RV campgrounds near Waddell, Arizona sit at elevations between 1,100-1,300 feet in the Sonoran Desert, experiencing summer temperatures often exceeding 110°F from June through September. Winter visitors dominate these parks from October through March when daytime temperatures range from 65-80°F. Most parks implement strict quiet hours from 10pm to 7am due to the density of sites.
What to do
Visit Lake Pleasant Regional Park: Pleasant Harbor RV Resort provides waterfront access to Lake Pleasant, with activities ranging from fishing to kayaking. "We stayed in the loop near the entrance. Quite loud with all the cars coming and going. Marina for boat rentals with a shuttle to take you back and forth," notes Bryan S. The resort offers a free shuttle service to transport your watercraft to the boat launch.
Play pickleball: Leaf Verde RV Resort maintains dedicated pickleball courts for guests. "Park is kept clean, pool, Pickleball courts, cornhole area, dog park, huge laundry room, and the people are nice," writes Dawn F. The courts are available on a first-come basis with equipment available at the office.
Golf at El Mirage: Pueblo El Mirage RV Resort features an 18-hole golf course on property. "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. 18 hole golf course on site and a bar and grill," reports Randall Z. Daily green fees range from $35-65 depending on season.
What campers like
Clean shower facilities: Many RV campgrounds in Waddell maintain well-kept bathroom facilities. "Clean bathrooms, great lounge with a library, pool," says Trinity R. about Leaf Verde RV Resort. The shower buildings typically require access codes provided at check-in.
Multiple camping options: Pleasant Harbor RV Resort offers various camping styles to match different preferences. "There are several different RV/Camping options at Pleasant Harbor Marina / RV Resort. 1) In the resort with Full Hookups 2) Out on the 'flat' with just water and power (dump station on site) 3) Out on the 'flat' with no hookups. (can also tent / car camp)," explains Robert G. The dry camping area called "Vista Point" provides more scenic views than the full-hookup section.
Non-age-restricted options: Most RV parks in the Waddell area implement age restrictions. "Simple and affordable RV park. Pretty much the ONLY one we could get ahold of in the phoenix area that isn't 55+," shares Juliet L. about Sundial Mobile & RV Park. Cotton Lane RV Resort also accepts all-age bookings for short-term stays.
What you should know
Age restrictions: Many RV campgrounds in Waddell operate as 55+ communities. "Wanted to camp at a site but you have to be 55, I am 52 and wasn't allowed there. Unbelievable," reports Danielle R. about Pioneer RV Resort. Always confirm age policies when making reservations, especially during winter months.
Pet breed restrictions: Some parks enforce strict pet policies beyond standard size or number limits. "We went through the extensive application to stay a night and then called back and were told we could not have a reservation because our dog was 'mixed'. We were actually going to drop the dog off with family in Phoenix, but were told if we even enter the gates with the dog in our truck they would cancel our reservation," explains Jeff H. about Cotton Lane RV Resort.
Noise considerations: Parks near major roads or facilities may experience consistent noise. "There's a train that goes by at least five times a day and night and a freeway just a few blocks away. So it's not super quiet, however, the noise hasn't really bothered me either," notes Cheri H. about Sundial Mobile & RV Park. Pioneer RV Resort sits near a shooting range, with audible gunfire during daylight hours.
Tips for camping with families
Child policy verification: Verify children are permitted before booking RV campgrounds in Waddell. "When she showed up, she was told she would have to leave as children were not welcome. They should've caught this in the reservation information weeks in advance," warns Nadine A. about Encore Mesa Spirit. Call to confirm family policies even when booking online.
Swimming options: Pools provide relief from desert heat, particularly important for family camping. "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," mentions Jen H. about Leaf Verde. Most park pools operate seasonally, with limited hours during winter months.
Family-friendly amenities: Some parks offer recreational equipment suitable for children. "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. The laundry facility was one of the nicest we've ever used! Pool was a great bonus for our family after a long day of driving," shares Mikki S.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: RV campgrounds in Waddell typically feature close site spacing. "The sites are rustic, they've water and electricity, no sewer. There's a dump station as you leave the park. No store, be sure you're well stocked with everything before you head out," advises Ted S. about Pleasant Harbor RV Resort. Most parks feature gravel pads with limited privacy between sites.
Last-minute options: Overnight parking without reservations exists at some parks. "Having let TT expire, we tried this out- no reservation (I did call ahead, but indeed, curb spots are unreserved), just show up at dusk or later, and this very nice, truly chill but soo ginormous resort let us park right in the front/middle for the night," explains Sara H. about Encore Mesa Spirit. These overflow spaces typically cost $27-35 per night with limited hookups.
Site access challenges: Larger RVs may face positioning difficulties at some parks. "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," notes Debbie H. When making reservations with big rigs, request specific sections designed for larger units to avoid tight maneuvering.
