Equestrian camping near Superstition Mountain provides access to desert trails with diverse terrain and wildlife viewing opportunities. The area sits at the edge of the Sonoran Desert with elevations ranging from 2,000 to 5,000 feet, creating temperature variations between campsites. Horse corrals and water access vary by location, with some campgrounds offering direct trail connections to riding areas.
What to do
Explore cliff dwellings: Visit Tonto National Monument near Windy Hill Campground to see early Puebloan structures. "Across the road, lies the Tonto National Monument which shows off some terrific examples of early Puebloan cliff dwellings. The mountains surrounding the area are stunning, and there are some fantastic hiking trails in the area," notes Shari G.
Mountain biking: Access extensive trail networks from McDowell Mountain Regional Park with trails for various skill levels. "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 difficult technically but a great workout and so pretty," shares Mike M.
Wildlife viewing: Look for desert animals during early morning or evening hours. "Heard some coyotes in the night, which was exciting. Enjoyed hiking the trails and exploring the landscape," mentions Rebecca G. about Lost Dutchman State Park Campground.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Usery Mountain Regional Park offers well-spaced camping areas. "Our 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," Julie F. reports.
Night sky views: Observe stars and silhouetted saguaros despite some light pollution. "You won't get a 'dark sky' night here, but the light noise from Phoenix makes for beautifully silhouetted saguaro cacti," Janet H. describes at Usery Mountain.
Water recreation: Bartlett Flat provides shoreline camping with lake access. "Little further back from where the RVs congregate, so it's quiet and peaceful, boat traffic isn't too bad and the shore line is great for kids to swim," shares B O.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially in winter. "Suggest you make reservations well ahead for busy winter months!" advises Debbie W. about Lost Dutchman State Park.
Ground conditions: Most sites feature hard-packed desert soil. "Sites are hard dirt, but adequate, spaced a little more apart on the dry sites," Beverly T. notes about Goldfield Ghost Town Dry Camping.
Wind exposure: Prepare for sudden weather changes and secure your equipment. "There was a storm that rolled in (not on the weather forecast!) It came in FAST! Fortunately we had easy up tents because we had to drop one down fast and put stuff on top of it," Amanda O. warns about Windy Hill Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Shoreline options: Choose lake-adjacent sites for kids. "We love camping here, it's so close to home and it's dispersed! We usually camp right on the water. It can get really packed but we have never had bad neighbors," Alaina C. shares about Bartlett Flat.
Beginner-friendly horse trails: Peralta Regional Park Primitive Remote Campsites offers access to gentle terrain for novice riders. "Very close to popular hiking trails. We enjoyed the rustic campsite. The camp host was very friendly and helpful (Darell)," Julie F. reports.
Educational programs: Some parks offer ranger-led activities. "They offer tons of programs for everyone like night hikes and scorpion hunts," shares Jose G. about Usery Mountain Regional Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Research campsite dimensions before booking. "Carefully review the site you select to be sure it will accommodate your rig. Roads are narrow and there are unforgiving drop offs on the sides," advises Terri D. about Lost Dutchman.
Hookup variations: Electric and water hookups vary between campgrounds. "No sewer, however electric and water are available and conveniently located. NO shade however and in the summer it is HOT! Desert surround's and lots you singing coyotes at night and early morning!" Larry G. explains about McDowell Mountain Regional Park.
Generator restrictions: Some campgrounds limit generator use while others have frequent generator noise. "Despite the area's abundance of sunshine, making it perfect to run your camping rig on solar, this place takes the prize for the most generator impacted site that we've ever stayed in our lifetimes, which is saying something," Shari G. notes about Windy Hill.
