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Usery Mountain (Maricopa County Park)
Overview
Usery Mountain Regional Park offers a sprawling 3,648-acre desert escape on the western edge of the Goldfield Mountains. It is widely considered one of the premier Maricopa County Parks because of its stunning desert landscape and meticulously maintained facilities. RVers often flock here to experience the authentic beauty of the Sonoran Desert while remaining remarkably close to the amenities of the East Valley. The park provides a quiet, serene atmosphere where giant saguaros and dramatic rock formations take center stage throughout the year.
Location & Surroundings
Situated in Mesa, Arizona, the park serves as a scenic gateway to the vast Tonto National Forest. It sits at an elevation that offers slightly cooler breezes and panoramic valley views, especially during the vibrant Arizona sunsets. The surrounding terrain is characterized by rugged volcanic peaks and lush desert vegetation that changes with the seasons. While it feels like a remote wilderness, the park is a short drive from major highways, making it an ideal base for exploring the Salt River Valley and the surrounding metropolitan areas.
Amenities & Park Features
The campground features 73 individual sites, many of which are specifically designed to accommodate large motorhomes and fifth wheels. Each site is equipped with water and electrical hookups, a picnic table, and a dedicated fire ring for evening gatherings. On-site facilities include:
- Clean restrooms and modern shower facilities
- A convenient RV dump station for guest use
- A dedicated nature center with educational programs
- An archery range and multi-use staging areas
The park is well-regarded for its spacious layouts, ensuring that neighbors have plenty of room to enjoy their personal outdoor space without feeling crowded.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Outdoor enthusiasts will find endless recreation, starting with the famous Wind Cave Trail, which leads to a scenic alcove with breathtaking views of the valley below. The park also boasts over 29 miles of multi-use trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Just a short drive away, visitors can enjoy kayaking or fishing at Saguaro Lake. For a taste of the Old West, the nearby Goldfield Ghost Town offers a fun and educational glimpse into Arizona's rich mining history and rugged frontier past.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is ideal for active outdoor adventurers who prioritize trail access and rugged natural beauty over commercial resort amenities. It is a favorite for birdwatchers and photographers looking to capture the iconic desert flora and fauna in their natural habitat. Families and seasonal travelers will appreciate the safe environment and the vibrant nighttime skies, which are perfect for stargazing. It strikes a perfect balance for those who want a rustic desert feel with easy access to city services in Mesa.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Flippin' Fabulous Traveler
Great regional park if you visit the Phoenix, Tempe, Mesa, Gilbert/Chandler area. Safe for solo travelers. Trails are well marked. I did the Noso trail, Merle, and Desert Hawk trail on Day 1 (spent a few hours enjoying scenery). Day 2 (AM) - Wind Cave Trail. Give yourself a few hours. Difficult trail, somewhat well marked, use GPS signal or apps. Well worth it! The chipmunks on cave are friendly too.
Cathy S
First time camping here and we loved it. Easy to get to, the camping spaces are nicely spread out and it was absolutely BEAUTIFUL! Easy hiking trails with signage detailing the types of cactus. There is a walkable nature center showcasing some critters of the desert too. Park entrance fee, electric and water hookups, and 2 dump sites included. The bathroom and shower facilities are well kept and plentiful. We will be back!
Sandi Cumberland
By far one of our favorite places to camp. Lovely surroundings, spaces are not close together, and lots of activities available- archery, shooting range, hiking, biking. So very close to town, but far enough away to feel away from it all. Great staff and programs, too. Just be careful of the jumping cactus.
Ursula S
The GREATEST place to hike. Brought a dog and hiked the Blevins Trail and Cat's Peak. The views were breathtaking! The desert was so green and surrounding mountains made it magical. And I've hiked a considerable amount. Heard the Wind Tunnel Trail here is good too. Costs $7 per CAR to enter. The trails are shared with mountain bikers and horses, but everyone was respectful. Bathrooms available at the trailhead. Lots of parking. Not much shade out there! I hiked the day after Thanksgiving. Don't know if I'd do it in summer. Trails are well marked but I still used the All Trails app. Magical place. Bring water.
L H
This park is a large, beautiful place. With many different lengths of trails to choose from. There's also a large variety of cacti and desert plants. There's also many butterflies and birds. The whole place is well maintained.