McDowell Mountain Regional Park
McDowell Mountain Regional Park
McDowell Mountain Regional Park
4.5
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4.5
175 reviews
Excellent
121
Very good
45
Average
7
Poor
0
Terrible
2
CraftBeers
Plano, TX24,861 contributions
May 2021
I didn't really like this park. I can't say there is anything wrong with it. I just am not a desert fan. The day after we hiked this park, we visited Jewel of the Creek Preserve in Cave Creek. What a difference.
The desert setting here has rolling hills with pleasant hiking. We found the trails to be easy to moderate depending on what trails we selected. A nice pair of hiking boots, sunscreen (including lip balm) and lots of water are absolutely necessary. Start at 7:00 AM. If you are heading out at 9:00 AM, that's too late. You will be hiking in 100 degree weather with no shade on the way back.
My main reason for disliking this park is the low number and density of cacti and arid plant life. Walk through Jewel of the Creek Preserve to see what I mean. There was a self-pay station with a cost of entrance for hiking of $2 per person. See Dixie Mine Trail for parking and hiking.
The desert setting here has rolling hills with pleasant hiking. We found the trails to be easy to moderate depending on what trails we selected. A nice pair of hiking boots, sunscreen (including lip balm) and lots of water are absolutely necessary. Start at 7:00 AM. If you are heading out at 9:00 AM, that's too late. You will be hiking in 100 degree weather with no shade on the way back.
My main reason for disliking this park is the low number and density of cacti and arid plant life. Walk through Jewel of the Creek Preserve to see what I mean. There was a self-pay station with a cost of entrance for hiking of $2 per person. See Dixie Mine Trail for parking and hiking.
Written 25 May 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
desertsky1
Chicago, IL44 contributions
Feb 2020
We walked the 3 miles North Trail loop on a beautiful sunny afternoon and the scenery was awesome. It's a mostly flat trail of crushed sand and gravel and a good width. There are interpretive markers along the way and you can pick up a brochure at the entrance that tells something about the vegetation or view at each marker. I was concerned at first that this trail also allows bikes but there were only a couple when we were there and you could hear them before they came upon you and it was no issue. There were also a couple families with small children and I think this is a good trail for the less serious hikers that want to get out in the desert scenery. There are plentiful seguaro cactus and other vegetation and views of the surrounding mountains are beautiful. There are several areas where narrow washes come across the trail so after a hard rain this might not be viable.
Written 19 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jurora
Peterborough, Canada602 contributions
May 2023 • Couples
This park was amazing for us. The day was sunny, so that made our short walk most enjoyable. We got parked in the large parking lot (signs state to take valuables with you/leave them out of site, due to stealing occurring). We looked at the map of the trails, and had assistance from one of the several volunteers. On our first choice, it was tricky walking along the trail, as there were several rocks sticking out on the path, and it got worse in some spots. The walk wasn't enjoyable for me, as I had to keep looking down as I walked, as I was afraid to fall and re-cut my leg, as I already had an injury. The trail started to have an incline to it, and others on the way back stated that it inclines more, further along, so hubby and I turned around. The next trail (.7 mile? trail) we went on, I believe was the shortest, and it was more suitable...a wider, flat dirt path. We kept stopping along here, as there were several posted, information boards along it. They explained about the park's cactus, trees, mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians, rocks, washes and more. The surrounding mountains, and the desert flora were spectacular! My hubby really enjoyed this walk, and being his first trip to the desert, just couldn't get enough of the scenery. Since we had puttered along the walk, or more-so me, I sat near the entrance, after we did that trail, and hubby went back to do that same trail, at a faster pace. He was gone awhile, and he later stated that he did it 3 times, as he didn't want to leave the park! We would come back here definitely, on another trip.
Written 12 April 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
gefilte63
Beachwood, OH751 contributions
Apr 2022
The setting is magnificent overlooking the valley; we were there right at the end of the rainy season and everything was on bloom.
There are several paths to choose from; we chose a path that went around back the mountain and back down. It took about 1.75 hours to complete. Be forewarned, this is not a paved trail; it is rocky and might be challenging for some people. Be certain to have the proper shoes on; flip-flops will not cut it. I rolled my ankle at least a dozen times on the trail even with good running shoes. Also, make sure to bring plenty of water and/or snacks for the hike.
There was literally no trash on the ground at all, which was so refreshing to see.
Best to do this in the morning before it gets too hot.
There are several paths to choose from; we chose a path that went around back the mountain and back down. It took about 1.75 hours to complete. Be forewarned, this is not a paved trail; it is rocky and might be challenging for some people. Be certain to have the proper shoes on; flip-flops will not cut it. I rolled my ankle at least a dozen times on the trail even with good running shoes. Also, make sure to bring plenty of water and/or snacks for the hike.
There was literally no trash on the ground at all, which was so refreshing to see.
Best to do this in the morning before it gets too hot.
Written 30 April 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
HPSGene
Palos Verdes Estates, CA262 contributions
Apr 2022
We spent some time here over a couple of days biking some of the trails and had a blast. The Pemberton loop is about 15 miles and has flowy, some moderately rocky stretches that made for a great ride. The trailhead facilities are nice and the entire system is very clean. Loved the desert riding!
Written 15 April 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
carmenvbonjour
Fountain Hills, AZ5 contributions
Dec 2019
I ventured to McDowell Mountain Regional Park one Saturday with my dog. I didn't realize there was an entrance fee to enter the park. Eager as I was to explore this new place, I didn't hesitate to pay the the daily fee. Once in, I drove a long while to view the exceptional views. I found a sweet place and off my dog and I went on our hike. This was our first time visiting, but not our last! There is hiking for the entire family young and old!
Written 12 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
wc9828
Boulder CO116 contributions
Mar 2021
The campground is well-constructed and well-equipped. It is a campground clearly geared for RVs. Our one complaint, and it is a big one, is the noise of pilot training. Each and every afternoon, a flight instructor and his tutee take off from a nearby airport (assume Scottsdale), fly out to McDowell, and then fly circles above the campground. It is a loud, obnoxious drone that ruins the peace and quiet of the area. I am told that the issue has been raised but the park was stiff-armed by the airport. We can't see going back.
Written 31 March 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
T9-Orca
Seattle, WA701 contributions
Feb 2022
This isn't a national park, but it does have lots of trails, many suitable for mountain bikes and people, and it does have a large open desert area replete with cactuses and desert shrubs. It's a pleasant place to walk, and readily accessible from Fountain Hills or Rio Verde (just northeast of Scottsdale). The mountain biking includes a competitive loop ... and while not difficult, it is pretty and rewarding, assuming the temperatures are reasonable (generally great in February, not so desirable by June).
The park also includes some mountains an a few mountain trails (not so much for summits as circuits with some elevation gain and loss). The facilities are limited, but of good quality, and there is plenty to do there. Many of the people who use the park are locals, there either for outdoor exercise or just to get outside somewhere in a natural environment, but still close to town.
Well worth a trip if you're in the area -- not dramatic, but consistently good
The park also includes some mountains an a few mountain trails (not so much for summits as circuits with some elevation gain and loss). The facilities are limited, but of good quality, and there is plenty to do there. Many of the people who use the park are locals, there either for outdoor exercise or just to get outside somewhere in a natural environment, but still close to town.
Well worth a trip if you're in the area -- not dramatic, but consistently good
Written 28 February 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Wanderlust
Victoria, Canada13 contributions
Nov 2023 • Family
Absolute must stop for off pavement cyclists. many miles of beautiful trails from relatively easy to difficult. Government campsite with water and electricity hookups, showers and toilets (and sani dump)
Written 17 December 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Raja0000
41 contributions
Dec 2024 • Family
This hike used to be great a few years ago. Now with low flying aircraft and noisy prop planes going over every few minutes, it’s no longer a quiet hike. I understand Falcon Field in nearby Mesa is to blame for the increase in air traffic over the park. Too bad. A beautiful park ruined with the noise of constant airplanes. There are other more quiet parks to visit.
Written 8 December 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
How Much does it cost to camp at McDowell Mountain regional Park?
Written 28 January 2018
$30 per night for sites with hookups (water and electricity: 20,30,50 amp). Plus $8 reservation fee. Bathrooms with showers, plus dump station included.
Written 29 January 2018
How Much does it cost to camp at McDowell Mountain Range Park?
Written 28 January 2018
Camping Reservation Fee
- Non-refundable reservation fee $8.00
Additional vehicles not in tow will be assessed a daily fee upon entering the park. $6
Developed sites
- Designated camping sites with electrical and water hook-ups, dump station access, restrooms, picnic tables and grills. $30.00 $32.00 $2.00 increase 5/7/2014
Semi-Developed
- Designated camping site with restrooms, picnic tables, and grills $20.00 $22.00 $2.00 increase 5/7/2017
Primitive camping
- Non-designated or designated site, no amenities (Only available at Lake Pleasant and McDowell Mountain) $12.00 $15.00 $3.00 increase 5/7/2014
Shaded RV Sites
- Designated camping sites with water and electricity provided, shade cover $40.00
GROUP CAMPING
- Designated areas for large groups (adults 18 and over), restroom facilities within walking distance
Group Reservation fee
- Non-refundable reservation fee $45.00
Small Group area
- Capacity for groups with 1 to 10 camping vehicles $100.00
Midsized Group area
- Capacity for groups with 11 to 20 camping vehicles $200.00
Large Group area
- Capacity for groups with 21 to 35 camping vehicles, some capacity restrictions apply at specific parks $300.00
YOUTH CAMPING
- Designated areas for large groups of youth (aged 18 and younger, with parent), restroom facilities within walking distance
Youth Reservation fee
- Non-refundable reservation fee $45.00
Small Youth group area
- 1 to 10 camping vehicles $50.00
Midsized Youth Group area
- 11 to 20 camping vehicles $100.00
Large Youth Group area
- 21 to 50 camping units, restrictions may apply at certain parks due to location capacity. For youth groups greater than 50, contact individual park for rates. $150.00
Reservation Change/Transfer Fee
- Applies to all camping categories $5.00
Reservation Cancellation Fee
- Applies to all camping categories $10.00
Early Check Out Fee
Applies to all camping categories $0.00 $15.00 NEW N/A
Facility Rental Feesscroll-trigger
DAY USE PICNIC AREAS PRICE
Small Picnic Ramada Rental Fee
- 2 to 4 Picnic tables, capacity up to 32 individuals $30.00
Medium Picnic Ramada Rental Fee
- 6 to 10 Picnic tables, capacity up to 80 individuals $55.00
Large Picnic Ramada Rental Fee
- 12 to 16 Picnic Tables, capacity up to 128 individuals $100.00
Estrella Ballfield $10/hour
Add lights $5/hour
Amphitheater Rental
- Two (2) hour minimum rental is required $30/hour
Classroom Rental (Business Hours) $40/hour
Classroom Rental (After Hours) $60/hour
Meeting room $25/hour
Other Feesscroll-trigger
PRICE PROPOSED FEE PROPOSED CHANGE LAST UPDATE
Special Use Permit Application fee $75.00 $100.00 $25.00 increase 11/4/2009
Amplified Music Fee $25.00
Photocopy Fee $0.50
NSF Returned Check fee $25.00
Bounce House Fee $10.00
Fee-based programming/Special Interest Classes
- As determined by Department n/a
Coupon books, discounts, incentives
- Department may offer seasonal discounts, coupons, and promotional incentives n/a
Written 28 January 2018
Are there bike rentals available in the park? Trails well marked so doable without a guide?
Written 29 December 2015
There are no rental's in the park but there are two bike shops in Fountain Hills (about 4 miles from the park entrance) that rent bikes - McDowell Mountain Cycles and Fountain Hills Bikes.
The trails are well marked and a map is available at the entrance, the Visitor's Center and on line. You do not need a guide.
Written 30 December 2015
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