Has spring fever hit yet? Are you dreaming of escaping to the outdoors for a relaxing spring camping trip?

Spring is the perfect time of year to enjoy a camping trip or two – before the heat of summer kicks in. Here are some destinations to check out in the coming season.

Saguaro Lake

There are few places that truly fit the description of “desert oasis” like this one. And best of all, it’s less than an hour away, making it a perfect destination for a last-minute weekend getaway. You’ll find this camping and recreation area dotted with the cactus for which it is named. And in the middle of it all lies the lake, where you can swim, boat, kayak, and more. There are also several trails of varying lengths and difficulty levels for those who love hiking, giving you a chance to explore the beautiful landscape around the lake.

Alderwood Campground

Also located in the Tonto National Forest, you’ll find this gem, a shady campground featuring the beautiful Haigler Creek. It’s home to rainbow trout, which makes it a favorite destination for fishing enthusiasts. If you really need to get away from it all, this is the perfect place, with its isolated location and sparse visitors. And if you’re lucky, you’ll get a glimpse of some of the local wildlife, including black bears, deer, and javelinas.

Whitewater Draw Wildlife Area

Have you ever seen 20,000 cranes at one time? Head to this wildlife refuge by mid-March to catch a glimpse of them before they relocate until their return in October. With 1,500 acres, you’ll have plenty of desert exploring to do. You’ll see mule deer, javelinas, coyotes, and jackrabbits, not to mention dozens of species of toads, snakes, and birds. Though no utilities are available at their campsite, camping is free.

Double Springs Campground

Coconino National Forest has some of the most stunning campgrounds in the state, and this one is a particular favorite. This area features beautiful ponderosa pines and gambel oaks, making it a wooded desert haven. You’ll get to enjoy the scenic overlooks of Mormon Lake, a variety of ecosystems, and an abundant offering of outdoor recreation from horseback riding to mountain biking. And keep your eyes on the sky above – you just might catch a glimpse of a bald eagle!

Follow the Olympus Steelyard blog for more tips on travel and recreation.