Equestrian camping near Scottsdale, Arizona offers direct access to over 50 miles of desert riding trails through the Sonoran ecosystem. The region maintains mild winter temperatures averaging 65-75°F during peak camping season from November through April, making it ideal for extended trail riding sessions. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 105°F, requiring early morning riding schedules and comprehensive heat management plans for both riders and horses.
What to do
Explore desert trails on horseback: McDowell Mountain Regional Park features extensive multi-use trails through 23,000 acres of pristine desert landscape. "Fun mountain bike trails. Clean bathrooms. Quiet in late December. Only 5 or 6 tent campers here. $22 night for tent site," notes Janet M. at McDowell Mountain Regional Park.
Visit Goldfield Ghost Town: Located near Apache Junction, this restored mining town offers unique day trips for equestrians with trailer parking. "Great spots for your horse and trailer. Good size corral. More space on the pit side. Great trails out from camp. Water at corrals," reports Lindy B. from Goldfield Ghost Town Dry Camping.
Ride at Usery Mountain: The park maintains well-marked trails suitable for riders of various experience levels with mountain vistas. "This is a lovely regional park to stay in. The sites are well maintained and the visitor center is worth a look. Wonderful hiking trails around the park," shares Christine S. from Usery Mountain Regional Park.
What campers like
Easy access to night sky viewing: Despite proximity to urban areas, some camps offer decent stargazing opportunities. "You won't get a 'dark sky' night here, but the light noise from Phoenix makes for beautifully silhouetted saguaro cacti," notes Janet H. from Lost Dutchman State Park Campground.
Wildlife encounters: The desert environment supports diverse wildlife visible from camps. "At night the coyotes sing you to sleep and also wake you up in the morning. You can also see the fountain from most of the campsites which goes off every hour," writes Larry G. about McDowell Mountain.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain good standards despite dusty conditions. "Clean facilities, beautiful surroundings, full amenities. We loved staying with a big group of teardrop trailers and home built campers. The area is beautiful and user friendly facilities," mentions Loyal B. about Lost Dutchman.
What you should know
Reserve well in advance: Most established campgrounds fill quickly during prime season. "If we could actually get a spot to camp here again it would be nice. Do consider reserving a spot with ample time, they tend to get booked really quick especially during the winter time," advises Jose G. about Usery Mountain.
Water access varies: Not all sites offer water hookups, requiring careful planning. "This is a nice spot close to home and easy to get to. My site was a pull through...more a side of the road spot. The utilities are easy to find and use, but only have water and electric," explains Chris P. at Usery Mountain.
Temperature swings: Desert camping brings significant day-to-night temperature changes. "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. about McDowell Mountain.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Some areas provide water recreation for children. "Little further back from where the rv congregate, so it's quiet and peaceful, boat traffic isn't to bad and the shore line is great for kids to swim," recommends B O. about Bartlett Flat.
Educational programs: Several parks offer ranger-led activities. "They offer tons of programs for everyone like night hikes and scorpion hunts," mentions Jose G. about Usery Mountain Park.
Site selection for comfort: Choose sites based on specific family needs. "Site #48 Buckhorn was really spacious and private. Great views all around. Table and fire pit. The park has tons of trails for hiking and MTN biking," shares Julie F. about Usery Mountain.
Tips from RVers
Event-specific camping: WestWorld RV Park offers specialized facilities during equestrian events. "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," reports Pam D.
Level sites: Look for campgrounds with properly graded spots. "Checked in on a Sunday for a one night stay at Buckhorn CG. Parking area was large enough to accommodate a couple of vehicles, and the site was roomy, with a few tent location possibilities," writes Janet H. about Usery Mountain.
Power options: Electric hookups vary between campgrounds. "Its a bit difficult to find your space, only because there are so many parking lots. Nothing special here. They do have 30 and 50 amp hookups. Good price and nice people when booking," explains Brent C. about WestWorld RV Park.
