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We sold our RV with wheels in favor of a fixed in place unit. We have friends in the park already. We looked at a number of other locations in Mesa and other cities before settling here.
There are approximately 1800 sites, the majority of which have park models on them. A little over 40% of the owners are Canadian. The park is a 55+ population, but that applies only to those who purchase. The park has loads of activities and facilities, but you’ll find that there are some “cliques” that circle their wagons in many of them. While the advertising says “everybody welcome”, that was not our experience in all cases. There is an available tour that shows some of the activities and locations, but there is no information or guidance in protocol. If you want to know something, you have to make a point of asking. Only a few will go out of their way to invite you to join in or explain the way things work.
The sales team is quite extraordinary. VERY helpful and accommodating. As we did not know how the purchasing process worked in AZ, we made some false assumptions. The sales people explained everything thoroughly and were a great help. The Administration office was a bit different. We felt like we were expected to know what and how to do things. Very little explanation. Just write your check and hope you didn’t forget anything. There is an on-site post office. More involved there. Administration and post office don’t seem to communicate, so you have to check in there too.
We had our first season from October 2017 to April 2018. There had been some very slow moving construction projects that took a very long time to complete. This involved two pool/patio bars, a grill and some fencing. One bar and the grill didn’t open until late November. The other was shortly before we left. There were some pretty odd rules that were introduced that were not at all well communicated. When we arrived, we could take our water or soda to the pool with us. Some people took snacks as well. Then all of a sudden, this was no longer permitted and with no explanation. We were unable to pay cash, and had to use a credit card for a glass of soda. As a Canadian, we had to pay exchange on each and every transaction. We were counseled to purchase a prepaid US credit card, but found that not all of them worked with the park’s cash handling system. The easiest way to deal with it was simply to not enjoy any of the pool/patio amenities.
We did find out that these rules were all implemented this year, and there was a great deal of animosity from existing tenants about them. We attended a packed meeting in the ballroom that was convened to try and address the issues. I have never seen such a poorly communicated or mishandled effort. Instead of calmly explaining what was happening and why, the meeting degenerated into shouts and booing. The manager effectively responded to an issue concerning fences as “take it or leave it”. On the matter of bringing water, soda or snacks, there was a very poor attempt at an explanation that ended with the presenter waving a letter from the park’s lawyer to the sound of boo’s and catcalls.
On arrival at home, we sincerely wondered if we had made a dreadful mistake. We probably should have rented for a season or two first, then decided whether or not to purchase. We hope things will get better. Now armed with a bit of knowledge about how and why things work at VDO, we may write a “handbook” for newbies to let them know you can only put your garbage on one side of the road and other essential tidbits.
In summary, VDO has all the components that should make it a true paradise. There are detractions by the human element, as is always the case in a community like this. But there are also numerous opportunities for recreation and socializing. Our suggestion would be to try it before you buy it. There’s lots to learn and experience before signing the check!
At the time of writing, the annual pad rents exceed $7000/yr. Taxes, sewer and garbage are extra. The on-site free internet is poor, so you’ll want your own. Local TV stations are easily accessed with an antenna. Water is quite hard. Most people use softeners. Pets are restricted to specific areas within the park. Parking on your site is also restricted and regulated. There is no RV, vehicle or trailer storage on-site. The noisiest part of the park is the southeast corner (Hwy 60 and Ellsworth Rd.), but that is somewhat mitigated by sound walls.
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Date of stay: March 2018Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
over the years-we have visited there many times-this year all the old staff fired-all new people and managers - lots of activities for a price-and its all about the money. a 250.00 deposit just for checking in-b4 rent and other fees.rv monthly rate is 675.00 plus electric and trash. other fees are there, so read ALL the fine print-terms and conditions. many park models comingled with rvs. an old sorta run down middle CLASS place with some good points and some bad points. just a guess on how many spaces there, but its in the thousands(guess) this is not a hotel, but houses can be rented and rv spaces.
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Date of stay: March 2012
Value
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Trip type: Travelled with family
Room Tip:Â this is an over 55 park-snack bar at the pool-latte machine inside
many swap meets held there...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
VDO has more activities than any other park around. Glenda is an awesome activities coordinator. The park is a mix of older park models, newer models and rvs. Large RVs may have some trouble finding suitable spots. Here at VDO, you can pay $250 deposit to reserve a particular site for your next visit: however, be aware that reservation does not mean reserved space - if you reserve for three months, and somebody else comes in and wants the space you have reserved for four months or longer, or if someone buys a park model and wants to place it on your reserved site, your reservation will be bumped. If you are not satisfied with your re-assigned site, you will lose $50 of your deposit, and your deposit is not returned immediately. Unfortunately, the work-campers morale is down this year due to policy changes from management that were not divulged to the work campers until their arrivals. If not for the work campers, the management could not provide the activities and special events here. For RVers, be aware of traffic patterns on the perimeter of the park, there are some very noisy areas near the highway overpasses. For park model purchases, read the small print in your contracts, and know that you have no say or control on the rising costs at management's whim. Overall, as a temporary stay we would recommend this park if you find a space away from the highway overpass and underpass. Residents are very friendly, and staff are polite and helpful.
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Date of stay: December 2013
Value
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip:Â Be aware of highway overpasses and underpasses.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Free internet is advertised but is very intermittent and unreliable. There are many complaints but Cal Am corporate does not seem interested in improving the coverage. It’s a nice resort but if you rely on the internet, as most people do, look elsewhere to stay.
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Date of stay: January 2025Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Is this really a 5 Star resort? Several calls to maintenance to clean the Agility Park after a storm came through Valley Del Oro a week ago still is filthy and smells bad. I was told by the head of maintenance that the whole park had been power washed. As these pictures show, that didn't happen. Promises are all we get. Maintenance has taken a huge dive in the upkeep of the whole park this past year as many long time residents will attest.
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Date of stay: October 2022Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We are actually workampers in the park. So we stay and work there. Calling this a RV park does not do it justice. It is an RV Resort. Two pools, 2 hot tubs, live music (free) every night. Great bar and grill, tiki bar on the patio, paddle ball, tennis, Bochi-ball, horse shoes, shuffle board, softball leagues (men and women) RC car and airplane clubs, leather shop, wood shop, lapidary, stain glass, sewing, billiards, card clubs. Golf outings. Concert series including entertainers like Jeff Foxworthy. This is not a one night stay (although you can), it is a place to enjoy a extended stay. Good location, nice people. We are going back! We did flowers and there are a lot of beautiful area!
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Date of stay: November 2022
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled with family
Room Tip:Â The music is popular so get there early. Park is full in Jan so book early. Best park in Cal-Am...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
What a shame and disappointment my experience was with your sales office.  My parents have lived here for almost 20 years as well as my aunt and numerous friends. As I am getting ready to retire I have been considering purchasing in the same community until my recent visit.  My mom called the office first and asked about me viewing some homes and Tess told her it was too late in the day, after sounding very put out for some reason.  At the time it was about 3 o'clock so I asked my mom if they close early?  I called the next day and received the same unwelcome tone and attitude after several failed attempts to arrange a time.  So not just once but several times the customer service over the phone was anything but welcoming.  I got to the office and was told to fill out paperwork and that I was late?  Late I replied knowing when I had scheduled my appointment.  Next Jackie came out and apologized for the time mix-up.  She then proceeded to ask if I was buying today?  Odd, and unprofessional to say the least.  As I returned the paperwork to Tess she commented that I forgot my email, "sweetie" trust me there was nothing sweet about her tone.  They sent me out with a nice man who must work in the park to view some used models and I choose to skip viewing the new models with Jackie. The next day I had an appointment with another community I am considering purchasing in.  I was greeted with a welcoming folder and pen to take notes.  I was not asked if I was buying today, next week, or next year.  I just had great service from the other community!  I felt it important for you to be aware of how you are being represented by your sales office. Sincerely,Unsatisfied customer
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Date of stay: April 2021
Service
Room Tip:Â Over priced
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Stayed at my sisters home, loved it, only bad thing is having to have your credit card for everything, no cash can be used at pool, spa, activities. Had a massage which was amazing. Very friendly, very clean, the xmas parade with golf carts was great. Easy access to grocery stores, shopping. Went to Superstition Mountain, weather was very nice. Thinking about a place here! Security was great as well. Lots of activities all day long. Pool was very refreshing!
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Date of stay: December 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Fully satisfied. The resort is clean, quiet, entertaining, & convenient to inside and outside activities. The food here is great and reasonably priced. The staff is friendly and cooperative. The management is attentive and cordial. We’re conf back next year for at least three months.
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Date of stay: March 2023Trip type: Travelled with family
Room Tip: It’s a busy place so become informed and plan ahead.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We really enjoy this place, due to the number of activities and facilities that are offered. We especially like the pool area and connected bar and grill area. We don't own a park model so we come in a motorhome, and we use either our Coast 2 Coast membership or our Passport America membership - this way it becomes way more affordable. Be aware that the months of January, February and March, Val Del Oro offers no discounts regardless of which camp ground organisation you have joined. For that reason December and April will be your best bet in a motorhome if you want a discounted price. Also - be aware that mid April a lot of the otherwise offered facilities will close for the season. This is because in April it gets so hot that most residents will leave for cooler climates. We have been here 4 time now, and we are likely to return.
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Date of stay: April 2013
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip:Â The campground is devided into pet friendly and not pet friendly areas. Make sure to...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
They were raising rates for the upcoming year and when we left in early April they still did not have new rates available, best to call. I don’t remember if they had a year restriction on the age of campers. Again, best to call and ask them the questions.
There are more places to choose from in the Mesa area.
ALSO KNOWN AS
valle del oro rv hotel mesa
LOCATION
United StatesArizonaCentral ArizonaMesa
NUMBER OF ROOMS
1,761
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