Dispersed camping options near Sun City, Arizona allow visitors to camp in designated areas with fewer amenities but greater privacy. Most of these sites are located on state trust land off Highway 74, requiring a $15 annual permit for legal camping stays. The surrounding desert terrain features saguaro cacti, rocky outcroppings, and elevations around 1,200-1,500 feet, creating moderate temperature fluctuations between day and night even during peak seasons.
What to do
Visit Desert Waterways: At Pleasant Harbor RV Resort, campers can experience Lake Pleasant with various water activities. "There are several different RV/Camping options at Pleasant Harbor Marina / RV Resort... As compared to the Maricopa County Parks side, this has a little bit more party atmosphere, is less secluded, but you can almost always get at least a boondocking spot without a reservation," notes Robert G.
Explore Desert Wildlife: White Tank Mountain Regional Park offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities with various desert species. "Lush desert campground. Quiet and well run. Very clean," mentions Lynn C. The park has educational programs about local fauna through its nature center.
Stargaze Desert Skies: The distance from city lights makes many camping areas ideal for night sky viewing. "Fantastic park for seeing the stars and getting away from Phoenix city lights. Lots of well marked trails and access to water and facilities as well as access to a county library and education center at the entrance," shares Chenery K. about White Tank Mountain.
What campers like
Desert Hiking Trails: White Tank Mountain Regional Park features numerous hiking options ranging from easy to challenging. "Very nice campground with beautiful large sites. The bathrooms are super clean and modern. Power and water at the sites in the Family Campground. Nice picnic tables and views. It was hot when I arrived so I hope to take advantage of the many hiking trails early in the morning before it gets hot," reports Kim G.
Waterfront Access: Roadrunner Campground at Lake Pleasant provides excellent water recreation opportunities. "Beautiful park. The sites were clean and level. The restrooms and showers were clean. The park was huge in size and well maintained. The staff were friendly and helpful," writes Dawn G. The campground sits on higher ground overlooking the lake.
Pet Exercise Areas: Many campgrounds accommodate pets with designated areas for walking. "Sites are rustic, they've water and electricity, no sewer. There's a dump station as you leave the park. No store, be sure you're well stocked with everything before you head out," notes Ted S. about Pleasant Harbor RV Resort, where many pet owners bring their dogs for longer stays.
What you should know
Seasonal Considerations: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F, making spring and fall preferable for tent camping. "It was super hot in the afternoons and you really have no privacy from the campers around you. It was nice having shower facilities but they weren't the cleanest. The lake was nice to cool off in," reports Paige C. about Roadrunner Campground.
Wildlife Encounters: The desert hosts various wildlife including coyotes, javelinas and wild burros. "There was a very assertive donkey that had no issue trying to steal our food. Be sure to keep food contained at all times or you might get a donkey thief," warns Paige C. about camping near Lake Pleasant.
State Trust Land Regulations: Dispersed Camping off Hwy 74 requires permits and understanding of land use rules. "The campsite is good, quiet, easily accessible and I met some friendly neighbors. I love all the cacti as well. There is quite a bit of trash and glass around. Full Verizon cell service and nice warm weather in December," notes Chelsey W. Campers must follow strict leave-no-trace principles.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible Facilities: Choose campgrounds with family-friendly amenities. "Maricopa county operates the campground and has made significant improvements with ramada, gathering areas, grills, fire rings, monthly hikes, educational presentations, a huge public library...every bit in caliber with state and federal campgrounds," shares Staci R. about White Tank Mountain.
Educational Programs: Several parks offer ranger-led activities for children. "I've also joined two ranger-led hikes here (Black Rock Loop for sunrise hikes) as well as a county-sponsored astronomy night with access to multiple large telescopes and an astronomy presentation. Check the park website for their activities calendar as there's a good chance you can take advantage of some organized education during your visit," recommends Chenery K.
Pet-Safe Considerations: When bringing pets to camping areas near Sun City, be aware of desert hazards. "Hiked the Waterfall and Black Loop Trail for a little exercise as well. Didn't do any others as our dog had an encounter with a stray cholla ball. This would be the only concern for those traveling with pets. There are quite a few lose even along trails," cautions Teresa A.
Tips from RVers
Hookup Logistics: Desert Shadows RV Resort offers full hookups but has specific site considerations. "If you're a Class A or C towing, you'll probably have to drop to to access the hookups, as they are at the back end of the pull-throughs, not toward the middle as they usually are," advises Ray & Terri F.
Campsite Selection: Choose sites based on your specific needs and preferences. "When I visited I stayed in campsite 29, on the top of the far side of the loop on the one way drive in. I was a few hundred yards from the restroom facility on a back in space which outlooked toward the desert entirely. The outer ring of the loop, you can literally hike right out of your campsite and be in the middle of everything," explains Crystal C.
Connectivity Options: For those needing internet access, coverage varies by location. "AT&T coverage was quite good, with 2-3 Bars of 5G+ service and speeds up to 23 MB/s. The CG WiFi was pretty decent as well, with speeds up to 4 MB/s, but varied depending on congestion," reports Ray & Terri F. about Desert Shadows RV Resort.
