The Surprise, Arizona area sits at an elevation of approximately 1,175 feet in the northern section of the Sonoran Desert. Winter temperatures typically range from 40-70°F, making November through April the primary camping season for RV enthusiasts seeking desert exploration opportunities. Cell service can vary significantly between campgrounds, with stronger coverage generally available at locations closer to the Phoenix metropolitan area.
What to do
Water recreation: Lake Pleasant: The 10,000-acre reservoir at Pleasant Harbor RV Resort offers multiple water recreation options approximately 20 miles north of Surprise. "Large clean spots. Marina for boat rentals with a shuttle to take you back and forth," notes one visitor. The resort provides shuttle service for kayakers from camping spots to the boat launch.
Golf courses: Multiple options: Pueblo El Mirage RV Resort features an on-site 18-hole golf course with a bar and grill. "This is a self described 5 star RV long stay park. It has Almost every amenity you can think of," mentions a camper. Many resorts in the area offer discounted golf rates for guests at nearby courses.
Dry camping with views: For those seeking more solitude, Pleasant Harbor offers non-hookup camping options with scenic vistas. "Reserved 7 days at Lake Pleasant RV to get familiar with my new camper. Chose the dry site 'Vista Point' and at first was a little weary but was pleasantly surprised how many others were doing the same. The views from my spot were pretty epic," shared a camper who enjoyed shoreline fishing directly from their site.
What campers like
Resort-style amenities: Many RV parks near Surprise function as complete communities with extensive recreational facilities. "This park has it all... Facilities are great, they have all of them, lit paved walkways, large spaces, wifi works," notes a camper at Leaf Verde RV Resort in Buckeye. These amenities often include shuffleboard, pickleball, swimming pools, and organized activities.
Multiple camping options: Pleasant Harbor offers flexibility with three distinct camping styles. "There are several different RV/Camping options at Pleasant Harbor Marina / RV Resort. 1) In the resort with Full Hookups 2) Out on the 'flat' with just water and power (dump station on site) 3) Out on the 'flat' with no hookups." This variety accommodates different camping preferences and budgets.
Winter escape: The climate attracts seasonal visitors from colder regions. "There are many local activities and national wonders within a short drive," mentions a camper at Pueblo El Mirage RV Resort. Seasonal residents create active social communities from November through March, with most activities and amenities fully operational during these months.
What you should know
Age restrictions: Several RV parks operate as age-restricted communities. "55 and older resort. Not sure how to rate it, but it should be listed somewhere that it's not family friendly," notes a visitor to Sunflower RV Resort. Always confirm age policies when booking - some resorts require at least one person per party to be 55+.
Reservation requirements: During peak winter season (January-March), reservations are essential at most parks. "Simple and affordable RV park. Pretty much the ONLY one we could get ahold of in the phoenix area that isn't 55+," reports a camper at Sundial Mobile & RV Park. Booking 3-6 months ahead is recommended for winter stays.
Environmental factors: The desert location means specific camping conditions. "There's a train that goes by at least five times a day and night and a freeway just a few blocks away. So it's not super quiet," notes a Sundial Mobile & RV Park visitor. Additionally, some campers mention hearing shooting range noise from certain parks, though it's "not deafening, not loud at all" according to one review.
Tips for camping with families
Resort selection: Most resorts near Surprise cater to adults rather than families with children. "This is an RV Park not far from my home, so I reviewed it so I'd have some practical advice for friends and family members traveling through the area," states a reviewer at Leaf Verde RV Resort. Lake Pleasant's facilities are typically more accommodating for children.
Amenity considerations: Look for family-friendly pools and recreational areas. "The pool is refreshing and if you aren't into swimming there is a pool table, dog park and shuffle board to keep you busy. The sites are gravel and close together but nice," notes a camper at Leaf Verde. Many parks have specific pool hours for families versus adult swim times.
Alternative accommodations: Some resorts offer rental options beyond RV sites. "We stopped here on our way westward and it was just what we needed. Although the sites are a bit close to each other than we prefer, the amenities were very well taken care of," shares a family staying at Leaf Verde RV Resort, noting "Pool was a great bonus for our family after a long day of driving."
Tips from RVers
Site layout considerations: At Desert Shadows RV Resort, the hookup locations can create challenges. "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." Understanding these site configurations helps with setup planning.
Connectivity options: Cell service varies between parks. "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 a Desert Shadows visitor. Many parks offer WiFi near common areas only, with limited reception at individual sites.
Parking logistics: RV sites at most resorts are relatively compact. "This is a huge park. 1365 sites. Crammed in pretty tight, but fairly clean and very nice staff. Most of the sites are pull thru so that's a bonus," mentions a Leaf Verde visitor. Big rig owners should request end sites or specific areas with more maneuvering room.
