The camping areas near Winkelman, Arizona sit at elevations ranging from 2,000 to 4,000 feet, creating a desert climate that's notably cooler than Phoenix but still experiences intense summer heat. The surrounding Tonto National Forest and nearby mountain ranges create a varied landscape where desert trails frequently cross dry washes and rocky outcroppings. Campgrounds in this region typically offer minimal facilities, with most sites situated on hard-packed desert soil.
What to do
Explore desert trails: The Reddington Pass Dispersed camping area offers access to numerous desert hiking routes. As camper Sierra N. notes, "Farther in you hit the mountains. We stayed off an off-roading rock crawler trail. Def the path less taken. Super quiet and relaxing." The area features a "40 mile scenic drive on a 4x4 road, dispersed camping along the way."
Visit nearby mining towns: The historic mining communities near Oak Flat Campground provide opportunities to learn about Arizona's copper mining history. "It's only about an hour from Phoenix, but we probably won't go back," mentions Jamey R., who adds that "It was only 5 minutes from Superior, which was nice for gas, food, water, etc."
Stargazing: Clear desert skies make this area excellent for astronomy. At Peralta Regional Park, camper chevis L. experienced "Clean dark sky for star watching. The park host was amazing. Restrooms were great. Each campsite has plenty of space in between."
What campers like
Desert wildlife viewing: Campers often report seeing native desert animals. At Catalina State Park Campground, Annika D. observed "Coyotes and some weird desert squirrels," while Carly E. reported "We saw (and heard) coyote, prairie dogs, and a rattlesnake eating a prairie dog along a trail right behind our campground loop!"
Mountain vistas: The views of surrounding mountains create striking scenery. One camper at Clark Peak Corrals mentioned "unbelieveable views" and noted it "Would be a perfect little spot to watch the stars." Beth G. added that at 8,800 ft elevation, the site "offers amazing weather in the summer and gorgeous views off the edge of the mountains."
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing at desert campgrounds. At Peralta Regional Park, Julie F. noted they "enjoyed the rustic campsite" and another review mentioned "Each campsite has plenty of space in between."
What you should know
Water requirements: No natural water sources exist at most sites. Beth G. says of Clark Peak Corrals: "Be prepared to bring in anything you might need, including water." Most campgrounds require you to carry all water for both humans and horses.
Extreme temperatures: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F, while winter nights can drop below freezing. Joshua M. notes about Reddington Pass: "It gets chilly in the fall and winter but it's great relief from the heat of Arizona."
Road conditions: Many access roads require high-clearance vehicles. Cass G. warns about Reddington Pass Dispersed: "It's a fun trail if you like a challenge of off roading. I wouldn't recommend larger trailers or RVs to travel too far up the trail, we've seen them get stuck trying to turn around. The road is rough but if you don't mind driving slow over the holes and bumps then no big deal."
Limited facilities: Most sites offer only basic amenities. Carlos B. describes Oak Flat: "Two pit toilets are the only amenities, but there is plenty of hiking. You can hear road noise from highway 60."
Tips for camping with families
Choose established sites: For family equestrian camping near Winkelman, Arizona, established campgrounds offer more reliable facilities. At Timber Camp Recreation Area and Group Campgrounds, Travis D. found "a very large space and each family can spread out as much as they want - and still have space for wiffle ball!"
Watch for wildlife: Desert camping means potential wildlife encounters. Janet H. at Catalina State Park noted seeing "round-tailed ground squirrel burrows that are in abundance throughout the campground" and had to "choose carefully, as to not sleep atop an access hole."
Consider group sites: Some campgrounds offer dedicated group areas. Krista Z. describes Timber Camp: "There are 12 spaces with co-ed bathrooms (toilet only). There are 2 large BBQs at the end of the loop, covered ramadas with picnic tables, and an oversized metal fire pit."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most sites near Winkelman don't offer RV hookups. Allan R. found Timber Camp "Great spot to relax after driving thru Salt Canyon. Very convenient, close to highway, with very little noise. ATT was full scale."
Prepare for primitive conditions: RVers should come fully self-contained. Connor N. notes about Timber Camp: "Sites are well maintained and level. Vault toilets were clean. Each site has a steel fire ring and grate as well as a nice metal picnic table."
Cell service varies: Connectivity depends on location and elevation. Carlos B. reports about Oak Flat: "There's no WiFi, even if you have a yaggi antenna. There's enough cell service for text and phone calls (maybe/iffy) on the Verizon network."
Road access challenges: Many forest roads aren't suitable for larger rigs. Tyler E. confirms about Reddington Pass: "The trail into the campground was great, you will need a 4x4 in certain spots, but mostly it's a smooth ride."
