Lost Dutchman State Park - Apache Junction, Arizona

Janelle

Such a beautiful state park. We came early on a Monday and took advantage of the empty parking lot and trails. While still busy it was so much more still if ya know what I mean. We chose to do the Treasure Loop Trail which is a 2.3 mile loop with a pretty steady incline. I highly recommend doing it clockwise as we did the opposite and boy was it harder this way. The views were amazing and trails well kept. There are bathrooms and so many picnic tables to enjoy a full day. Staff we encountered was great and price fair to keep up the park. Remember to bring plenty of water even if you don’t think it’s that hot. Be smart and this time of year watch out for snakes! We didn’t see any luckily, but did enjoy the Big Horn Sheep near the top above the trail.

Christopher O.

Lost Dutchman State Park Campground is hands down one of the best camping experiences you can have in Arizona! If you’re an outdoor enthusiast looking for breathtaking views, spacious campsites, and access to some of the most iconic desert landscapes in the state—this is your spot.

What I love most is the perfect balance between accessibility and seclusion. It’s close enough to Phoenix that you can make a quick trip for any forgotten essentials, yet it feels worlds away once you’re nestled into camp. With over 100 sites, I was surprised by how private and peaceful it felt—you’re not stacked on top of your neighbors, which is a rare find in popular campgrounds.

The facilities are well-kept with warm showers, which have been a lifesaver during these brisk Arizona spring mornings. But the true showstopper? The panoramic views of the Superstition and Goldfield Mountains, especially at sunrise and sunset. And at night, the glittering lights of the East Valley make for an incredible backdrop under the stars.

Whether you’re here for hiking, photography, stargazing, or simply soaking in the desert vibes—this campground delivers on all fronts.

10/10 would absolutely camp here again.

Eric M.

This is a nice area (the State Park) however, BUYER BEWARE. It cost $20 for two of us in our car to get in. When I looked this up it looked like I would be paying for access to the trails. The website and maps allude to this. BUT the main portion of the trails are on federal land and are free to access from a different point. The state park has short trails that tie into all of the other trails. That being said, the park itself was well kept with nice bathrooms and pavillions with picnic tables. The hikes are awesome and the scenery and vistas really cool. We weren't here for camping, just day use.

Phillip L.

Was on a rendezvous to do a totally different hike about 4 miles further east, when I started seeing the initial cliffs of the Superstition Mountains. Captivating, awe-inspiring, and simply a rugged gorgeousness made me take this exit without a second thought.
Think entry was $10 and plenty of parking. I went during January and still brought a liter of water. Lasted me 4 hours, so if you are here in the summer, bring a gallon for the day.
I decided upon the Treasure Loop trail which is the leads to the left most part of the cliff face. From the foliage to the rock outcroppings, this was a wonderful hike. Seeing the cliff face get closer and closer was quite the development I was looking for. The trail does go all the way up about 150 feet from the bottom of the cliff, and then continues on around. If you keep going, you can see where it's possible to start getting up above the cliffs. I didn't really see any paths that way, so it would be trekking off the path, but if you got some time, maps, GPS, big amounts of water, food, packed with equipment for over night stays, I could see a person walk well into the Superstition Wilderness and find peace of soul, aliens, or God.

Hawk H.

Excellent Arizona State Park with reasonable nightly rate of $35 for rustic camp sites. Rustic means no electric hookup or onsite water or sewer dump, but they are available in the campground. Ideal for boondockers who want a few amenities.

Rick

Great park, close to canyon lake, mesa, shopping, hiking , biking, plenty of space for your 4 legged friends. Spots a large with plenty of privacy so you can let loose a little if you like. Nice little bar / restaurant just down the road the hitchin post. Great sunsets and sunrises.

Katie R.

What a delight. Bring a gallon of water as suggested per person / dog size was accurate. We took our goldens who hike a lot to the dry waterfall of the peak and stopped there as we watched others struggle with dogs. Please be safe if you go higher and your dog spooks you could lose yourself and your dog. Ours are well trained and we stopped. All areas below are safe for dogs just stay on the path to avoid cactus. We loved the hike!

Amanda M.

Do come for the beautiful Mountain View’s and hiking opportunities.
Don’t expect well spaced campsites as that wasn’t our experience. We were all crammed in pretty tightly.
Also when you arrive it’s helpful to the staff to know your site number. The gentleman who checked us in, Steve, curtly informed us of this.
It’s a pretty sleepy area so staying more than a day or two might not be for everyone.