There is no denying that Phoenix has a stunning landscape, but it might surprise you to learn that this beautiful desert is also home to many great camping spots. Cooler temperatures and higher elevations are just a short drive away in some cases. You will find numerous hiking paths, mountain bike trails, lakes, and rivers once you’re out of central Phoenix. If you’re looking to turn some of these activities into a multi-day adventure, here are three cool Phoenix-area camping spots to check out.
Salt River
Salt River is a short drive from Phoenix and offers a wide variety of outdoor activities. The wilderness area encompasses over 32,000 acres and the river and its canyon bisect the area. Elevations in the Salt River area can range from 2,200 feet to 4,200 feet at White Ledge Mountain.
If you plan to do any river running, permits are mandatory from March 1 through May 15. You’ll need to plan ahead as the application period is only open from December 1 through January 31.
Salt River offers wildlife spotting and bird watching opportunities, and fishing enthusiasts will find plenty of stocked fish along the river south of Saguaro Lake.
Be sure to check the rules of specific campgrounds, as some only allow overnight camping from mid-October to mid-April. Summer months may be reserved for day use only in some campgrounds.
Monument Valley
Although it’s about 300 miles away from the center of Phoenix, it’s worth the trek for some of the best camping in Arizona. The iconic landscape of Monument Valley has been featured in numerous movies over the years.
There are several campsites in the region, ranging from tent camping to RV hookups if you aren’t keen on truly “roughing it.” Choose a location that provides views of the area’s signature rock formations, and be sure to bring your camera and tripod, as this area is superb for astrophotography.
Lake Pleasant Regional Park
This popular lake area is situated on over 23,000 acres and offers camping right in the park. Lake Pleasant offers nearly 150 sites for tent or RV camping. Each site is developed and has water and electricity, barbecue grill, picnic table, dump station, covered ramada, and more.
Activities here include fishing, swimming, hiking, boating, wildlife viewing, and more. It’s best to make reservations before going, as it is a popular spot for Arizona residents during the summer months.
Be mindful that Maricopa County Parks and Recreation activated its annual fire ban on May 1st. This is to help limit the possibility of brush fires in the region. Guests are banned from using campfires, fire pits, and charcoal grills. Gas /propane grills are allowed in designated areas.
If you’re planning a camping adventure this summer, you’ll find no shortage of camping spots in Arizona. If you’re looking for a quick weekend getaway from Phoenix, there are several spots nearby. However, if you’ve got some extra time, venture out a little further to camp under the stars at some of Arizona’s most iconic spots.
“USA – Monument Valley” via Flickr by Christian Keller. Used with permission via CC BY 2.0 / cropped from original
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