Camping options near Surprise, Arizona span from developed campgrounds to dispersed areas in the Sonoran Desert. Average winter temperatures range between 45-75°F, while summer can exceed 105°F, making fall through spring the optimal camping seasons. Many glamping sites in the region offer year-round accommodations with climate control systems.
What to do
Hiking waterfall trails: White Tank Mountain offers accessible hiking experiences for all skill levels. One reviewer noted, "The waterfall only runs after heavy rain... There was water in the 'pool' and it is scenic so it was worthwhile to go despite no running falls. There are restrooms, a picnic area and a playground near this trailhead."
Stargazing opportunities: The desert landscape provides excellent night sky viewing. A camper mentioned, "Campsites are behind a rise, so you see stars, not city lights." Another visitor shared their experience at Boulders OHV Area: "Miles of desert and washes to explore with tons of dispersed camping sites... GREAT for the fall/winter/spring months."
Educational activities: Regional parks often host ranger-led programs. "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."
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Cave Creek Regional Park receives praise for its layout. "Sites are far enough apart that you have enough room to spread out. You don't feel like you are on top of your neighbors." Another camper mentioned, "There is an older area, sites 1 through 42, which offers more space in between the spaces."
Desert wildlife viewing: The region's parks provide opportunities to observe native species. "The best part of this park is the outdoor theater seating for events and HUGE picnic area with paved parking, shaded tables, and even a basketball hoop."
Accessible luxury glamping: Surprise, Arizona glamping options include yurts with amenities. A visitor to Phoenix Metro RV Park shared, "The RV Park itself is nice and has a swimming pool and a little social area where they have game nights and parties."
What you should know
Gate closure times: Some parks restrict night access. One camper at Cave Creek Regional Park warned, "Nothing on website said gate closes and can't get back in after 9 pm."
Summer heat considerations: The desert climate requires preparation. "This was considered to be a developed site which was $32 a night but I managed to somehow get it for a semi-developed price of $22."
Water availability: Cave Creek Group Site offers primitive camping with limited amenities. A camper described, "Great place to get away from he city and enjoy a little nature. We had a great time sitting around the fire and looking at the stars."
Tips for camping with families
Nature center activities: "The park has a large Nature Center with lots of desert creatures inside including a big fat rattlesnake, gila monster, black widow spider and some scorpions to safely check out up close, plus a big outdoor enclosure for a desert tortoise."
Playground access: Several parks include recreational areas for children. "There are a couple of playgrounds in the park as well."
Educational opportunities: Mesquite Campground provides natural learning environments. "Great campsites off the forest road. Amazing views of the mountains. Cement picnic table and fire ring provided... Steep decline into the river right next to the sites."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose locations based on your specific needs. "If you are on the outside of the loop, access is via a path between sites 34 and 36 or sites 11 and 13."
Road conditions: Access varies between locations. At Boulders OHV Area, "The typical rumble strip dirt road to this point but easily doable."
Hookup options: "The campground itself is very clean. It is quiet and the campsites all have electric and water hookups, picnic table and fire pit."
