The White Tank Mountain area offers camping in high Sonoran Desert terrain at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 4,000 feet. Daytime temperatures can exceed 100°F in summer months, while winter nights often drop below 45°F. The area receives approximately 9 inches of annual rainfall, primarily during summer monsoon season and winter months.
What to do
Waterfall trail hiking: 1.8-mile round-trip The Waterfall Trail at White Tank Mountain Regional Park provides an accessible hike with petroglyphs and seasonal water features. "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," notes Teresa A.
Mountain biking: 18.5+ miles of trails Trails at Skyline Regional Park accommodate riders of all skill levels with well-marked routes. "There are several hiking trails directly accessible from the campground and all the trails are well-marked. There is a short (.6 mile) ADA-accessible trail," explains Lee D. The park also hosts special events like star-gazing nights.
Water recreation: boating and fishing Pleasant Harbor RV Resort provides direct access to Lake Pleasant with boat rentals and shuttle service to the marina. "Free shuttle to haul kayak to boat ramp. Great sunsets," shares Margaret T. The resort offers both developed sites and primitive camping options along the shoreline.
What campers like
Spacious sites with desert views: The family campground at White Tank Mountain features well-spaced sites with concrete tables and fire rings. "Huge sites in the desert. This is my second time staying here. It is such a well-maintained campground with beautiful large sites," says Kim G. Many sites provide panoramic desert mountain vistas.
Clean facilities and bathrooms: Campers consistently praise the maintenance standards at White Tank Mountain. "The campground itself is very clean, including the restrooms and showers. It is quiet and the campsites all have electric and water hookups, picnic table and fire pit," reports Ellen W. Restrooms receive regular maintenance with hot water available.
Stargazing opportunities: The positioning of campgrounds away from urban light pollution creates excellent night sky viewing. "Campsites are behind a rise, so you see stars, not city lights," notes Rusty T. Some parks organize astronomy events with telescope access and educational presentations during winter months when skies are clearest.
What you should know
Permit requirements for dispersed camping: Arizona State Trust Land near Waddell requires permits for all dispersed camping. "A $15 annual permit is required and a maximum stay of 14 days per year is allowed," explains Rick & Terri J. Permits can be purchased online through the Arizona State Land Department website.
Extreme seasonal temperatures: Summer camping in this region requires additional preparation. "This is a nice place to visit is the cooler months of the year due to no shade and low elevation. We visited in January which was perfect," advises Christine S. from Skyline Regional Park.
Cholla cactus hazards for dogs: Several trails pose risks to pets from loose cactus segments. "There are quite a few loose even along trails. This would be the only concern for those traveling with pets," warns Teresa A. Carry tweezers or a comb for emergency cactus removal from paws.
Water availability varies: Dispersed sites at State land trust/Inspiration Point have no water sources. "There is no water. Neither potable or non-potable," reports Castaway I. Even established campgrounds may have restrictions during drought conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Nature center activities: White Tank Mountain Regional Park offers educational programs suitable for children. "The park has a beautiful nature center, which offers activities and the regional library. There are a couple of playgrounds in the park as well," mentions Ellen W.
Short, accessible trails: Several parks feature beginner-friendly hiking options. "Check out the Waterfall Canyon Trail," recommends Crystal C., noting it's an "easy hike with a great view" that's suitable for younger hikers and those with limited mobility.
Weekend crowds at popular spots: Many dog-friendly campgrounds near Waddell experience high visitation during weekends. "I waited 15 min in line to get up to the check in booth just to get in the park and when I left the next day the cars were backed up again," reports George K. Plan to arrive on weekdays when possible, especially during winter months.
Tips from RVers
Utility hookup considerations: Leaf Verde RV Resort offers full hookups with 50-amp service. "All sites are full hook up w 30 & 50 amp electrical. Roadways are asphalt and large enough to maneuver bigger rigs through," notes Dawn F. This makes it suitable for larger motorhomes and fifth wheels requiring higher electrical capacity.
Reserve early for winter stays: The Waddell area becomes extremely popular with seasonal visitors from November through March. "The park is slowly being converted to all homes," mentions Randall Z. about Pueblo El Mirage RV Resort, indicating the increasing demand for winter accommodation in the area.
Dump station access: Most dispersed camping areas require self-contained systems or trips to commercial dump stations. "They recommend driving 5 miles away to a truck stop as the closest RV dump site and pay showers," explains Chenery K. Plan accordingly when boondocking on state trust lands near Waddell.
