Wenden, Arizona sits within La Paz County at an elevation of roughly 1,900 feet, where the Sonoran Desert landscape features both flat terrain and distant mountain views. Winter temperatures typically range from 40-70°F, making November through April the prime camping season. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F, requiring campers to plan accordingly with sufficient water and shade structures.
What to do
Desert exploration: Head to the Vicksburg Pit Rd BLM for free dispersed camping with access to multiple hiking trails. "This area is becoming more popular, but not crowded yet. Solome is just down the road with propane, laundry and a small grocery store," notes reviewer George K. The area contains numerous abandoned mines with marked claims.
Golfing and recreation: Centennial Park offers a 9-hole golf course adjacent to camping areas. "County library across street. Baseball diamond and playground. Hike trail around park," according to Stuart K. The park provides a complete recreation complex with multiple outdoor activities within walking distance of campsites.
Citrus picking: Seasonal citrus harvesting is available at several locations. "A nice perk at this park: there are a variety of citrus trees (different types of oranges and lemons) throughout that you can pick when in season," mentions Laura M. about Desert Gem RV. The winter months typically offer the best harvesting opportunities.
What campers like
Budget-friendly options: Affordable camping abounds near Wenden. "Centennial Park County is an easy stop on way to Phoenix. Pull thru site #7 Water and electricity for $20. If you only stay a night or two it's $5.00 to dump (free with longer stay)," says Stuart K. about Centennial Park.
Community activities: Many campgrounds offer organized social events. "This campground had a very warm pool (90 degrees) and hot tub (104 degrees). There were a few events hosted on the grounds, such as a potluck dinner on Mondays, and blueberry pancakes & orange juice on Tuesdays," shares Sandy S. about Salome KOA.
Quiet desert solitude: For those seeking peace and space, dispersed camping delivers. "I love this location because it is secluded and not packed. There are only 2 spaces so you can be sure to have solitude," notes Caylee H. about Desert Oasis RV Parking. Many BLM areas provide similar quiet experiences with fewer neighbors.
What you should know
Limited services: Prepare for minimal facilities in this remote area. "There are a couple places in area to eat, and a couple of very overly priced grocery stores. Please do all your shopping before you get there, otherwise go to the dollar store that's in the area for the best deals," advises Sandy S. about Salome KOA.
Cell service variability: Connectivity can be unreliable. "Good AT&T and Verizon reception, i.e. high bars, but for some reason service was so slow as to be almost unusable, even in non-peak times," reports Laura M. about Desert Gem RV. Signal strength varies significantly between locations.
Water conservation: Water is precious in desert camping areas. "No amenities so pack in and pack out and bring your own water," reminds Laura M. regarding Vicksburg Pit Rd BLM. Even at established campgrounds, water pressure may fluctuate during peak usage times.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Black Rock RV Village offers family-friendly amenities. "The kids loved the pool and there is a covered area that is shaded to sit and enjoy watching them," shares Norrie W. The campground features air-conditioned common areas with workspaces where families can cool off.
Pet accommodations: Dog friendly campgrounds near Wenden include special pet areas. "Desert across the street attracts lots of OHV folks here but also provides a place for doggies to roam," mentions Kevin S. about Salome KOA. Black Rock RV Village provides "small and separate large dog off leash areas," according to Missy C.
Weather preparation: Desert temperature fluctuations require planning. "It was pleasurable swimming at night, especially when the air is cold. It was like being at a hot spring!" notes Sandy S. about evening pool use at Salome KOA. Families should pack for both warm days and cool nights, especially during winter months.
Tips from RVers
Dump station access: Plan ahead for waste disposal. "Called and Lady said dump station only open from 8-4 and price is now 15 instead of 10. Did not stay just passing through area," reports Michael B. about Salome KOA. Alternative options include Ramblin Roads RV Resort ($20) or Centennial Park (cheaper with overnight stays).
Sewer connection requirements: "This is the first RV park I've seen to require that the sewer hose be raised off the ground, something we would not have been prepared for if we were staying there. According to the information sheet it is a La Paz County requirement," cautions Laura M. about Salome KOA. Check specific regulations before arrival.
Site selection guidance: When visiting pet-friendly campgrounds near Wenden with larger rigs, site location matters. "When we drove into this park, the first few sites we saw were so shabby and run down that we almost did not stay. But the main area in the back is much better maintained, and sites are level gravel," advises Laura M. about Desert Gem RV.
