RV sites near Tempe, Arizona typically remain open year-round with temperatures averaging 70°F during winter months when most visitors arrive. The region's desert landscape sits at approximately 1,100-1,400 feet elevation, creating mild conditions during peak camping season from October through April. Most RV resorts in the area are located within 10-30 minutes of Tempe, primarily in Mesa and Apache Junction.
What to do
Hiking in Superstition Mountains: Located near Monte Vista RV Resort, the mountains offer trails for all ability levels. "Close to all the fun stuff on the Superstition Mountains," notes a camper who stayed in a 40-foot fifth wheel at Monte Vista.
Utilize public parks: Mesa Gardens RV Park provides direct access to adjacent community parks. "RV park backs up to a park with a coded gate so easy access to playground/big grass area for dogs," reports a visitor who extended their initial 2-night stay.
Enjoy resort activities: Many parks offer organized events and recreation. At Encore Mesa Spirit, campers can participate in pickleball, mini golf, and shuffleboard. One visitor noted, "We loved the three pools, multiple hot tubs and modern showers and laundry rooms."
What campers like
Friendly communities: The social atmosphere rates highly at most resorts. "We have met great people here and enjoy that you can walk or bikeride directly from the RV Park," writes a visitor about Eagle View RV Resort.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained amenities earn praise from guests. A camper at Encore Foothills West appreciated the "Clean laundry facilities. Pool/hot tub. Convenient to sites around Phoenix."
Off-season availability: Finding spots during weekdays or shoulder seasons is easier. A visitor to Mesa Spirit noted, "We were at the end of March and there were spots everywhere. One of the permanent residents we talked to said it was slow because of covid."
What you should know
Age restrictions: Many RV parks have minimum age requirements. At Paradise RV Resort, "At least one person travelling and staying in any unit must be able to show proof of age 55 or older."
Tight spaces: Site dimensions vary significantly between parks. At Holiday Village, a camper warned of "a most confusing maze of streets among mobile homes and permanent residents."
Winter reservations required: The population swells dramatically from January through March. A visitor at Encore Countryside observed, "Countryside is a park with lots of sites dedicated for seasonal travelers. Spaces are close together. I believe of 500 sites with over half the park being cabins and pad trailers."
Tips for camping with families
Check family policies: Many resorts cater specifically to older adults. One visitor at Mesa Spirit reported being told they would have to leave as "children were not welcome" despite listing three children during the reservation process.
Look for parks with recreation areas: Some RV parks offer family-friendly amenities. "Central courtyard with gas grills, a pool and hot tub. DVDs to borrow are available in the office as well as jigsaw puzzles, and books," noted a visitor at Eagle View RV Resort.
Plan for hot weather: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F. Mesa Gardens campers appreciate the swimming pools and covered patio areas where families can gather out of the sun.
Tips from RVers
Back-in guidance: Many sites require precise maneuvering. At Monte Vista RV Resort, "All the sites are back-in but all have concrete parking pads and patio. Gravel surrounds each campsite and we have noticed maintenance crews raking the gravel every other day."
Consider overnight parking options: For quick overnight stays, some parks offer affordable alternatives. "We were curb-parked that night... less expensive (for non‐TT members) to get one of those curb spots (with electric, & close access to showers, pool, laundry) than to get a regular spot," shared a visitor at Mesa Spirit RV Resort.
Check park WiFi before arrival: Internet quality varies widely. One camper at Mesa Spirit warned, "The park wifi really sucked," while others mention paying additional fees for reliable service at various RV parks near Tempe.
