Goldfield Ghost Town Dry Camping provides equestrian access to trail systems in Tonto National Forest without having to trailer horses to separate locations. The horse corrals accommodate multiple horses with water available directly at corral sites. Camping areas feature both electric hookups and dry camping options across hard-packed dirt surfaces with varying site sizes to accommodate equestrian equipment.
What to do
Trail riding access: Riders starting from Lost Dutchman State Park Campground can explore the base of the Superstition Mountains. According to Brad B., the park is "close to excellent hiking and riding. Also close to a unique drive out to Canyon Lake! For the very fit cyclist you can ride from this location out this lake. It's an amazing and very challenging ride indeed!"
Bouldering and climbing: Oak Flat Campground offers opportunities for technical climbers. Ahmed D. notes "there's so much to explore, you can drive ahead this campground and take the dirt road to some of the most wonderful places," making it accessible for day trips from the main equestrian camping areas.
Water recreation: Windy Hill Campground provides boating access on Roosevelt Lake, about 45 minutes from Goldfield. Jonathan writes, "We camped in the Coati Loop on the eastern end of the CG across from the restroom with flush toilets and sink. Each site has a picnic table and shade ramada (canopy)."
What campers like
Proximity to amenities: Usery Mountain Regional Park offers clean facilities close to town. Christine S. noted it's "a lovely regional park to stay in. The sites are well maintained and the visitor center is worth a look. Wonderful hiking trails around the park."
Desert wildlife viewing: Horse campers frequently see desert fauna during morning and evening rides. Rebecca G. from Lost Dutchman reports: "Heard some coyotes in the night, which was exciting. Enjoyed hiking the trails and exploring the landscape." This complements the equestrian experience near Goldfield.
Star visibility: Peralta Regional Park provides open sky viewing. Chevis L. describes: "Amazing stay! Came across a rattle snake when hiking. Very quiet and peaceful. Clean dark sky for star watching." This primitive camping area offers a contrast to the more developed horse facilities at Goldfield.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer temperatures in the area regularly exceed 100°F. Larry G. warns about McDowell Mountain Regional Park: "Very nice clean campground and extremely private! No sewer, however electric and water are available and conveniently located. NO shade however and in the summer it is HOT!"
Reservation planning: Many campgrounds in the area fill quickly during peak season. Jose G. advises: "Do consider reserving a spot with ample time, they tend to get booked really quick especially during the winter time."
Generator noise: Some campgrounds permit generator use throughout the day. Shari G. describes one experience: "This place takes the prize for the most generator impacted site that we've ever stayed in our lifetimes, which is saying something." Goldfield's equestrian area tends to have less generator activity than RV-focused campgrounds.
Tips for camping with families
Shallow water access: Bartlett Flat offers swimming opportunities for children. B.O. notes it has a "nice area kids loved the water and my buddy caught some fish," and in another review mentions "the shore line is great for kids to swim."
Educational opportunities: Visit nearby ghost towns and historical sites. Alisa P. from Goldfield Ghost Town shares: "The Goldmine sites are clean and level. All have fire pits and most have a picnic table. It was fun to walk right up to the town and walk around. Cowboy Dan who owns and runs the steakhouse is hilarious and his wait staff was helpful and accommodating."
Space for play: Houston Mesa Campground provides natural play areas. Brad and Britany B. explain: "We love the ample space at each campsite, allowing us to park comfortably and spread out for a relaxing stay. Our kids adore playing in the dirt and exploring the trees."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: For RVs with horse trailers, reserve sites on the pit side at Goldfield for more space. At Lost Dutchman, Terri D. recommends: "Highly recommend this park with spacious sites and great views of the Superstition Mountains and night lights of Phoenix. Carefully review the site you select to be sure it will accommodate your rig. Roads are narrow and there are unforgiving drop offs on the sides."
Water and electric access: When equestrian camping with an RV, prepare for varying hookup options. Marty P. from Usery Mountain says: "We absolutely love this campground. Close to everything, including some awesome Mountain Biking from green to double black diamond trails. Large spaces with water, power and super clean."
Dump station locations: Some locations charge for dump services. Michael B. notes about Houston Mesa: "The dump station costs $10, regardless of camping here or not," which is useful information for horse campers with RVs planning extended stays at equestrian campgrounds near Tonto National Forest.
