Mesquite (Az)

Star4.64
11 reviews
40202 N Cave Creek Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85262
Mesquite (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...
Show more
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

Share this campground
Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
(480) 595-3300

About this campground

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.
Advertisement

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.

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 forecast

68
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Humidity: 52%

Moderately humid conditions

Wind: 3.5 mph

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Clear sky

7 day forecast

Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

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.

Camper Reviews

4.6
11 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
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...
Show more
Based on 11 reviews

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...
Show more
Based on 11 reviews

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...
Show more
Based on 11 reviews

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 reviews

Camper 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...
Show more
Based on 11 reviews

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 reviews

Accessibility Features

No reviews specifically address accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 11 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No reviews specifically address experiences with pets or pet-related policies.
Based on 11 reviews

Last updated November 24, 2025
Advertisement

Nearby Campgrounds

Campgrounds you may also like

Popular campgrounds in Arizona

Campgrounds
Tonto National Forest
Mesquite (Az)