McDowell Mountain Regional Park campground is located on the Northeast slope of the McDowell Mountains near the Verde River just outside Phoenix and Scottsdale. The campground is a medium-sized developed campground in the large square park. The park is run by Maricopa County and is one of several large county parks in the Phoenix metro area. The area around the campground offers long trails that attract people for activities like mountain biking, horseback riding, and trail hiking.
Camping is available for tent and RV campers at McDowell Mountain Regional Park in two main loops. There are 76 widely-spaced developed campsites available. Each campsite offers a picnic table, fire ring, electric and water hookups, as well as access to bathrooms with showers.
McDowell Mountain Regional Park Campground Features
| Campground Type: | Organized |
| Number of Campsites: | 76 |
| Cost: |
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| Use Level: | Low – Medium |
| Dogs Allowed: | Yes |
| Fire Rings: | Yes |
| Drinking Water: | Yes |
| Toilets: | Yes |
| Showers: | Yes |
| Trash/Dumpsters: | Yes |
| Hiking Access: | Yes |
| Beach/Lake Access: | None |
| RV/Trailer Length: | 45 Feet |
| RV/Trailer Amenities: | Water and Electrical Hookups |
| Cell Phone Service: | Yes |
| Wifi: | None |
| Operating Season: | Campground open year-round |
| Other: |
Getting There
| Address: | |
| Geo Coordinates: | 33.694486, -111.735524 |
| Nearest City/Town: | Fountain Hills, Arizona |
| Elevation: | 2050 Feet |
| Location: | Maricopa County, Arizona |
| Paved Road Access: | Yes |
| Proximity to Stores: | 5 Miles to Fountain Hills, Arizona |
| Directions: | From Scottsdale, head east on Shea Boulevard to Fountain Hills Boulevard. Turn left, and head north and drive for 4 miles. The road will turn into McDowell Mountain Road. Continue driving for another 4 miles to the campground. |
Connect
| Phone: | 480.471.0173 |
| Web: | Maricopa County Parks |
| Reservations: | via Maricopa County Parks |
When To Go
Spring – Winter – Spring and winter offer the best weather for camping in the desert, however this campground can fill up quickly with Snowbirds in the winter.
What To Do
Hiking, Biking, Horseback Riding – There are many multi-use trails available at McDowell Mountain Regional Park.
Stargazing – The location of McDowell Mountain Regional Park northeast of Phoenix protects it from some of the city lights and glare to allow for stargazing.
Image Credits: Becky Stern via Flickr