McDowell Mountain Regional Park Camping

McDowell Mountain Regional Park is a top destination for camping in Arizona, offering a tranquil desert experience just 20 miles northeast of Phoenix. Set in the lower Verde River Basin near Fountain Hills and Scottsdale, this 21,099-acre park delivers wide-open views, rugged landscapes, and direct access to over 50 miles of hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails.

Camping here means staying close to the scenic McDowell Mountains, a range of Miocene origin that holds cultural significance for the Yavapai people. Popular peaks like East End (4,069 feet), Tom’s Thumb, and Thompson Peak provide striking backdrops for outdoor enthusiasts year-round.

Campsites at McDowell Mountain Regional Park

The park has 92 individual campsites and several group camping options. Sites are spread across two main campgrounds—E.I. Rowland and Ironwood—and offer a variety of amenities for tents, trailers, and RVs up to 45 feet in length. Reservations for individual campsites can be made online through the Maricopa County Parks website.

E.I. Rowland Campground features 76 developed campsites with water and electric hookups (20, 30, and 50 amp service). These spacious sites include picnic tables, barbecue fire rings, and access to clean restrooms, showers, and a dump station.

Ironwood Campground offers 16 semi-developed sites for tent campers and small camping units (up to 16 feet). These rustic sites have picnic tables, fire rings, and a central restroom with a water spigot, but no hookups.

Overflow camping is available with limited amenities. While there are no hookups, electrical outlets are located in the nearby pavilion, allowing campers to recharge devices or use small appliances.

Group Camping at McDowell Mountain Regional Park

For larger gatherings, the park offers three group camping areas. These must be reserved in advance and usually require a minimum of five or six camping units for dry camping.

The Group Campground accommodates up to 30 RVs and includes flush toilets, hot showers, a large covered ramada, barbecue grills, and a fire ring.

The Trailhead Group Area is designed for even larger groups and is ideal for equestrian campers. It features two covered ramadas, picnic tables, grills, and a shared fire ring.

The Youth Group Area is perfect for scout groups and youth organizations. Amenities include a large parking area, port-a-johns, picnic tables, water, and a central fire ring.

Campground Amenities

McDowell Mountain Regional Park’s facilities are well-maintained and include:

• Restrooms with flush toilets

• Hot showers

• Drinking water stations

• Dump station

• Picnic tables and fire rings at each campsite

• BBQ grills

• ADA-accessible sites

• Pet-friendly policies (leashes required)

• Campground host on-site

• Firewood for sale at the Nature Center or through the camp host

• A playground and nature-themed educational center

Recreational Activities Near the Campsites

Campers have direct access to world-class recreation without ever leaving the park. The area is especially popular with mountain bikers, thanks to three competitive loops—Long Loop, Sport Loop, and Technical Loop—totaling 15 miles. These tracks are designed for serious riders and vary in difficulty, with rugged desert terrain and steep climbs.

For hikers and trail runners, more than 50 miles of trails wind through the park. Trails like the 3.1-mile North Trail and the 15.3-mile Pemberton Trail offer everything from gentle strolls to challenging routes. The Dixie Mine Trail is currently closed for construction in nearby Fountain Hills, so check for updates before planning your route.

Horseback riders can explore equestrian-friendly trails, and the Trailhead Group Area accommodates campers traveling with horses or mules.

Wildlife viewing is another highlight. Keep an eye out for deer, javelina, coyotes, and desert birds. The minimal light pollution also makes this park a prime stargazing location.

Camping Fees and Reservations

Campsites with water and electric hookups are $32 per night. Day-use entry is $7 per vehicle. Group camping rates vary and can be reserved up to a year in advance by contacting the park directly at 602-506-2930 (option #3).

Reservations for individual campsites can be made at maricopacountyparks.net.

Why Camp at McDowell Mountain Regional Park

McDowell Mountain Regional Park combines convenience, beauty, and adventure in one of Arizona’s best camping destinations. Whether you're in an RV, tent, or part of a large group, you'll find excellent amenities, clean facilities, and easy access to outdoor recreation in a peaceful desert setting. With spectacular views of Four Peaks, Weavers Needle, and the McDowell Mountains, every campsite offers a chance to connect with the natural beauty of the Sonoran Desert.

For campers looking to explore more regional options, nearby parks include White Tank Mountain Regional Park, Usery Mountain Regional Park, Cave Creek Regional Park, and Lost Dutchman State Park.