Last fall, Maricopa County's Parks and Recreation Department gathered public input as part of its fee and master planning studies. A consistent theme across both efforts was residents' desire for earlier access to campsite reservations, ahead of out-of-state visitors who often secure a large share of available sites.
Under current reservation policies, campsites may be booked up to six months in advance of the arrival date through an online reservation system. After reviewing public feedback and reservation data, Maricopa County Parks and Recreation is pleased to introduce a new benefit for local residents: earlier access to campsite reservations ahead of those who reside outside Maricopa County.
“This update ensures Maricopa County residents have prioritized access to enjoy their parks and campgrounds,” said Chair Kate Brophy McGee, Maricopa County Board of Supervisors, District 3.
Effective April 29, Maricopa County residents will now have the opportunity to book campsites up to two weeks earlier than out-of-county visitors, expanding access to the County’s popular campgrounds, especially during peak seasons. Visitors residing outside the County will continue to follow the standard six-month reservation window.
"Our parks are a valued community resource, and this change reflects our commitment to serving the residents who call Maricopa County home," said Vice Chair Debbie Lesko, Maricopa County Board of Supervisors, District 4. "We're proud to continue welcoming visitors from across the country while also creating earlier access for those who live here."
Maricopa County's regional park system currently offers 453 campsites:
- Cave Creek Regional Park — 55 campsites
- Lake Pleasant Regional Park — 173 campsites
- McDowell Mountain Regional Park — 92 campsites
- Usery Mountain Regional Park — 73 campsites
- White Tank Mountain Regional Park — 60 campsites
Visitors can choose from a variety of camping experiences, from RV sites to more rustic desert settings.
"Our regional park system continues to see strong demand for camping, with additional campgrounds under development at Estrella Mountain Regional Park and Vulture Mountains Recreation Area," added Jennifer Waller, Maricopa County Parks and Recreation Director. To learn more about the campgrounds and availability, visit www.exploremaricopacountyparks.org/.
At approximately 120,000 acres, Maricopa County is home to one of the largest regional park systems in the United States. The parks are located throughout the County and are all within a 45-minute drive of downtown Phoenix. For more information, call (602) 506-2930 or visit www.maricopa.gov/parks.