Okay admit it. When you think of RV “snowbirds” you think of Arizona. Perhaps Phoenix, Arizona in particular? This southwest city is a very popular winter destination for those seeking warmer temperatures during the frigid winter months.
Phoenix accommodates these who leave the cold weather behind every year in favor of warmer temperatures.
There is a wide range of RV campground types available to those who travel in RVs. From basic and affordable parks to high-end resorts with all the amenities included. And Phoenix has them all. Whether you are looking for inexpensive rates, hiking trails, picturesque views of the desert and mountains, or leisure activities for the whole family, there is a park for you.
Below are just a few fantastic places to camp in the Phoenix area. Sure, they aren’t the typical RV park, but they definitely are on the WILD SIDE.
This park is located on the eastern side of Phoenix about a 30 minute drive from Scottsdale. It has the feeling of a desert playground…right next to a major metropolitan area. Usery Mountain has 73 total sites with large sitting areas and gravel pads that are big enough for RVs up to 45-feet. In addition, the campground offers a dump station, updated bathrooms, and an overflow area available on a first-come basis.
The trails at Usery Mountain Regional park offer over 30 miles for biking, hiking, and horseback riding. Here you can enjoy great views and the mild Arizona winter weather. The trails vary in length and skill level so there is something for everyone! Whether you want an easy bike ride, or a wide, windy path around a natural landscape of cacti, there is something suitable for your skill level. So what makes Usery Mountain the WILD SIDE of Phoenix? I guess you could say the proximity to nature’s beauty. This RV campground puts you in the “thick of things.”
In addition, just twelve miles north of this park is Saguaro Lake. Here you will see a beautiful blue desert oasis surrounded by burnt red canyon walls and Saguaro cactus. Some of the activities available at the lake include: fishing, lounging on the shore, and tasting the local cuisine. There is also a 90 minute paddle boat tour where the passengers learn about the desert, lakes, mountains, etc. in the area.
On the east edge of Phoenix is where you will find this state park. It has miles and miles of trails, stunning views, and beautiful scenery. Lost Dutchman State park has a total of 134 campsites. 68 are equipped with water and electricity hookups. They all come with a parking pad big enough for hanging out by the fire. The sizes vary, but most will fit RVs up to 45-feet long. Amenities include a dump station and large individual showers.
The trails at the Lost Dutchman State park vary in length and difficulty. A medium-difficulty trail is the Treasure Loop Trail which is 2.5 miles round trip. It climbs up a slope of the Superstition mountain range and crosses over a classic Sonoran desert landscape. A more difficult trail is the Siphon Draw Trail, which is 4 miles round trip. It winds up into a canyon where you can view the city below. It is absolutely breathtaking.
The nearby town of Tortilla Flat is worth visiting while you are in Lost Dutchman State Park. There are only six permanent residents, and it consists of one single street. I call that the WILD SIDE!
This park is located on the northeast edge of the city. It is spacious and very well-maintained. The 76 sites are bordered by the foothills of the McDowell mountains on one side and the McDowell Sonoran Preserve on the other. Some sites accommodate RVs up to 45-feet long. There is a dump station onsite along with large individual showers and a playground for the children.
McDowell Mountain Regional Park has over 50 miles of trails for mountain biking enthusiasts. The trails can also be used for hiking and horseback riding. The trails vary greatly in length and are all wide with gentle curves. There are an endless variety of trails to choose from, which means how far you want to go is up to you.
The nearby community of Fountain Hills is definitely worth a visit! Watch the world famous 560-foot tall fountain in action as it shoots water in the air every 15 minutes. Fountain Park has a playground, disk golf, and stroller-friendly walkways.
Phoenix is more than a warm place to escape the cold weather. Give one of these public parks a try and discover a side of Phoenix you never knew existed.
Which park looks the most interesting to you? Where would you like to park your RV? Would you prefer to explore on a bike, horseback, or ATV? Leave your thoughts in the comment box below, then share this article with your friends and family! They will all want to join you. Tweet it, pin it, email it and like it. Help us spread the word about these amazing parks!
