Shadow Ridge RV Resort

Shadow Ridge RV Resort is a retreat in Ajo, Arizona. With 125 sites, the RV park welcomes a mix of older couples and families, catering to both adults and children. Amy, the manager, says that they strive to treat visitors like family, providing local recommendations and information on nearby attractions. Shadow Ridge RV Resort is located near the Oregon Pipe National Monument, with opportunities for outdoor activities such as four-wheeling, birdwatching, and bicycling. While the park does not host regular events, it does provide a relatively spacious clubhouse with pool tables and a space for socializing and gatherings. During the peak season from October to May, the property mainly receives snowbirds who are looking to escape the colder weather in other parts of the country, according to the manager. 

About

Shadow Ridge RV Resort is an RV park located in Ajo, surrounded by Arizona's desert landscapes. The RV park has 125 sites, 70 of which are designated for short-term stays that range from overnight to a month. The remaining spaces accommodate guests who plan on staying for a longer period of time, especially in park models.

For those seeking short-term stays, the property offers a range of amenities. Each site provides full hookups, including water, sewer, and electric connections. Additionally, there are picnic tables and fire pits available for guests to enjoy during their stay. Out of the short-term sites, around 25 are pull-through sites that can accommodate RVs of up to 55 feet in length, while the rest are back-in sites that are suitable for RVs that extend to 34 feet in length. 

Shadow Ridge RV Resort features a clubhouse where visitors can gather for various activities. The clubhouse has a relatively spacious patio with fire pits, where those staying at the RV park can socialize and relax. Inside the clubhouse, amenities such as pool tables, a refrigerator, two stoves, and microwaves are accessible for everyone's use. Additionally, there is a nature trail on the premises where guests can explore the surrounding desert and observe local wildlife. The property also has laundry and bathhouse facilities. 

For those looking to venture beyond the resort, the location offers access to nearby facilities and attractions. Within a mile or so, visitors will find a downtown plaza with a post office, library, coffee shops, restaurants, and an art gallery, all showcasing the town's mission-style architecture. There are also grocery stores and dollar stores within walking distance, providing options for shopping needs. Guests can enjoy outdoor activities, such as hiking in the nearby desert. Amy, the manager, hopes that stargazing enthusiasts will appreciate the efforts to maintain dark skies, providing an opportunity for observing the night sky and stars.


One of the attractions that can be found nearby is the Devils Highway, which Amy says is popular among "adventurous young visitors that enjoy biking in the area." The town also hosts Second Saturdays, featuring a farmer's market and showcasing local art in galleries. In the surrounding town, guests can find a few restaurants, namely the Agave Grill, which serves beer, wine, burgers, steaks, and chicken. There's also a Mexican restaurant called Arribas Mexican Restaurant.

Culture

With the intent to provide good quality customer service, the staff at Shadow Ridge RV Resort aims to create a welcoming environment for all guests. The campground emphasizes a sense of community and family, with the goal to ensure that visitors feel "at home" during their stay. A former patron of the campground mentioned, "The staff is friendly, and the residents came out to greet us and chat while we were there."

Amy, the manager, says that they try to create a "community-oriented atmosphere, where guests are treated like family." The staff provides those staying at the RV park with local information and recommendations for places to visit, including the Oregon Pipe National Monument—a destination for outdoor activities such as four-wheeling, birdwatching, and bicycling. One former visitor to the park mentioned in a review, "The park is quiet and clean, with people who are friendly, yet also keep to themselves. Amy is a very nice host, and happy to answer any questions about the town and the surrounding areas." 

The resort management encourages those visiting the RV park to enjoy their stay at their own pace and to engage in pickleball and cornhole for entertainment. While the property does not regularly organize events or activities, visitors are welcome to host gatherings at the clubhouse. In terms of policies, the RV park expects responsible pet ownership, as guests are required to keep their pets on leashes and clean up after them. Driving slowly within the park is also encouraged for the safety of pedestrians and to prevent dust from being kicked up.

Shadow Ridge RV Resort's best season of operation is from October through May when Amy says "the weather is more pleasant." During this peak season, the resort experiences an increase in visitors, including snowbirds seeking to escape the cold weather in other parts of the country. 

History

Shadow Ridge RV Resort, nestled in Ajo, Arizona, has a history dating back to the early 1980s when it was established as an RV park. The property has undergone various changes and improvements over the years, with approximately three different owners since its inception. Throughout its history, the property has adapted to changing trends and guest preferences. Some traditional amenities, such as shuffleboard and board games, have been replaced with more modern options, including pickleball and cornhole. Amy, the manager, has owned the campground since 2005 and says that over the years, the town has transformed into a melting pot, fostering an "inclusive and diverse atmosphere."

Looking to the future, the staff plans to make ongoing improvements, with the hopes of resurfacing the entrance road and enhancing outdoor spaces. Amy explains that the management aims to keep the resort modern and attractive to cater to the "ever-changing needs and preferences of its guests."

The park's history reflects its transformation from a desert site to a modern RV park. Some of the older sites have larger bushes, with the intent to create a sense of privacy between the sites. However, newer sections of the park offer wider spaces to accommodate larger RVs and slide-outs.