Camping is a great way to enjoy fresh air and open spaces. Lake Pleasant has the facilities to make your camping stay a healthy and memorable one. With 148 RV and tent camping sites, both developed and semi-developed, Lake Pleasant Regional Park is a great place to camp. All campground reservations are made through Maricopa County Parks, which operates Lake Pleasant Regional Park.

Campgrounds

Desert Tortoise Campground has 76 campsites, 25 Developed Sites, 41 semi-developed sites, and 10 tent sites.

Roadrunner Campground and Picnic Area offer 72 sites for RV and tent camping. All sites are developed. The campground is a fantastic spot for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors with a few comforts. With sites that come equipped with water and electric hookups, you can enjoy the beauty of nature without sacrificing too much convenience.

Large groups can reserve the Desert Tortoise Group Campground. The Group Campground includes a parking area for RV's, picnic tables, and ramadas. The use of this area is by reservation only and requires a commitment of 10 units.

Restroom and shower facilities are available at both types of campsites. Lake Pleasant Regional Park also has shoreline/primitive camping during most of the year, depending on water levels.

For information on camping fees and reservations, click here: https://www.exploremaricopacountyparks.org/maricopa/reservation/campgrounds

Learn more about camping at Lake Pleasant

To camp near Scorpion Bay at Lake Pleasant, make reservations for the 148-site Lake Pleasant Regional Park, which offers developed and semi-developed RV and tent sites with amenities like water, electricity, and grills. Alternatively, find free dispersed camping on BLM land past the park, where you must pack out all trash and adhere to the 14-day stay limit. 

Designated camping at Lake Pleasant Regional Park 

• Fees: Park entry is $15-$40 per night (not including group options). Free (dispersed) camping (boondocking) 
• Important: Do not camp in front of private property or along the shoreline. 

Safety and regulations 

• Water safety: When boating or swimming, wear life jackets, swim with others, and know that the water depth can fluctuate significantly on a man-made lake.
• Camping rules: Never camp within 200 feet of a trail unless it's a designated campsite.
• Wildlife: Lake Pleasant is home to snakes and other wildlife, so be cautious, especially near the water, as they can adapt to boat ramps, shorelines, and shallow coves.
• Heat: Spring and summer are hot. Be aware of the signs of heat-related illnesses and stay hydrated.
• Alcohol: Avoid caffeinated and alcoholic drinks, especially when boating.
• Check for updates: Always check Scorpion Bay Marina and Lake Pleasant Regional Park websites for the most current information. 

Alternatives to camping 

• Floating cabins: Scorpion Bay Marina offers floating cabins with amenities like kitchens, private patios, and wet slips for boats.

Scorpion Bay is Arizona’s premier floating playground, offering everything from daily pontoon and ski boat rentals to slips for harboring your yacht (or dinghy). Come for the fishing or come for the frolicking—either way, incredible mountain views, fantastic dining and world-class marina services await less than an hour out of Phoenix. https://www.scorpionbayaz.com/