permit requirements: Prepare documentation for dispersed camping areas. At Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping, "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.
Temperature extremes: Pack for dramatic fluctuations in desert conditions. "When we went it was incredibly hot and its important to bring lots of water. I recommend being there for sunset as the colors on the sandy mountain is magnificent. Also be prepared for a HUGE drop in temperature at night because it can get very cold very quickly," warns Ethan K.
Vehicle requirements: Consider clearance needs for certain camping areas. For Bulldog Canyon, "It was a fun dirt road. You might be able to get back there without 4x4 but certainly it is strongly recommended. Very rough road and about a 2 mile drive," notes Aaron C.
Tips for camping with families
Bathroom access: Choose campgrounds with facilities for easier family camping. At Usery Mountain Regional Park, "Restroom and shower facilities were clean," reports Janet H. Sites with numbered bathrooms make it easier for children to navigate independently.
Educational programs: Participate in ranger-led activities for kids. "They offer tons of programs for everyone like night hikes and scorpion hunts," mentions Jose G. Many parks offer Junior Ranger programs or guided walks specifically designed for children.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare children for desert animal interactions. At Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground, "Burros would hang out in our camp grazing grass completely unfazed by the barking dogs and screaming kids," shares Tom W. Having binoculars and wildlife identification guides enhances the experience for school-age children.
Tips from RVers
Parking considerations: Select appropriate campsites based on RV size and hookup needs. "Our site #48 Buckhorn was really spacious and private. Great views all around," notes Julie F. about Usery Mountain Regional Park. Many parks have specific loops designed for larger RVs with pull-through options.
Electric access: Plan for power needs when temperatures spike. At 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," explains Mike R. Most RV sites provide 30-50 amp service with water connections.
Dump station locations: Map facilities for longer stays. "Nice dump station on the way out too," mentions Chris P. about Usery Mountain Regional Park. Many campers recommend arriving with empty tanks as some parks have limited dump station hours.
