McDowell Mountain Regional Park sits on 21,099 acres of pristine Sonoran Desert, offering 76 campsites with restrooms, showers, and water hookups. The park features excellent hiking trails, including connections to the McDowell Mountain Preserve, and serves as a solid basecamp for exploring the Phoenix area. Sites fill up during peak season (November-March), so reservations are smart.
Access is fully paved off Fountain Hills Boulevard. The park stays open year-round, though summer camping can be brutal. Decent cell coverage throughout. Fire restrictions vary seasonally — check current status before arrival.
Phoenix area's premier desert camping destination
Place Details
| Type | Established Campground |
|---|---|
| Street address | McDowell Mountain Park Drive, Arizona Get directions → |
| Elevation (ft) | 1800 ft |
| Nearest town | Fountain Hills, AZ |
| Miles from pavement | 0 mi |
| Minimum vehicle | Any vehicle |
| Access road surface | Paved |
| Cell service | Full |
| Capacity (# of rigs) | 76 rigs |
| Cost (USD/night, 0 = free) | $30.00 / night |
| Reservation required | Yes — Reservation site |
| Stay limit (nights) | 14 nights |
| Best season | October-April |
| Land manager | County |
| Permit required | No |
| Amenities | Cell signal, Drinking water, Dump station, Fire ring, Hookups, Picnic table, Shade, Showers, Toilets, Trash service |
| Coordinates | Open directions |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |