The RV camping scene around Tonopah, Arizona features varied terrain at elevations ranging from 1,000 to 1,500 feet, placing it in the heart of the Sonoran Desert's lower reaches. Winter temperatures typically range from 40-70°F, making it popular with seasonal visitors seeking milder weather. Several campgrounds throughout the region offer specific amenities catering to various camping styles and recreational preferences.
What to do
ATV adventures: drive-in access: Salome KOA Journey provides ideal staging for off-road enthusiasts. One camper noted, "The spots here are massive," making it convenient for RVers with recreational vehicles.
Golfing: resort-style play: Pueblo El Mirage RV Resort features an 18-hole course on-site. A visitor mentioned, "This is a self described 5 star RV long stay park. It has Almost every amenity you can think of. The park is slowly being converted to all homes." The course attracts longer-term visitors during winter months.
Water recreation: boat and swim: Pleasant Harbor RV Resort offers direct lake access with multiple camping options. "There are several different RV/Camping options at Pleasant Harbor Marina / RV Resort... In the resort with Full Hookups... Out on the 'flat' with just water and power (dump station on site)... Out on the 'flat' with no hookups," explains one reviewer, adding that the resort provides "a free shuttle to haul kayak to boat ramp."
What campers like
Clean facilities: well-maintained properties: Sonoran Desert RV Park receives consistent praise for cleanliness. One camper noted, "We were also impressed with their PETHouse sites where you have a private dog run. Their laundry facility was larger than most CGs of this size and it was very clean."
Pet amenities: designated dog areas: Multiple parks cater to travelers with pets. A Sonoran Desert RV Park visitor described, "I was so surprised to find the most amazing K-9 Park ever. 3 separate secure areas with large grass areas in two of them. My pup had so much fun. They have water, toys and baggies readily available."
Spacious sites: room to spread out: Cotton Lane RV Resort accommodates larger rigs. A visitor reported it's "just off of I-10 near raceway. Clean park! Dogs loved the dog run. People managing park were nice. Short drive to White Tanks, Superstition Mountain, Mystery Castle, Lake Pleasant, Phoenix Historical District."
What you should know
Age restrictions: senior-focused communities: Some parks maintain age requirements. A visitor to Paradise RV Resort cautioned, "At least one person travelling and staying in any unit must be able to show proof of age 55 or older."
Breed restrictions: pet policies vary: Some parks maintain strict dog policies. One Cotton Lane visitor reported, "We were told we could not have a reservation because our dog was 'mixed'... if we even enter the gates with the dog in our truck they would cancel our reservation."
Site configurations: space considerations: Campgrounds around Tonopah vary in layout. One camper at Leaf Verde RV Resort described, "Regular pull through spots are kind of like buddy spots as your doors face each other. Back in and deluxe sites are decent sized. Roadways are asphalt and large enough to maneuver bigger rigs through."
Tips for camping with families
Pool facilities: water activities on-site: Leaf Verde RV Resort offers refreshing options after travel days. A family noted, "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... Pool was a great bonus for our family after a long day of driving."
Recreation options: games and activities: Multiple parks provide additional entertainment. At Leaf Verde, "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."
Space considerations: site selection tips: When traveling with children, consider campgrounds with adequate space. At Sonoran Desert RV Park, "The sites in our area were also decently spaced for a private CG. There was also room for an OHV if we'd brought one."
Tips from RVers
Hookup positioning: alignment challenges: Check utility connection locations before setup. A Leaf Verde visitor noted, "Clean RV park with decent sized sites, park is kept clean, pool, Pickleball courts, cornhole area, dog park, huge laundry room, and the people are nice."
Site services: RV assistance: Some parks provide move-in help. One Leaf Verde camper mentioned, "This RV Park has it all. Run by professionals. They even escort you to your space. Facilities are great, they have all of them, lit paved walkways, large spaces, wifi works."
Wireless connectivity: variable reception: Internet quality differs between rv parks in Tonopah, Arizona and surrounding areas. At Sonoran Desert RV Park, "The guest WiFi works pretty well with a download of 6.73 and an upload of .92. Water pressure was good at 50 psi, and we got 4 bars on Verizon."
