Ride Out Ranch

For Arizona locals yearning for an authentic desert escape, Ride Out Ranch in Florence, AZ, offers a truly remarkable camping experience. Tucked away from the urban sprawl, this well-built and immaculately kept campground is a haven for those looking to immerse themselves in the serene beauty of the Sonoran Desert. With breathtaking views of the iconic Superstition Mountains and direct access to an extensive network of trails, Ride Out Ranch is more than just a place to stay; it's a basecamp for unforgettable outdoor adventures. Whether you're an equestrian enthusiast, an avid hiker, an off-road vehicle (ORV) rider, or simply someone who appreciates quiet nights and dazzling starry skies, this Florence gem caters to a wide array of interests.

Ride Out Ranch distinguishes itself with its diverse accommodation options, catering to various camping styles while maintaining a consistent standard of cleanliness and comfort. From spacious full-service RV hook-ups to traditional primitive camping spots and charming "bed in a sheds" (tiny homes), there's a perfect fit for every visitor. The emphasis on well-kept facilities, including clean bathrooms, ensures a pleasant stay even in a rustic desert setting. The friendly and helpful hosts and owners contribute significantly to the welcoming atmosphere, making check-in a breeze and providing valuable local insights to enhance your stay. This personal touch, combined with the stunning natural surroundings, creates a truly inviting environment for Arizona residents.

One of the most compelling reasons for Arizona locals to choose Ride Out Ranch is its unparalleled access to the vast desert landscape. Campers can literally ride or hike straight from the campground in almost every direction, exploring trails that might not even be on popular apps – but don't worry, the knowledgeable staff are happy to share GPX files and paper maps. This direct access, coupled with the comfortable lower elevation that keeps temperatures pleasant even in January, makes Ride Out Ranch an ideal year-round destination for exploring the unique beauty of the Arizona desert. The quiet, dark nights provide perfect conditions for stargazing, offering a mesmerizing display of the celestial canvas above the Superstition Mountains.

Ride Out Ranch is strategically located in Florence, AZ 85132, USA. Situated well off the beaten path, it offers a sense of seclusion and immersion in the desert, while still being fairly easy to access. The campground is reachable off Cochran Road, which itself is about two miles after turning off the asphalt of Florence Kelvin Highway. This highway, AZ-79, is roughly 15 miles east of Florence and about 1 mile south of the town. For Arizona locals traveling from larger metropolitan areas like Phoenix or Tucson, the drive to Florence is manageable, and the final stretch to the ranch itself is straightforward, even for those with two-wheel-drive vehicles accessing the primitive camping areas or "bed in a sheds."

The approximate elevation of 2,500 feet provides a comfortable climate, especially during the cooler months, making it an attractive escape from the intense summer heat of lower elevations. While it offers a feeling of being 'off-grid' and truly in nature, the practical accessibility from a county road is a significant advantage. This means campers don't have to navigate challenging unpaved tracks for extended periods, making it suitable for a wider range of vehicles and camping setups. The presence of clear signage helps guide visitors to the ranch, ensuring a smooth arrival experience.

Its location is not just about ease of access but also about its position within a rich recreational area. Ride Out Ranch serves as a prime base for exploring the surrounding desert, including the nearby Superstition Mountains, which offer breathtaking views. While some trails might be less documented on common apps, the on-site team provides valuable local knowledge and resources, ensuring that guests can confidently navigate and enjoy the expansive desert landscape. This combination of convenient access and abundant exploration opportunities makes Ride Out Ranch a highly desirable destination for Arizona residents looking for diverse outdoor activities without excessive travel hassle.

Services Offered:

• Full-service RV hook-ups: 14 sites available with 30-amp hook-ups (with 15-amp breakers), sewer, and water, accommodating vehicles up to 60 feet long.
• Primitive camping areas: Multiple sites for traditional tent camping, accommodating vehicles up to 60 feet long, with a very reasonable weekly rate.
• "Bed in a Shed" Tiny Homes: Four cozy private bedrooms with clean King/Queen size beds, offering a unique glamping experience. These do not have AC but heated blankets are available.
• Ranch House access: Guests in "bed in a sheds" have access to a full kitchen, two bathrooms, laundry facilities, and spacious areas for dining, hanging out, and relaxing, including a covered patio and rooftop seating.
• Clean bathrooms: Well-maintained and clean restroom facilities for all campers.
• Starlink Internet: Fast Starlink internet available at the bunk house in the lower part of the campground.
• Cell service: Available in the upper part of the campground (dry camping area).
• Horse stalls: Brand new, 12'x20', partially covered horse stalls running north to south, with water provided.
• Dump station: Available for use by campers.
• Laundry facilities.
• Outdoor Theater.
• Paper maps and GPX files for local trails: Provided by the owner and campground hosts for navigation.
• Pet-friendly: Dogs are welcome but must be leashed and cleaned up after (note: pit bulls or Rottweilers are not permitted, and pets are not allowed in the ranch house or tiny houses).

Features / Highlights:

• Very well-built and well-kept campground: Noted for its excellent construction and meticulous maintenance.
• Super comfy "bed in a sheds": Providing a comfortable and clean alternative to traditional camping, especially with plenty of blankets for chilly nights.
• Quiet and dark at night: Ideal conditions for exceptional stargazing.
• Breathtaking views of the Superstition Mountains: A consistent highlight, providing a stunning backdrop to the campground.
• Direct desert trail access: Ability to ride straight from the campground in pretty much every direction, ideal for horseback riding, hiking, and OHV adventures.
• Lower elevation (2500ft): Offers pleasant and decently warm temperatures, even in January.
• Helpful and friendly hosts/owner: Praised for their welcoming demeanor and willingness to assist.
• Nearby boulders: Another highlight in the area, offering additional exploration opportunities.
• Off-grid operation with solar and backup diesel generators: Committed to sustainable practices (power usage may be assessed).
• Excellent value: Weekly prices noted as very reasonable.
• Top Views award winner (2022 Campspot Awards).

Contact Information:

Address: Florence, AZ 85132, USA

Phone: (480) 420-7339

Mobile Phone: +1 480-420-7339

For Arizona locals, Ride Out Ranch in Florence is an exceptional destination that truly embodies the spirit of desert outdoor living. Its unique combination of well-maintained facilities, diverse accommodation options, and unparalleled access to the natural landscape makes it highly suitable for a wide range of interests. Whether you’re a seasoned RV traveler, a traditional tent camper, or looking for the cozy comfort of a "bed in a shed," you'll find a welcoming and comfortable environment here. The consistently positive reviews regarding cleanliness, friendly staff, and the overall peaceful atmosphere underscore its appeal as a top-tier local camping spot.

The ranch's lower elevation ensures that it remains a comfortable destination even during the cooler months, offering a pleasant escape when other higher-elevation areas might be too cold. This extended camping season is a significant benefit for Arizonans. Furthermore, the direct access to unmapped, extensive desert trails is a dream come true for adventurers. Knowing that the owners and hosts are eager to share their local knowledge and GPX files for these trails adds immense value, making exploration both exciting and manageable. This personal touch fosters a sense of community and trust that is often sought after in outdoor recreational areas.

Ultimately, Ride Out Ranch provides everything an Arizona local could desire from a desert campground: breathtaking views of the Superstition Mountains, pristine dark skies for stargazing, ample space for various outdoor activities, and a peaceful environment to unwind. It’s an ideal base for multi-day adventures, offering the flexibility of diverse camping styles and the convenience of being able to ride or hike directly from your site. For those seeking to truly connect with the unique beauty of Arizona’s desert and create lasting memories in a well-kept and friendly setting, Ride Out Ranch is not just a recommendation, but an invitation to experience the very best of local outdoor living.