It’s easy to get overwhelmed by the endless options for enjoying the outdoors in the greater Phoenix area, so we put together a list of five high-quality camping options nearby for people of all camp experience, from tent campers happy to rough it to more particular travelers. 

Lost Dutchman State Park

Less than an hour from downtown Phoenix, the Lost Dutchman State Park has over 130 campsites with a variety of levels of amenities suitable for everyone from owners of luxurious RVs to minimalist tent campers looking to find a quick escape to nature without traveling far. The campground is situated at the base of the Superstition Mountains, which means you’ll have access to great hiking trails, pristine desert scenery, and beautiful sunset views. You’ll have a hard time believing you’re so close to humanity with the sort of serenity and seclusion! 6109 N Apache Trail, Apache Junction, AZ 85119

Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground

Boasting 150+ campsites, many of which are right on Lake Pleasant itself, the Lake Pleasant Campground may not have a ton in the way of amenities but makes up for it in terms of proximity to water (and water sports). If you own a boat or have a friend who does, this is a spot worth checking out! Low maintenance campers will be happy to take advantage of the variety of nature trails and enjoy sharing the space with the nearly 600 wild burros that call the park home. 41835 North Castle Hot Springs Road Morristown, Arizona 85342

Mogollon Campground

Located right outside the Woods Canyon Recreation area, Mogollon Campground is a hidden gem, great for hiking enthusiasts looking for a convenient and quiet place to stay nearby some of the most stunning views in the Phoenix area. Take in the landscape from above at the nearby Mogollon Rim, which offers a far-reaching look across a massive pine tree forest, and enjoy access to the nearby Woods Canyon Lake, a favorite for local fishing fanatics. Payson, AZ 85541

Apache Lake Campground

An elevated camping experience for those looking for a few more amenities while still enjoying the beauty and remoteness of camping in a National Forest, Apache Lake Campground is located within the Apache Lake Resort, which offers hotel rooms, boat rentals, and a restaurant. Friendly to both RV and tent campers, their campsites offer gorgeous views of Apache Lake and Indian Head mountain, a shady, slightly less remote oasis nearby some high quality outdoor activities. 229.5 Mile Marker, Roosevelt, AZ 85545

Under Canvas Grand Canyon

While it’s a bit of a drive North to the Grand Canyon, Under Canvas offers one of the best elevated camping (or “glamping,” if you must) experiences in the state. Acclaimed by travel writers nationwide, the Under Canvas experience is a luxurious one, giving visitors the chance to unplug and reconnect with their loved ones against a gorgeous backdrop. Their comprehensive concierge services and (optional) group activities like yoga, live music, and a community fire pit make every visit feel like a trip to grown-up summer camp. 979 Airpark Ln, Grand Canyon Junction, AZ 86046