Coyotes call across the desert landscape at McDowell Mountain Regional Park, where 23,000 acres of Sonoran terrain stretch between the McDowell and Superstition Mountains. This county-managed campground provides both RV sites with electric and water hookups and tent camping areas, all positioned to take in views of the surrounding mountain ranges and desert floor.
Campers consistently note the spacious layout and privacy between sites. Robin found "a lot of space between each site for privacy" during her stay. The campground maintains flush toilets and hot showers, though some visitors report occasional issues with water temperature and lighting in the facilities. Sites fill quickly due to demand, so advance reservations prove essential for securing preferred spots.
Mountain biking draws many visitors to the park's extensive trail network. The paths wind through cacti and desert vegetation, offering rides that range from beginner-friendly to challenging climbs. Hikers also find well-marked trails throughout the property, with wildlife sightings common along the routes. The park's nature center features educational displays and even houses pet rattlesnakes for visitors to observe.
Desert camping means limited shade and potential for strong winds, particularly during certain seasons. Temperature swings can be dramatic, with scorching daytime heat giving way to surprisingly cold nights. The campground sits close enough to Fountain Hills for supply runs, and from many sites, campers can spot the town's famous fountain cycling every hour. For additional camping options in the region, visitors can explore places to camp around Rio Verde.
The combination of accessible amenities, extensive recreational opportunities, and genuine desert atmosphere makes this park well-suited for both RV travelers seeking hookups and tent campers comfortable with exposed desert conditions.
Description
Set in the northeast Valley of metro Phoenix, McDowell Mountain Regional Park covers 21,099 acres in the lower Verde River basin. Campers choose from 76 individual sites for tent or RV camping, which can accommodate up to a 45-foot RV. These developed sites have water and electrical hook-ups, plus a dump station, picnic table, and barbecue fire ring, while all restrooms offer flush toilets and showers. Group camping is also available.
McDowell Mountain activities range from biking, hiking, and horseback riding on over 50 miles of multi-use trails to picnicking, stargazing, and plenty of park-organized programs and events.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Dispersed CampingMcDowell Mountain Regional Park is located in Arizona
Directions
16300 McDowell Mountain Park Dr., MMRP, AZ 85268
Address
16300 McDowell Mountain Park Dr
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
Coordinates
33.69365582 N
111.7294874 W
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 4/3/26
- Verizon5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 10 usersLast on 4/3/26
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 7 usersLast on 2/16/26
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 4/3/26
- Verizon5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 10 usersLast on 4/3/26
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 7 usersLast on 2/16/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Showers
- Electric Hookups
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Water Hookups
- Pull-Through Sites
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
Contact
General Info
Reservations
Drive Time
- 50 min from Phoenix, AZ
- 1 hr 48 min from Prescott Valley, AZ
- 2 hrs 13 min from Tucson, AZ
- 2 hrs 31 min from Flagstaff, AZ
























