Best Camping near Waddell, AZ

Waddell, AZ is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Waddell camping trip.

Best Camping Sites Near Waddell, AZ (167)

    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground

    1. Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground

    65 Reviews
    203 Photos
    441 Saves
    Peoria, Arizona

    Lake Pleasant Regional Park offers 148 sites for RV and tent camping within the campgrounds (does not including primitive camping sites) Each "Developed Site" has water, electricity, dump station, a covered ramada, a picnic table, a barbecue grill and fire ring. Each "Semi-Developed Site" and tent site has a covered ramada, a picnic table, a barbecue grill and fire ring, unless otherwise acknowledged in the description or camping map. Restroom and/or shower facilities are available at both types of campsites. All sites in the campground may be reserved online at www.maricopacountyparks.org/. Campgrounds Desert Tortoise Campground has 74 campsites: 25 Developed Sites, 39 Semi-Developed Sites, and 10 Tent Sites. Roadrunner Campground offers 71 sites for RV and tent camping. All sites are Developed. Large groups can reserve the Desert Tortoise Group Campground. The Group Campground includes a parking area for RVs, picnic tables, and ramadas. The use of this area is by reservation only and requires a minimum commitment of 10 camping units. Shoreline Camping Lake Pleasant Regional Park also has shoreline/primitive camping during most of the year, depending on water levels. Shoreline camping is only permitted within designated areas for such use, when available. Day-of availability will be on a first-come, first-served basis and can only be reserved during business hours at the park. For information on camping fees, click on this link to be redirected to the "Fees" page.​ The first phase or re-introducing primitive/shoreline camping will be rolled out in late January 2021, with the area of the Dirt Spillway. Future areas will be included in phases at later dates. Campers must park in designated parking areas. Tent camping will be permitted along the shoreline within the designated area. No vehicles will be permitted to park along the shoreline within the area. Check-in time the day of arrival shall occur no earlier than 2 p.m. Campers must check out the day of departure by 12 p.m. (noon). Boat-In Camping Boat-in camping is now available at the 10 Lane Parking Lot. Roughly 30 assigned parking spaces have been designated for such use. Each camping/parking space is approximately 45 feet long by 12 ft. wide to accommodate most boat trailers and towing vehicles. Reservations are required. Day-of availability is on a first-come, first-served basis, and can only be reserved during business hours at the park. Boaters must camp on the waters of Lake Pleasant – no shoreline camping available at this time. Camping is not permitted within the parking lot/camp space. Boat-in camping is a great option for fisherman looking to fish in the late evening/early morning hours. Boat-in campers must arrive and check-in before the park closes at night (8 pm).

    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $15 - $300 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from White Tank Mountain
    Camper-submitted photo from White Tank Mountain
    Camper-submitted photo from White Tank Mountain
    Camper-submitted photo from White Tank Mountain
    Camper-submitted photo from White Tank Mountain
    Camper-submitted photo from White Tank Mountain

    2. White Tank Mountain

    15 Reviews
    78 Photos
    201 Saves
    Waddell, Arizona
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Pleasant Harbor RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Pleasant Harbor RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Pleasant Harbor RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Pleasant Harbor RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Pleasant Harbor RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Pleasant Harbor RV Resort

    3. Pleasant Harbor RV Resort

    17 Reviews
    49 Photos
    113 Saves
    Peoria, Arizona
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Leaf Verde RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Leaf Verde RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Leaf Verde RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Leaf Verde RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Leaf Verde RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Leaf Verde RV Resort

    4. Leaf Verde RV Resort

    14 Reviews
    23 Photos
    32 Saves
    Buckeye, Arizona
    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from White Tank Mountain Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from White Tank Mountain Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from White Tank Mountain Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from White Tank Mountain Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from White Tank Mountain Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from White Tank Mountain Regional Park

    5. White Tank Mountain Regional Park

    10 Reviews
    34 Photos
    123 Saves
    Waddell, Arizona
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $15 - $45 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Old Airstrip Camping & Staging Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Old Airstrip Camping & Staging Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Old Airstrip Camping & Staging Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Old Airstrip Camping & Staging Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Old Airstrip Camping & Staging Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Old Airstrip Camping & Staging Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Cave Creek Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cave Creek Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cave Creek Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cave Creek Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cave Creek Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cave Creek Regional Park

    7. Cave Creek Regional Park

    15 Reviews
    34 Photos
    258 Saves
    Cave Creek, Arizona
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Skyline Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Skyline Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Skyline Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Skyline Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Skyline Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Skyline Regional Park

    8. Skyline Regional Park

    6 Reviews
    43 Photos
    61 Saves
    Buckeye, Arizona

    Skyline Regional Park located in Buckeye, Arizona is an 8,700 acre park in the southern White Tank Mountains. The park features 16 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Seven camping sites are also available to rent.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from Roadrunner Campground - Lake Pleasant
    Camper-submitted photo from Roadrunner Campground - Lake Pleasant
    Camper-submitted photo from Roadrunner Campground - Lake Pleasant
    Camper-submitted photo from Roadrunner Campground - Lake Pleasant
    Camper-submitted photo from Roadrunner Campground - Lake Pleasant
    Camper-submitted photo from Roadrunner Campground - Lake Pleasant

    9. Roadrunner Campground - Lake Pleasant

    7 Reviews
    22 Photos
    77 Saves
    Peoria, Arizona

    Roadrunner Campground offers 71 sites for RV and tent camping. All sites are Developed.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping off hwy 74
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping off hwy 74
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping off hwy 74
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping off hwy 74
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping off hwy 74
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping off hwy 74
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Showing results 1-10 of 167 campgrounds

Recent Reviews in Waddell

581 Reviews of 167 Waddell Campgrounds


  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from White Tank Mountain Regional Park
    Jan. 15, 2025

    White Tank Mountain Regional Park

    Couple nights while visiting area

    We stayed at the Willow Campground for two nights while visiting family and friends in the Surprise area. Hiked the Waterfall and Black Loop Trail for a little exercise as well. Didn’t do any others as our dog had an encounter with a stray cholla ball. This would be the only concern for those traveling with pets. There are quite a few lose even along trails. Other than that the facilities are clean and well kept. Fresh water and showers are available.

  • Robert & Diane M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sonoran Desert RV Park
    Jan. 13, 2025

    Sonoran Desert RV Park

    Great spot

    We stayed in a deluxe pull-through for two days. Our site has a small fenced-in play area for our mutt. The shower house and laundry were newer, had plenty of room, and were very clean.

  • PThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed camping near Crown King
    Dec. 28, 2024

    Dispersed camping near Crown King

    Worth the drive

    Beautiful camping surrounded by ponderosa pines and boulders. Rich in wildlife.

    We were pushing the envelope with a 30 ft camper. Would strongly suggest motorhomes and longer RV's not consider this location. Our family were the only campers during our stay. Lots of activity in and around Crown King. Gas and water available in town. Due to roads, add an hour to any estimated drive time if pulling a trailer.

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping off hwy 74
    Dec. 27, 2024

    Dispersed Camping off hwy 74

    Wide open state land

    Yes, I paid the$15 fee and I've been here a couple weeks. People are pretty great. I had Christmas Eve dinner with a bunch of other campers. A lot of fun

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from State land trust/Inspiration Point
    Dec. 27, 2024

    State land trust/Inspiration Point

    Kicked us out

    From what i gather, some dimbasses were taking pit shots at the free roam cattle...I guess they thought they were not owned. Regardless, we had been there about a week when we were abruptly told to pack up and get out of here. So I did. Liked the spots though.

  • Chelsey W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping off hwy 74
    Dec. 16, 2024

    Dispersed Camping off hwy 74

    Nice, quiet, friendly site with some trash and glass

    The campsite is good, quiet, easily accessible and I met some friendly neighbors. I love all the cacti as well. There is quite a bit of trash and glass around. Full Verizon cell service and nice warm weather in December.

  • William M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Old Airstrip Camping & Staging Area
    Dec. 12, 2024

    Old Airstrip Camping & Staging Area

    Worth the trip

    The road in is a little rough, but ok. Two week stay limit, but that's pretty standard for BLM properties. There's no facilities so be prepared. Good level land and plenty of room. Wild burros wander through occasionally, and coyotes make their presence known as well. Fantastic views and quiet atmosphere, so far. Been here two nights and plan to stay for at least another week.

  • Jeremy W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bloody Basin Rd / Agua Fria NM Dispersed Camping
    Dec. 10, 2024

    Bloody Basin Rd / Agua Fria NM Dispersed Camping

    Very convenient stop between phoenix metro area & Sedona

    Dirt road is a bit washboard but very manageable by any vehicle.

    Spots line the road to the left & right as you travel down the road. cell Service can be excellent or poor depending on site you choose (avoid the ones in the dips/valleys if its a concern for you)

    No facilities, just good ol’ convenient Arizona boondocking.

    I came in mid December and there were only a handful of others.

  • William M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bloody Basin Rd / Agua Fria NM Dispersed Camping
    Nov. 19, 2024

    Bloody Basin Rd / Agua Fria NM Dispersed Camping

    Nice spot

    Dirt road in but very drivable. Lots of available places to pull off and camp. Beautiful scenery. In sight of I17 but no sound from it at all. No available shade but my solar set up needs full sun, so it's perfect for me. Will definitely come back

  • William M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Badger Springs
    Nov. 19, 2024

    Badger Springs

    Wouldn't suggest

    As soon as I got there, I got the dog out and what do we immediately find? Used drug needles littering the ground around a fire ring. Definitely not somewhere I'd feel comfortable staying the night.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Leaf Verde RV Resort
    Nov. 6, 2024

    Leaf Verde RV Resort

    Nice Park

    This is a huge park. 1365 sites. Crammed in pretty tight, but fairly clean and very nice staff. Most of the sites are pull thru so that’s a bonus.

  • Enzo M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - West Entrance
    Nov. 4, 2024

    Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - West Entrance

    Bulldog Canyon (all entrances) is an OHV Sport area first, Camp spot second

    Thanks to the efforts of the environaz- mentality of the last 40 years there are horribly few true sanctioned OHV areas for folks to legally use and enjoy offroad Motorsports, neither FREE or PAID.   So OHV owners have nearly zero options.   Bulldog Canyon is one those tiny few chances for those OHVers.    Campers need to be cognizant of this and respect the OHV'er, not demand OHV'ers respect THEM!    If you are looking for a pure silent CAMPground, and are of the "get off my lawn" and or "man/woman shouts at clouds" type, look elsewhere.  There are PLENTY of options for such inflexible campers to demand adherence to THEIR level of enjoyment.    Bulldog isn't free, OHVers pay for the unlimited access - when allowed that access - to trails WITHOUT time/day/hour exceptions.   So if you're a camper, bring some earplugs if the sounds of all-hours OHVers is disturbing to you.   Bulldog Canyon is a fantastic area for those campers who enjoy the OHV.   I no longer can use an OHV but I enjoy seeing these younger generations doing what mine and earlier gens once took for granted nearly everywhere unrestricted.     Highly recommend Bdog Canyon for the fun-lovers and young-at-hearts.   For the HOA-loving types, sincerely consider elsewhere for your benefit and those of others.

  • Lisa M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Roadrunner Campground - Lake Pleasant
    Nov. 3, 2024

    Roadrunner Campground - Lake Pleasant

    Beautiful view overlooking the lake

    We’ve stayed here several times and roadrunner campground is my favorite because it’s up above the lake and has a beautiful view. There are several poles through spots as well as back and spots. Electric and water are available. Showers are so so. Spots are fairly level and paved.

  • Lea
    Camper-submitted photo from Pinnacle Farms South
    Oct. 20, 2024

    Pinnacle Farms South

    Fantastic place to relax and listen to the birds.

    Friendly host, clean facilities, Nice comfy spot for a tent. I enjoyed my stay very much.

  • Steven H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Encore Paradise RV
    Oct. 11, 2024

    Encore Paradise RV

    A good place to camp in Phoenix

    We camped for two nights at this resort which is primarily for mobile homes or seasonal campers. Nice facilities (pool, laundry, etc). No picnic tables at the sites though.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping off hwy 74
    Aug. 24, 2024

    Dispersed Camping off hwy 74

    Requires permit

    Area is marked and needs permit as well. As a foreigner I can't buy the permit online since only US address can be entered and will be reverted for the credit card payment so no way to stay there legally.

    Maybe going in person or call them can get me a permit but yeah not this way.

    Anyway the spot is nice and levelled if it would be usable 🙂

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Boulders OHV Area
    Aug. 24, 2024

    Boulders OHV Area

    Nice and levelled

    We liked it there. Nobody else on Friday night, plenty of space

    The typical rumble strip dirt road to this point but easily doable.

    Service: 1 bar Verizon

  • k
    Camper-submitted photo from Desert Sands RV Park
    Jul. 18, 2024

    Desert Sands RV Park

    חשפניות בבאר שבע

    https://erotic-show.com/

    רקדניותחשפנותבתלאביב:ביןבידורלביקורתחברתיתתלאביב,המוכרתבכינוי"העירשלאנרדמת",מציעהמגווןרחבשלבידורלילי,אשרביניהםנמנותגםמועדוניחשפנות.התעשייההזו,אףעלפישנתפסתלעיתיםקרובותכחלקבלתינפרדמהבידורהמבוגרים,מעוררתגםויכוחיםעזיםוביקורתחברתית.מועדוניהחשפנותבתלאביבמציעיםשללהופעותומופעיםאשרמגווניםבהתאםלדרישותהקהל.המבקריםבמועדוניםאלומחפשיםבידורוהתרגשות,אךמאחוריהקלעיםעומדותסיפוריםשלרקדניותאשרלאתמידמרוצותמהמצבהנוכחי.המרחבהחברתיוהתרבותיבופועלתתעשייתהחשפנותבתלאביבמורכב.מחד,ישנםקולותהטועניםכיהתעשייהמאפשרתביטויעצמיואוטונומיהלנשיםהמופיעותבה.מאידך,קולותביקורתייםמדגישיםאתהצדדיםהפחותמועדפיםשלהעניין,כגוןהתייחסותמזלזלתואובייקטיביזציהשלהאישה.המאבקיםהמשפטייםוהחברתייםסביבנושאזהרביםומגוונים.בשניםהאחרונות,נערכוקרבותבבתיהמשפטעלשאלותשלזכויותוחופשעבודהמולהצורךלהגןעלכבודהאדםולמנועהפליהושימושלרעה.עדיין,קהלהמבקריםוהתומכיםבמועדוניםאלוממשיךלהיותרחבומגוון.עלרקעזה,עולההשאלהעלהתפקידשלהמדינהוהחברהבפיקוחובקביעתמדיניותבתחוםזה.האםישלחזקאתהפיקוחעלמועדוניהחשפנותלשםשמירהעלכבודהרקדניותוהקהלהרחב,אושמאישלאפשרחופשפעולהרחביותרתוךכדישמירהעלהזכויותהפרטיותוהעסקיותשלבעליהמועדונים?הוויכוחסביבתעשייתהחשפנותבתלאביבממחישאתהמתחביןחירותלביןזכויותאדם,ומדגיםאתהאתגריםהעכשווייםשלהחברההישראליתבטיפולבשאלותשלמוסר,תרבותוכלכלה.זהודיוןשמשקףגםאתהצורךלהתמודדעםתופעותחברתיותנוספות,כגוןשוויוןמגדריוהתמודדותעםדימוייגוףומיניות.בסופושלדבר,הדיוןעלרקדניותחשפנותבתלאביבמציעהזדמנותלחשובמחדשעלהדרכיםבהןחברהיכולהלקדםתרבותרחבהיותרשלכבוד,הוגנותושוויון,תוךכדישמירהעלעקרונותשלחופשפרטיוביטויעצמי.

  • Pierre V.
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Canyon Campground
    Jun. 24, 2024

    Black Canyon Campground

    Great for TSMC workers like myself

    Black Canyon Campground in Black Canyon City offers a picturesque escape with stunning canyon views. Its convenient location near Phoenix makes it an ideal weekend getaway. Enjoy well-maintained facilities, hiking trails, and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for nature lovers. A great spot to unwind and connect with nature. Not to mention very close to my journeyman job at the TSMC plant.


Drive Time


Guide to Waddell

Camping near Waddell, Arizona, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at White Tank Mountain Regional Park. One visitor mentioned, "Great views, bring water and watch out for the heat." The park has trails for all skill levels, making it a great spot for families and solo adventurers alike.
  • Fishing: Head to Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground for some fishing. A camper shared, "I fished off the shoreline which was only a few hundred feet from my spot." It’s a nice way to relax and enjoy the water.
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for wild burros and other wildlife at Saddle Mountain BLM. One reviewer noted, "The area is quiet and easy to get to," making it perfect for spotting animals.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers at Cave Creek Regional Park. A visitor said, "Facilities were clean round the clock, shower water was hot, staff friendly."
  • Spacious Campsites: Many enjoy the spacious sites at White Tank Mountain. One camper remarked, "Well spaced campsites with excellent views in all directions."
  • Safety: Campers feel secure at Pleasant Harbor RV Resort. A reviewer mentioned, "I stayed 10 days and as a single woman I felt very safe."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Maricopa County Park Lake Pleasant, have limited amenities. A camper noted, "Semi developed so no hookups," so be prepared for a more rustic experience.
  • Busy Weekends: Expect crowds on weekends at popular spots like Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground. One visitor said, "Busy on weekends and empty during the week," so plan your trip accordingly.
  • Wildlife Caution: While wildlife is a highlight, be cautious. A camper at Lake Pleasant warned, "Wild donkeys from old miners back in the day still roam around. They are very accustomed to humans."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Cave Creek Regional Park that offer amenities and activities for kids. A reviewer said, "The staff here is very friendly and helpful!"
  • Plan for Heat: If camping in summer, be prepared for high temperatures. One camper at White Tank Mountain advised, "It can get hot in the sun and there's very little natural shade."
  • Bring Entertainment: Keep kids entertained with outdoor games or fishing gear. A visitor at Lake Pleasant mentioned, "Relaxed and fished off the shoreline."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the campsite. A reviewer at Saddle Mountain BLM said, "You can see lots of lights from a refinery or factory of some sort but it didn’t really distract."
  • Use Amenities Wisely: Some campgrounds charge for amenities. A camper at Pleasant Harbor RV Resort noted, "You have to pay an extra $10/night to use the bathrooms/showers."
  • Stay Connected: If you need internet, check cell service availability. A visitor at White Tank Mountain mentioned, "Cell phone connection was spotty."

Camping near Waddell, Arizona, has something for everyone, from families to solo travelers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Waddell, AZ?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Waddell, AZ offers a wide range of camping options, with 167 campgrounds and RV parks near Waddell, AZ and 42 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Waddell, AZ?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Waddell, AZ is Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 65 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Waddell, AZ?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 42 free dispersed camping spots near Waddell, AZ.

  • What parks are near Waddell, AZ?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 8 parks near Waddell, AZ that allow camping, notably Tonto National Forest and Prescott National Forest.