Usery Mountain Regional Park Camping

Usery Mountain Regional Park, located on the eastern edge of Mesa, Arizona, is a premier destination for desert camping and outdoor recreation. Just a short drive from Phoenix, this Maricopa County park offers an ideal mix of natural beauty, convenient amenities, and year-round access, making it one of the top spots for camping in Arizona.

Campsite Features and Amenities

The Buckhorn Campground at Usery Mountain Regional Park has 73 spacious campsites designed for tents, trailers, and RVs up to 45 feet in length. All sites include water and electric hookups, a paved parking area, picnic table, fire ring, and grill. While sewer hookups are not provided at individual campsites, a conveniently located dump station is available for use.

Campers will appreciate the clean, modern restrooms with flush toilets and hot showers, as well as the availability of drinking water and trash collection. Cell service is generally strong across the campground, but there is no public Wi-Fi. Pets are allowed, and many sites offer shade and scenic views of the surrounding mountains.

Group Camping Options

Usery Mountain Regional Park also offers two group camping areas perfect for scout groups, family reunions, or other large gatherings. Each group site includes a large ramada with six picnic tables, a shared patio area, and access to restrooms with hot showers. Note that RV hookups are not available in the group sites, and a minimum of six camping units is required to reserve a group area for dry camping.

Popular Activities and Trails

The park spans over 3,600 acres in the Sonoran Desert and features more than 29 miles of multi-use trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Trails range in difficulty from easy loops ideal for families to more challenging hikes for seasoned adventurers. Popular easy trails include:

• Merkle Trail – fully accessible and stroller-friendly

• Blevins Trail – 3.0 miles round trip

• Chain Fruit – 1.0 mile

• Lost Sheep – 1.6 miles

• Moon Rock – 1.4 miles

For those traveling with kids, the Merkle Trail is especially recommended thanks to its barrier-free design. Trail maps and additional recommendations can be found at the park’s Nature Center, where friendly staff offer guidance and educational displays about native wildlife.

Nature Center and Educational Opportunities

The park’s Nature Center is an eco-conscious facility built with sustainable materials and green technologies. Open year-round (hours vary seasonally), the center features a gift shop, interactive exhibits, and live desert animals. Amphitheaters, patios, and classrooms at the Nature Center can also be rented for special events.

Campground Reservations and Entry Fees

Reservations for campsites can be made online through the Maricopa County Parks website. Due to the park’s popularity, especially in the cooler months from November through April, advance booking is highly recommended.

Entry fees are $7 per vehicle or $2 per person for those walking or biking in. There is no additional fee for campers beyond the reservation cost.

Additional Considerations

Campers should be aware that a nearby shooting range may occasionally produce audible gunfire during the day. While some guests find it noticeable, it typically does not detract from the overall experience, which includes spectacular sunsets, stargazing, and abundant wildlife.

The elevation of the campground is approximately 1,330 feet, offering mild winter temperatures and warm but manageable conditions in the summer. The campground is open year-round, and many visitors return season after season thanks to the excellent facilities and scenic surroundings.

Why Camp at Usery Mountain Regional Park?

Whether you're a seasoned RV traveler, weekend tent camper, or first-time visitor, Usery Mountain Regional Park offers an unforgettable camping experience. With its blend of well-maintained sites, accessible trails, family-friendly amenities, and proximity to the Phoenix metro area, it’s no surprise that this park is considered one of Arizona’s best camping destinations.

For more information or to make a reservation, visit the official Maricopa County Parks website or contact the park at (602) 506-2930 ext. 4.