The best desert camping near Gold Canyon

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Welcome to Hipcamp! Looking for a camping experience in the desert near Gold Canyon, Arizona? You're in luck! We have over 400 options available just for you. From stunning landscapes to serene sunsets, you'll find the perfect spot to pitch your tent or park your RV. Check out our top campsites like Pinnacle Farms South (468 reviews), El Pais Motel & Campgrounds (308 reviews), and Beaver Creek Oasis (191 reviews) for a truly memorable experience. With popular amenities like pet-friendly areas, potable water, and proper waste disposal, we've got you covered. And don't forget to enjoy wildlife watching, biking, and paddling while you're here. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable desert camping adventure!

90% (559)

Top-rated campgrounds

Marguerita Ranch

2. Marguerita Ranch

98%
(69)
44mi from Gold Canyon · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Cave Creek, AZ
Pitch your tent or park your camper among towering Saguaros with stunning mountain views in every direction. Bring your camera or your horses! This is the perfect spot for relaxing, stargazing, and soaking in those famous Arizona sunsets. You’ll have a spacious, private campsite all to yourself—I only allow one booking at a time to ensure a peaceful and personal experience. Please note: This is a working horse ranch, which means you'll see fencing, trailers, and occasional activity from people helping keep the ranch running. While your campsite is private, our property is just over two acres—so you'll also see neighboring homes. If you're looking for complete solitude with no sights, sounds, or smells of ranch life, I recommend dispersed camping elsewhere. My 2.2-acre private horse ranch is home to: • 8 rescue horses • 2 donkeys • 8 mini pigs and a few chickens! …all ready to meet and greet! Trail access? Absolutely. Hiking and horseback riding trails lead directly from the property into Spur Cross Conservation Area—or take a short 10-minute drive to a main trailhead. Black Mountain Hiking Trail is also nearby and offers panoramic views of the valley. You can even ride your horse into town and tie up at the local cowboy bars! ⸻ A few things to note: • The landscape varies with the season—there won’t be green grass in the summer • Please keep pets away from cactus—they bite! • We’re located in a desert neighborhood, so please respect the nearby homes. My house and neighbors house will be in view from your campsite. • A horse corral (50 ft round pen) is available to rent—message me if interested! ⸻ Looking for more adventure? Lake Pleasant, Bartlett Lake, Tonto National Forest, Seven Springs, and other scenic destinations are a short drive away. Need supplies? Walmart, Lowe’s, Tractor Supply, and more are just 10 minutes down the road. Want to explore a truly unique cowboy town? Cave Creek is full of Old West charm, with saloons, quirky shops, live music, and horses sharing the road with motorcycles. Follow and tag us on Instagram: @margueritaranch
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$66
 / night
Glamping tent at night

3. Cave Creek Quiet Homestead

98%
(164)
44mi from Gold Canyon · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Cave Creek, AZ
Quiet slice of heaven under the stars on our homestead. We continue to have reduced our camping experience for our winter 2025 season to keep our site secluded and private. Please check back for open dates and sites Our space offers a tranquil setting with several camping options. Site # 1: Glamping Tent is Closed for 2025 season. We are offering tent campers at this site on a limited availability. Site #2: Saguaro Camp site. Bring your tent or rent one of ours. Site # 3: RV Glamping. Queen size bed with a dinette that can be used as an extra bed for the little ones. Site # 4 RV, Pop Ups or Living Quarters with horses/mules Site # 5 Boarding for Horses or Mules We offer Communal Spaces with restroom, grill, table, other seating with larger fire-pit. Feel free to visit our horses, chickens or hike our beautiful trails right from the property. Enjoy the horses, the stars at night and our neighboring coyotes sing if you are lucky. Our home is close by, the little white farmhouse on the hill. Thank you for looking!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$25
 / night
Red Rock Roping Entrance!

8. Red Rock Roping, LLC

100%
(36)
43mi from Gold Canyon · 6 sites · RVs, Lodging · Cave Creek, AZ
Welcome to Red Rock Roping! Where you will be a close 3 mile drive to old town Cave Creek restaurants, bars, and shopping strip. But far enough to enjoy a quiet and peaceful scenery of mountains, sunsets and sunrises. Don’t forget to kick your feet up, and end your night to enjoy a wide open view of the stars! Also, keep your eyes open for desert critters such as rattlesnakes, tarantulas, scorpions, deer, road runners, bob cats, and coyotes. We ask please do not pet, catch, feed or leave any food out that will attract them. Enjoy them from a picture away :) Our 2 accessible acres will give you 360 view of mountains, our Red Rock Roping arena, and a Saloon to gather under to enjoy cool refreshments, and a meal with your friends/family. Right outside our entrance going North on 80th Street you can hike over to the Grapevine Wash which is a short walk away from the Cave Creek Town Trail System for hiking and horseback riding, and if you’re adventurous you can hike up 2 miles of a 800’ climb on a gravel road/trails to “Mexican Hat” for an even more incredible view! We are a 30 amp full hook up (sewer, water & electrical) for 33’ RV’s and living quarters horse trailers. You will also have access to our community laundry area, with a large garbage can to dump a bag if needed. Some suggestions for town; Grab some quick delicous breakfast and coffee at Janey’s. Or American cuisine lunch at The Horny Toad, a Mexican cuisine dinner while watching the turtles in the pond at El Encanto! Ofrenda, right at the end of the road, also has great authentic Mexican cuisine. Many restaurants to choose from all within a short drive. Bashas, Safeway, Target, and Walmart and Sprouts are all within a 3-6 mile drive too! We have two turnout pens for horses. That are located right behind where you will park your trailer. They both have a cover that provides some shade, as well as running water. We do not provide any feed, so please make sure you bring some! We ask that you please do not feed any horses that do not belong to you. Or go into any pen that your horse is not in. For safety and respect :) Thank you in advance. (Horse turnouts are an extra $25 each/per night)
Toilets
Showers
Full Hookups
from 
$25
 / night
Kokosky Homestead Camp

13. Kokosky Homestead Camp

100%
(8)
17mi from Gold Canyon · 4 sites · RVs · Queen Creek, AZ
Welcome to Kokosky Homestead Camp — a quiet family-oriented mini-homestead in Queen Creek, AZ. We offer a peaceful desert setting with plenty of space, friendly hosts, and a warm, down-to-earth feel. Our property sits in a safe residential neighborhood just minutes from San Tan Mountain Regional Park, Queen Creek Marketplace, Schnepf Farms, and the Queen Creek Olive Mill. Guests enjoy watching Arizona sunsets, having fast Starlink WiFi when needed, and relaxing in a quiet environment that still feels close to everything. We also have a small egg stand at the front of the property where guests can purchase fresh eggs during their stay. 🐐 Homestead Animals (Backyard Only) Our animals live in the backyard area, separate from the camping sites, so guests don’t have to worry about them approaching their RV. You’re welcome to say hello if you’d like. Animals on the property include: Gentle goats Chickens & roosters Turkeys Guinea fowl Tiny the tortoise Daisy Boots, our energetic Australian Shepherd who loves greeting visitors 🌄 Location Highlights Quiet, safe neighborhood with large lots Minutes to hiking and desert trails Quick drive to restaurants, shopping, groceries, and fuel Easy access for large RVs and trucks Stargazing and open desert skies Kokosky Homestead Camp is a simple, friendly place where guests can unwind, meet a few animals if they want to, and enjoy a relaxing base camp while exploring Queen Creek and the surrounding area.
Pets
Full Hookups
from 
$45
 / night
Santan Mountain Views

15. Santan Mountain Views

100%
(43)
17mi from Gold Canyon · 1 site · RV · Queen Creek, AZ
We are happy to announce that we have upgraded our front gate. It is now set back farther off of the road and is 20 feet wide. Extra large rig friendly! We do short term bookings 29 days or less. No monthly rates, sorry! We are dog friendly, but PLEASE do not show up with dogs without indicating in your booking that you are bringing them. They MUST be kept on a leash at all times while here due to farm animals and wildlife on the property. Please respect and follow these requests so that others can enjoy bringing their dogs here in the future. :) Peaceful desert escape with beautiful views of the Santan Mountains on 3.5 acre mini-ranch. We are in a quiet residential neighborhood with dark starry skies at night. Flat, private area behind main residence with a large cover. You will have about 1 acre of space to yourself. Quiet, rural feel yet less than 5 minutes from shopping, dining and conveniences. Full hookups-- Filtered water, 50 amp electric, and septic. Room to set up temporary horse panels. Walking distance to Santan regional park for miles of hiking, biking or horseback riding. 2 miles from Horseshoe park. Less than a mile to Santan flats.
Pets
Full Hookups
from 
$72
 / night
Doreens Ranch And Hobby Farm

19. Doreens Ranch And Hobby Farm

5.9mi from Gold Canyon · 1 site · RV · Apache Junction, AZ
Horse property with stunning views of the Superstition Mountains. The property features horses, a mule, a potbelly pig, and chickens—all safely contained in corrals and housing units for viewing on-site. Just a few minutes from downtown Apache Junction. Enjoy nightlife just minutes away, with bands, dancing, and great food. Entertainment includes both country and rock music. Endless outdoor adventure awaits with sightseeing and trails for hiking, biking, 4-wheelers, motorcycles, and horseback riding. You can even hike up to Flatiron in the Superstition Mountains, right next door. We’re located near historic Ghost Towns and Goldfield, as well as Tortilla Flat. A couple of lakes are also nearby, perfect for picnics, boating, jet skiing, and other water activities. Experience peaceful country living just minutes from downtown Apache Junction, AZ. Many restaurants and nightclubs are within walking distance. The scenery is unbeatable, with views of the mountains alongside horses, motorcycles, and 4-wheelers. The property includes a large bonfire pit, a huge site for guest privacy, and easy drive-in, drive-out access. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Superstition Mountains to the east. Best view. Best location in the East Valley.
Pets
Full Hookups
from 
$49
 / night

Welcome to Hipcamp! Looking for a camping experience in the desert near Gold Canyon, Arizona? You're in luck! We have over 400 options available just for you. From stunning landscapes to serene sunsets, you'll find the perfect spot to pitch your tent or park your RV. Check out our top campsites like Pinnacle Farms South (468 reviews), El Pais Motel & Campgrounds (308 reviews), and Beaver Creek Oasis (191 reviews) for a truly memorable experience. With popular amenities like pet-friendly areas, potable water, and proper waste disposal, we've got you covered. And don't forget to enjoy wildlife watching, biking, and paddling while you're here. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable desert camping adventure!

90% (559)

Top-rated campgrounds

Marguerita Ranch

2. Marguerita Ranch

98%
(69)
44mi from Gold Canyon · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Cave Creek, AZ
Pitch your tent or park your camper among towering Saguaros with stunning mountain views in every direction. Bring your camera or your horses! This is the perfect spot for relaxing, stargazing, and soaking in those famous Arizona sunsets. You’ll have a spacious, private campsite all to yourself—I only allow one booking at a time to ensure a peaceful and personal experience. Please note: This is a working horse ranch, which means you'll see fencing, trailers, and occasional activity from people helping keep the ranch running. While your campsite is private, our property is just over two acres—so you'll also see neighboring homes. If you're looking for complete solitude with no sights, sounds, or smells of ranch life, I recommend dispersed camping elsewhere. My 2.2-acre private horse ranch is home to: • 8 rescue horses • 2 donkeys • 8 mini pigs and a few chickens! …all ready to meet and greet! Trail access? Absolutely. Hiking and horseback riding trails lead directly from the property into Spur Cross Conservation Area—or take a short 10-minute drive to a main trailhead. Black Mountain Hiking Trail is also nearby and offers panoramic views of the valley. You can even ride your horse into town and tie up at the local cowboy bars! ⸻ A few things to note: • The landscape varies with the season—there won’t be green grass in the summer • Please keep pets away from cactus—they bite! • We’re located in a desert neighborhood, so please respect the nearby homes. My house and neighbors house will be in view from your campsite. • A horse corral (50 ft round pen) is available to rent—message me if interested! ⸻ Looking for more adventure? Lake Pleasant, Bartlett Lake, Tonto National Forest, Seven Springs, and other scenic destinations are a short drive away. Need supplies? Walmart, Lowe’s, Tractor Supply, and more are just 10 minutes down the road. Want to explore a truly unique cowboy town? Cave Creek is full of Old West charm, with saloons, quirky shops, live music, and horses sharing the road with motorcycles. Follow and tag us on Instagram: @margueritaranch
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$66
 / night
Glamping tent at night

3. Cave Creek Quiet Homestead

98%
(164)
44mi from Gold Canyon · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Cave Creek, AZ
Quiet slice of heaven under the stars on our homestead. We continue to have reduced our camping experience for our winter 2025 season to keep our site secluded and private. Please check back for open dates and sites Our space offers a tranquil setting with several camping options. Site # 1: Glamping Tent is Closed for 2025 season. We are offering tent campers at this site on a limited availability. Site #2: Saguaro Camp site. Bring your tent or rent one of ours. Site # 3: RV Glamping. Queen size bed with a dinette that can be used as an extra bed for the little ones. Site # 4 RV, Pop Ups or Living Quarters with horses/mules Site # 5 Boarding for Horses or Mules We offer Communal Spaces with restroom, grill, table, other seating with larger fire-pit. Feel free to visit our horses, chickens or hike our beautiful trails right from the property. Enjoy the horses, the stars at night and our neighboring coyotes sing if you are lucky. Our home is close by, the little white farmhouse on the hill. Thank you for looking!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$25
 / night
Red Rock Roping Entrance!

8. Red Rock Roping, LLC

100%
(36)
43mi from Gold Canyon · 6 sites · RVs, Lodging · Cave Creek, AZ
Welcome to Red Rock Roping! Where you will be a close 3 mile drive to old town Cave Creek restaurants, bars, and shopping strip. But far enough to enjoy a quiet and peaceful scenery of mountains, sunsets and sunrises. Don’t forget to kick your feet up, and end your night to enjoy a wide open view of the stars! Also, keep your eyes open for desert critters such as rattlesnakes, tarantulas, scorpions, deer, road runners, bob cats, and coyotes. We ask please do not pet, catch, feed or leave any food out that will attract them. Enjoy them from a picture away :) Our 2 accessible acres will give you 360 view of mountains, our Red Rock Roping arena, and a Saloon to gather under to enjoy cool refreshments, and a meal with your friends/family. Right outside our entrance going North on 80th Street you can hike over to the Grapevine Wash which is a short walk away from the Cave Creek Town Trail System for hiking and horseback riding, and if you’re adventurous you can hike up 2 miles of a 800’ climb on a gravel road/trails to “Mexican Hat” for an even more incredible view! We are a 30 amp full hook up (sewer, water & electrical) for 33’ RV’s and living quarters horse trailers. You will also have access to our community laundry area, with a large garbage can to dump a bag if needed. Some suggestions for town; Grab some quick delicous breakfast and coffee at Janey’s. Or American cuisine lunch at The Horny Toad, a Mexican cuisine dinner while watching the turtles in the pond at El Encanto! Ofrenda, right at the end of the road, also has great authentic Mexican cuisine. Many restaurants to choose from all within a short drive. Bashas, Safeway, Target, and Walmart and Sprouts are all within a 3-6 mile drive too! We have two turnout pens for horses. That are located right behind where you will park your trailer. They both have a cover that provides some shade, as well as running water. We do not provide any feed, so please make sure you bring some! We ask that you please do not feed any horses that do not belong to you. Or go into any pen that your horse is not in. For safety and respect :) Thank you in advance. (Horse turnouts are an extra $25 each/per night)
Toilets
Showers
Full Hookups
from 
$25
 / night
Kokosky Homestead Camp

13. Kokosky Homestead Camp

100%
(8)
17mi from Gold Canyon · 4 sites · RVs · Queen Creek, AZ
Welcome to Kokosky Homestead Camp — a quiet family-oriented mini-homestead in Queen Creek, AZ. We offer a peaceful desert setting with plenty of space, friendly hosts, and a warm, down-to-earth feel. Our property sits in a safe residential neighborhood just minutes from San Tan Mountain Regional Park, Queen Creek Marketplace, Schnepf Farms, and the Queen Creek Olive Mill. Guests enjoy watching Arizona sunsets, having fast Starlink WiFi when needed, and relaxing in a quiet environment that still feels close to everything. We also have a small egg stand at the front of the property where guests can purchase fresh eggs during their stay. 🐐 Homestead Animals (Backyard Only) Our animals live in the backyard area, separate from the camping sites, so guests don’t have to worry about them approaching their RV. You’re welcome to say hello if you’d like. Animals on the property include: Gentle goats Chickens & roosters Turkeys Guinea fowl Tiny the tortoise Daisy Boots, our energetic Australian Shepherd who loves greeting visitors 🌄 Location Highlights Quiet, safe neighborhood with large lots Minutes to hiking and desert trails Quick drive to restaurants, shopping, groceries, and fuel Easy access for large RVs and trucks Stargazing and open desert skies Kokosky Homestead Camp is a simple, friendly place where guests can unwind, meet a few animals if they want to, and enjoy a relaxing base camp while exploring Queen Creek and the surrounding area.
Pets
Full Hookups
from 
$45
 / night
Santan Mountain Views

15. Santan Mountain Views

100%
(43)
17mi from Gold Canyon · 1 site · RV · Queen Creek, AZ
We are happy to announce that we have upgraded our front gate. It is now set back farther off of the road and is 20 feet wide. Extra large rig friendly! We do short term bookings 29 days or less. No monthly rates, sorry! We are dog friendly, but PLEASE do not show up with dogs without indicating in your booking that you are bringing them. They MUST be kept on a leash at all times while here due to farm animals and wildlife on the property. Please respect and follow these requests so that others can enjoy bringing their dogs here in the future. :) Peaceful desert escape with beautiful views of the Santan Mountains on 3.5 acre mini-ranch. We are in a quiet residential neighborhood with dark starry skies at night. Flat, private area behind main residence with a large cover. You will have about 1 acre of space to yourself. Quiet, rural feel yet less than 5 minutes from shopping, dining and conveniences. Full hookups-- Filtered water, 50 amp electric, and septic. Room to set up temporary horse panels. Walking distance to Santan regional park for miles of hiking, biking or horseback riding. 2 miles from Horseshoe park. Less than a mile to Santan flats.
Pets
Full Hookups
from 
$72
 / night
Doreens Ranch And Hobby Farm

19. Doreens Ranch And Hobby Farm

5.9mi from Gold Canyon · 1 site · RV · Apache Junction, AZ
Horse property with stunning views of the Superstition Mountains. The property features horses, a mule, a potbelly pig, and chickens—all safely contained in corrals and housing units for viewing on-site. Just a few minutes from downtown Apache Junction. Enjoy nightlife just minutes away, with bands, dancing, and great food. Entertainment includes both country and rock music. Endless outdoor adventure awaits with sightseeing and trails for hiking, biking, 4-wheelers, motorcycles, and horseback riding. You can even hike up to Flatiron in the Superstition Mountains, right next door. We’re located near historic Ghost Towns and Goldfield, as well as Tortilla Flat. A couple of lakes are also nearby, perfect for picnics, boating, jet skiing, and other water activities. Experience peaceful country living just minutes from downtown Apache Junction, AZ. Many restaurants and nightclubs are within walking distance. The scenery is unbeatable, with views of the mountains alongside horses, motorcycles, and 4-wheelers. The property includes a large bonfire pit, a huge site for guest privacy, and easy drive-in, drive-out access. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Superstition Mountains to the east. Best view. Best location in the East Valley.
Pets
Full Hookups
from 
$49
 / night

Camper favorites near Gold Canyon

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field