Superstition Mountain camping options range from established state parks to primitive sites in Tonto National Forest. Elevations vary from 1,600 to 5,000 feet, creating diverse camping experiences and temperature variations between lower desert areas and higher forest sites. Winter daytime temperatures average 65-75°F, while summer highs often exceed 100°F.
What to do
Hiking nearby trails: Lost Dutchman State Park offers several well-maintained trails, including connections to the Superstition Wilderness. "Perfect for just getting away for the weekend. Only a 45 minute drive from the house, yet far enough that you still feel like you got away. Lots of good hiking, Ghost Town, good views," notes Chad E. about Lost Dutchman State Park Campground.
Explore Tonto National Monument: Located near the Roosevelt Lake area, visitors can view ancient cliff dwellings. "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," reports Shari G. who stayed at Windy Hill Campground.
Mountain biking: Usery Mountain Regional Park provides extensive trail systems for cyclists of all skill levels. "We absolutely love this campground. Close to everything, including some awesome Mountain Biking from green to double black diamond trails," says Marty P. about the park's diverse trail offerings.
What campers like
Accessibility to Phoenix: Cave Creek Regional Park's location balances wilderness camping with urban convenience. "While I prefer to be further out, sometimes it's nice to be somewhere with all the services. Surrounded by homes but for its proximity to town its sunset views are fab. Close to a Frys and Home Depot," explains Kiley S.
Night sky viewing: Unlike the glamping in Superstition Mountain, Arizona described elsewhere, primitive camping at Upper Pinal Campground offers truly dark skies. "We stayed at campsite 1 which seemed to be the biggest of the 3 sites there. We didn't have any neighbors the whole weekend," reports Eli S. about this secluded camping experience.
Diverse wildlife encounters: The Superstition wilderness offers opportunities to observe desert animals in their natural habitat. "Heard some coyotes in the night, which was exciting. Enjoyed hiking the trails and exploring the landscape," shares Rebecca G. about her experience at Lost Dutchman State Park.
What you should know
Road conditions: Some campgrounds require driving on rough roads. "The trip to the top of Pinal Mountains is a journey, very cool and beautiful scenic views, the road is not the best, especially if you don't have a higher clearance vehicle. Overall it is Awesome, took an hour from Globe to the campground because speed is minimal," warns Michael L. about accessing Upper Pinal Campground.
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds fill quickly during winter months. "This is one of many outstanding Arizona State Parks. Sites are clean and most level with mix of electric and non electric. Suggest you make reservations well ahead for busy winter months!" advises Debbie W. regarding Lost Dutchman State Park.
Water access limitations: Despite proximity to lakes or rivers, shoreline access varies. "You can't fish from the shore because all the dead trees that go out about 10 feet along the entire shore (awesome if you have a boat; I guess)," notes Alejandro D. about Windy Hill Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Bathroom facilities: Mesa-Apache Junction KOA provides clean facilities important for family comfort. "You wouldn't know it on your drive from the freeway to this KOA, but it's a pleasant, well-run RV/Cabin/Tent campsite. The sites are spacious, hosts friendly and informative. There's a pool and jacuzzi, a number of machines in the laundry, and the showers have doors," explains Grace D.
Educational opportunities: Ranger programs at several parks provide learning experiences for children. "This park has tons of trails for hiking and MTN biking. The park has beautiful hiking trails and a great nature center, which offers activities," says Ellen W. about Cave Creek Regional Park.
Site spacing considerations: Some campgrounds offer better privacy than others. "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," notes Julie F. about Usery Mountain Regional Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection advice: Carefully review campground maps before booking. "Highly recommend this park with spacious sites and great views of the Superstition Mountains and night lights of Phoenix. 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," cautions Terri D. about Lost Dutchman State Park.
Generator noise levels: Some campgrounds have significant generator usage. "As a plus, the noise of generators from every other campsite means that if your group gets a little loud nobody will likely notice. 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," mentions Shari G. about Windy Hill Campground.
Facility maintenance: State and regional parks typically maintain higher standards than forest service sites. "Very well taken care of. The campground itself is very clean. It is quiet and the campsites all have electric and water hookups, picnic table and fire pit. There is an older area, sites 1 through 42, which offers more space in between the spaces," observes Ellen W. about Cave Creek Regional Park.
