Arizona is teeming with wonder. From the Sonoran Desert to the Santa Catalina Mountains, the banks of the Colorado River, and the limestone hills of the Whetstone Mountains, beauty and wildlife abound. One might believe magic is the true reason the iconic saguaro cactus exists, as the Sonoran Desert is the only place on earth where it grows. The proof is in the landscape - this place is special. With over 30 state parks located throughout, this southwestern gem makes for the ultimate RV road tripping destination.
La Mesa & Arizona State Parks and Trails
This year we partnered with Arizona State Parks and Trails to put RVing Arizona's state parks on the RV communities radar. Did you know that are 15 state parks that offer RV campgrounds? From Lake Havasu that lies on the boarder of California to Patagonia Lake that is a stones through from Mexico, the vast and expanding natural wonder of Arizona is begging to be explored.
During 2023 La Mesa will be RVing to each campground to bring RVers a first hand guide of each park. A perk, La Mesa offers three retail locations in Arizona. Stop by one of our storestoday to find your ideal adventure mobile and then get ready to explore the southwest. Come join us on this epic road trip. It's going to be a fun ride. First up, Lost Dutchman State Park.
A Guide to RVing Lost Dutchman State Park
The History
Dedicated in December of 1977, Lost Dutchman State Park offers access to the most scenic portions of the legendary Superstition Mountains. The Lost Dutchman's Gold Mine is known as one of the most famous lost mine's in American history. Many have claimed to find the location but it was Jacob Waltz "the Dutchman" and partner Jacob Weiser who are known to have located and hid gold in the mountains. Since their deaths, none have been able to locate the Lost Dutchman's Mine. The legend lives on today in media and film.
The Park Details
40 miles east of Phoenix and surrounded by the Tonto National Forest is a dream RV destination, Lost Dutchman State Park. Lost Dutchman is open year-round, making it a go-to RV destination. There are endless hiking opportunities throughout the park that offer trails for beginners and advanced hikers alike. Lost Dutchman offers four miles of single-track mountain biking, wildlife viewing, and seasonal events. Park entrance is $10/vehicle.
The Campsites
There are 135 campsites and three group camping areas at the park. 68 campsites offer 50/30/20 amp hookup. The rest are rustic (no hookups) or offer tent camping options. If you're looking for cabins, they have those too!
Campsite reservations can now easily be made online. The platform makes it seamless to book. Once you click on the link you will be directed to a reservations page where you can browse your options by date of your stay. There are even images of each campsite so you can pick the one that best suites your needs! We chose campsite 19 in the main campground and it did not disappoint. That sunset was one of the best we've ever seen - and that's saying something. To book your campsite, click this link
Wildflower season is officially in bloom! If you've not had the divine pleasure of experiencing the southwests wildflower season, this is your sign to get in your RV and drive directly to Lost Dutchman. On March 8th you can join a ranger as they give a guided tour of the native flora. The spring season offers a myriad of events - from bird walks to live music, a star party, full-moon hike, live animal program and more, be sure to take advantage of these unique and informative park offers!
Know Before You Adventure
Lost Dutchman Hiking Trails
Additional Arizona State Parks
This year will be the year of Arizona! Next month we'll feature a guide to a new park... hint it's on the water. If you're eager to learn more or are ready to start booking your state park road trip, check out Arizona State Parks "find a park feature" on their website. This easy to use guide will let you filter the parks by campgrounds, hiking trails, bike trails, horse trails, historical sites, swimming, fishing and boating options and so much more. Let us know where you'll be headed this year in the comment section!
To follow along on our travels, check out @lamesa and @azstateparks.
