Best Campgrounds near Tempe, AZ

Camping around Tempe, Arizona puts you right in the Sonoran Desert with its unique plants and wildlife. Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground draws many campers with its mix of developed sites with amenities and more basic spots without them. Near the Superstition Mountains, Lost Dutchman State Park Campground has electric hookups that RVers appreciate, plus hiking trails through classic desert terrain. If you want to see the Grand Canyon while camping in the Tempe area, you can make it there and back in a day, though it's a long drive. Spring and fall camping requires planning ahead since these are the most comfortable seasons and sites fill quickly. Most campgrounds have good roads leading to them, though you might need a higher-clearance vehicle for some of the more out-of-the-way spots. Many campers also head to the Colorado River area for fishing trips or to get on the water. Don't count on trees for shade at most sites - bringing your own shade structure is smart in this sunny region. The Tempe area works well for both tent and RV camping with its mix of state parks and county facilities. Always follow fire rules and pack out your trash when camping in these desert environments.

Best Camping Sites Near Tempe, Arizona (241)

    1. Usery Mountain Regional Park

    35 Reviews
    Apache Junction, AZ
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 984-0032

    "Outstanding layout, great hosts, spectacular location. "

    "Was 90 the day we left (~March 23rd), night temp was cool and windows left open.

    Food: Chorizo & bacon mac & cheese with garlic and tortillas!"

    2. Lost Dutchman State Park Campground

    82 Reviews
    Superstition Mtn, AZ
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 982-4485

    $25 - $89 / night

    "It kind of poked off the main loop away from other neighbors which is why we picked it, very close to the mtb trail and easy access to the trail leading to siphon draw. Very little shade."

    "One of my favorite trails in Arizona."

    3. Encore Mesa Spirit

    8 Reviews
    Mesa, AZ
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "We loved this park in the Arizona Desert.  Close to everything, yet set up to feel like you're in your own little village. "

    "Made fast friends with the neighbors, got tons of recommendations from anyone walking or biking for things to do nearby."

    4. Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance

    27 Reviews
    Fort Mcdowell, AZ
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 610-3300

    $10 - $80 / night

    "This is a nice area if you like to off road. We take our trailer out for the weekend to get out of the city. It’s an hour from Tempe/ Phoenix."

    "I use the north entrance off Bush highway. I've camped here 5 or 6 times. No water or bathrooms. Leave no trace. You need a permit and gate code. Most ATVers but not loud during the week."

    5. Pinnacle Farms South

    4 Reviews
    Guadalupe, AZ
    11 miles
    Website

    $50 / night

    "Our 19’ trailer was in a quiet, private spot next to a large grassy area sometimes used for canine agility."

    "The RV spot was between date palms and next to the dog agility course. The tent sites were in the back and seemed nice and private."

    6. Mesa Gardens RV Park

    1 Review
    Salt River, AZ
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 964-1102

    $48 - $55 / night

    "Great campground centerally located to Phoenix and Scottsdale. Was only planning to stay 2 nights but ended up extending my stay. Full hookups and laundry/showers in house."

    7. Holiday Village

    2 Reviews
    Tempe, AZ
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 962-1694

    $37 / night

    8. McDowell Mountain Regional Park

    19 Reviews
    Rio Verde, AZ
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (602) 506-2930

    $32 / night

    "Gorgeous views, very spaced out sites, and access to great mountain biking and hiking trails. Even the overflow area where we had to spend a couple of nights has a very nice bathroom and shower."

    "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!"

    9. Mesa-Apache Junction KOA

    17 Reviews
    Apache Junction, AZ
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 982-4015

    "This KOA sits on the outskirts of Apache Junction, which itself isn't Phoenix proper but an eastern suburb. The RV park has all of the basics: power, water, sewer plus a pool and a level, clean site."

    "We had plenty of space between us and adjacent sites. The whole KOA has some nice touches as far as landscaping, sites with grills, etc. Very clean and well kept."

    10. Eagle View RV Resort at Fort Mcdowell

    10 Reviews
    Fort Mcdowell, AZ
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 789-5310

    $41 - $84 / night

    "Walking paths and trails are throughout the park. A dog park is available. Town is about 10 minutes away on a winding back road."

    "We have met great people here and enjoy that you can walk or bikeride directly from the RV Park. The park is always clean and well cared for, and we like that its not in the city center."

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Showing results 1-10 of 241 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Tempe, AZ

850 Reviews of 241 Tempe Campgrounds



Guide to Tempe

Camping near Tempe, AZ, offers a mix of stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an action-packed getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Biking: There are numerous trails for hiking and biking. Campers rave about the trails at Usery Mountain Regional Park, with one camper saying, "There are mountain bike trails connected to this campground that were very fun!"
  • Exploring History: Visit the nearby Lost Dutchman State Park, where you can learn about the legendary Lost Dutchman's Gold Mine. One visitor shared, "Immerse yourself in the legendary lore of the Lost Dutchman's Gold Mine."
  • Water Activities: At Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground, you can enjoy fishing, boating, and swimming. A reviewer mentioned, "Beautiful views of the lake, plenty to do."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers love the breathtaking scenery at Picacho Peak State Park Campground. One camper noted, "Great views and epic sunsets."
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds, like McDowell Mountain Regional Park, are praised for their cleanliness. A visitor said, "The bathrooms are immaculate, and the staff is friendly and helpful."
  • Spacious Sites: Campers appreciate the spaciousness at Lost Dutchman State Park Campground. One review stated, "Spots are close but not too close to each other."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground, lack showers and hot water. A camper mentioned, "Showers were lukewarm at best."
  • Seasonal Access: Tortilla Campground is only open from October to March. A visitor noted, "The campground is only open September thru May."
  • Cell Service: Be prepared for limited cell service in areas like Usery Mountain Regional Park. One camper advised, "Keep in mind that cell service can be limited in certain areas."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with nearby hiking trails and picnic areas. At Lost Dutchman State Park Campground, one family enjoyed, "Great hikes right from the campground."
  • Safety First: Ensure your kids stay hydrated and protected from the sun, especially during summer. A reviewer mentioned, "Gets a little warm during the summer - after all, it is AZ."
  • Plan for Fun: Bring games and outdoor toys to keep the kids entertained. A camper at Picacho Peak State Park Campground said, "Great hot showers and clean facilities."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookups: Make sure to choose campgrounds with the right hookups for your RV. Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground offers electric hookups, but no showers.
  • Space for Big Rigs: Look for campgrounds that are big rig friendly, like Usery Mountain Regional Park. One RVer noted, "Spacious with great trails nearby."
  • Dump Stations: Ensure the campground has a sanitary dump station. A camper at Burnt Corral Campground appreciated, "Access to the bathroom, which were clean and trash, which didn’t smell."

Camping near Tempe, AZ, has something for everyone, from families to seasoned RVers. With beautiful landscapes and plenty of activities, you're sure to have a great time!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Tempe, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, Tempe, AZ offers a wide range of camping options, with 241 campgrounds and RV parks near Tempe, AZ and 57 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Tempe, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Tempe, AZ is Usery Mountain Regional Park with a 4.8-star rating from 35 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Tempe, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 57 free dispersed camping spots near Tempe, AZ.

What parks are near Tempe, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 9 parks near Tempe, AZ that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.