Every now and then on the road, you stumble upon a place that’s more than just a place to park; it’s an experience. WestWorld of Scottsdale is one of those spots. Nestled right at the foot of the stunning McDowell Mountains, this place is famous for hosting huge, world-class events like the Barrett-Jackson car auction and the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show. But here’s the insider tip for fellow RVers: it’s also home to a massive on-site campground with nearly 400 permanent RV spaces. This means you can find yourself a premier spot to dump your tanks, plug into shore power, and maybe even catch a world-class event, all without ever leaving the property.
Scottsdale itself is a fantastic blend of high-end, chic city life and rugged, wild desert playgrounds. And WestWorld puts you right in the middle of it all. You can literally walk from your rig to trailheads in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, which offers over 200 miles of incredible multi-use paths that wind through granite boulder fields and washes filled with ironwood trees. After a day of exploring, the trendy art galleries, shops, and amazing Southwestern restaurants of Old Town Scottsdale are just a short ride away. And because it’s right near the Loop 101 freeway, getting to other Phoenix attractions or even making a day trip up to the red rocks of Sedona is incredibly easy. This location isn’t just a dump station; it’s a basecamp for a full-blown Arizona adventure.
Using the facilities here feels completely different from a storage yard or a truck stop. This is a full-service municipal campground, so it operates like one. You’ll check in at the RV Office, and I highly recommend making a reservation online, especially if there’s a major event happening. The pads are paved asphalt, and each one comes with both water and 30/50-amp electric hookups. That means you can get the air conditioning blasting to fight off that Scottsdale heat while you take your time getting the tanks clean and the rig organized. The dump station itself is centrally located and designed to handle even the biggest Class A coaches. Clear signage guides you through a dedicated loop road, so the process is smooth and efficient. During major events, the place has 24/7 access, but be smart about it. Lines can definitely form right after a big concert or at the end of an auction day, so timing your visit can make a big difference.
The amenities here are a real game-changer for a road-weary traveler. Each site has a potable water spigot, so you can fill up your fresh tank with good, clean water as you’re preparing to depart. Huge plus. And for those of us who travel with our furry friends, pets are allowed! They even have a massive 12-acre turf field where your dog can run and play, as long as they’re on a leash. After a few days of boondocking, having access to actual showers and restrooms is a luxury that can’t be overstated. It lets you conserve your own water and just feel a bit more human. They also have multiple dumpsters located conveniently throughout the lots, which simplifies your departure chores immensely. The electric hookups are a must-have here, as daytime temperatures in Scottsdale can soar well past 100 degrees, and keeping your rig cool is essential.
Of course, it’s not a full-on resort, so there are a few things they don’t have. There’s no on-site fuel, propane, or laundry. But that’s hardly an issue. You can find gas and propane just a couple of miles west on Pima Road, and north Scottsdale is full of laundromats. As always, if there's an amenity you absolutely need, it’s best to confirm its availability before you arrive, just in case.
From a cost perspective, this place offers incredible value. If you’re a registered camper staying overnight, use of the dump station is included in your fee. For those just passing through for a day visit, there’s typically a posted fee, which has recently been around ten dollars. Overnight rates are in the neighborhood of $57, which might sound steep compared to a storage lot, but you have to look at the whole picture. You’re getting water, power, security, and proximity to world-class events and outdoor recreation. During a big festival, the cost of off-site parking alone can be nearly as much, so staying here is often the smartest financial move.
Here are a few pro tips to make your stay even better. If you’re planning to visit during Barrett-Jackson in January or during the peak equestrian season, you absolutely must reserve your spot far in advance. Those sites sell out quickly. To avoid a long wait at the dump station, try to plan your visit for the middle of the day, when event traffic is at a lull. And a classic RVer tip: always carry extra lengths for your hoses. You never know how the pads will be oriented, and it’s better to have it and not need it. Finally, respect the desert climate. Hydrate constantly, wear sun protection, and try to get your outdoor chores done in the morning or evening.
The final word on WestWorld’s campground is that it’s a true unicorn in the RV world. It’s a clean, secure, and well-equipped RV dump station and campground located right in the heart of Scottsdale’s vibrant event scene. With full-time security, power at every pedestal, and the beautiful McDowell Mountains as your backdrop, the convenience and experience are hard to beat. Just be sure to lock in a reservation and verify the fees before you roll in, and you’re set for a fantastic stay.