Kearny Lake Campgrounds

For Arizonans seeking an affordable and straightforward outdoor escape without venturing too far off the beaten path, Kearny Lake Campgrounds offers a compelling option. Nestled by the serene Kearny Lake in the charming town of Kearny, this campground provides a no-frills, budget-friendly opportunity to connect with nature. Imagine pitching your tent or parking your RV with the calming presence of the lake nearby, ready to explore a pleasant walking trail or simply enjoy the quietude of a desert evening. While it presents a more rustic experience, Kearny Lake Campgrounds stands out as an accessible and economical choice for Arizona locals looking to enjoy a quick getaway, offering a taste of the outdoors without breaking the bank. It's a reminder that sometimes, the simplest camping experiences are the most rewarding.

Kearny Lake Campgrounds is conveniently located at 40 Hartford Rd, Kearny, AZ 85137, USA. This address places it directly in the town of Kearny, a small community situated in Arizona's Copper Corridor. Kearny is approximately 85 miles southeast of Phoenix and about 60 miles northeast of Tucson, making it a relatively accessible destination for residents of Arizona's two largest metropolitan areas. The campground's location within the town itself means it's not a deep wilderness experience, but rather a more accessible, local park-like setting by the lake. Access to the campground is straightforward, typically involving paved roads leading right up to the site. Kearny is known for its mining history and offers a glimpse into Arizona's rich heritage, adding a unique local flavor to your camping trip. While the campground provides a tranquil escape, the amenities of the small town of Kearny, such as gas stations and convenience stores, are just a short drive away, providing essential services if needed. This balance of local convenience and natural presence makes Kearny Lake Campgrounds a practical choice for Arizonans looking for an easily reachable and economical camping spot.

Kearny Lake Campgrounds offers a basic, no-frills set of services, emphasizing affordability and a direct connection with the natural environment. These amenities cater to campers who appreciate a simpler, more rustic approach to outdoor living.

• Affordable Nightly Rate: The campground is noted for its "affordable" price, at " $10 a night," making it a very budget-friendly option for campers in Arizona.
• Payment Process: One review mentions a unique payment process where campers might be "awoken by the local police at 12 15 am asking us to drive to police to pay" if payment signs aren't clear. This suggests an honor system or a specific payment procedure that requires proactive inquiry upon arrival to ensure a smooth check-in.
• Lake Access: The campground is located directly by Kearny Lake, offering lakeside access for enjoying the water, though specific details on swimming or boating facilities are not provided in the reviews.
• Walking Trail Access: A "nice walking trail around the lake" is a key amenity, providing an easy and pleasant way to enjoy the surrounding natural beauty and get some exercise.
• Tent and RV Camping: While specific site details are limited, the campground accommodates both tent camping and RVs, likely offering basic gravel or dirt pads.
• No Full Hook-ups: Based on the pricing and rustic nature, it's inferred that full hook-ups (water, sewer, electric) are likely not available at individual sites. Campers should plan for dry camping or primitive camping conditions.
• No Modern Restrooms/Showers: Reviews do not mention modern restrooms or showers, implying campers should be prepared for a more primitive setup, or rely on their own facilities in RVs.
• No Reservations System: The low price point and payment process suggest a first-come, first-served system rather than a reservation system.

Kearny Lake Campgrounds, while offering a rustic experience, holds several key features and highlights that make it a compelling choice for certain types of campers, especially those prioritizing affordability and a connection to a serene environment.

• Exceptional Affordability: The most striking feature is its very low cost, at just "$10 a night." This makes it one of the most budget-friendly camping options in Arizona, ideal for extended stays or for campers on a tight budget.
• Lakeside Location: The campground's position by Kearny Lake provides a calming and picturesque backdrop. While specific water activities aren't detailed, the presence of a lake offers opportunities for quiet reflection, enjoying the views, or perhaps fishing from the shore.
• Pleasant Walking Trail: The "nice walking trail around the lake" is a significant highlight for those who enjoy light recreation and connecting with nature. It provides an accessible way to stretch your legs, observe local flora and fauna, and enjoy the lakeside ambiance.
• Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere (Generally): Despite a unique payment experience, the overall setting by the lake suggests a generally quiet and peaceful environment, conducive to relaxation away from city noise.
• Pet-Friendly Potential: While not explicitly stated, rustic campgrounds like this are often pet-friendly, allowing Arizonans to bring their furry companions to enjoy the walking trail and lakeside setting.
• Convenient Local Access: Being located in the town of Kearny means campers have relatively quick access to basic town amenities like gas, groceries, or supplies, a convenience not always found at more remote state or national forest campgrounds.
• Suitable for Self-Contained Units: For RVers or trailer campers who are self-sufficient with their own water and waste tanks, the low cost and lakeside setting make it a very attractive overnight or multi-night stop.
• Opportunity for Stargazing: As with many outdoor locations in Arizona away from major city lights, Kearny Lake Campgrounds likely offers opportunities for impressive stargazing on clear nights.

For Arizonans interested in visiting Kearny Lake Campgrounds, here is the essential contact information:

Address: 40 Hartford Rd, Kearny, AZ 85137, USA

While a direct phone number for the campgrounds specifically isn't provided in the information, the general phone numbers for the town of Kearny's municipal offices or local police department might be useful for inquiring about the payment process or campground rules. The review indicates a direct interaction with "the local police" regarding payment, suggesting that information might be best obtained through local law enforcement or the town's administrative office rather than a dedicated campground management line. It's advisable for prospective campers to call the Town of Kearny main line during business hours or check their official website for updated information regarding camping policies, payment procedures, and any specific signs or instructions at the campground. Given the mention of paying at the police station, a proactive call before arrival could clarify the process and ensure a smoother check-in experience, especially for those planning an overnight stay.

Kearny Lake Campgrounds is an ideal option for Arizonans seeking a truly affordable and straightforward outdoor experience. For locals, its standout feature is undoubtedly the "$10 a night" price point, making it one of the most budget-friendly camping opportunities available in the state, perfect for frequent getaways or for those looking to save on accommodation while still enjoying nature. Its location in the town of Kearny provides a unique blend of being by a serene lake while still having convenient, quick access to basic town amenities, which isn't always the case with more remote campgrounds. The "nice walking trail around the lake" offers a pleasant and accessible way for Arizonans to enjoy a leisurely stroll or get some fresh air without committing to strenuous hikes. While the payment process might require a bit of proactive inquiry (potentially involving the local police, as one review highlighted), the overall value and peaceful lakeside setting make it a worthwhile option for those willing to embrace a more rustic, no-frills approach to camping. For Arizonans who prioritize cost-effectiveness and a quiet, natural environment over extensive modern facilities, Kearny Lake Campgrounds offers a practical and accessible spot to unwind, enjoy the Arizona landscape, and create simple, pleasant memories by the water.