Arizona Renaissance Festival

The festival grounds don't offer on-site RV camping. However, the Gold Canyon area and nearby Apache Junction provide excellent RV camping options within 10-20 minutes of the festival—all set against the stunning backdrop of the Superstition Mountains.

Thanks to the Phoenix area's thriving outdoor recreation scene, you'll find outstanding RV parks and campgrounds near the festival:

Mesa / Apache Junction KOA sits nestled among towering Superstition Mountains, offering full hookups with 50-amp service, a year-round heated pool, hot tub, and dog park. Individual sites accommodate RVs up to 65 feet. The campground puts you minutes from the festival grounds while providing easy access to Lost Dutchman State Park, Goldfield Ghost Town, and Tonto National Monument. Phoenix sits just 30 miles away for city exploration between festival days.

Lost Dutchman State Park, approximately 15 minutes from the festival grounds, offers 138 campsites with 68 featuring electric and water hookups (20, 30, and 50 amp). Named after the legendary gold prospector Jacob Waltz, this 320-acre park provides stunning Superstition Mountain views, excellent hiking trails, and a visitor center with a camp store. The park accommodates RVs of any length with mostly back-in sites and some pull-throughs. Amenities include a dump station, flush toilets, showers, picnic tables, and fire rings with grills. Reservations are recommended, especially during festival season.

Usery Mountain Regional Park, about 20 minutes from Gold Canyon, features 73 campsites with full hookups, including 50-amp electrical service. The park offers pull-through sites, big rig access, restrooms, showers, and recreational trails. Explore the famous Wind Cave trail, try the archery range with 100 targets, or visit the nature center to learn about Sonoran Desert ecology.

Additional options include Superstition Sunrise RV Resort, Countryside RV Resort, and various Mesa-area RV parks—all within easy driving distance. Weekly and monthly rates are available for extended stays. Book early, as February and March are peak season for Arizona RV camping.

Comfortable walking shoes are essential—you'll be on your feet most of the day exploring the 50-acre festival grounds. The site features mostly level terrain with hard-packed surfaces, though some grassy areas can become muddy after rain. Strollers are allowed and recommended for families with young children.

Wheelchair-accessible pathways connect major areas of the festival, though some vendor areas and stages may present challenges. The terrain is generally navigable for those with mobility devices, but the desert environment and occasional uneven surfaces require caution.

Embrace the festival spirit by dressing in Renaissance-inspired attire or costumes—many visitors go all out with period clothing, and vendors sell garb onsite if you prefer to purchase there. However, casual modern clothing is perfectly acceptable if you prefer comfort over costume.

Costume weapons like swords and knives are permitted but must be sheathed and peace-tied (staff will secure them upon entry). For evening comfort back at your campsite, pack warmer layers—February and March nights in the desert can drop into the 50s.

Bring your festival ticket and a valid ID. Essential items include sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and a refillable water bottle (one sealed water bottle per person is allowed through security). The Arizona sun is intense even in February and March. A lightweight blanket or ground cloth provides comfortable seating for shows.

While many vendors accept cards, carrying some cash is wise as some artisans and food vendors prefer it. ATMs are available onsite, though lines can be long during peak hours. Consider bringing a small backpack or shoulder bag for purchases and personal items.

Desert sun protection is critical even during cooler months. Apply sunscreen liberally and reapply throughout the day. Stay hydrated by visiting the numerous water stations scattered across the festival grounds. The combination of walking, desert heat, and excitement can lead to dehydration faster than you might expect.

First aid stations are staffed by trained medical professionals throughout festival hours. Emergency services are readily available, and festival staff are trained to respond quickly to any medical situations.

Most area campgrounds allow portable grills and camp stoves, making it easy to prepare meals in your RV. Check with your specific campground about fire restrictions, which can vary based on seasonal conditions. Convenience stores and grocery options are available along US Highway 60 in Apache Junction for stocking up on supplies.

Apache Junction and nearby Mesa offer diverse dining options ranging from quick-service restaurants to upscale establishments. The region's authentic Mexican restaurants are particularly noteworthy, reflecting the area's southwestern heritage. You'll find everything from classic American diners to international cuisine within a short drive of the festival grounds.

Phoenix, just 30-40 minutes west, opens up world-class dining experiences if you want to explore the city between festival days.

The Renaissance Festival features dozens of food and beverage vendors offering both period-appropriate fare and modern festival favorites. The iconic giant roasted turkey leg is a must-try tradition. Other popular options include shepherd's pie, Cornish pasties, fresh-baked bread bowls filled with hearty stews, funnel cakes, and roasted corn.

For beverages, you'll find everything from traditional English ales and meads to modern soft drinks and water. Adults 21 and over can sample the festival's selection of beers and specialty drinks. The BrewFest weekend (March 1-2) offers self-guided beer and mead flights.