Mesquite (Az)
4.6411 reviews40202 N Cave Creek Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85262
Quick Facts
Price
$16/night
Booking
First-Come
Sites
12 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
Price
$16/night
Booking
First-Come
Sites
12 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsMesquite (Az)
$16.00 - $16.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Campsites cost $16 per night per site. America the Beautiful Senior or Access Disability passholders are eligible for a 50% discount. Pass must be...
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Standard Site Fee$16.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$16.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider(480) 595-3300
What Campers Say
4.64
Top-Rated
Based on 11 reviews
33 Google reviews
Most mentioned
privacyquietshadelocation
"The campground is celebrated for its serene and picturesque atmosphere, shaded campsites, and proximity to the Verde River, making it ideal for swimming and fishing. However, there are concerns about the lack of maintenance for vault toilets, occasional disputes over campsite availability, and the presence of unusual individuals in the area."
Fees & Passes at Mesquite (Az)
$16/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: 14-day stay limit
Cancellation: This campground is strictly first-come, first-served. No reservations are permitted. Cancellation po...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Tonto National Forest website.
Best Time to Camp at Mesquite (Az)
Winter and early spring transform Mesquite Campground into a desert oasis with ideal camping conditions. Picture yourself basking in comfortable 60-degree days perfect for hiking and exploring, while crisp nights dip to a refreshing 26-35°F – just right for cozying up around the campfire with hot cocoa and stargazing. Seasoned campers often find themselves surprised by the desert's cool winter evenings, making that extra blanket a welcome companion. As summer approaches, the desert heat intensifies, turning the mesquite shade into precious real estate and the Verde River into your personal cooling station.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: Not explicitly specified, though user reviews and weather data suggest late winter through early spring may be ideal due to favorable temperatures.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Year-round availability.
- Current Alerts: User reviews mentioned a wildfire in 2019, but no current alerts were specified.
About Mesquite (Az)
Escape to Mesquite Campground, where ancient mesquite trees cast cooling shadows over your riverside retreat along the Verde River. This first-come, first-served gem offers an authentic camping experience with thoughtfully placed fire rings, grills, and picnic tables at each site, creating the perfect basecamp for your outdoor adventures. Days here unfold with endless possibilities – cast a line into the river's flowing waters, take a refreshing swim, or paddle quietly in non-motorized boats while the desert landscape watches over you. When you arrive, simply scan the Recreation.gov QR code or use the convenient fee machine to secure your spot in this natural sanctuary.
Mesquite Campground offers primitive camping options for tents and RVs. The sites emphasize a natural, rustic experience.
Weather and SeasonsWinter and early spring transform Mesquite Campground into a desert oasis with ideal camping conditions. Picture yourself basking in comfortable 60-degree days perfect for hiking and exploring, while crisp nights dip to a refreshing 26-35°F – just right for cozying up around the campfire with hot cocoa and stargazing. Seasoned campers often find themselves surprised by the desert's cool winter evenings, making that extra blanket a welcome companion. As summer approaches, the desert heat intensifies, turning the mesquite shade into precious real estate and the Verde River into your personal cooling station.
Natural Features and SceneryBeneath a cathedral canopy of sprawling mesquite trees, Mesquite Campground offers a rare desert refuge where shade is abundant and the soundtrack is pure nature. The Verde River meanders alongside the campground, its waters creating a ribbon of life through the arid landscape – inviting swimmers to cool off, anglers to try their luck, and creating a serene backdrop that campers consistently describe as profoundly peaceful. This natural sanctuary showcases the unexpected beauty of Arizona's riparian corridors, where desert meets water in perfect harmony.
Geological RegionNestled in Arizona's remarkable Verde River corridor, Mesquite Campground sits at the intersection of desert and riparian ecosystems. Here, the life-giving Verde River carves through ancient desert terrain, creating a lush oasis dominated by majestic mesquite groves. The nearby Horseshoe Reservoir adds another dimension to this water-rich desert environment, offering expanded recreational opportunities in a region where such aquatic playgrounds are precious gems. This unique geological setting provides visitors with the rare chance to experience the desert's softer side, where water transforms the landscape into something magical.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThere is no specific information about accessibility features for individuals with disabilities. The road to the campground is unpaved and recommended for high-clearance 4WD vehicles, which may limit accessibility.
Sites SizeStandard-sized campsites accommodating up to 10 people and 3 vehicles per site.
Sites PrivacySites are well-shaded under mesquite trees, offering a sense of privacy. However, the first-come, first-served policy means visitors may encounter disputes over availability.
Total Campsites12 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites closer to the river are favored for scenic views and proximity to aquatic activities. Privacy levels may vary.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
Reveal picks
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
12:00 pm
Check-out
10:00 am
Stay Limit
14-day stay limit
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy per individual campsite is 10.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes 12 individual campsites with fire rings, grills, and picnic tables. Sites are positioned near the Verde River for privacy and views.
Open and Closed SeasonYear-round availability.
Reservation PlatformsNot applicable as reservations are not allowed. Payment via Recreation.gov QR code or fee machine is possible.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll 12 campsites operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Visitors must physically arrive on-site to purchase and claim a site.
Cancellation PolicyThis campground is strictly first-come, first-served. No reservations are permitted. Cancellation policies for reserved sites were provided generically but do not apply to this campground.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Mesquite Campground provides a range of outdoor activities centered around its proximity to the Verde River and surrounding natural features. Campers can fish, swim, hike, and engage in non-motorized boating such as kayaking and canoeing. Off-road vehicle trails and opportunities for wildlife observation enhance the outdoor experience.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available nearby, offering opportunities for exploration and nature photography. Laurie Rothe commented, "Lots of hiking and exploring. The kids climbed trees, played by the water, and never ran out of fun activities."Fishing
Fishing is allowed in the Verde River near the campground, though specific details about fish species are not provided.Swimming
The Verde River, located a short distance from the campsites, offers swimming opportunities in its deeper portions.Boating
Non-motorized boating such as kayaking and canoeing is permitted on the Verde River. However, motorized watercraft are prohibited on flowing sections of the river.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife observation is a potential activity, as noted by a user review that highlighted the area's natural beauty and opportunities to connect with nature.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not officially outlined, but overnight temperatures in winter can drop to as low as 26°F, as noted by a user who camped in December.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and canoeing are supported on the Verde River.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated fire rings.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 pm to 6:00 am.
Hazards
General hazardsRoad access can be challenging due to unpaved conditions requiring high-clearance and four-wheel-drive vehicles. The area is remote, and portions of the Verde River are deep, posing potential safety risks. User reviews mention wildlife such as bugs and lizards, as well as the occasional presence of strange individuals.
Active alertsUser reviews mentioned a wildfire in 2019, but no current alerts were specified.
Weather at Mesquite (Az)
70
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
No significant wind
Humidity: 27%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 0 mph
No significant wind
Clear sky
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
Powered by AI weather analysis
Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are likely located in nearby towns such as Scottsdale or Carefree. Specific emergency services (hospitals, police stations) were not detailed.
Good to know
Peak season datesNot explicitly specified, though user reviews and weather data suggest late winter through early spring may be ideal due to favorable temperatures.
Trash and recyclingNo trash services are provided; campers must pack out all waste.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is near the Verde River, providing swimming, fishing, and non-motorized boating access.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints include poor road conditions, lack of potable water, and the absence of trash services. Bathrooms are described as 'pretty nasty' and 'well-maintained,' indicating varying experiences.
Campground Map
40202 N Cave Creek Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85262
Driving directionsFrom Carefree, take Cave Creek Road to Bartlett Dam Road. Turn right and continue for 6 miles to the junction of FR 205 and FR 19. Continue on FR 205 which turns left and becomes an un-maintained, unpaved road to Horseshoe Reservoir. Continue approximately 9 miles more on FR 205, following the route to Horseshoe Reservoir. Watch for the sign marking the site.
The road to the campground is unpaved and unmaintained, requiring high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicles. It is not recommended for trailers. Washboard dirt roads can be challenging for vehicles with poor suspension.Nearby places
Carefree (22 miles northeast, approximate driving time not specified)
Cave Creek (distance not specified)
Nearby supplies
The nearest fee machine for purchasing camping passes is located at the Cave Creek Ranger Station
other supply sources not mentioned.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.6
11 reviews
Mesquite (Az) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is celebrated for its serene and picturesque atmosphere, shaded campsites, and proximity to the Verde River, making it ideal for swimming and fishing. However, there are concerns about the lack of maintenance for vault toilets, occasional disputes over campsite availability, and the presence of unusual individuals in the area.
Review Summaries
Based on 11 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers appreciate the natural beauty, privacy, and shaded campsites. Laurie Rothe stated, "The kids climbed trees, played by the water, and never ran out of fun activities." Another user described...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the poor condition of the vault toilets, occasional litter, and disputes over site claims due to the first-come, first-served policy. Philip Smith shared a bizarre...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own potable water and firewood. A high-clearance 4WD vehicle is recommended for the unmaintained, dirt-road access. Be prepared for self-sufficiency, including managing your trash. Laurie...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter camping is noted for its cold nights, with temperatures dropping to the 20s. In summer, campers should prepare for a dry climate and limited shade outside of the mesquite canopies.
Based on 11 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "Camping is awesome out here. We had no neighbors, our own access to a rushing swimming area." - Chris Renshaw
2. "This is a beautiful camping area right above the river! It is quiet and remote...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific site numbers are not mentioned, but disputes over site claims due to the first-come, first-served policy are highlighted in user reviews.
Based on 11 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 11 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically address experiences with pets or pet-related policies.
Based on 11 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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