Discover the best campgrounds near Phoenix, Arizona with horseback riding

United States
—
Arizona
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Phoenix

94% (1190 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Phoenix

Available this weekend

Under $50

96%

(99)

Saguaro Cactus Forrest

5 sites · RVs5 acres · New River, AZ

ASK ABOUT OUR FALL PROMTIONAL DISOUNT. THANK YOU REPEAT & LONG TERM GUEST We are situated adjacent to state land that displays a majestic Saguaro forest in the mountains. It is a short walk to lots of trails and spectacular views. RV hookups with only three sites so not crowded. Water and electrical hookups 30 or 50 amp. You will love the views and the hiking. We are also not far from grocery stores, and outlet mall and restaurants. EASY ACCESS WITH LARGE TRAILERS.

96%

(768)

Pinnacle Farms South

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents7 acres · Laveen, AZ

Pinnacle Farms is a diverse orchard with over 1200 fruit trees on 7 acres nestled at the base of South Mountain in Phoenix's old agriculturally diverse Laveen area. A well kept secret, Laveen is only about 10 minutes by car to downtown restaurants and events, while having a rural feel, and the mountain preserves are within walking or biking distance.

100%

(55)

Palo Verde Retreat

1 site · RV1 acres · Cave Creek, AZ

Learn more about this land: Park your RV, trailer, or camper van on our 1.5 acre property. We are located near the cities of Cave Creek, Scottsdale, and Phoenix AZ. There is close access to numerous trails for mountain biking and hiking in the beautiful Sonoran Desert! This spot is partial hookup with water and both 30 amp and 50 amp power. There is a dumping station approximately 2 miles away for your septic needs. Enjoy the beauty of the nearby desert and mountains. It is common to hear the coyotes and owls and other wildlife at night. The javelina herd often passes through as well as an occasional bobcat. Feel free to say hello to Luna, our Belgian Malinois! She hangs out in our fenced-in backyard which is separate from the RV location! Welcome!

99%

(37)

Marguerita Ranch

4 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Cave Creek, AZ

Want to feel like you're in the middle of nowhere but be only 1 mile from town? Pitch your tent or park your camper among numerous towering Saguaro Cactus and stunning mountain views. Bring your camera or your horses! Perfect spot for relaxing, stargazing, and a fantastic view of the famous AZ sunsets! My 2.2-acre private horse ranch has mountain views in all directions, a large private campsite, and 8 rescue horses, 2 donkeys, and 5 pigs to meet and greet on the property. Please note we are located in a neighborhood so please respect the neighbors. There are hiking/horseback riding trails right off of my property that take you to the Spur Cross Conservation Area, or you can head 10 minutes north to the trailhead. The Black Mountain Hiking Trail is also awesome, you can see the whole valley from the top! Or, you can even ride your horses to the cowboy bars in town! Note: I have 2 spots available: 1 Campsite; 1 Glamping Trailer. I will try to block off campsites that are not in use after your booking in order to keep the site as private as possible. Wanting some adventure? Lake Pleasant, Bartlett Lake, Tonto National Forest, Seven Springs, and more are all just a easy drive from the ranch. Need to stock up on supplies? Walmart, Lowes, Home Depot, Tractor Supply and more are just a 10-minute drive. Want to explore a unique cowboy town? Cave Creek is an Old West-style town where it’s just as common to see horseback riders trotting along Main Street as it is to see a motorcycle cruising by. There is a variety of shops, restaurants, and great drinks. It's easy to find something you'll love! Please note that landscape varies depending on time of year and rain. There will be no green grass in the summertime. Tag us on instagram! @margueritaranch Horse corral (50 ft roundpen) available to rent at extra cost. Message me!!

Cave Creek Quiet Homestead

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Cave Creek, AZ

Quiet slice of heaven under the stars on our homestead. Due to some unexpected commitments, it was necessary to reduce our camping experience for our winter 2024 season. We are very sorry, but will reopen as soon as possible. Please check back for open dates and sites Our space offers a tranquil setting with several camping options. Site # 1: Closed for 2024 season. Sorry Site #2: Closed for 2024 season. Sorry 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!

12 top campgrounds near Phoenix with horseback riding

96%

(768)

Pinnacle Farms South

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents7 acres · Laveen, AZ

Pinnacle Farms is a diverse orchard with over 1200 fruit trees on 7 acres nestled at the base of South Mountain in Phoenix's old agriculturally diverse Laveen area. A well kept secret, Laveen is only about 10 minutes by car to downtown restaurants and events, while having a rural feel, and the mountain preserves are within walking or biking distance.

Saguaro Cactus Forrest

5 sites · RVs5 acres · New River, AZ

ASK ABOUT OUR FALL PROMTIONAL DISOUNT. THANK YOU REPEAT & LONG TERM GUEST We are situated adjacent to state land that displays a majestic Saguaro forest in the mountains. It is a short walk to lots of trails and spectacular views. RV hookups with only three sites so not crowded. Water and electrical hookups 30 or 50 amp. You will love the views and the hiking. We are also not far from grocery stores, and outlet mall and restaurants. EASY ACCESS WITH LARGE TRAILERS.

Marguerita Ranch

4 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Cave Creek, AZ

Want to feel like you're in the middle of nowhere but be only 1 mile from town? Pitch your tent or park your camper among numerous towering Saguaro Cactus and stunning mountain views. Bring your camera or your horses! Perfect spot for relaxing, stargazing, and a fantastic view of the famous AZ sunsets! My 2.2-acre private horse ranch has mountain views in all directions, a large private campsite, and 8 rescue horses, 2 donkeys, and 5 pigs to meet and greet on the property. Please note we are located in a neighborhood so please respect the neighbors. There are hiking/horseback riding trails right off of my property that take you to the Spur Cross Conservation Area, or you can head 10 minutes north to the trailhead. The Black Mountain Hiking Trail is also awesome, you can see the whole valley from the top! Or, you can even ride your horses to the cowboy bars in town! Note: I have 2 spots available: 1 Campsite; 1 Glamping Trailer. I will try to block off campsites that are not in use after your booking in order to keep the site as private as possible. Wanting some adventure? Lake Pleasant, Bartlett Lake, Tonto National Forest, Seven Springs, and more are all just a easy drive from the ranch. Need to stock up on supplies? Walmart, Lowes, Home Depot, Tractor Supply and more are just a 10-minute drive. Want to explore a unique cowboy town? Cave Creek is an Old West-style town where it’s just as common to see horseback riders trotting along Main Street as it is to see a motorcycle cruising by. There is a variety of shops, restaurants, and great drinks. It's easy to find something you'll love! Please note that landscape varies depending on time of year and rain. There will be no green grass in the summertime. Tag us on instagram! @margueritaranch Horse corral (50 ft roundpen) available to rent at extra cost. Message me!!

Palo Verde Retreat

1 site · RV1 acres · Cave Creek, AZ

Learn more about this land: Park your RV, trailer, or camper van on our 1.5 acre property. We are located near the cities of Cave Creek, Scottsdale, and Phoenix AZ. There is close access to numerous trails for mountain biking and hiking in the beautiful Sonoran Desert! This spot is partial hookup with water and both 30 amp and 50 amp power. There is a dumping station approximately 2 miles away for your septic needs. Enjoy the beauty of the nearby desert and mountains. It is common to hear the coyotes and owls and other wildlife at night. The javelina herd often passes through as well as an occasional bobcat. Feel free to say hello to Luna, our Belgian Malinois! She hangs out in our fenced-in backyard which is separate from the RV location! Welcome!

Mountain View Retreat

8 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · New River, AZ

Experience the ambiance of a boutique resort as you escape to our beautifully landscaped and immaculately maintained private 10 acre property in the North Valley. You will be welcomed into a peaceful, desert oasis with luxurious amenities and find yourself immersed in a tranquil, serene setting surrounded by breathtaking views. Not only will you experience warm hospitality from your hosts, but our friendly farm animals will give you a warm welcome too! Guests are welcome to interact with all of our animals during our "evening chores" 30 minutes before dusk every afternoon. In addition to your personal, spacious full-hook up RV site you are sure to enjoy all the amenities we offer, including shared access to our entire property with many seating areas, covered patios, water fountains, outdoor kitchen, horseshoe pit and hot tub. NON-SMOKING adult guests ONLY! Please review entire listing and house rules prior to booking. ………..Discounts offered for long term stays……….

Cave Creek Quiet Homestead

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Cave Creek, AZ

Quiet slice of heaven under the stars on our homestead. Due to some unexpected commitments, it was necessary to reduce our camping experience for our winter 2024 season. We are very sorry, but will reopen as soon as possible. Please check back for open dates and sites Our space offers a tranquil setting with several camping options. Site # 1: Closed for 2024 season. Sorry Site #2: Closed for 2024 season. Sorry 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!

100%

(28)

Santan Mountain Views

1 site · RV, Tent3 acres · Queen Creek, AZ

We do short term bookings 29 days or less. No monthly rates, sorry! Beautiful views of the Santan Mountains on 3.5 acre residential property. 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. Please keep in mind that the front gate is close to the road..., so especially if you have a larger rig, please take a wide turn to clear the gate.

“Field of Dreams” Mesa AZ

1 site · RV1 acre · Mesa, AZ

We are Kevin and Tammii. We moved to Mesa in 2019 to build our own “Field of Dreams”. In developing our property we added a Hip-Camp site to our vision. We’ve enjoyed hosting people from all around the country. We’re can accommodate guests for up to three weeks and unable to offer monthly rates. We welcome families with up to two children. Pets are welcome, two or less, and we have a designated pet area for their use. There are two nice sitting areas, a laundry shed with washer, dryer, and drying rack. Internet access is also available. More about the “Field of Dreams”: Our site has a paved level concrete pad with 50 amp service, water, and septic. RVs are required to come with empty holding tanks because of the septic system. We can accommodate up to 43 feet in length RVs. There is a nice landscaped patio area with table, chairs, umbrella, and a privacy screen. There is also a propane fire pit available. Our site is close to Costco, Starbucks, local restaurants, grocery stores, pharmacies, and a mall. There is nearby mountain biking, hiking, and site seeing. We are 30 minutes from downtown Phoenix in a quiet residential area.

Wreck It Ranch

5 sites · RVs5 acres · Wittmann, AZ

Learn more about this land: Level lot on side of seasonal wash. Dessert landscape of large saguaro cacti, desert trees and various smaller cacti and plants. Spring will be an explosive exposition of desert flora. Make friends with a desert tortoise, or reconnect with your friends and family. Bring your own water for now; a well is on the plan for 2022.

100%

(2)

Mountain View Retreat II

1 site · RV5 acres · New River, AZ

Enjoy a night, a week or longer term stay in your RV, Motorhome or Campervan on our beautiful 5 acre property just north of Phoenix. Gorgeous mountain views, natural desert landscape, star-filled skies & breathtaking sunsets provide a picturesque backdrop that you will never tire from. Our unique property provides a quiet, tranquil, dark & calm setting. (Please review house rules before requesting to book). Our Large RV site can accommodate RVs up to 40' (30 amp). Our Site includes: Water 30 Amp electric Sewer Bistro table and chairs Wifi We are located 40 miles north of downtown Phoenix in New River. Pets allowed with approval only. **NON-SMOKING Guests ONLY. **Max of 2 adults.

85%

(10)

1899 Historic Hotel & Camping

36 sites · RVs, Tents7 acres · Morristown, AZ

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. 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. There are nature walks next to the property, as well as horse trails. We have community parties with music, campfires, vendors, and food. Look out for special events like a chili cook off and the Gold Miner Distillery doing a whiskey taste testing. 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.

92%

(6)

Nelles Ranch

1 site · RV2 acres · Carefree, AZ

We have a beautiful 2 acre fully gravelled area to easily park your rig, up to 45 ft RV recommended. Access to home in residential property is a dirt road, but easily accessible. Property is quiet, safe and peaceful. It’s like being in the country but you still have fantastic cell service! We have room to store up to 4 horses with our mare motels as well as an 100x300 arena right on the property. Fully fenced. Outhouse on sight if you are spending the day working with your horses and don’t want to dirty your RV. Furry friends are welcome as long as you don’t leave them unattended as we have coyotes roaming as well. Close to all amenities, 15 min to Cave Creek, 30 min to Scottsdale, 40 min to Phoenix. Come and enjoy a slice of heaven at Nelles Ranch.

Dog-friendly getaways

95%

(140)

Mountain View Retreat

8 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · New River, AZ

Experience the ambiance of a boutique resort as you escape to our beautifully landscaped and immaculately maintained private 10 acre property in the North Valley. You will be welcomed into a peaceful, desert oasis with luxurious amenities and find yourself immersed in a tranquil, serene setting surrounded by breathtaking views. Not only will you experience warm hospitality from your hosts, but our friendly farm animals will give you a warm welcome too! Guests are welcome to interact with all of our animals during our "evening chores" 30 minutes before dusk every afternoon. In addition to your personal, spacious full-hook up RV site you are sure to enjoy all the amenities we offer, including shared access to our entire property with many seating areas, covered patios, water fountains, outdoor kitchen, horseshoe pit and hot tub. NON-SMOKING adult guests ONLY! Please review entire listing and house rules prior to booking. ………..Discounts offered for long term stays……….

Marguerita Ranch

4 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Cave Creek, AZ

Want to feel like you're in the middle of nowhere but be only 1 mile from town? Pitch your tent or park your camper among numerous towering Saguaro Cactus and stunning mountain views. Bring your camera or your horses! Perfect spot for relaxing, stargazing, and a fantastic view of the famous AZ sunsets! My 2.2-acre private horse ranch has mountain views in all directions, a large private campsite, and 8 rescue horses, 2 donkeys, and 5 pigs to meet and greet on the property. Please note we are located in a neighborhood so please respect the neighbors. There are hiking/horseback riding trails right off of my property that take you to the Spur Cross Conservation Area, or you can head 10 minutes north to the trailhead. The Black Mountain Hiking Trail is also awesome, you can see the whole valley from the top! Or, you can even ride your horses to the cowboy bars in town! Note: I have 2 spots available: 1 Campsite; 1 Glamping Trailer. I will try to block off campsites that are not in use after your booking in order to keep the site as private as possible. Wanting some adventure? Lake Pleasant, Bartlett Lake, Tonto National Forest, Seven Springs, and more are all just a easy drive from the ranch. Need to stock up on supplies? Walmart, Lowes, Home Depot, Tractor Supply and more are just a 10-minute drive. Want to explore a unique cowboy town? Cave Creek is an Old West-style town where it’s just as common to see horseback riders trotting along Main Street as it is to see a motorcycle cruising by. There is a variety of shops, restaurants, and great drinks. It's easy to find something you'll love! Please note that landscape varies depending on time of year and rain. There will be no green grass in the summertime. Tag us on instagram! @margueritaranch Horse corral (50 ft roundpen) available to rent at extra cost. Message me!!

Palo Verde Retreat

1 site · RV1 acres · Cave Creek, AZ

Learn more about this land: Park your RV, trailer, or camper van on our 1.5 acre property. We are located near the cities of Cave Creek, Scottsdale, and Phoenix AZ. There is close access to numerous trails for mountain biking and hiking in the beautiful Sonoran Desert! This spot is partial hookup with water and both 30 amp and 50 amp power. There is a dumping station approximately 2 miles away for your septic needs. Enjoy the beauty of the nearby desert and mountains. It is common to hear the coyotes and owls and other wildlife at night. The javelina herd often passes through as well as an occasional bobcat. Feel free to say hello to Luna, our Belgian Malinois! She hangs out in our fenced-in backyard which is separate from the RV location! Welcome!

Pinnacle Farms South

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents7 acres · Laveen, AZ

Pinnacle Farms is a diverse orchard with over 1200 fruit trees on 7 acres nestled at the base of South Mountain in Phoenix's old agriculturally diverse Laveen area. A well kept secret, Laveen is only about 10 minutes by car to downtown restaurants and events, while having a rural feel, and the mountain preserves are within walking or biking distance.

Saguaro Cactus Forrest

5 sites · RVs5 acres · New River, AZ

ASK ABOUT OUR FALL PROMTIONAL DISOUNT. THANK YOU REPEAT & LONG TERM GUEST We are situated adjacent to state land that displays a majestic Saguaro forest in the mountains. It is a short walk to lots of trails and spectacular views. RV hookups with only three sites so not crowded. Water and electrical hookups 30 or 50 amp. You will love the views and the hiking. We are also not far from grocery stores, and outlet mall and restaurants. EASY ACCESS WITH LARGE TRAILERS.

Star Hosts in Phoenix

95%

(140)

Mountain View Retreat

8 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · New River, AZ

Experience the ambiance of a boutique resort as you escape to our beautifully landscaped and immaculately maintained private 10 acre property in the North Valley. You will be welcomed into a peaceful, desert oasis with luxurious amenities and find yourself immersed in a tranquil, serene setting surrounded by breathtaking views. Not only will you experience warm hospitality from your hosts, but our friendly farm animals will give you a warm welcome too! Guests are welcome to interact with all of our animals during our "evening chores" 30 minutes before dusk every afternoon. In addition to your personal, spacious full-hook up RV site you are sure to enjoy all the amenities we offer, including shared access to our entire property with many seating areas, covered patios, water fountains, outdoor kitchen, horseshoe pit and hot tub. NON-SMOKING adult guests ONLY! Please review entire listing and house rules prior to booking. ………..Discounts offered for long term stays……….

Palo Verde Retreat

1 site · RV1 acres · Cave Creek, AZ

Learn more about this land: Park your RV, trailer, or camper van on our 1.5 acre property. We are located near the cities of Cave Creek, Scottsdale, and Phoenix AZ. There is close access to numerous trails for mountain biking and hiking in the beautiful Sonoran Desert! This spot is partial hookup with water and both 30 amp and 50 amp power. There is a dumping station approximately 2 miles away for your septic needs. Enjoy the beauty of the nearby desert and mountains. It is common to hear the coyotes and owls and other wildlife at night. The javelina herd often passes through as well as an occasional bobcat. Feel free to say hello to Luna, our Belgian Malinois! She hangs out in our fenced-in backyard which is separate from the RV location! Welcome!

Pinnacle Farms South

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents7 acres · Laveen, AZ

Pinnacle Farms is a diverse orchard with over 1200 fruit trees on 7 acres nestled at the base of South Mountain in Phoenix's old agriculturally diverse Laveen area. A well kept secret, Laveen is only about 10 minutes by car to downtown restaurants and events, while having a rural feel, and the mountain preserves are within walking or biking distance.

Saguaro Cactus Forrest

5 sites · RVs5 acres · New River, AZ

ASK ABOUT OUR FALL PROMTIONAL DISOUNT. THANK YOU REPEAT & LONG TERM GUEST We are situated adjacent to state land that displays a majestic Saguaro forest in the mountains. It is a short walk to lots of trails and spectacular views. RV hookups with only three sites so not crowded. Water and electrical hookups 30 or 50 amp. You will love the views and the hiking. We are also not far from grocery stores, and outlet mall and restaurants. EASY ACCESS WITH LARGE TRAILERS.

Marguerita Ranch

4 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Cave Creek, AZ

Want to feel like you're in the middle of nowhere but be only 1 mile from town? Pitch your tent or park your camper among numerous towering Saguaro Cactus and stunning mountain views. Bring your camera or your horses! Perfect spot for relaxing, stargazing, and a fantastic view of the famous AZ sunsets! My 2.2-acre private horse ranch has mountain views in all directions, a large private campsite, and 8 rescue horses, 2 donkeys, and 5 pigs to meet and greet on the property. Please note we are located in a neighborhood so please respect the neighbors. There are hiking/horseback riding trails right off of my property that take you to the Spur Cross Conservation Area, or you can head 10 minutes north to the trailhead. The Black Mountain Hiking Trail is also awesome, you can see the whole valley from the top! Or, you can even ride your horses to the cowboy bars in town! Note: I have 2 spots available: 1 Campsite; 1 Glamping Trailer. I will try to block off campsites that are not in use after your booking in order to keep the site as private as possible. Wanting some adventure? Lake Pleasant, Bartlett Lake, Tonto National Forest, Seven Springs, and more are all just a easy drive from the ranch. Need to stock up on supplies? Walmart, Lowes, Home Depot, Tractor Supply and more are just a 10-minute drive. Want to explore a unique cowboy town? Cave Creek is an Old West-style town where it’s just as common to see horseback riders trotting along Main Street as it is to see a motorcycle cruising by. There is a variety of shops, restaurants, and great drinks. It's easy to find something you'll love! Please note that landscape varies depending on time of year and rain. There will be no green grass in the summertime. Tag us on instagram! @margueritaranch Horse corral (50 ft roundpen) available to rent at extra cost. Message me!!

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

Superstition Ridgeline Trail. Accessible from campground.

100%

(13)

Lost Dutchman State Park

Apache Junction, Arizona

90%

(39)

Tonto National Forest

Tonto Basin, Arizona

92%

(30)

Prescott National Forest

Prescott, Arizona

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping near Phoenix with horseback riding guide

Overview

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.

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.