The best camping near Phoenix with campfires

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Pack the swimsuits, sun shades, and some serious SPF when traveling to Phoenix. With its year-round warm weather, opportunities to camp, hike, and explore the great outdoors are endless. Phoenix appeals to the inner Indiana Jones in every camper—trek through dusty deserts, climb red rock mountains, and float along winding rivers. Camping near Phoenix means getting lost in the world of tiny desert critters, walking alongside prickly plants, and gazing in awe at unobstructed starry skies. Campsites include accommodations for every Hipcamper, from glamping to RV sites.

90% (380)

Top-rated campgrounds near Phoenix

3. Cave Creek Quiet Homestead

98%
(164)
18mi from Phoenix · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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
Potable water
from 
$25
 / night

7. Marguerita Ranch

98%
(70)
21mi from Phoenix · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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

9. Saguaro Forrest @ Dragonfly Ranch

97%
(173)
25mi from Phoenix · 5 sites · RVs
*EASY ACCESS WITH LARGE TRAILERS* We invite you to come enjoy our sliver of the Sonoran Desert here in New River. We are situated adjacent to state land that displays a majestic Saguaro forest in the mountains (where our small rural community meets the wilderness). Enjoy easy access to endless mountain trails as you roam through the this densely populated region of saguaros (hike or bring 4WD) . The local wildlife entails a variety of beautiful creatures of varying sizes. All three Saguaro sites provide full RV services (water, electrical, and 30/50 amp hookups) with plenty of space between for enjoyment of the views. Boondocker sites are great for easy in-out dry camping, making for an early start for your trip out of town. Driving paths are covered with gravel throughout the property. Boondocker 2 is by currently closed for renovations. We are just 10 minutes from the I-17 (Lake Pleasant is just a 30-45 minute drive). Phoenix is a close commute, where you will find many more amenities. Rent an off-road vehicle, boat for the lake (or bring yours!), or plan a tour and ENJOY YOUR STAY! We are more than happy to help facilitate your time here. We welcome pets, but do note there are occasional encounters with neighborhood dogs and plenty of wildlife. For their safety, best to keep them leashed or bring an enclosure. In the future, we plan to provide an enclosure for dogs to safely play and run off-leash. Daytime arrival highly recommended! We understand though how travels go, so keep us informed of your ETA and we will help guide you in.
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$39
 / night

13. (31+ Days) Full H/U (30Amp) In Town

6.9mi from Phoenix · 1 site · RV
**Notes: Booking must be for 31 days or more due to newer Phoenix, AZ "short term rental" guidelines. RV gate is exactly 8' wide. Can only accommodate RVs/Trailers around 7' wide** LOCATION! LOCATION! LOCATION! Historic home, with RV space in back yard, in the heart of Phoenix! Beautiful grass, trees, and gardens with fountains. Private, secure, and typically very peaceful environment. Within 2 miles of downtown Phoenix, 1 mile of two major highways (10 and 17), and 1 mile of several major hospitals and healthcare facilities. Home is located in the Fairview Place historic neighborhood, a true gem located within two miles of downtown Phoenix. Filled with gorgeous custom homes, many of which originated in the 1920s/30s. This 1936 property is located directly across the street from one of the nation's best public parks. Encanto Park offers two golf-courses, a fishing pond (with license), paddle boat river, mini-amusement park, sport courts (racquetball, tennis, basketball, volleyball, etc.), and so much more. Perfect for walking, jogging, and biking. Also across the street on the next block is a beautiful community rose garden. Within blocks of the Phoenix Fairgrounds. Within 2 miles of the business district, museums, opera, theaters, and more.
Full hookups
from 
$40
 / night

14. Meadowdust Ranch LLC

19mi from Phoenix · 8 sites · Tents
Meadowdust Ranch LLC is in the heart of Greer Arizona! We are walking distance from the historic Molly Butlers Restaurant, Greer Lodge resort, The Grey Goose Gifts, Edelweiss German cuisine, Lost Resorts, and the Greer Village Marketplace! Enjoy a day in the village or take a walk to the beautiful Little Colorado River! The 3 Greer lakes are a short drive, (or a brisk bike ride) away. Rent our kayaks and/or fishing poles. There is wildlife everywhere! There is a community pond next to our property. We also have a private pond near the tent sites, which is fed by one of the five springs running through the property. The property boasts a gorgeous “magical” pathway along a spring fed creek, with lots of private little places to stop and rest, while enjoying the sights and sounds of nature. At the right time of year, you can pick wild roses, daffodils, wild irises, daisies, and many other beautiful wildflowers. The Sunrise Ski Resort is just 25 minutes away- where you’ll find year round activities, including renowned winter skiing, as well as spring/summer/fall fun on the Sunrise mountain coaster! Or ride the lift to the top of Sunrise peak, at 10,700', where you can experience some of the most expansive panoramic views in Arizona! Meadowdust Ranch is one of the few properties in Greer that is lucky enough to have a sledding hill! So if you come in the winter, you will surely enjoy that! Plan your next event with us. We have table, chair and linen rentals Cotton candy machine rentals Snow-cone machine rentals Bow and arrow activity Crossman marksman activity Hatchet throwing Gold panning/gem sluicing - Make and take art -including, pottery, wood, metal, canvas, rock, and other items to be painted (therapeutic, relaxing atmosphere to be creative, and your paint fee includes a beverage). Educational Horse join-up demonstration/lesson
Pets
Picnic table
from 
$80
 / night

17. Doreens Ranch And Hobby Farm

35mi from Phoenix · 1 site · RV
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

18. Camp Humbug

36mi from Phoenix · 1 site · Tent, RV
*** Grab a $10 discount with promo code TGU8QDFW *** A perfect location to camp and experience all the adventures the area has to offer. Ideal for anything from ATV and jeep trips to Crown King, camping, hunting in nearby public lands, visiting the area's mining and native history, or just to spend some quality time in the Sonoran Desert. This private pad is large enough for a few RVs and all the toys. 4WD vehicles are highly recommended, and mandatory during poor weather or when pulling a trailer. The 12 miles of dirt roads get heavy traffic and are usually in poor condition with extensive washboard and rocks, requiring slow driving and extra attention. Winters at this 2600 foot elevation can bring a few inches of snow. Summers put on the seasonal monsoon show, Spring and Fall are always enjoyable with cooler nights, often even chilly. There are the usual desert critters to beware of: bark scorpions, rattlesnakes of all kinds, mountain lions on the prowl, and some poisonous spiders. Other abundant wildlife is also present: foxes, skunks, javelina, bobcats, mule deer, ringtail cats, raccoons, coyotes, and many kinds of birds. You'll likely also see herds of wild burros and some cattle grazing nearby, they tend to leave droppings everywhere. Target practice is common in the area and even allowed at this site. There is a large stone firepit for guest campfires, firewood may be provided but not guaranteed. A large trash can is available on site for guests, please use it. There is no water available at or near the site, you will need to bring all the water and supplies you require during your stay. The nearest services are along Lake Pleasant Pkwy. off Highway 74 and four miles further south at Happy Valley Rd. Another large shopping area is at Highway 74 and I-17. This area was populated before Phoenix existed, complete with a school and postal service. For more info, look up the towns of Humbug and Columbia at www.apcrp.org
Pets
from 
$25
 / night

19. 1899 Historic Hotel & Camping

83%
(15)
36mi from Phoenix · 36 sites · Tents, RVs
On site there is a BBQ area, bathrooms, showers, 30 campsites for tents and large RV's with water and septic dump area. BYOB and BYO electric. : ) The camp spots are extra large, each one has gravel and asphalt to minimize dust and dirt. We have bathrooms and showers and an outdoor cowboy shower. It's rare to find a place to camp that's AUTHENTIC, HISTORIC, WILD WEST and offers amenities. The 1899 Historic Hotel offers free hotel tours, Gold Panning onsite, Outdoor picnic tables, Parties and Events, Adventure Tours to our Gold Mines - you can see in the distance from the 1899 Historic Hotel. There are nature walks next to the property, as well as horse trails. This is the roping capital of America so you will be surrounded by bull riders, cowboys and miners - for real! Wickenburg is 10 minutes away with restaurants and everything cowboy. This Historic Hotel is a giant piece of Arizona history.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$30
 / night

Pack the swimsuits, sun shades, and some serious SPF when traveling to Phoenix. With its year-round warm weather, opportunities to camp, hike, and explore the great outdoors are endless. Phoenix appeals to the inner Indiana Jones in every camper—trek through dusty deserts, climb red rock mountains, and float along winding rivers. Camping near Phoenix means getting lost in the world of tiny desert critters, walking alongside prickly plants, and gazing in awe at unobstructed starry skies. Campsites include accommodations for every Hipcamper, from glamping to RV sites.

90% (380)

Top-rated campgrounds near Phoenix

3. Cave Creek Quiet Homestead

98%
(164)
18mi from Phoenix · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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
Potable water
from 
$25
 / night

7. Marguerita Ranch

98%
(70)
21mi from Phoenix · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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

9. Saguaro Forrest @ Dragonfly Ranch

97%
(173)
25mi from Phoenix · 5 sites · RVs
*EASY ACCESS WITH LARGE TRAILERS* We invite you to come enjoy our sliver of the Sonoran Desert here in New River. We are situated adjacent to state land that displays a majestic Saguaro forest in the mountains (where our small rural community meets the wilderness). Enjoy easy access to endless mountain trails as you roam through the this densely populated region of saguaros (hike or bring 4WD) . The local wildlife entails a variety of beautiful creatures of varying sizes. All three Saguaro sites provide full RV services (water, electrical, and 30/50 amp hookups) with plenty of space between for enjoyment of the views. Boondocker sites are great for easy in-out dry camping, making for an early start for your trip out of town. Driving paths are covered with gravel throughout the property. Boondocker 2 is by currently closed for renovations. We are just 10 minutes from the I-17 (Lake Pleasant is just a 30-45 minute drive). Phoenix is a close commute, where you will find many more amenities. Rent an off-road vehicle, boat for the lake (or bring yours!), or plan a tour and ENJOY YOUR STAY! We are more than happy to help facilitate your time here. We welcome pets, but do note there are occasional encounters with neighborhood dogs and plenty of wildlife. For their safety, best to keep them leashed or bring an enclosure. In the future, we plan to provide an enclosure for dogs to safely play and run off-leash. Daytime arrival highly recommended! We understand though how travels go, so keep us informed of your ETA and we will help guide you in.
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$39
 / night

13. (31+ Days) Full H/U (30Amp) In Town

6.9mi from Phoenix · 1 site · RV
**Notes: Booking must be for 31 days or more due to newer Phoenix, AZ "short term rental" guidelines. RV gate is exactly 8' wide. Can only accommodate RVs/Trailers around 7' wide** LOCATION! LOCATION! LOCATION! Historic home, with RV space in back yard, in the heart of Phoenix! Beautiful grass, trees, and gardens with fountains. Private, secure, and typically very peaceful environment. Within 2 miles of downtown Phoenix, 1 mile of two major highways (10 and 17), and 1 mile of several major hospitals and healthcare facilities. Home is located in the Fairview Place historic neighborhood, a true gem located within two miles of downtown Phoenix. Filled with gorgeous custom homes, many of which originated in the 1920s/30s. This 1936 property is located directly across the street from one of the nation's best public parks. Encanto Park offers two golf-courses, a fishing pond (with license), paddle boat river, mini-amusement park, sport courts (racquetball, tennis, basketball, volleyball, etc.), and so much more. Perfect for walking, jogging, and biking. Also across the street on the next block is a beautiful community rose garden. Within blocks of the Phoenix Fairgrounds. Within 2 miles of the business district, museums, opera, theaters, and more.
Full hookups
from 
$40
 / night

14. Meadowdust Ranch LLC

19mi from Phoenix · 8 sites · Tents
Meadowdust Ranch LLC is in the heart of Greer Arizona! We are walking distance from the historic Molly Butlers Restaurant, Greer Lodge resort, The Grey Goose Gifts, Edelweiss German cuisine, Lost Resorts, and the Greer Village Marketplace! Enjoy a day in the village or take a walk to the beautiful Little Colorado River! The 3 Greer lakes are a short drive, (or a brisk bike ride) away. Rent our kayaks and/or fishing poles. There is wildlife everywhere! There is a community pond next to our property. We also have a private pond near the tent sites, which is fed by one of the five springs running through the property. The property boasts a gorgeous “magical” pathway along a spring fed creek, with lots of private little places to stop and rest, while enjoying the sights and sounds of nature. At the right time of year, you can pick wild roses, daffodils, wild irises, daisies, and many other beautiful wildflowers. The Sunrise Ski Resort is just 25 minutes away- where you’ll find year round activities, including renowned winter skiing, as well as spring/summer/fall fun on the Sunrise mountain coaster! Or ride the lift to the top of Sunrise peak, at 10,700', where you can experience some of the most expansive panoramic views in Arizona! Meadowdust Ranch is one of the few properties in Greer that is lucky enough to have a sledding hill! So if you come in the winter, you will surely enjoy that! Plan your next event with us. We have table, chair and linen rentals Cotton candy machine rentals Snow-cone machine rentals Bow and arrow activity Crossman marksman activity Hatchet throwing Gold panning/gem sluicing - Make and take art -including, pottery, wood, metal, canvas, rock, and other items to be painted (therapeutic, relaxing atmosphere to be creative, and your paint fee includes a beverage). Educational Horse join-up demonstration/lesson
Pets
Picnic table
from 
$80
 / night

17. Doreens Ranch And Hobby Farm

35mi from Phoenix · 1 site · RV
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

18. Camp Humbug

36mi from Phoenix · 1 site · Tent, RV
*** Grab a $10 discount with promo code TGU8QDFW *** A perfect location to camp and experience all the adventures the area has to offer. Ideal for anything from ATV and jeep trips to Crown King, camping, hunting in nearby public lands, visiting the area's mining and native history, or just to spend some quality time in the Sonoran Desert. This private pad is large enough for a few RVs and all the toys. 4WD vehicles are highly recommended, and mandatory during poor weather or when pulling a trailer. The 12 miles of dirt roads get heavy traffic and are usually in poor condition with extensive washboard and rocks, requiring slow driving and extra attention. Winters at this 2600 foot elevation can bring a few inches of snow. Summers put on the seasonal monsoon show, Spring and Fall are always enjoyable with cooler nights, often even chilly. There are the usual desert critters to beware of: bark scorpions, rattlesnakes of all kinds, mountain lions on the prowl, and some poisonous spiders. Other abundant wildlife is also present: foxes, skunks, javelina, bobcats, mule deer, ringtail cats, raccoons, coyotes, and many kinds of birds. You'll likely also see herds of wild burros and some cattle grazing nearby, they tend to leave droppings everywhere. Target practice is common in the area and even allowed at this site. There is a large stone firepit for guest campfires, firewood may be provided but not guaranteed. A large trash can is available on site for guests, please use it. There is no water available at or near the site, you will need to bring all the water and supplies you require during your stay. The nearest services are along Lake Pleasant Pkwy. off Highway 74 and four miles further south at Happy Valley Rd. Another large shopping area is at Highway 74 and I-17. This area was populated before Phoenix existed, complete with a school and postal service. For more info, look up the towns of Humbug and Columbia at www.apcrp.org
Pets
from 
$25
 / night

19. 1899 Historic Hotel & Camping

83%
(15)
36mi from Phoenix · 36 sites · Tents, RVs
On site there is a BBQ area, bathrooms, showers, 30 campsites for tents and large RV's with water and septic dump area. BYOB and BYO electric. : ) The camp spots are extra large, each one has gravel and asphalt to minimize dust and dirt. We have bathrooms and showers and an outdoor cowboy shower. It's rare to find a place to camp that's AUTHENTIC, HISTORIC, WILD WEST and offers amenities. The 1899 Historic Hotel offers free hotel tours, Gold Panning onsite, Outdoor picnic tables, Parties and Events, Adventure Tours to our Gold Mines - you can see in the distance from the 1899 Historic Hotel. There are nature walks next to the property, as well as horse trails. This is the roping capital of America so you will be surrounded by bull riders, cowboys and miners - for real! Wickenburg is 10 minutes away with restaurants and everything cowboy. This Historic Hotel is a giant piece of Arizona history.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$30
 / night

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

The best camping near Phoenix with campfires guide

Where to go

Lost Dutchman State Park

Journey to the Old West in this historical area 45 minutes outside Phoenix, Arizona. With stunning views of the Superstition Mountains, campers can adventure into marked trails suitable for all. For a bigger challenge, the 4-mile Siphon Draw Trail winds through a canyon reaching a 1,000-foot elevated basin that connects to the Flatiron. This trail at Lost Dutchman State Park is not maintained beyond the basin (so be aware of your surroundings), and it takes about 5-6 hours to complete. Retire for the night back at the Lost Dutchman Campground or a nearby Hipcamp.

Lake Pleasant Regional Park

Set up for some core camping memories at Lake Pleasant, where the water is glistening, the desert is sizzling, and the stars are shining. Whether tenting or RV camping, campers can hike, swim, boat, and picnic the day away. Explore canyons, rock walls, and underwater wildlife with some of the best inland scuba diving in the western United States, an epic way to cool off.

Tonto National Forest

Canyons, cacti, and creeks flow through Tonto National Forest, about one hour away from Phoenix. With surrounding mountains and the Valley of Tonto Creek at its core, this area provides acres of rugged landforms, desert vegetation, and diverse wildlife. Campers visit year-round for open-air, tent camping, RV hookups, horse camping, dispersed sites, and campgrounds. With 200 miles of Mogollon Rim and what the U.S. Department of Agriculture claims are some of the best trails in the country, be sure to grab a permit to fully enjoy this national forest.

When to go

The undeniable draw of Phoenix brings campers together to enjoy open air year-round. Whether you’re out on the lake, trekking through the desert, or snuggled by the campfire, every season provides epic camping spots. December to February or March to May are recommended for those looking to explore with a little less heat. Scorching summers reach average highs over 100°F in July and August, when you’ll want an AC unit.