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16 Best Places to Camp in Arizona

Posted by D.T. Christensen June 16, 2020 Updated January 08, 2024

Camping in Arizona is a year-round affair: summer and fall are perfect times to hit high-country lakes and creeks, and winter camping in the desert can’t be beat.

No matter where you’re at in the Grand Canyon state, you’re only a road trip away from a change of scenery, making Arizona’s camping spots some of the most diverse in the country.

Thanks to our six National Forests, 22 National Parks and more than 30 State Parks, Arizona’s home to endless camping opportunities, whether you’re tent-bound beneath the stars or glamping it in an RV.

Here’s a look at 16 of the best campgrounds in Arizona, from remote desert campsites to comfortable, family-friendly places to sleep among the pines.

1. Lost Dutchman State Park

Why you should camp here: Popular desert camping and hiking on the fringe of the Phoenix metro area.

• Reservations accepted: Yes
• Best season: Spring, fall, winter
• Campsite type: Tents, RVs, camping cabins
• RV hookups:  Yes

In cooler months, Lost Dutchman State Park is one of the best camping spots just outside of Phoenix. The park skirts the base of the Superstition Mountains and offers easy access to a handful of our favorite Superstition trails like Siphon Draw Trail and Treasure Loop Trail.

The campground is busy but well maintained with nearly 140 campsites, half of which offer electric and water hookups. Sites are clean and include picnic tables, fire pits and grill grates. You can choose from three loops in the campground; the northern loop gets you closest to Siphon Draw Trailhead and the southern affords killer views of the Supes.

“I can’t say enough,” says reviewer Annika Phillips . “Hiking, camping, picnicking with family, this is the place. I have lived in the valley for over a decade and it took me WAY too long to discover this place.”

The campground’s open year-round but ideal in the winter. There are also five air-conditioned camping cabins available if you’re hangin’ out here in warmer months. See other recommended options for Arizona winter camping .

2. Lynx Lake Campground

Why you should camp here: Family-friendly lake camping within two hours of Phoenix.

• Best season:  Spring, summer, fall
• Campsite type: Tents, RVs
• RV hookups:  No

There’s no lack of things to do at Lynx Lake Campground in Prescott National Forest. The campground sits at 5,600 feet on the west side of 55-acre Lynx Lake , where you can fish, boat and hike to your heart’s content.

Lynx Recreation Trail is a good place to start: the trail wraps around the lake and connects to a number of offshoots for more exploring. The lake is stocked with trout and boating’s permitted, though swimming’s off the table.

“Beautiful lake with a great walking path around it,” says Ann L . “The campsites are large and only 5 or 6 on each spur, so you are not on top of the other campsite.”

The campground’s 35 sites are divided among 8 small loops and each include a table and grill. The season runs from April 1 to October 31 and north of the campground you’ll find Lynx Lake Cafe, Store & Marina for camp provisions.

This is a great place to chill for a weekend, but it does get busy and summer days can get surprisingly hot, especially on shade-less stretches of the lakeside trail.

Alternate : Hilltop Campground offers a similar vibe on the south end of the lake – it’s still small, some sites can be reserved and the Homestead Trail  runs right through the middle.

3. Fool Hollow Lake Recreational Area

Why you should camp here:  High-country camping in Arizona’s gorgeous White Mountains.

• Best season: Year-round

Don’t be fooled by this state park’s proximity to Show Low – it may be close to town, but it’s one of Arizona’s best camping getaways. At 6,300 feet, it’s also one of the few high-elevation campgrounds that’s open and enjoyable throughout the year.

The park includes just over 120 campsites , 92 of which have RV hookups. The remaining 31 primitive campsites are reserved for tents only. Sites are divided into three areas and seven loops, and a quick glance at the campground map shows which loops claim the best lake views.

“Great campground and lake,” says camper Brandon Esplin . “They had great camp hosts that really take care of the place and also had a good, clean dump station for taking care of that on the way out.”

Fool Hollow Lake also hits the recreational trifecta, allowing fishing , boating and swimming. The 150-acre lake has bass, walleye and stocked rainbow trout, and fishing platforms around the lake to help find your lucky spot. In the summer, you can rent a kayak from J&T’s Wild-Life Outdoors .

A 1.8-mile trail follows the western part of Fool Hollow Lake, but for more challenging hikes in the area, check out the White Mountain Trail System and its 200-plus miles of trail in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests.

4. White Horse Lake Campground

Why you should camp here:  Mellow lakeside camping in a serene Northern Arizona setting.

• Best season: Spring, summer
• Campsite type:  Tents, RVs
• RV hookups: No

White Horse Lake Campground is a personal favorite spot of ours – it’s quiet, tucked away in the Kaibab National Forest and close to great hiking near Sycamore Canyon .

None of the campground’s 90-plus sites have RV hookups, though there is a dump station on site. Campsites are spread nicely on the north and west sides of the lake and you can check the campground’s map for sites nearest the water.

You can fish and boat on the lake, but swimming’s not allowed. The campground’s open from May 6 to September 30 and about half the sites are available to reserve ahead of time.

The only downside to setting up at White Horse Lake is getting there – if you don’t have a vehicle that can handle the washboard forest roads, it can be a long ride in and out (but worth it).

Alternates : Dogtown Lake Campground and Kaibab Lake Campground are closer to Williams and easier to get to. Both have similar vibes but Dogtown Lake’s sites aren’t as close to the water, and Kaibab Lake’s located just a few miles north of downtown Williams, so it doesn’t feel as removed as White Horse Lake.

5. Christopher Creek Campground

Why you should camp here:  Slower paced alternative to the busier Rim campgrounds to the north.

• Best season: Spring, summer, fall

The Rim Lakes get most of the Mogollon Rim camping love, but Christopher Creek Campground proves life below the rim is just as scenic.

Many of the campground’s 43 sites are creekside, and those that aren’t still have good views and plenty of space to unwind. It’s a family-friendly campground that books up fast in the summer, though some first-come, first-serve sites are available.

The campground’s season runs from April to October and swimming holes along the creek make it a peak summer favorite for locals and visitors alike.

“We have camped at Christopher Creek since 1978,” writes Dorriss C. “Our favorite place.”

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6. Aspen Campground

Why you should camp here: The quintessential Mogollon Rim camping experience.

• Reservations accepted:  Yes

Speaking of Rim Lakes, Aspen Campground is the largest of the Mogollon Rim’s campgrounds, with nearly 150 campsites. That type of camping isn’t for everyone, but if you’re willing to brave the crowd, you’ll dig how close it is to Woods Canyon Lake.

Despite its size, Aspen Campground is well-spread through four loops and offers a variety of scenery, with some sites more open to the elements and others surrounded by dense pine forest. Not surprisingly, Aspen is one of the most popular camping spots in Arizona and stays full throughout the season.

“Beautiful,” says Larry Quick . “I recommend going during the week, gets busy on the weekend. Was great waking up to elk just outside the trailer window.”

Fortunately, there’s a mix of sites of bookable and walk-up sites, so you can either plan your trip far in advance or take your chances on a walk-up site during the week. Few campgrounds in Arizona are this bustling and family-friendly, so it’s a great place to get young’uns used to sleeping outdoors.

Alternates : There’s no such thing as a slow weekend at Aspen, so if you’re looking for secluded camping, check out some of the lakes further north on the Rim, like Knoll Lake or Bear Canyon Lake .

For backup options near Woods Canyon Lake, consider Spillway Campground or Mogollon Campground .

7. Pine Flat Campground

Why you should camp here:  Creekside camping in one of Arizona’s most scenic canyons.

We’ve camped at Pine Flat Campground more times than we can count, and for good reason. It’s Oak Creek Canyon’s northernmost campground and the perfect basecamp to explore the area.

Head south for hikes in Sedona before returning back to cooler canyon weather, or take 89A north to some of the best hiking in Flagstaff . If you’re staying around camp, Cookstove Trail is a great way to warm up in the mornings.

The best of Pine Flat’s 56 campsites are creekside, and about a third of the sites can be reserved in advance. If you’re banking on a walk-up site, get there on a weekday if possible. The campground’s season is April to October, and while you’re there, stock up on fresh spring water at the north end of the campground.

Alternates: Other Sedona campgrounds offer good options for camping near Sedona.

8. Mather Campground

Why you should camp here: Pitch your tent at the only campground in Grand Canyon Village.

Mather Campground’s 327 sites sit just a mile from the Grand Canyon’s South Rim. The campground is designed to handle the millions of tourists visiting every year, but it’s not as cramped and boisterous as you might expect.

“Everyone was quiet during quiet hours and very respectful,” says Leah H. “We had a short walk to the restroom, which was such a perk! We had plenty of space and privacy.”

For most campers, dealing with late-night arrivals and steady crowds are small prices to pay for camping so close to the Rim. Mather’s location in the Village affords easy access to nearby overlooks and trails, or you can take the shuttle’s Village Route to points of interest like Bright Angel Trail and El Tovar .

You can reserve campsites online from March to November, and every campsite’s available on a first-come, first-serve basis from December to February.

Alternative : Desert View Campground 25 miles east of Grand Canyon Village offers walk-up sites that book up fast. You’ll get fewer amenities here, but avoiding the park’s main crowds has its perks.

9. North Rim Campground

Why you should camp here: Ditch the South Rim crowds for camping on the quieter side of the Grand Canyon.

Grand Canyon National Park’s lone campground on the North Rim offers spectacular camping and excellent day hiking from May to October. This side of the Canyon’s about 1,000 feet higher in elevation, sees fewer crowds and offers its share of outstanding views along the Rim.

Note : The North Rim is currently open for day use only because of a waterline project. Reservations for the North Rim Campground resume September 1, 2020.

You won’t need to go far for classic Grand Canyon hiking and viewpoints: take the Transept Trail down to the historic Grand Canyon Lodge , then head out to Bright Angel Point for sweeping Canyon views. You can also take the Bridle Path over to North Kaibab Trailhead, where you can follow the North Kaibab Trail into the Canyon.

To see more of the area, take a scenic drive to Point Imperial, the North Rim’s highest point, then down to Cape Royal, an excellent place to be for sunset.

Alternates : DeMotte Campground seven miles north of the Park entrance is a spacious, well-maintained backup option. Jacob Lake Campground is further north and a good alternative for those exploring other attractions in the region.

10. Lockett Meadow Campground

Why you should camp here: Awe-inspiring views and hiking at one of the best high-elevation campgrounds in Arizona.

• Reservations accepted: No

No campground gets you closer to the San Francisco Peaks than the one at Lockett Meadow. It’s a small, primitive campground with only 17 sites, but you won’t need much to enjoy the scenery here.

“In summer, the aspens blaze a brilliant green with new leaves,” writes Arizona Highways Senior Editor Kelly Vaughn of Arizona Highways . “In fall, that foliage goes from green to gorgeous gold.”

She recommends sites 7 and 8, but there’s not a bad view on this side of the peaks. Each site comes with a picnic and fire ring, though you’ll have to check Coconino National Forest’s fire restrictions before lighting up.

After you’ve set up camp, hit the Inner Basin Trail at the southwest end of the campground. It’ll take you through more than three miles of impressive pine and aspen forest – some of Arizona’s best fall foliage.

There’s no water here, and no amenities save for a vault toilet, so plan and pack accordingly. The road in is rough, narrow and steep, and although you can haul a trailer in, it’s not recommended.

11. Patagonia Lake State Park

Why you should camp here: Idyllic lakeside camping in Southern Arizona.

• RV hookups: Yes

Patagonia Lake State Park offers peaceful camping, fishing and wildlife viewing about 72 miles south of Tucson. The 265-acre lake in the Sonoita Creek watershed includes a beach, campground and plenty of facilities for a comfortable stay over the weekend or longer.

Nearly all of the park’s 107 campsites have RV hookups, and a handful sport ramadas for extra shade. The main campground is divided into two areas – the western half is larger, but both sides have a good selection of sites with lake views.

Seven cabins with air conditioning, mini-fridges and microwaves offer a comfortable camping alternative near the eastern campground.

There are also 12 boat-in campsites spread throughout the lake with basic amenities and the occasional portable toilet. Visitors can swim in any part of the lake aside from the boat ramp, including Boulder Beach, located between the two campground areas.

There’s not much in the way of designated trails here, but you can take the short Sonoita Creek Trail over to Sonoita Creek State Natural Area , where you’ll find some 20 miles of hiking trails . Birding and wildlife viewing in both state parks are excellent, especially in cooler spring months before the summer crowds hit. Check out also best places to go camping near water in Arizona.

12. Twin Peaks Campground

Why you should camp here:  Tranquil winter camping in unspoiled Sonoran Desert.

Twin Peaks Campground is the larger of two designated camping areas in Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument , a park on the U.S.-Mexico border preserving a 500-square-mile swath of the Sonoran Desert.

And the desert is the real MVP here: the plants, animals and human history of the area are carefully protected and on display, from the park’s namesake cactus to evidence of human habitation dating back thousands of years.

“What a gorgeous, breathtaking desert setting,” says Gail M . “Organ Pipe, Saguaros, Chollas, wildflowers, stargazing nights, hikes from the campground, what a treat!”

The campground has more than 200 sites laid out like an RV neighborhood, with the last few rows of sites reserved for tents only. You’ll need reservations during the park’s busy season from January to March. There are no RV hookups, but the campground does have solar showers (how warm they get depends on the season).

Alternate : Alamo Canyon Campground offers primitive, tent-only camping on the eastern edge of the park. There are only four sites here, so it can fill quickly in cooler months. Check 3 best winter camping spots in Arizona.

13. Catalina State Park

Why you should camp here:  Easy camping getaway at the base of Tucson’s iconic Catalinas.

Catalina State Park at the foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains is one of the quickest ways to escape Tucson for stunning desert camping.

The campground’s 120 sites – all with RV hookups – are organized into three loops. Loops A and B are closest to the park entrance and more clustered together; the Ringtail/Overflow area is smaller (30 sites) and closer to the foothills, though all three loops offer solid views of the Catalinas.

Note : Day use and overnight camping is currently not permitted at Catalina State Park due to the Bighorn Fire. Check Pima County for updates on the fire’s status.

There are eight hiking trails in the park , several of which wind into the Coronado National Forest. Romero Canyon Trail, one of our favorite Tucson hiking trails , and the Sutherland Trail, both connect to Mt. Lemmon Trail for an extra challenge.

Catalina State Park is also home to more than 150 bird species and part of the Tucson Sky Islands Important Birding Area , one of 47 such sites in Arizona . Check out other camping places near Saguaro National park .

14. Rose Canyon Campground

Why you should camp here: Picturesque camping in the Catalinas less than 90 minutes from Tucson.

Before reaching Mt. Lemmon, the Catalina Highway winds through quickly-changing desert and forest scenery home to a number of campgrounds, including Rose Canyon . Spacious campsites and its proximity to Rose Canyon Lake make this campground a favorite among locals and out-of-town campers.

About half of Rose Canyon’s 73 can be reserved during the campground’s season from April to October, and in the off-season the area’s open for day-use hiking and fishing. Sites on the south end of the campground are closest to the water, and there’s a one-mile trail around the lake for more exploring.

There’s no swimming or boating at Rose Canyon Lake, but it’s stocked with trout and the nearby campground store slings fishing supplies from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

Alternates : Spencer Canyon Campground is higher up in the mountains, though it doesn’t take reservations. There’s also General Hitchcock Campground south of Rose Canyon, but it’s small (11 sites) and only recommended for tent camping.

15. Bonita Canyon Campground

Why you should camp here: Exceptional camping and hiking in one of Arizona’s famed sky islands.

• Best season:  Year-round

Bonita Canyon Campground lies in the heart of Chiricahua National Monument , a sky island mountain range known for its distinct hoodoos, hiking and wildlife.

The campground is relatively small and caters to tents and RVs under 29 feet. This is considered bear and mountain lion country, so campers are required to use the provided food storage boxes and exercise caution in the area.

Ground fires are not allowed at Bonita Canyon, but you can bring a fire pit that sits at least six inches off the ground (the group site here comes with a fire pit). The campground provides flush toilets, drinking water and other amenities that make for an otherwise comfortable stay.

The park includes more than 17 miles of hiking trails , from leisurely strolls on the Bonita Creek Trail to “The Big Loop,” a 9.5-mile route that hits many of the park’s main natural attractions. Visitors can take a free shuttle from the campground to the trailhead of their choice in the mornings.

The monument is open year-round and because of the elevation (5,400 feet at the visitor center), summers are relatively mild. Monsoon season brings cool afternoon thunderstorms that peak in July and August.

Alternates : there aren’t any other campgrounds in the park, but you’ll find more camping in the Coronado National Forest to the south, including Sycamore Campground , Rustler Park Campground and Herb Martyr Campground .

16. River Island State Park

Why you should camp here: Family-friendly camping and easy beach access on the Colorado River.

The best of River Island’s campsites are #30 through #37, eight spots on a grassy area overlooking the Colorado River. The remaining sites are still nice – and cater to larger RVs – but the waterfront sites are where it’s at.

Just beyond those spots is a small sandy beach and three-lane boat ramp, making River Island State Park a popular swimming and boating destination throughout the year. There’s a short trail up to Wedge Hill for stellar views of the river, and nearby Buckskin Mountain State Park offers more hiking.

The campground’s cove is perfect for kayaking, or you can venture out in the river for more open views. It gets scorching hot during the summer, but that also makes it a great time to hit the water.

Alternates : Buckskin Mountain, Cattail Cove State Park , and Lake Havasu State Park all offer camping on the river, but few of their sites beat the waterfront views at River Island.

Related Read:   8 Best Lake Havasu Camping Spots for Water-Filled Adventure

Find Your Next Arizona Adventure

These are just some of the many camping spots in Arizona. For more ideas, check out Recreation.gov , Arizona State Parks & Trails , or Hipcamp , which lists public and private campgrounds around the state.

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Posted by D.T. Christensen

Dustin is the founder of Territory Supply. He was born and raised in Phoenix, and fills most of his shelves with books on American West history. When he’s not writing or reading, he likes to travel with his wife and twin daughters, a rambunctious team that makes backpacking the Grand Canyon seem easy.

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Best Camping in Arizona – Top 50 Spots (Free & Paid)

Are you traveling to the southwest and want to know the best camping in Arizona ? Are you unsure where to start in a diverse state with deserts, mountains, lakes, canyons, and rivers?

Then you have come to the right place!

We are going to cover all of the best camping in Arizona, from the best campgrounds to dispersed camping. Arizona is one of the most spectacular states in the US, so there is a lot to go over!

Best Northern Arizona Camping

Most people just assume that Arizona is nothing but a desert. But a quick look at Northern Arizona will quickly show you that this is not the case. The Northern part of the state is covered in thick alpine forests, complete with cold winters and altitudes of 11,000 feet! Here are a few great camping options for this part of the state. 

1. Cave Springs Campground

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Cave Springs is found near the city of Flagstaff and is one of the most popular campgrounds in Arizona. You will want to book well in advance, as it tends to fill up quickly. After that, you will most likely want to book it again as the camping is excellent and the access to nearby hiking trails and fishing holes is amazing. 

2. Pine Flat Campground

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Pine Flat Campground is very similar to Cave Springs and is situated along Oak Creek. While it does not have as many luxuries as Cave Springs, it is usually less busy and still offers the same amazing access to some excellent hiking trails and unmatched fishing opportunities. 

3. White Horse Lake Campground

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White Horse is found around 15 miles away from Flagstaff, but all of the roads to it are very well maintained. This is a great option for people wanting to get away from the crowds. While there are no amenities, it is a great place for hiking, biking, and fishing at the nearby White Horse Lake. 

4. Lockett Meadow Campground

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If you want something really remote and hard to get to, look no further than Lockett Meadow Campground. The bumpy and rough road is well worth the effort, though, as this campsite gives campers a world-class stay in the San Francisco Peaks just north of Flagstaff. 

5. Freidlein Prairie Campground

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While the road to Lockett Meadow might be considered rough, it is nothing compared to Freidlein Prairie. You will need a high clearance vehicle to access this campsite, but this means that there will always be plenty of campsites to choose from.

6. Pinegrove Campground

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Pinegrove Campground is special because it sits near a series of scenic mountain lakes. It will give excellent access to all of them, so it is a popular option amongst fishermen. The campground itself has showers and private bathrooms for use. 

7. Pumphouse Wash Camping Area

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With over 80 sites, Pumphouse Wash has plenty of options for campers to get away from the city without paying huge fees to do so. While there are no toilets, hookups, or anything else, this gives you a much cheaper option than that of the surrounding campgrounds. 

8. Dairy Springs Campground

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There are few better places to stay for campers who enjoy hiking than Dairy Springs Campground. Three different hiking trails start from this site, and the scenery is top-notch. There are bathrooms, potable water on-site, and easy access to a nearby lodge for supplies. 

9. Ashurst Lake Campground 

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Ashurst Lake is a popular fishing destination in Northern Arizona, but it also offers some amazing camping as well. This scenic campground is found at the base of the San Francisco peaks and offers some amazing views. 

10. Double Springs Campground

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Built in the 1930s, Double Springs Campground is one of the oldest here on our list. This campground is great for wildlife and bird watching with a natural spring. Nestled in the ponderosa pines and oak trees, the weather is always nice, cool, and perfect for a quick trip!

Best Southern Arizona Camping

Southern Arizona is one of the most diverse landscapes in the country. From the hot desert floor to “sky islands” of pine forests, there is almost no end to great places to visit. Here are some of the best camping locations in Southern Arizona. 

1. Arcadia Campground

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Found on the slopes of Mount Graham, Arcadia Campground is the perfect spot for a quick trip to escape the heat of Southern Arizona. There are bathrooms and potable water on-site, and it is usually not very busy, even during peak season. 

2. Reef Townsite Campground

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Found high in the mountains near the Arizona and Mexico border, this campsite is located on a site that was once the site of an old mining town of Reef. This campground requires a small fee to use, but it is well worth the drive and permit in order to camp here. 

3. Peppersauce Campground

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Found at the foot of Mt. Lemmon near the big city of Tucson, Peppersauce Campground is a great place for a quick picnic or a weeklong campout. All of the sites are spread out along the creek, all underneath giant sycamore and walnut trees. 

4. Ramsey Vista Campground

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In the same area as Reef Townsite Campground in the Huachuca Mountains, Ramsey Vista Campground is found at over 8,000 feet in elevation and offers an amazing view of the surrounding desert. There are no amenities here, so you should come as prepared as you can!

5. Spencer Canyon Campground

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Found on Catalina Mountain, this campground oversees the city of Tucson and has some of the best views in the state. The high elevation allows campers to escape the surrounding heat of the desert, as well as a great place for hiking and wildlife viewing. 

6. Idlewilde Campground

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Found in the Chiricahua Mountains, this campground is nestled under a giant grove of Arizona cypress trees along a creek. It is very well known for its bird watching and scenic views. There are bathrooms and potable water here, but not much else. Its remoteness is worth the effort, however. 

7. Lakeview Campground

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Found near Parker Canyon Lake in the Huachuca Mountains, this campground is found amongst the oaks and junipers. From the campground itself, it is only a short walk to the lake. Aside from fishing, there are plenty of hiking trails and it is usually less crowded than most easily accessible areas across Southern Arizona. 

8. Sunny Flat Campground

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Another great camping option in the Chiricahua Mountains, Sunny Flat Campground, is popular for the surrounding rock formations that tower over the area. There are also plenty of nearby amenities and multiple hiking trails. 

9. West Turkey Creek Campground

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Look no further than West Turkey Creek Campground for campers who want a more remote, dispersed camping experience. This small, out of the way site is found along Turkey Creek and under the shade of giant sycamore trees. With plenty of trails and scenic views, you will no doubt enjoy this campground and the surrounding area. 

10. White Rock Campground

Found a short distance from Pena Blanca Lake on the Coronado National Forest, White Rock has plenty of amenities and can be quite busy during the peak season. However, if you visit during the winter, you will most likely have the area to yourself. 

Best Places for Free Camping in Arizona

In addition to established campgrounds that will usually require a small fee, there are plenty of free places to camp all around Arizona. Here are a few of our favorites!

Stateline Campground

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Stateline Campground is found in both Utah and Arizona, placing it close to Page, AZ, and Kanab, UT. It is a primitive and private campground that is free to anyone and puts you within easy access to some popular hikes such as Wire Pass. 

Four Mile Canyon Campground

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Found at the head of the beautiful Aravaipa Canyon, Four Mile Canyon Campground has ten primitive campsites that are first-come, first-serve. It is surrounded by scenic mountains and located down in the juniper shrubs, making it a great winter destination when higher elevations are closed. 

Snyder Hill Camping Area

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Found just outside of the city of Tucson and south of Saguaro National Park, Snyder Hill is a great area for campers whether you have an RV, motorhome, or tent. It is down in the heart of the desert, so it may be a little warm in the summer, but it is a great destination throughout the rest of the year. 

Kofa National Wildlife Refuge

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If you want the most remote camping possible, look no further than Kofa National Wildlife Refuge. It is located far away from civilization and has zero services or amenities. You will need a high clearance vehicle to access most of the refuge, but the solitude it provides is second to none. 

Best Arizona State Parks Campgrounds

Picacho peak state park.

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Visitors to southern Arizona will most likely pass by the prominent peak of Picacho Peak State Park. There are plenty of trails that cover the entire park, and the campground offers every amenity that you could need. From the low desert floor to the scenic views, this site offers some great winter camping to escape the snow. 

Roper Lake State Park

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Found near the city of Safford, Roper Lake State Park is a small desert lake that is popular amongst fishermen. The campgrounds here are exceptional and require a small fee to stay at. There are even small cabins that are available to rent, as well as natural hot springs that you can enjoy. 

Lost Dutchman State Park

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Named after the Lost Dutchman gold mine that is supposedly lost in the Superstition Mountains, the Lost Dutchman State Park is found only 40 miles east of Phoenix. It has plenty of trails leading from the park into the surrounding mountains and national forests. 

Catalina State Park

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Catalina State Park sits at the base of the Santa Catalina Mountains and is a refuge for plants, wildlife, and over 5,000 saguaros cacti. From hills, canyons, and streams throughout the park, there are plenty of things to do and see here. 

Patagonia Lake State Park

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Found in the hills of southeastern Arizona, Patagonia Lake is a pristine area with abundant wildlife. From fishing at the lake to hiking, biking, and bird watching, there is never an end to the things to do, and the surrounding scenery is stunning. 

Best Dispersed Camping in Arizona

Arizona is home to plenty of publicly owned land in the form of BLM and National Forests. Camping on these lands is a unique experience, and there is no end to the possibilities. Here are a few good spots for dispersed camping in Arizona. 

Kaibab National Forest

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One of the best places to camp when visiting the South Rim of the Grand Canyon and a great area for dispersed camping during the spring, summer, and fall. 

Kaibab Plateau

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Just like the Kaibab National Forest is perfect for the South Rim, the Kaibab Plateau is perfect for visiting the North Rim. 

Schnebly HIll Road

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Found in the Prescott National Forest, this popular dispersed camping location is great for visiting Sedona. 

Loy Butte Road

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Another great place for dispersed camping is the Prescott National Forest, this location also offers great access to Sedona.

Wing Mountain

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Found near the city of Flagstaff, Wing Mountain offers plenty of places for dispersed camping that give you access to nearby lakes, attractions, and hiking trails. 

Jack’s Canyon

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For campers on the eastern side of the state, there is some great dispersed camping to be had around Jack’s Canyon, only a short distance from the town of Winslow. 

Upper Canyon Creek

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Found near the town of Payson, this is a great camping location near a creek that is only a short drive from the Phoenix area and provides a quick getaway from the desert heat. 

Bronco Trailhead

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Bronco Trailhead is on the Tonto National Forest and is just north of Cave Creek. Plenty of different trails originate here, giving you plenty to explore. 

Cinder Hills

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Cinder Hills is a dedicated OHV area that provides plenty of trails and roads that you can enjoy with your offroad vehicles. 

Senator Highway

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Just south of Prescott, Senator Highway covers plenty of different areas that all provide free dispersed camping.

Best Camping in Arizona Near Water

Lee’s ferry campground.

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Lee’s Ferry is one of the most beautiful and scenic areas in all of Arizona and is one of the most sought-after destinations for anglers. This campground gives you perfect access to all of the fun in the water. 

Wahweap Campground

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Wahweap Campground is right next to Lake Powell, and you can be at the water’s edge in just a short walk. 

Pine Flat Campground

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Pine Flat is one of the most popular campgrounds because of the access it gives you to Oak Creek. If the fish aren’t biting, you can go swimming, bird watching, or hiking in the area. 

Big Lake Campground

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Found right next to Big Lake in the White Mountains of Arizona, this is the perfect place to go if you enjoy high mountain lakes. The scenery is also second to none. 

Best Horse Camping in Arizona

Timber camp recreation area.

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One of the most popular family and group campgrounds on Tonto National Forest, this campground has plenty of corrals to keep your horses and is a cool getaway from the hot summer sun. 

Frazier Horse Camp

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With miles of hiking and horse riding trails accessible straight from the campground, Frazier Horse Camp is the perfect destination for anyone that wants to camp with horses and includes everything you might need. 

Peter’s Trail 105

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Look no further than Peter’s Trail for a more remote horse camping experience. This horse campground does not include as many extras as the other options, but it is very remote and offers great views from the surrounding vistas. 

Best Arizona Campgrounds with Showers

Pine grove campground.

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Found near Lake Mary, this high-elevation campground comes equipped with coin-operated showers and plenty of space to enjoy the beautiful scenery that the area provides.

Grayling Campground

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Found near Big Lake in the White Mountains, Grayling Campground is one of the few campsites in the area that provide showers. It is busy, so making a reservation well in advance is suggested. 

Camping in Arizona | Conclusion

Arizona is a very diverse state with so many wonderful opportunities for camping. No matter what style of camping you prefer, you are sure to find what you are looking for here in the Grand Canyon State!

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Home » North America » Camping in Arizona

Camping in Arizona

Camping can be as simple as opening your backyard door. You don’t have to make a big effort or drive halfway across the country; and if Arizona is what you open your door to every day, you’ll be pleased to know that prime camping is right at your doorstep.

Have you ever camped in a desert? Or in the red rocks of Sedona? Maybe you feel like pitching a tent at the Grand Canyon, and luckily for you: it’s all there.

We’re here to help you navigate the world of camping in Arizona. Whether you’re 100% new to camping or just never considered Arizona a viable option, our guide is packed with all the info you’ll need to get started.

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Why Camp in Arizona?

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In Arizona, you get deserts in the south and pine forests in the north. Mountains, canyons, and wide-open spaces fill up the spaces in between. If that doesn’t sound like an adventure waiting to happen, we don’t know what does!

Spread out over 113,000 square miles, Arizona is the 6th-largest state in the US and that leaves you plenty of options to choose from. Its nickname is a dead giveaway to one of its most famous natural wonders – the Grand Canyon State. Yep. That’s not a bad place to start at all.

Grand Canyon National Park is just one of Arizona’s three national parks. The other two? Petrified Forest National Park and Saguaro National Park. Boom. Add to that six vast national forests and a ton of state parks, and you have a whole lot to explore in Arizona.

Some of Arizona’s natural sights are wildly popular across the nation (and the globe), which means crowds are a thing here. Camping, however, means that you’ll have a lot more options. Can’t get much more early-bird than waking up a stone’s throw from the Grand Canyon, right?

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If adventure is your thing, you’re going to love it out here. With truly vast stretches of nature, the options for primitive, or dispersed camping, can seem pretty endless.

You can camp fairly freely in Arizona’s national forests (there are six), which have many semi-developed sites as well as developed options if you’re looking for stability. There is also the option for dispersed camping on BLM (Bureau of Land Management) land, and you can find the guidelines for that online .

State parks may not offer complete backcountry camping, but on the Arizona government’s website for state parks you’ll find that “showers are available at all parks with camping.” So it’s off-grid, sort of, with a few facilities.

If you want it as raw as it gets, the best option is to head to one of Arizona’s national forests. The forest belongs to everyone, as they say, but some rules need to be respected – for your safety, as much as for the preservation of nature.

You can camp almost anywhere in the national forest, unless otherwise signposted, and as long as you follow the guidelines…

• Do not camp in parts of a national forest that are within city limits, or too close (¼ of a mile) to wildlife watering holes and water tanks that serve it.
• Dispose of human and pet waste in a hole at least 7 inches deep.
• Do not camp on open meadowlands or drive through them; it really scars the landscape.
• Check for campfire restrictions in the area you plan to camp in. Having campfires in the backcountry can cause a lasting impact. And do not leave it unattended.
• Bring at least six gallons of water with you. This is needed to fully extinguish your campfire.
• Do not use the forests for “residence”. Wild camping is limited to 14 days within a 28-day period. You can move camp after that if you stay outside a 25-mile radius of your previous site.

As a rule of thumb, you should leave no trace behind. And as long as you stick to the rules, you won’t have any trouble exploring the back-of-beyond in Arizona’s national forests.

Some areas in the national forests have been specifically designated as dispersed campsites . These sites are pre-cleared, open and accessible, but are quite popular because they’re fairly easy to reach.

Other areas are closed to primitive camping, such as Sedona and Oak Creek Canyon; some are temporary, some have fire restrictions. It’s a good idea to check the list of prohibited sites .

You shouldn’t have an issue with that, because Tonto and Coconino National Forests alone provide almost five million acres of natural wonderland to play around in. There’s no way you’ll need more!

However, if you like your campsites developed, your showers warm, and your toilets clean, fear not; there are some great campgrounds outside the backcountry options…

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As much as we love primitive camping in Arizona, sometimes it’s nice to have a little more comfort. If you like your camping with toilets and showers in the mix, there’s plenty of campsite options for you.

To give you some inspiration on where to start, we’ve listed some of the best campgrounds in Arizona. Grab a pen and note ’em down; from the newbie to the camping wizard, there’s something here for every type of camper.

1) Patagonia Lake Campground – Patagonia Lake State Park

Situated in southern Arizona, this state park is centered around the 250-acre Patagonia Lake. It’s surrounded by rolling hills and home to white-tailed deer, great blue heron, and an abundance of fish and birds. Naturally, it’s as popular for boating and fishing as it is for hiking and birdwatching.

Staying here means you can linger for a while longer than the daytrippers, of course. Camping at Patagonia Lake Campground offers up lakeside camping, with plots right next to the water. Compact in size, it’s the perfect start for camping beginners. There are plenty of facilities, and it has a laid-back, friendly atmosphere.

Amenities: Campfires allowed, Toilet available, Pets allowed, Potable water available, Showers available, Picnic table available

Campsite fee: From $25 per campsite per night.

2) Ten X Campground – Kaibab National Forest

Kaibab National Forest is proper wilderness. It’s a big place – like 1.6 million acres big – and it’s filled with some amazing geological wonders. One of the biggest selling points is that it borders both the North and South Rim of the Grand Canyon.

The forest has a campground that neighbors the Grand Canyon, but as you can imagine it gets pretty hectic. The Ten X Campground may not be as close, but because of that, it’s much quieter. It’s shaded, has well-spaced plots, and is still within a reasonable distance of the canyon. Easy access too!

Amenities: Campfires allowed, Toilet available, Pets allowed, Potable water available, Picnic table available

Campsite fee: From $20 per campsite per night.

3) Lake Havasu Campground – Lake Havasu State Park

One for the beach-lovers. Lake Havasu State Park offers the chance to have beach days right in the middle of the desert. Situated in Mohave County, time runs slow around here and main duties revolve around chilling out. 

You’ll get to roam around Lake Havasu’s areas and its beautiful trails, or take a boat out to explore the lake.It’s a year-round spot that’s best experienced with a stay at Lake Havasu Campground. 

The campground is situated pretty much on the lake’s shore and the 47 plots are a nice mix of primitive and more developed areas. Whether you’re looking for a rougher stay or a bit more camping luxury, it’s a safe bet here. Stargazing here is also primo.

Campsite fee: From $35 per campsite per night.

4)  Roper Lake Campground – Roper Lake State Park

Roper Lake State Park has a real Wild West feel to it. Here you get a good mix of hiking trails in desert landscapes with fishing and boating on the water. For the weary-footed, there’s the chance to soak those tired feet in a natural stone hot tub. 

Just a stone’s throw from Roper Lake, this relaxing campground is easily accessible from Highway 191, and it’s very popular among fishing enthusiasts. You can also opt to stay in a cabin if you feel like a little bit of a plush experience – or if you forgot your tent.

5) Alderwood Campground – Tonto National Forest

Tonto National Forest is one of the grand-daddies of American national forests. It’s the fifth-largest in the country and the largest in Arizona. But aside from the size, the landscape itself is truly iconic. Think deep-cut gorges, geological formations, and stretches of pine forest in a super rugged environment that stretches for 2,873,200 acres.

You can take your pick of any of the numerous campgrounds. But the best, for us, is Alderwood Campground. It’s a blend of everything, with wildflowers, canyons, and swimming holes at easy reach.

The campground itself is peaceful and all about solitude. With plenty of shady spots to pitch up, you won’t find it hard to relax here after an action-packed day in Tonto.

Amenities: Campfires allowed, Toilet available, Picnic table available

Campsite fee: From $16 per campsite per night.

6) Lynx Campground – Prescott National Forest

You’ll find Prescott National Forest in the mountains southwest of Flagstaff. It’s another vast stretch of wilderness with awesome opportunities for camping in Arizona.

The scenery here is beautiful beyond belief, with desert dustiness and rocky ridges mingling with brown scrub and Ponderosa pines. And not a lot of people come here to camp!

For us, Lynx Campground is one of the best. There’s a mild climate here, with plenty of shaded plots to rock up, set up, and chill out.

It’s a popular spot with anglers, photographers, and birders alike. Unfortunately, there’s no swimming in the lake, but there is a great trail that loops around it. 

Campsite fee: From $18 per campsite per night.

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7) Mather Campground – Grand Canyon National Park

Situated in the one-and-only Grand Canyon, this right here might just be one of the best places to camp in all of Arizona.

The Grand Canyon is without a doubt one of the best places to visit in the USA . It is often touted as one of the world’s wonders, and we tend to agree. An overnight trip under canvas here does require some planning, though.

There’s a couple of campgrounds choices, but we reckon Mather Campground is where you should start. The more popular North Rim Campground can get super busy, and you need to book far in advance.

It’s got a forest setting and shaded plots, super clean facilities, and even a park shuttle that takes you almost right to the Rim. You may even see an elk or two wandering around the site.

From here, you’re set to explore everything the Grand Canyon has to offer .

Amenities: Campfires allowed, Toilet available, Pets allowed, Showers available, Picnic table available

8) Cave Spring Campground – Coconino National Forest

The 1.8 million-acre Coconino National Forest is a great place to base yourself to explore the surrounding scenery of North Arizona. From here, you can check the spectacular red rock formations, which is just one of many great things to do in Sedona .

The area is surprisingly diverse and boasts ten different wilderness areas, including the summit of the San Francisco Peaks.

One of the best campsites in Arizona, and definitely the most popular in Coconino, Cave Spring is the place to be. Cut through by Oak Creek, which lazily makes its way through the site, it’s dotted with giant Ponderosas and has views of Sedona’s charming rugged cliffs.

You’ll be perfectly situated for hikes around West Fork Canyon and Slide Rock, to name just a couple of great spots.

Pro tip: Come in autumn for a blaze of fall foliage.

Amenities: Campfires allowed, Toilet available, Showers available, Picnic table available

Campsite fee: From $22 per campsite per night.

9) Lost Dutchman Campground – Lost Dutchman State Park

Despite the ominous name, there’s nothing spooky about this state park – even if it is located near the Superstition Mountains. It actually takes its name from Lost Dutchman Goldmine, which is steeped in tales of the Old West. The craggy park itself – coated in cacti and looped by mountain bike trails – is practically an adventure playground.

The campground here is great. It’s got 134 plots spread between primitive and modern (developed) sites, all of which are well connected with trails. If you’re lucky, you may even bag yourself a spot with unreal views of the Superstition Mountains. Be careful; in summer, things do get really hot here. If you can’t take the heat, come later/earlier in the year.

10) Catalina Campground – Catalina State Park

North of Houston, Catalina State Park is set on the western slopes of the Santa Catalina Mountains. Veined by lazy creeks and lakes, It’s got some seriously dramatic landscapes on offer, with super high ridges. It’s also a haven for desert-lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, with more than 150 species of birds living here.

Staying a night (or a couple) at the friendly and affordable Catalina Campground is your best bet. It’s spacious, with 120 plots to choose from, and it’s very well-maintained: it’s got some of the most sparklingly clean bathrooms and showers we’ve ever seen. If you like forward planning, you’ll be pleased to know that most plots can be reserved ahead of time.

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If our all-time favorite campsites in Arizona didn’t make the cut for you, then about something a bit more luxurious?

Glamping mixes glamour with camping, allowing you to be close to nature without having to sleep on the actual ground. Canvas may be present, but so will beds and modern conveniences.

If that definitely sounds like your thing, then keep reading. We’ve put together a few spots that make up for great glamping in Arizona to give you an idea of the sort of thing to expect. Drum rolls, please!

1) Grand Canyon Fireside Yurt Village – Williams

For some classic glamping in Arizona, look no further than a yurt! It’s a nice step above camping. Here you get to arrive at a pre-erected tent that boasts an outside deck strung with fairy lights. There’s also a grill, icebox, and cooking equipment. Electricity included!

With a prime location, just off of Route 64 and on the way to Grand Canyon National Park, it’s a great way to escape into nature without getting your hands too dirty.

Back at the yurt village itself, you’ll have clean, modern bathroom facilities to use so that you can take a much-needed shower in peace after a day at the canyon.

2) Million Dollar Views from a Tiny Glamping Cabin – Sedona 

Set in Sedona, this cool Arizona VRBO consists of tiny little cabins with all the mod-cons you could ever need. The aesthetic is all about being quaint and small, so it makes for a pretty charming place to stay.

Here you get your own outdoor patio where you can soak up those red rock views. Inside, it’s all modern and clean, with a full comfy bed, kitchenette with basic equipment. The floor to ceiling windows will let the scenery outside do the talking.

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3) Incredible Stargazing Dome House – Williams 

This is like something out of Star Wars . It’s a neat little pod with a clear roof for perfect stargazing opportunities.. On clear nights, you’ll be able to see shooting stars and the Milky Way.

Inside the dome itself, it’s super comfy and pretty chic. There’s a clean basic bathroom to use, plus a deck and a couple of seats. And all just 35 miles from the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. 

If you’re doing a road trip in Arizona , it’s a fun place to stay and offers some of the best glamping in the state. 

Too cold? Try out the heated mattress pad!

4) Sahuaro Ranch Hideaway – Tucson

With its typical ranch feel, surrounded by cacti and secluded in the Tucson Mountains, you’ll feel like you’re part of the landscape staying at this cool Arizona VRBO. Here you’ll get to stay in privacy and comfort, yet still be able to get lost in the vast natural scenery that surrounds you. This is one of the best places to stay in Tucson .

Location-wise, Tucson Mountain Park is a minute’s hike away, while Saguaro National Park is a 20-minute drive away.

5) Chic Cabin with Private Stargazing Hot Tub – Sedona

A cute and very nicely decorated cabin, this cool Airbnb in Arizona feels tremendously luxurious. 

It’s a tiny home that makes great use of space: each corner has been thoughtfully crafted and filled with clever storage solutions. Somehow, it’s even got an oven and its own bathroom.

The property also comes with an outdoor terrace, which is where you’ll find THE hot tub. This means you’ll be able to get some awesome views of the Sedona Mountains while soaking in utter bliss. You’ll wake up every morning excited for the next adventure.

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Wowza. Arizona is packed with amazing places to camp. How could you not want to go camping right next to the Grand Canyon, or among the succulents in Sedona?

Before you get the motor running and head out on the highway, though, you should get your head around what you need to take with you.

Arizona’s vast and diverse landscape is ripe for adventures, but the landscape here can be pretty unforgiving. Camping in the desert is awesome, but this means soaring daytime temperatures and chilly nights spent under clear skies. 

If you want to go primitive and fancy a spot off-grid, you’ll need to make sure you bring along enough provisions to keep you safe and well-hydrated in the heat. Those of you opting for a more developed site might want to think about packing a few more creature comforts, like pillows and fresh coffee (hell yeah).

Whatever type of camping you do, you’ll definitely need to consider the weather. Torrential downpours during the summer can all but wash-out some campsites, and pitching up in the baking sun without any shade is a surefire way to ruin a trip. 

So, here’s our round-up of the absolute essentials to pack…

1) Camping Essentials

If you’re going camping in Arizona, make sure you have everything you need. Forgetting a piece of camping gear is super annoying, especially if you’re miles from civilization. Use this handy list to double-check if you need to buy any camping essentials .

A good sleeping bag – Temperatures drop out in the desert at night time. You should make sure you pack a sleeping bag with a good enough tog, maybe even a camping blanket for good measure.

Head torch – A camping essential. A head torch will lead the way in the dark and leave your hands free for other important stuff – like going to the bathroom.

Reliable tent – This is wild nature, and you’ll need a tent that will stand up against the elements. Investing in a good quality tent will save you money in the long run.

Bottle opener/ corkscrew – Just in case you want to open a tin of beans or crack open a beer or two after a long day of hiking.

Microfiber towel – Dry yourself off after a shower with this towel, and it’ll be dry in no time. It’s so super lightweight and packs easily into a backpack.

Cooking equipment – Get your cook on around the campsite and feel at home in the great outdoors.

Washing line – Super handy to have stashed in your pack, a travel washing line is perfect for drying out wet clothes and bathing suits.

Sunshade – Not all camping spots come with great shade, and even if they do, it might still move throughout the day. Your own sunshade will give you a break from the sweltering sun.

2) Hiking Essentials

The trails here are just begging to be hiked. It would almost be rude if you didn’t do some hiking in Arizona ! You should make sure that you’re properly prepared for the hike you’re attempting, however. With this tick-list of must-haves to make sure you’ve got everything you need.

Good hiking shoes – Only hike in shoes that are appropriate for the terrain. Opt for shoes or boots with a good tread and a secure, comfortable fit. It’s a good idea to test them out before a hike – blisters halfway up a mountain are no fun at all.

Daypack – A comfortable, lightweight daypack is a must-have for a hike. Go for a model that lets your back breathe and has straps that fit you well.

Trail snacks – Keep up that much-needed energy with a selection of snacks, nuts, and dried fruits. This works very well and won’t melt in the heat.

First Aid Kit – Better to be safe than sorry. Bring along a well-stocked first aid kit just in case.

Sunhat – Protect your head and neck from the strong sunshine in Arizona. This piece of equipment is easy to forget but can actually make a big difference when hiking.

Filter water bottle – Hydration is huge when hiking. Attempting a hike without enough water can actually be life-threatening, so make sure you come prepared with enough liquid. Bring along a filter water bottle, and you’ll have easier access to clean drinking water.

Sunglasses – Keep your eyes shaded from the sun and help you take in the beauty of the environment you’re in.

3. Toiletries Essentials

Toiletries may not be at the top of your camping packing list, but don’t overlook them! Even if you’re going primitive camping, you should still pack a few essentials. Here’s what you should take with you in your bag…

Sunscreen – This one is a must if you don’t want to get burnt to a crisp. Go for a factor 50 or above, and make sure to reapply. The sun should be respected!

Toilet paper – Don’t expect to always find toilet paper when you need it. Keep a roll or two in your backpack just in case.

Toothbrush and toothpaste – Easy to forget, but your toothbrush should come along for the trip, too. Keep your mouth nice and fresh.

Insect repellent – Swarms of mosquitoes can really ruin a camping trip; make sure you’re not feasted upon by packing a good insect repellent.

Shampoo and conditioner bar – Super useful for packing light, these eco-friendly bars can double up as soap. Also good for washing out underwear or smelly socks.

Deodorant – All that hiking in the desert will require antiperspirants. You don’t want your fellow campers to smell you from across the campsite, do you?

We’ve covered a ton of information so far about camping in Arizona, but there are a few more things you might need to know. Get to grips with these rules and camping tips so that you stay safe and have the best time possible.

• Arrive with enough daylight – Plan your journey so that you turn up at your campsite within daylight hours. This will give you enough time to find a secure camping spot and set up your tent before it gets dark.
• Check the weather before you leave home – The weather changes can be dramatic in this part of the country. Make sure to keep up to date with the weather, so you know exactly what to be prepared for. 
• Respect the sun – Know how to look after yourself in the heat and how to spot the signs of heatstroke. Hydration is vital. 
• Know about fire safety – Only build campfires in safe or designated spaces. Make sure you never leave a fire unattended and that the fire is extinguished properly after use. 
• Leave no trace – We’ve said it before and we say it again. Clean up after yourself and try to camp in a place where you don’t disturb nature.
• Phone ahead – It’s a good idea to get in contact with the park ranger (or whoever is in charge of the campsite) before you arrive, so you can find out any information you might need to know. This is a good idea, especially if you haven’t booked the campsite ahead of your arrival.
• Respect the natural environment – Be very careful not to disturb or destroy any flora or fauna. Keep a safe distance from any wild animals, and do not try to feed them. 
• Don’t go hiking or swimming alone – This can be dangerous, especially in the heat. If you plan to attempt a trail by yourself, make sure to let somebody know your plans beforehand, but we’d strongly recommend hiking with a buddy.

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That’s that – the end of our guide to camping in Arizona. By now, we hope you’re pumped to head out on adventure here.

There’s a whole load of primitive camping, glamping, and regular ol’ camping options to suit just about any sort of traveler to the Grand Canyon State. No one is left out.

Make sure you choose a campsite that looks like it could be your home away from home for a few days and don’t miss out on some of the most astounding scenery in the whole USA.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Colleen Kinsey

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Camping in Arizona

Enjoy year-round camping from the Grand Canyon and Saguaro National Park to Lake Powell and Havasu Falls in this Southwest state.

• United States —

Popular camping styles for Arizona

Dog-friendly getaways

Sunrise camping

Hawks Hideaway Camping, LLC

Beaver Creek Oasis

Grand Canyon Farms

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Top camping destinations.

12 top campgrounds in Arizona

A Spark in the Dark Campground

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SimpleLife Campsites @ Dreamcatcher

Sun & Moon Geo Dome Retreat

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Star hosts in arizona, nearby parks, explore the area’s public lands..

Camping in Arizona guide

Arizona is full of natural wonders, from the Grand Canyon to Saguaro National Park, with ample outdoor fun ranging from mountain biking to horseback riding. Much of the state is occupied by the Mojave, Sonoran, and Chihuahuan deserts, but start exploring and you'll quickly discover that Arizona is more than just jackrabbits and cacti—there are lakes, rivers, mountains, forests, and miles of hiking trails. It's also a great place for sleeping under the stars, and while parts of Arizona can get a bit too hot for comfort in summer, those same places offer pleasant camping weather throughout much of the year.

Where to go

​northern arizona.

While northern Arizona's best-known attraction is the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park, there’s plenty more to see and do, from visiting Lake Powell on the Colorado River to backcountry tent camping among the ponderosa pines in the Coconino National Forest , Prescott National Forest , and Kaibab National Forest . Sedona , just south of Flagstaff , also makes a great base for hiking among Arizona's Red Rocks or swimming in Oak Creek Canyon’s Slide Rock State Park.

Western Arizona

Dubbed Arizona's "West Coast," this part of the state offers all sorts of outdoor activities, much of which revolve around the Colorado River. The town of Yuma near the southern border is a popular spot, featuring an old Wild West prison and serving as a good base for visiting the Cibola National Wildlife Refuge. Attractions further north include Lake Havasu State Park , where you can swim, camp, or even check out the 19th-century London Bridge. Further north, the massive Lake Mead National Recreation Area offers year-round camping and easy access to two lakes.

Central Arizona

While it's easy to associate central Arizona with Phoenix sprawl, this region offers a lot for outdoorsy types, all within a short drive of the city. Popular spots for outdoors lovers include the Superstition Mountains in the Tonto National Forest , Lost Dutchman State Park , and the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest . If you're interested in archaeology, the Montezuma Castle National Monument is also worth a visit.

Southern Arizona

Southern Arizona is full of Wild West spirit, with a mix of historic ghost towns and scenic desert landscapes, plus plenty of forests, particularly in the Chiricahua Mountains. Must-visit parks include Saguaro National Park and Catalina State Park —both just outside Tucson . If it gets too hot, make like a local and head to Patagonia Lake State Park , a prime spot to swim and cool off from the Arizona heat.

Popular Arizona trips

Top parks in arizona, top cities in and near arizona, top regions in and near arizona, states near arizona, best camping near me, safety at hipcamp.

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Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest

USDA Forest Service

Near Springerville, Arizona

Coconino National Forest Recreation

Near Flagstaff, Arizona

Coronado National Forest

Near Tucson, Arizona

Grand Canyon National Park

National Park Service

Near Grand Canyon, Arizona

Grand Canyon National Park, in Northern Arizona, encompasses 278 miles (447 km) of the Colorado River and adjacent uplands. Located on ancestral homeland of 11 Associated Tribes, Grand Canyon is one of the most spectacular examples of erosion anywhere in the world—unmatched in the incomparable vis...

Kaibab National Forest

Near Williams, Arizona

Prescott National Forest

Near Prescott Valley, Arizona

Saguaro National Park

Tucson, Arizona is home to the nation's largest cacti. The giant saguaro is the universal symbol of the American west. These majestic plants, found only in a small portion of the United States, are protected by Saguaro National Park, to the east and west of the modern city of Tucson. Here you have a...

Tonto National Forest

Near New River, Arizona

TumacÁCori National Historical Park Tours

Tumacácori National Historical Park

Near Tumacacori, Arizona

These historic desert structures are set against a backdrop of rolling mountains in the historic Pimería Alta or "Land of the Upper Pimas," an area that includes much of present-day southern Arizona and northern Sonora, Mexico. The Tumacácori and Guevavi missions were first established by famou...

Alto Pit Ohv Campground

Near Prescott, Arizona

Alto Pit OHV Campground is located at the foot of Granite Mountain Wilderness Area, at an elevation of 6,200 feet. The off-highway trail system within the recreation area draws enthusiasts of all ages with degrees of skills that prove challenging and enjoyable for everyone alike. To make reservation...

Apache Maid Cabin

Near Happy Jack, Arizona

This rustic forest cabin is located at the eastern base of Apache Maid Mountain, just two hours north of Phoenix and near the popular red rock canyons and outdoor recreation opportunities of Sedona, in central Arizona. The cabin provides several amenities, providing a comfortable stay for up to six ...

Apache Trout Campground

Near Pinetop, Arizona

Apache Trout Campground is one of five campgrounds at the Big Lake Recreation Area in Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, and is especially popular for group camping. With boating and fishing facilities and a variety of amenities, Apache Trout is a convenient and comfortable place to stay. Plenty...

Near Forest Lakes, Arizona

Aspen Campground is a scenic hideaway for anglers, boaters, families and photographers, located in north central Arizona near Heber and Payson. It sits in a dense pine and aspen area forest near the shore of Woods Canyon Lake at an elevation of 7,000 ft. With spacious campsites, calm and scenic lake...

Alamo Canyon Primitive Campground

Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument

Near Ajo, Arizona

Alamo Canyon Campground sits nestled at the base of the Ajo mountains in Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument. This primitive campground provides scenic views of the surrounding mountains and Sonoran Desert, along with spectacular night sky viewing and peaceful quiet. Alamo Canyon Campground has fou...

Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest Christmas Tree Permit

This permit allows you to cut a Christmas Tree within designated areas of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests! Lifelong memories are built during these special times and we are happy to help with any information gathering you'll need to make this trip a safe and enjoyable one.  Please be sure...

Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness Permits

Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness

Near Safford, Arizona

Permits are available for advanced reservation 13 weeks (equal to 91 days) ahead of the entry date at 10am ET daily. For example, if you wanted to book a permit for October 17th, the permit would become available July 18th at 10am ET. Depending on availability and season, permits are reservable up...

Arizona Trail Thru Hiker Overnight Permit

The Arizona Trail Thru Hiker Overnight Permit is to be used by Arizona Trail thru hikers while wilderness camping in Saguaro National Park. Arizona Trail thru hikers may camp overnight during a two-week period when the hiker expects to travel through the park. This permit offers flexibility to the t...

Ashurst Lake

Near Mormon Lake, Arizona

25 singles unit sites (Ashurst), tables, fire rings, and cooking grills, drinking water, toilets (vault and compost type). Boat ramp is located on the lake's west side. In addition to fishing and board sailing, the lake offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching during the spring waterfowl ...

Benny Creek Group Area

Near Greer, Arizona

Benny Creek Campground offers group camping in the remote and scenic White Mountains of Arizona. A perfect outdoor retreat for small to medium group gatherings, the campground is situated in a pine forest above Benny Creek and within walking distance of Bunch Reservoir and Greer Lakes. Picnicking, f...

Big Springs Cabin Site

Near Fredonia, Arizona

Big Springs Administrative Center is on the National Register of Historic Places and has been used by homesteaders, and later the Forest Service, since the 1800’s. The complex consists of an historic office, dining hall, shower house, group kitchen, seven residential units, and several administra...

Brookchar Campground is tucked on the banks of Big Lake in the White Mountains of eastern Arizona. The campground is a small, tent-only facility comprised entirely of walk-in sites. Of the lake's five campgrounds, Brookchar is nearest to the water. The stocked lake draws anglers, and boat rentals an...

Black Canyon Rim Campground (Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, AZ)

Near Heber, Arizona

Black Canyon Rim Campground has 20 sites of varying sizes. All sites can accommodate tents and pop-up campers. Some sites are suitable for pull trailers, 5th-wheel trailers, and motorhomes up to 40 feet.Each campsite offers a campfire ring with grill and picnic table. Additional amenities includ...

Bob Bear Trailhead

Near Pine, Arizona

The Bob Bear Trailhead is accessed via Fossil Creek Rd from the town of Strawberry. The Bob Bear Trail provides access to the headwaters of the Fossil Creek Wild and Scenic River and the Fossil Springs Wilderness on the Tonto and Coconino National Forests. The trail begins at an elevation of 5...

Bonita Canyon Campground

Chiricahua National Monument

Near Willcox, Arizona

Bonita Canyon Campground is located in Chiricahua National Monument, also known as the "Wonderland of Rocks". Visitors love Chiricahua for its stunning rock columns (hoodoos), hiking trails, and bird watching opportunities.  NOTE: Vehicles and RV's longer than 24 feet are NOT permitted on the...

Bonito Campground (AZ)

Bonito Campground is located 18 miles northeast of Flagstaff, near Sunset Crater/Wupatki National Monument. Elevation is 6,900 feet. Bonito Campground is named for the Bonito Lava Flow which oozed across this high desert plain some 900 years ago. That river of liquid rock, now frozen forever, is jus...

Boulder Beach Group Campsites

Lake Mead National Recreation Area

Boulder Beach Group Campground is located just minutes from Las Vegas along the Boulder Basin of Lake Mead. It’s open year-round and features large paved sites that can accommodate tents or large RVs, along with tables, fire pits and/or grills. Restrooms and water spigots are located throughout th...

Burnt Corral Campground

Near Roosevelt, Arizona

Burnt Corral Campground and Recreation Area (elevation 1914') is about 5.8 miles south of Roosevelt Dam along the Apache Trail (AZ Hwy 88) along the shoreline of Apache Lake. It is nestled amongst the saguaros, mesquites, and palo verdes, and offers opportunities to boat, swim, fish, relax, hike, ...

Burro Creek Campground

Kingman Field Office

Near Wikieup, Arizona

The Burro Creek Campground (1,960’ elevation) is situated along the 57 mile Burro Creek in a transition zone between the upper reaches of the scenic Sonoran Desert and lower reaches of the scenic Mojave Desert. The campground offers visitors a variety of scenery including saguaro-studded cliffs al...

C C C (AZ) Tonto Nf

Near Carefree, Arizona

Civilian Conservation Corps Campground offers spread out camp sites with large sycamore trees providing shade. Picnic tables and firepits with cooking grates are available for families to enjoy while passing the time away together. Cave Creek Trailhead is nearby where you can follow along the Cave C...

Near Nogales, Arizona

Calabasas Group Campground is a place for groups of up to 250 people to enjoy scenery and privacy in a remote, natural setting. Weddings, family reunions and other social gatherings are especially popular during winter due to pleasant seasonal temperatures, yet it is open year-round. Calabasas i...

Caldwell Cabin

Near Eagar, Arizona

Caldwell Cabin allows up to six visitors to step back in time to a more rustic and historical era in eastern Arizona. Originally constructed in the 1920s, it was a one-room homestead, but the cabin was expanded around 1940, to include a bathroom, small bedroom and living room with a fireplace. Visit...

Camp Rucker Group Site

Near Douglas, Arizona

The Camp Rucker Group Site is not available for reservations at this time for site re-design and facility improvements . The group camp area is now open to individual party walk-in camping. Individual sites are $15 per night; cash payment on-site. Camp Rucker sits in the beautiful ...

Canyon Point

Located in the scenic Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest in north central Arizona near the town of Heber, Canyon Point has a range of individual and group campsites to suit many visitors. The campground sits in a heavily wooded pine and aspen area 5 miles from the popular Willow Springs Lake. Camp...

Cave Creek Group Site

Near Scottsdale, Arizona

Cave Creek Group Site is located 20 miles north of Cave Creek and Carefree, Arizona. It is a historic campground constructed in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). This site is a short drive from the blistering heat of Phoenix offering cooler temps, a clear running creek, and plentif...

Cave Spring

Near Sedona, Arizona

Cave Springs sits in the scenic Oak Creek Canyon and is one of Coconino National Forest's most popular campgrounds. The campground is nestled in a forested canyon near the town of Sedona, Arizona, and its famous red rock cliffs. The scenery is unmatched, the stream is stocked with trout, and swi...

Chavez Crossing

Chavez Crossing Group Campground is in the picturesque Red Rock district of Arizona, with famous red rock formations and breathtaking painted sunsets. Placed beside a creek and surrounded by sycamore and cypress groves, the campground's location offers a fresh sense of the great outdoors. It's also ...

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Most popular camping states, best camping near me, ultimate guide to camping, rving, and glamping in arizona.

• September 12, 2022
• Arizona , Guides
• Arizona , AZ , camping , campsite , RV

One of the many things that make camping in Arizona so unique is the endless views — and the heat is unforgettable. Though brimming with stunning desert landscapes, Arizona has more than a thousand different iterations of the Saguaro cactus and red rocks. 

Because of the landscape’s glory, Arizona is one of the most desirable camping, glamping, and RVing destinations in the United States. Of course, it’s also home to the Grand Canyon, one of the world’s seven natural wonders. The 277-mile-long ravine is a mile deep and 18 miles wide, so don’t get too cocky about gazing that thing in the face. Around 6 million people visit this national park each year, so get ready to get friendly!

Find and book your next Arizona getaway with BookOutdoors!

In this article:

Tent Camping in Arizona

Camping underneath the big Arizona sky is truly an experience. Pitching a tent to enjoy the full view of the night sky and waking up to the gold desert stretching as far as the eye can see is a sight to behold.

Tens of thousands of campers come to rough it in the Arizona desert each year, and with a bit of planning and prep work, you can create the camping trip of a lifetime. Plan your trip during late winter and early spring to beat summer and fall crowds.

Several campgrounds near Grand Canyon National Park offer great amenities for tent campers while being close to the park entrance. Experience one of the true natural wonders of the world from either the North or South Rim, at campgrounds with stunning night sky views, clean and modern bathhouses and restrooms, and secluded sites to make you feel as if you’re entirely alone.

What to Bring for Tent Camping in Arizona

Before going tent camping in Arizona, you’ll want to plan accordingly. The weather in the Grand Canyon state shifts dramatically from night to day, so pack plenty of clothes for warm and cool weather. Likewise, pack extra water for the blistering desert heat during the daytime.

Tent campers know nothing beats sitting around a campfire after a long day of outdoor activities, but some places in Arizona don’t allow campfires. Be sure to check with where you are staying about any burn restrictions that may be in place. The Arizona desert gets cold at night, so you’ll want a backup emergency blanket if there’s no fire.

Coyotes, black bears, and javelina call Arizona their home. While making it yours, be sure you have bear-proof storage for your food and medications, as well as bear spray and an air horn. Most of the time, any predators in the area will leave with a simple honk of the horn, but having backup spray is crucial if you’re far from town. 

Glamping in Arizona

With so many places built for glamping in Arizona, one would think the state invented the concept! Glamping is a relatively new term for those who want to bring extra comfort and pizazz to traditional tent camping. Many glamping resorts in the state feature amenities like butler service, private decks and firepits, climate-controlled sleeping quarters, and stunning vista views.

You can also find other glamping spots throughout the state that offer a more traditional camping feel with the amenities of a comfy bed and a hot shower. These camping and glamping hybrid stays are becoming more popular for those who want to feel closer to nature without leaving behind too much comfort.

Because glamping is still essentially in a tent, you’ll want to bring bear-proof food storage containers, bear spray, and other predator repellants for your trip. Winter camping in Arizona is a great way to avoid the busy animal seasons and reduce your chances of an encounter.

Find and book a romantic glamping getaway in Arizona with BookOutdoors!

What to Bring on Your Glamping Trip

Unlike traditional tent camping, most glamping resorts and parks take care of the hard part for you. With fully furnished yurts or cabins, linens, towels, and even electricity, there’s hardly a need to bring anything but clothes and toiletries for your glamping experience.

Like with tent camping, be sure to bring clothes for layering to combat the weather if you plan on adventuring outside. Also, check with your chosen glamp-ground to learn what is not included in your stay.

If you’re planning on bringing any pets along on your trip, check in with your camp host or glamp-ground office. Some places allow pets, while others are not pet-friendly.

Full Hookup RV Camping in Arizona

RV camping is one of the top ways to visit Arizona, and there’s no surprise why! With empty roads stretching for miles, there is a scenic drive perfect for every RV, no matter your rig. Full hookup RV camping features specially designed campsites with water tanks, dump stations, and electrical hookups on your campsite. Full hookup sites mean no waiting in line for hours to dump your black water to get back on the road.

RVing through Arizona on extended road trips is easy, thanks to the sheer volume of available camping space. Need to stop and rest for the night between campsites? Just pull over! Most places throughout the state allow RVs to stay overnight. There are no amenities or electrical hookups when camping this way, so you shouldn’t plan to park too long.

If you don’t already own an RV and are on the fence about getting one, renting an RV is a great way to explore the idea. RV ownership is higher than ever, and many options are available to fit your size and needs. 

RVing in Arizona is easy when you find and book your site with BookOutdoors!

What to Bring on Your Arizona RV Trip

RVing across Arizona is a great way to experience a large area of the state if you are short on time. However, just like tent camping and glamping, there are a few things you should remember to bring on your next Arizona RV trip.

Clothes for layering again top the list of what to bring while camping in Arizona. Whether you’re RVing, tent camping, or glamping, the weather swings 20–30 degrees from daytime to nighttime. That shift means that 60 degrees can feel extremely cold if you’ve been in the 100-degree heat all day.

Other essential items to bring with you on your Arizona road trip are an emergency kit for your RV, a first aid kit, extra propane for your tank, plenty of excess water, a spare tire, and emergency flares. You’ll also want to perform a routine maintenance check before heading out in your rig.

Things to Do While Camping in Arizona

One thing is sure about the Grand Canyon state: there are plenty of things to do for all ages across Arizona. Hike or bike through winding trails, take an afternoon horseback ride across a river, grab your climbing gear and find a few boulders, or leisurely take in the sights of the surrounding beauty.

Let’s discover a few of the best places for excellent and unique experiences you can have on your next trip camping in Arizona.

Each year, millions of visitors delight in hiking through Arizona’s natural beauty. With 31 state parks and 24 national park sites, Arizona features over 1,500 miles of park trails, perfect for any hiking plans. The trails range from easy to extreme and paved to unpaved, so anyone can experience the beauty of a day hike no matter where you are in the state.

Both expert and novice hikers will find a path for their experience level along the Arizona Scenic National Trail . This 800-mile trail stretches from the US–Mexico border to Utah. The course features many smaller side trails that cater to everyone’s needs. Some are ADA accessible and open to strollers, wheelchairs, and pets on a leash.

Some trails require an entrance fee, especially in and around Grand Canyon National Park. Check with the rangers to learn more about day passes and hiking fees. 

Thanks to many days of sunshine and warm weather, Arizona is home to thousands of pristine bike paths that wind through the state. Whether you’re close to city centers or in the middle of nowhere, chances are good that there is a bike path nearby.

For true bike enthusiasts, hit the road to Mt. Lemmon, near Tuscan. This 30-mile ride is grueling but arguably the most scenic in the state. Be sure to layer your clothing for this ride. The temperature drops in the higher altitudes, which makes for cold weather!

If you’re looking for a more leisurely ride, the Arizona Canal Path takes you along 10 miles of cyclist-only trails through the city of Phoenix. The bike trail is highly safe and recommended for biking with small kids.

Photography

Arizona is one of the most photographed states in the nation. Take one trip to discover the beauty of the Grand Canyon state, and it’s easy to see why. Stunning vistas, rocks seemingly sprouting from nowhere, and wildlife as far as the eye can see pepper the landscape in Arizona.

Photographers, either professionals or amateurs, can delight in Arizona’s sheer number of photographic opportunities. Spend a day at the Grand Canyon snapping photos of Cape Royal or Point Imperial at sunrise, Walhalla Overlook at sunset, and Hopi Point at high noon for a panoramic masterpiece.

Horseback Riding

Explore the west as if you were on a cattle drive when you bring your stock to explore the great outdoors. Horseback riding is very popular in Arizona, with many trails and campgrounds catering to their equine guests. In fact, it may be easier to find camping with stables than without.

Popular horseback riding locations in Arizona include Cave Creek Regional Park, Estrella Park, and Grand Canyon National Park. If you don’t plan to bring your stock or don’t own horses, there are many campgrounds and resorts offering horseback riding excursions through many parks and along many trails.

Before you load your horse trailer, check the local and state regulations and your campgrounds’ rules surrounding horses. Many campgrounds and parks have specific equine requirements, such as weed-free feed, current vaccinations, and a recent negative Coggins test .

Rock Climbing

Rock climbers will delight in how many opportunities there are to set a wedge and experience Arizona from above. Whether you’re a sport or trad climber or you prefer bouldering, Arizona is filled with places to climb. The most popular climbing spot is, of course, the Grand Canyon. The Bright Angel Trail is loaded with places to climb, no matter your experience level. This trail is heavily populated, so early morning or late evening trips are recommended.

If you’re near Flagstaff, check out The Pit and Peaks Crag. The Pit is a steep limestone crag popular with climbers, and Peaks Crag is a massive volcanic structure perfect for climbing.

At 9,000 feet above sea level and dotted with 1,500 climbing locations, Mt. Lemmon is a local favorite for climbers and boulderers. Whether a beginner or a pro climber, there is a spot for everyone to flex their muscles and ropes.

Critical Takeaways for Planning Your Next Arizona Camping Trip

Whether you’re glamping with air conditioning, taking an RV road trip across the state, or sleeping under the starry sky in the desert, there are a few things to remember when planning your next outdoor getaway to Arizona . Here are some pro tips to make your next trip to the Grand Canyon State unforgettable.

Pack clothes for layering. No matter your outdoor style, the weather in Arizona always calls for layering.

Check with the state and national parks about fees for entry, parking, equestrian activities, climbing, or swimming.

Always store food in bear-proof containers. Arizona is home to a large black bear population.

Be prepared for crowds at popular attractions. Between 10 and 12 million visitors explore the state each year, and those Instagram-worthy photo spots at your favorite parks usually have long waiting lines.

Ensure your pet is welcome at your campsite before bringing your best friend. Pets are welcome at most state and national parks, but they must be on a 6 ft leash at all times.

Bring extra water and face coverings if you plan on being in the desert during the daytime. Temperatures can turn deadly if you are not adequately prepared with enough water, and unforeseen dust clouds can trigger allergy attacks.

No matter where or how you choose to see the Arizona outdoors, be sure to pack in, pack out, and leave no trace .

FAQ Section 

What is the best time of year to camp in Arizona?

Late winter and early spring are the two best seasons for camping in Arizona.

What outdoor activities are there to do in Arizona?

Hiking, rock climbing, and horseback riding are some of the most popular activities to experience in the Grand Canyon State.

How many state and national parks are in Arizona?

There are 24 national park sites and 31 state parks in Arizona.

Can I rock climb in the Grand Canyon?

Yes. There are several designated climbing areas located mainly along the south rim.

About the author

BookOutdoors Staff

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Epic 7-Day Arizona Road Trip Itinerary (Camping Edition)

By Author Tara Schatz

Posted on Published: September 20, 2023

Categories Destinations , road trips , Southwestern United States , United States , Western United States

Towering red rocks against a turquoise sky. Vast landscapes of barbed plants. Rugged hiking trails. Spring carpets of colorful wildflowers. Arizona conjures up all kinds of beautifully accurate desert associations.

And a few that have been designed to strike fear into your non-desert-dwelling heart — coiled rattlesnakes waiting behind every giant saguaro, cactus spines that jump right off the plant into your tender skin, and sun so hot that just looking at it will leave you listless.

The truth is that Arizona’s varied topography and huge tracts of public land make it the ideal destination for outdoor lovers, who come from all over the world to discover a bit of Arizona magic.

Arizona is the ideal state for a camping road trip, and your biggest issue will be pairing down your trip to aptly explore a state that offers a lifetime of adventures.

Table of Contents

Check out Escape Campervans for an Enchanting Arizona Road Trip

Because my dad called Arizona home for many years, Eric and I have spent lots of time exploring, and each time we visit, we are a little more blown away but Arizona’s varied beauty.

In February, we tried a new-to-us adventure — an Arizona road trip with Escape Campervans . We picked up our campervan in Phoenix, just a few miles from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, and from there we motored to the Superstition Mountains, north to Cottonwood and Sedona, and south again for a few days of camping near Phoenix.

Our seven-day road trip took us through three state parks, two national forests, and two national monuments. We hiked dozens of trails, camped under the canopy of a billion stars, and shivered through a couple of snow storms.

This was our very first van-camping trip and it surpassed our expectations in so many ways!

As avid tent campers, setting up and breaking down camp is just second nature. We do it without complaining, and we don’t even hate sleeping on the ground.

Having the ability to wake up and drive from our campground to the trailhead (or the coffee shop) was a game changer for me. As was climbing into a cozy bed with real sheets each night. We even had heat for three nights of our trip (thanks to electricity at the campground and a plug-in space heater).

I will freely admit to being smitten with van camping, and I’ve already started planning more adventures.

Disclaimer: We are affiliate partners with Escape Campervans, and except for an auto insurance policy, our van rental was free. We designed our Arizona road trip itinerary and paid out of pocket for all other expenses.

7-Day Arizona Road Trip Map

Day 1: Phoenix to Lost Dutchman State Park

Drive time: Approximately 40 minutes

The Phoenix area is known locally as the Valley of the Sun, and it’s surrounded by jagged mountains just begging to be explored.

The good news is that you don’t have to travel far to explore these beautiful mountains, especially on the first full day of your Arizona road trip.

Put your van in drive and head east for about 40 minutes to Lost Dutchman State Park on the edge of the Superstition Mountains and Tonto National Forest. This is one of Arizona’s most popular state parks in the winter and spring, so be sure to make camping reservations ahead of time.

There are 135 sites at Lost Dutchman, 68 of which have electricity and water hookups. The bathrooms have free hot showers and a dishwashing station for easy clean-up. Sites are $25 for “rustic” sites without hookups and $35 for sites with hookups.

Located at 3,000 feet in elevation, the campground offers three campground loops with no limit on RV size.

During our February visit, we only encountered RVs and campervans, and I suspect that tent camping is far less popular due to the large paved pads and prickly plants covering much of the ground.

Insider tip: When you pick up your Escape Campervan , definitely ask for the electric kit ($40 extra), which includes an extension cord, power strip, and a small space heater. We used the space heater four out of seven nights during our February trip (whenever we had an electric hookup at our campsite). The temperatures were well below freezing, but we were very toasty in the campervan.

Take a Hike into the Superstition Wilderness

So many trails loop through Lost Dutchman State Park and lead into Tonto National Forest, and many of them can be combined to create longer loops.

During our stay at Lost Dutchman State Park, we were able to squeeze in an afternoon hike and a morning hike before moving north, but if you want to explore more of the park, plan on camping here for two nights instead of one.

Treasure Loop Trail #56 :  This 2.4-mile loop gives you a nice overview of the area by looping through the foothills at the base of the mountains. It’s rated as moderate and gains 500 feet in elevation. In late February through March, this is one of the  best wildflower trails  you’re likely to come across (dependent on winter rains).

Siphon Draw Trail : Siphon Draw winds into the canyon and up to the top of Flatiron Mountain, gaining 2,640 feet in elevation over 2.75 miles (5.5 miles round-trip). We hiked for a few miles into the canyon but did not make it to Flatiron. The last mile is a steep scramble, and not maintained. It’s a gorgeous hike, even if you don’t make it to the top.

Day 2: Montezuma Castle National Monument and Cottonwood, Arizona

Drive time: 2.5 hours

Dead Horse Ranch State Park in Cottonwood, AZ will be your home base for the next three days and nights. From this lovely state park, you’ll be within an easy drive of some of our favorite spots in Arizona, including Sedona, Jerome, and Montezuma Castle.

You will not run out of things to do, I promise!

Drive north on Interstate 17, which travels from the land of endless sunshine into the rocky mountains of central Arizona.

Check out Montezuma National Monument in Camp Verde, Arizona

It’s a bit of a misnomer, as Montezuma Castle has nothing to do with Montezuma, the famous Aztec emperor, nor is it a castle.

The dwellings at Montezuma Castle National Monument were built by the Sinagua People, who were living in the Verde Valley as early as 650 CE.

Montezuma Castle is a collection of 20 rooms originally belonging to multiple families, similar to a modern-day apartment building. The Sinagua lived in pueblos and cliff dwellings until around 1400 CE and then abandoned them for unknown reasons.

It’s a short, 1/3-mile accessible trail leading to the base of the cliffs, and while visitors aren’t permitted to see Montezuma Castle up close, it’s still impressive to view it from the ground. After reading interpretive signs and viewing the Sinagua ruins, loop back to the Visitor Center along Beaver Creek.

Entry into Montezuma Castle National Monument is $10 for adults. Children under 15 are admitted free.

Insider tip: This trip explores two national monuments and Coconino National Forest. Entrance to all of these sites can be obtained by purchasing an annual America the Beautiful Pass for $80. You can purchase yours at Montezuma Castle National Monument.

Explore Old Town Cottonwood, Arizona

Head into civilization for a bit to explore the adorable mountain town of Cottonwood where the streets are lined with wineries and shops, and the snow-capped mountains loom just beyond town.

An afternoon is all you’ll need to explore Old Town Cottonwood, but you’re staying just down the road at Dead Horse Ranch State Park, so chances are, you’ll be here for meals, shopping, and sipping for the next few days. Here are some of the cool spots we discovered while meandering around town:

Rubrix Wine (formerly Burning Tree Cellars ): We couldn’t visit Arizona without trying a few of the local wines. I wish I could say that we researched a bunch before choosing, but honestly, we were walking through Old Town Cottonwood when it started pouring, so we popped into Rubrix Wines for a tasting.

We chose to do a combo flight of red and white wines and while we enjoyed them all, we went “home” with a bottle of the 2020 Colibri Syrah, which was rich and complex, perfect for a cold night in the van.

Pizzeria Bocce : We asked all the locals we could find where we should eat in Old Town and without exception, everyone said we should go to Pizzeria Bocce.

There was a short wait for indoor seating, so we opted for a table outside. We enjoyed a hand-stretched wood-fired pizza, local craft beers (Oak Creek Nut Brown Ale), and a special Valentine’s Day dessert sampler.

Food: 5/5 stars Beer: 4/5 stars Service: 6/5 stars

Belfry Brewery : We popped into Belfry to sample a few beers and did not try the food, but it looked delicious. We tried McKillion’s Irish Red   Ale (sweet and malty) and a Heavenweizen (refreshing).

Old Town Cafe : For the biggest, flakiest croissants and a heavy pour of strong coffee, stop at Old Town Cafe!

Home-Sweet-Home: Dead Horse Ranch State Park

100+ RV sites with no size restrictions, electricity and water hookups, and fully heated bathhouses with free hot showers. This is why we chose to spend a few nights at Dead Horse Ranch State Park .

Gorgeous sunrises, wonderful camping neighbors, and a fantastic location. These are things we appreciated after we spent three days here. There are also 20+ miles of trails that we didn’t get a chance to take advantage of (this time).

At Dead Horse Ranch State Park, there are three camping loops for RVs or tents and an additional loop that is reserved only for tents.

Because it was so busy during our February trip, we reserved two nights in Red-Tailed Hawk and an additional night in Cooper’s Hawk for $35 per night.

Each campsite has a picnic table, a fire pit, and a hookup for electricity and water. Sites are close together and there isn’t much privacy, especially in the winter without leaves on the trees or bushes.

The amenities and friendliness of the staff made up for the lack of privacy, and we loved coming back to Dead Horse Ranch State Park each evening. Camping here was one of the best parts of our Arizona road trip itinerary!

Days 3 and 4: Hiking in Sedona Arizona and Exploring Jerome

Drive time: 30-minute day trips

Just 30 minutes north of Cottonwood and Dead Horse Ranch State Park, Sedona might as well be on another planet.

And while we loved hiking in Sedona more than any other part of our trip, we’re so glad that we stayed in Cottonwood. Sedona is a busy place, and we really appreciated the peace and quiet of our campground after our hikes.

The truth is you could spend months exploring Sedona hiking trails without hiking the same path twice, and while many trails require rock scrambles and uphill climbs, there are plenty of easy hikes in Sedona that you can tackle without much effort.

Hiking in Sedona was one of our primary goals on this trip, and we crammed a lot of hiking into days 3 and 4, plus the morning of day 5.

Our favorite trail of all of them was Brins Mesa-Soldier Pass Loop, which was 5.5 miles of enchantment. Here’s an overview of nine easy Sedona hiking trails so you can plan a perfect couple of days of hiking.

Here’s how we scheduled our hikes into this part of our Arizona Road Trip itinerary:

• Day 3: Brins Mesa-Soldier Pass Loop (5.5-mile loop rated moderate) and Chapel Trail (1.9 miles round-trip rated easy).
• Day 4: Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte (3.9-mile loop rated as easy/moderate) and Baldwin Trail (2.5-mile loop rated easy).
• Morning of Day 5: Marg’s Draw (4 miles round-trip rated easy).

If you have more time to spend, and you enjoy hiking, I would definitely add a day or two in Sedona. There are so many lovely trails for all skill levels to choose from.

Explore Jerome, Arizona

Located just nine miles from Dead Horse Ranch State Park, you should have time to spend an afternoon or evening in the tiny village of Jerome, which is perched precariously on the side of Cleopatra Hill and boasts a fascinating history.

The town sprung up around a booming copper mine and was once known as the “Wickedest Town in the West.”

Jerome was once the fifth-largest town in Arizona, with 15,000 residents. When the copper mine closed in 1953, the population quickly dwindled to fewer than 100 hearty souls.

Today, Jerome is a delightful mix of art colony and tourist destination with an abundance of shops, wineries, and restaurants. Its hillside location provides incredible views of distant Sedona, the San Francisco Peaks, and the Mogollon Rim.

To learn everything you could possibly want to know about the history of Jerome at Jerome State Historic Park, and then head into town for a history walk and lunch at the Haunted Hamburger .

Day 5 and 6: Tonto National Forest at Roosevelt Lake

Time to head south again! From Sedona, take the gorgeous Red Rock Scenic Byway (State Route 179) south and take in a few last views of Red Rock Country. From here, you’ll be taking Route 260 to Route 188 into Tonto National Forest and Cholla Recreation Site on Roosevelt Lake.

This is a beautiful drive, with high-elevation mountains and snow in the winter.

For lunch, I recommend stopping at THAT Brewery in Pine. They have a great selection of beers and the food, while nothing out of the ordinary, is fresh and tasty.

Cholla Campground is a sprawling desert campground in Tonto National Forest on Roosevelt Lake, which is central Arizona’s largest Lake, and an important stop for migratory birds.

Each of its 206 campsites has a shade ramada, firepit, grill, and picnic table. Playgrounds, showers, restrooms, and potable water faucets are scattered throughout the campground and there is a paved boat launch nearby.

The tent sites here were our favorite. They are right on the water and very secluded. Alas, with our campervan, we were stuck in the RV area, but our site was spacious and our camping neighbors were very nice.

During our two-day stay at Cholla Campground, we saw and heard so many birds! Pelicans, geese, and ducks were plentiful on the water, and our campground was full of warblers, finches, quail, and roadrunners. We spotted a few eagles and osprey too!

There are numerous trails throughout the campground and leading into the hills. The best way to explore this area is to just meander and see where the wind blows you!

Tonto National Monument

Another really interesting cliff-dwelling that you can go right into, Tonto National Monument preserves two ruins built by the Salado culture, who lived in the Tonto Basin between 1250 CE and 1450 CE.

According to archeologists, the Tonto Basin was a true cultural melting pot, a mix of Ancestral Puebloan, Ancient Sonoran Desert People, and Mogollon cultures.

Entrance into Tonto National Monument is $10 per adult. Children and America the Beautiful pass holders are admitted free. From the Visitor Center, you can hike a steep 1/4-mile trail to the lower cliff dwelling.

The lower cliff dwelling is open from 8 am to 4 pm between September 1st and May 31st. In the hot summer months, the trail closes at 12 pm.

Tours are offered to the Upper Cliff Dwelling  from November through April, every Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday, but must be booked in advance.

The hike up to the lower cliff dwelling was a tough one, but it was so worth it. A ranger is available to answer all questions and the views of Roosevelt Lake are gorgeous.

Bonus – Tonto National Monument is just nine miles from your campground!

Day 7: McDowell Mountain Regional Park

Drive time: 1.5 hours

From Tonto National Forest, it’s time to head back toward Phoenix for your last night of camping. Escape Campervan drop-off times are between 8:30 and 10 am, which is why we chose a campground close to Phoenix for our last evening.

McDowell Mountain Regional Park is a massive county park (21,099 acres) with excellent hiking and mountain biking trails and beautiful, spacious campsites. I had no idea that a county park could be so incredible.

We hiked a few of the trails near our campsite, but this last day was mostly spent tidying up the campervan, packing our bags, and eating up the last of our food.

There are more than 40 miles of trails throughout the park and 75 campsites, each with a picnic table and fire ring. Flush toilets and free hot showers are provided in each campground loop, and ranger-led programs are offered on the weekend.

Extend Your Arizona Road Trip!

We wanted to spend more time at every single place we visited on our Arizona road trip, but all good things must come to an end, at least for now!

If you have more than a week to spend on your Arizona road trip, we’ve got even more ideas for you!

• Visit Lake Havasu City and the London Bridge
• Say Hi to the Wild Burrows in Oatman, Arizona
• Go Camping on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon

Follow us on social media for more road trip inspiration!

Tara is a freelance writer and travel blogger with a passion for outdoor adventures. She is the co-author of AMC’s Best Day Hikes in Vermont and currently blogs at Back Road Ramblers and Vermont Explored , where she shares travel tips, adventure destinations, and vacation ideas for the wanderer in everyone.

Top 10 Campgrounds in Arizona

While Arizona is often called the Grand Canyon state, its offerings span far beyond the beautiful red rock canyons or sprawling deserts. In addition to these diverse and beautiful attractions, Arizona campgrounds also flaunt relaxing lakes, snow-capped mountains, and plenty of flora and fauna you won’t find just anywhere.

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Featured Park

Sundial RV Park, nestled in the vibrant community of Peoria, Arizona, offers a welcoming and serene haven for travelers seeking a home away from home. This well-maintained RV park provides a range of

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Top Camping in Arizona

Verde Ranch RV Resort

Camp Verde, AZ

Verde Ranch RV Resort is located in the heart of Verde Valley, Arizona. Planned with relaxation in mind and built with impeccable attention to detail, this resort has it all. Choose from one of thei

• Alcohol Available
• Hot Tub / Sauna
• Bike Rental
• Golf Cart Rental
• Arts & Crafts
• Shuffleboard
• General Store
• Dump Station
• Special Events

Woody Mountain Campground

Flagstaff, AZ

Escape to the cool tall pines at Woody Mountain Campground in Flagstaff, AZ. Enjoy large pull-through RV sites and tent camping in this quiet, natural setting. Onsite amenities include a general store

• Snack Stand

Ride Out Ranch

Florence, AZ

Located in beautiful Florence, Arizona, well off the beaten path. Ride Out Ranch offers some of the best scenes the desert has to offer. The Ranch has 14 full-service RV hook-ups for more extended sta

• Outdoor Theater

Point of Rocks RV Campground

Prescott, AZ

Prescott, AZ is an outdoor enthusiast's dream. When you stay at Point of Rocks RV Campground, you'll be surrounded by breathtaking landscapes within the Granite Dells. You'll be close to downtown Pres

• Canoeing / Kayaking

Rio Verde RV Park

Cottonwood, AZ

Rio Verde RV Park is the gateway to Sedona, sitting on 30 acres of beautifully landscaped land, encompassed by pine, cottonwood, and juniper trees. This wonderful small-town RV park offers you all the

West Pinal Park

Maricopa, AZ

West Pinal is a 160 acre community park located near the community of Stanfield, Arizona. Offering 3 miles of natural surface walking/hiking trails, views of the Table Top Wilderness area, and a beaut

Silverado RV Resort (55+)

Welcome to Silverado RV Resort, the premiere destination for Age 55+ RV spaces. Our RV community is located in Eloy, Arizona, just outside of Casa Grande, AZ. The resort features RV spots, park model

Desert Holiday RV Resort

Welcome to Desert Holiday RV Resort, the Age 55+ RV oasis in Yuma, Arizona. Home to short and long-term RV spaces equipped with full water, sewer, and electricity hookups and park model homes. Desert

Peralta Regional Park

Gold Canyon, AZ

Designed with backcountry campers in mind, Peralta Regional Park offers rustic campsites for tent and car camping only. Our tent camping sites have a parking space that can accommodate one vehicle up

Top Deals in Arizona

Verde Ranch RV Resort, Camp Verde, Arizona

Camp Verde , AZ

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Superstition Sunrise RV Resort (55+)

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Phoenix , AZ

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Areas of Interest in Arizona

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Arizona Camping FAQs

Camping in Arizona offers some of the best views and experiences in the Desert Southwest. It is called the Grand Canyon State, after all. That being said, camping in Arizona is a whole lot more than just the Grand Canyon, with the northern section of the state offering a completely different set of experiences and amenities.

Summer. Kidding, don’t do that unless you’re up north. The northern section of the state sees much more moderate year-round temperatures and allows for comfortable summer camping. Spring and fall are the best times for camping in Arizona overall, especially in the central and southern portions of the state.

Note that winter camping in Arizona can be deceivingly chilly. Visitors often forget just how cold deserts get in late fall and winter, which results in inadequate preparation. The best overall choice is the milder temperatures of spring and fall when planning your Arizona camping trip.

Hiking and camping in Arizona are always the most popular outdoor pursuits in the state. Off-roading and four-wheeling tend to be popular in states with large desert expanses, and Arizona is no exception. However, when winter rolls around, the hiking boots get packed up, and the northern sections of the state (see: Flagstaff) become hotspots for snow sports.

Grand Canyon National Park

Routinely one of the most visited and well-known national parks, Grand Canyon National Park has to be part of your itinerary when visiting the Grand Canyon State. For the serious adventurer, a rim-to-rim hike is probably on the bucket list, though it’s not for the faint of heart.

Hiking in the Grand Canyon in general requires careful planning and a high level of fitness, so plan your trip here accordingly. When camping in Arizona, and especially the Grand Canyon, remember that this is a land of extremes where summer temperatures soar, and winter lows can drop below freezing.

Saguaro National Park

You’ve never seen cacti this big. We’re talking just unreasonably large, spiky plants. Luckily, that means they’re hard to miss, so you can hike through Saguaro National Park without fear. Proximity to Tucson means you’ll have a nearby city should you need anything, though once you get into the park, it’ll feel like you’ve left modern life behind.

Petrified Forest National Park

Petrified Forest National Park is very much a choose-your-own-adventure scenario. You can spend just a couple of hours here and enjoy yourself, but it’s also one of the best spots for backcountry camping in Arizona. While there are no frontcountry campsites, those who don’t need amenities will love hiking into the park and sleeping under the stars. The best part is that backpacking wilderness permits here are free!

Coconino National Forest

Of the six national forests in Arizona, the Coconino National Forest is easily the most popular. Near Flagstaff, this section of the northern part of the state holds beautiful forest land not seen in the southern half. Once you’ve seen the Ponderosa pine trees, make your way towards the Sedona section of the forest to see the famous red rocks.

Tonto Natural Bridge State Park

Like the name states, there is a natural bridge that brings visitors to this Arizona state park. Not just any bridge, though. It’s believed that the Tonto Natural Bridge is the largest natural travertine bridge in the world! The park exists around this marvel and draws visitors to the bridge as well as the short but challenging hiking trails surrounding it.

Red Rock State Park

These are the red rocks that Sedona is so famous for. Red Rock State Park preserves nearly 300 acres of red sandstone and local trails for visitors to enjoy. While Arizona is a photographer’s dream in many ways, Red Rock State Park is easily one of the best places to shoot in the whole Grand Canyon State.

Lost Dutchman State Park

Lost Dutchman State Park is named for a fabled lost gold mine. While the park sees many more hikers than gold miners at this point, the legend of a mid-19th century mine lost to time lives on. In between hikes, Lost Dutchman State Park offers structured events and comfortable amenities for you to take part in.

When it comes to camping in Arizona state parks, Lost Dutchman’s cabin setup is one of the more simplistic, but quite comfortable all the same. For those looking for something more rugged, there are plenty of tent sites at which to spend the night.

Lake Havasu State Park

If you’re looking for waterfront camping in Arizona, there’s no place more popular than Lake Havasu State Park. With comfortable cabins and plenty of tent sites available, it’s easy to spend a relaxing weekend on the waterfront here. There are a few local trails that are not too challenging. Those looking for a more rugged outdoor experience will be better served at other Arizona state parks.

Heard Museum

The Heard Museum is one of the best places in the entire state to appreciate Native art. The history of the early people of Arizona is preserved here, with nods to the current art and culture of the state as well. If you plan ahead, pre-purchased adult and senior tickets are a bit cheaper than buying at the door.

Standin’ on the Corner Park

There’s a small park dedicated to the line in the Eagles’ song, “Take it Easy.” While the song came out in the ‘70s, the town of Winslow, Arizona, mentioned in the song decided to create a park in the late ‘90s to attract tourists.

While it’s really just a roadside attraction, it’s a classic photo op to prove you were there. Fun fact: the line is actually “standing on a corner in Winslow, Arizona,” but that didn’t stop this park from capitalizing on the mention.

Arizona Science Center

The Heard is one of two must-see museums in Phoenix. The other is the Arizona Science Center (ASC). Perfect for families, the ASC has plenty of hands-on exhibits for budding science enthusiasts but has plenty to interest adults as well.

There’s not just one specific attraction in Tombstone, Arizona. The town itself is the attraction! Tombstone is an Old West town that transports you to the 19th-century history of Southeast Arizona. If you pick just one activity, though, the O.K. Corral reenactment is always the biggest draw.

Beckett’s Table – Phoenix

Beckett’s Table is a sophisticated spot without being overbearing. Expect high quality without the luxury price tag. This is a relaxed spot that routinely brings back locals and travelers alike because of its New American menu and a wine list that could use its own zip code.

Elote Café – Sedona

You can’t pass through Arizona without finding an exciting Mexican restaurant for lunch or dinner. Elote Café puts inspired twists on classic dishes from the region to pair with its craft cocktail list. Whatever you’re ordering, make sure it has tequila in it.

The Mission Old Town – Scottsdale

The Mission’s Old Town Scottsdale location takes Latin cuisine and uses it as a canvas for imagination. The environment is upscale and lends itself to a Southwestern take on fine dining. This worldly spot serves inventive cocktails that you’d expect from an establishment like this, but the food menu is where it really shines.

The Turquoise Room – Winslow

If you’re heading to the corner in Winslow, Arizona, you’ve gotta stop in the Turquoise Room. You’re already in Winslow; why not kill two birds (just not Eagles) with one stone?

You’ll be surrounded by fellow travelers in this contemporary Southwestern-style restaurant located in the La Posada Hotel. The menu is upscale but simple and to the point. Our advice? If it has carnitas in the name, order it.

Arizona is a land of extremes, and when camping in Arizona, you definitely have to do some planning. That being said, in a state that is 57% public land, you’ll have ample choices when deciding where to park your camper or set up your tent.

Explore Campgrounds in Arizona by City

• Apache Junction
• Bullhead City
• Casa Grande
• Fort Mohave
• Fountain Hills
• Grand Canyon
• Green Valley
• Lake Havasu City
• Paradise Valley
• Prescott Valley
• Queen Creek
• Sierra Vista
• Sun City West

Outdoor Adventures

Arizona’s Secret Campsites

Part of the appeal of camping is getting away from it all, isn't it? Setting up a temporary home surrounded by sweet solitude. Good news: Where prospectors once sought gold in "them thar hills," today’s Arizona adventurers find treasures of their own at these hidden-gem campgrounds.

In a state that ranges from sunny lowland deserts to snow-clad mountain peaks, there's hardly a day of the year that isn't perfect camping weather somewhere in Arizona. Whether you opt to park your RV or pitch your tent in a state park, a national monument or a national forest, you'll find plenty of campgrounds waiting to be discovered all across the state, even if some require a little hunting to find.

Escape the crowds in central Arizona

Clear creek campground.

In the heart of Arizona's fabled red-rock country, not far from Sedona but far enough from the often-full campsites of Oak Creek Canyon, you'll find Clear Creek Campground . While this may not be the most "secret" of getaways—its cottonwood-shaded creekside location is a favorite of in-the-know campers—it offers plenty of peace and quiet, plus a fine summertime swimming hole and ample fishing spots.

KP Cienega Campground

When temperatures in the state begin to climb, campgrounds in the White Mountains (about 4 hours northeast of Phoenix) offer welcome respite. If you're willing to venture into the mountains past the popular resort towns of Greer and Pinetop-Lakeside , then you'll get a chance to camp among the rolling meadows of KP Cienega Campground . The five sites sit at nearly 9,000 feet, which means this is one of the highest—and coolest—campgrounds in Arizona. Your only neighbors? The herds of gentle deer and other wildlife that call this area home.

Camp near the beach or among the cactus

Cattail cove state park.

While the lower Colorado River region frequently posts the highest temperatures in the nation come summer, campgrounds along the river in Lake Havasu City help keep things cool year-round. Cattail Cove State Park is one such place. Bring your own boat, or rent a kayak from the ranger station, to access one of the park’s secluded boat-in campsites. You'll enjoy the sandy beaches of the Lower Colorado without the crowds of the more popular campgrounds nearby.

Alamo Canyon Campground

In the southern part of the state, deep in the rugged Ajo Mountains and at the end of a three-mile dirt road, sprawl the four campsites in this little-visited gem of a campground within Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument . You won’t find thick forests of shady trees, just miles and miles of Sonoran Desert beauty: saguaros, organ pipe cactus and ocotillos. It's likely you'll have the place to yourself, all the better for soaking up the star-studded night sky before you fall asleep to the sounds of silence.

Head for the hills in northern Arizona

Blue ridge campground.

With only 10 sites and a remote location nestled along the banks of the Blue Ridge Reservoir, this first-come, first-served campground offers a quiet haven from the hustle and bustle. Not to mention a picturesque setting worthy of postcard status. A forest of pine, oak and aspen trees shrouds the campground, which is situated 40 miles southwest of Winslow off Highway 87 and sits tucked among canyon-carved uplands rife with hiking and biking trails.

Grand Canyon camping alternatives

Colorado river.

The Grand Canyon may be the granddaddy of Arizona camping, but the national park's main campgrounds often require reservations six months in advance—that's how popular they are. For Grand Canyon camping sans crowds, head to the Colorado River between Glen Canyon Dam and Lees Ferry . Here, deep in a sheer-walled canyon, the river's currents run so slow as if to seem still, making for ideal rafting or paddleboarding. Along the river are five primitive, boat-in campsites . As you drift downstream, look for signs marking each site, then paddle over, drag your boat ashore and set up camp. No fees or permits are necessary.

Tuweep Campground

For stalwart adventurers with a sturdy high-clearance vehicle (required), Tuweep Campground at Toroweap provides another Grand Canyon option. This isolated cliff-edge camping experience is rustic, remote and filled with striking, dramatic views in every direction. The catch is you need to apply for a backcountry permit prior to arriving, and you have to navigate a tricky 60-mile dirt road infamous for causing flat tires.

Off-the-Beaten Path

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About the Author

Karl Samson

Although he lives in Oregon, for more than 20 years Karl Samson has been escaping his home state's rainy winter weather to dry out in sunny Arizona. He is the author of the Frommer's Arizona guidebook and has also written about Arizona for Sunset magazine.

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From the abundance of Saguaro cactuses and unique wildlife in the Sonoran Desert to the high country and forests of the White Mountains to the breathtaking Grand Canyon, Arizona’s regions are full of experiences that don’t disappoint.

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Best Backpacking Trips In Arizona

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• Canadian Rockies
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The Arizona wilderness is unlike any other. A desert landscape that is absolutely teeming with life. It may sound paradoxical, but there is a vast array of ecosystems out there to explore. From mountains to canyons, or waterfall oases to sandstone towers, Arizona has plenty to offer if you’re willing to find it. But let us give you a hand on that front! We’ve pulled four of our absolute favorite  backpacking trips  in Arizona together, and all the details are right here for you to plan your next adventure.

But regardless of the route you take, always stay safe and remember that Arizona is famous for harsh weather conditions. It’s therefore very important to research wildlife and weather forecasts beforehand so you can be fully aware and prepared.

Important Reminder: While Leave No Trace is important in all outdoor settings, it’s especially important for backpacking trips in Arizona where arid climates seriously inhibit the break down of food and human waste. Refresh  LNT guidelines  and be sure that whatever you pack in, you pack out too.

Grand Canyon Rim To Rim

Trip Overview

Hiking the Grand Canyon  is breathtaking no matter the trail you choose, but exploring the Canyon Rim to Rim is the trail to beat them all and certainly one of the best backpacking trips in Arizona. It gives you the unparalleled experience of being able to visit and enjoy both the North and South rims of the canyon. Seeing the Grand Canyon from above is one thing, but truly understanding its magnificence can only come from hiking through the bottom of the canyon itself.

This hike packs all this and more into just a matter of days. Although this hike is classified as moderate, it is no small feat to hike down and back up the canyon. The descent and ascent are spaced out, however, as they are the most strenuous parts of the hike. Nevertheless, don’t take your training lightly and be sure that you are fully conditioned and prepared before you set out. If you’ve never had the pleasure of backpacking in the Grand Canyon before, you receive a Grand Canyon specific packing list if you register for a guided Wildland Trekking trip.

Trip Details

While you can complete this trail in just a day while running; let’s give our lungs a break, shall we?  It’s much easier and infinitely more enjoyable to space this hike out over a few days. Usually, it takes 4 days and 3 nights to make it from the North Rim to the South Rim. This would have you hiking at least 5-7 miles per day. You can complete the trail at whatever pace you wish, but this itinerary gives you more time to enjoy your surroundings.

The Rim to Rim backpacking trip starts on the North Rim on the North Kaibab Trail. This begins your 6.8-7 mile descent into the bottom of the canyon to your first campsite. The first day brings you through a dense conifer forest down into an arid desert landscape. Trekking poles are especially helpful in descending the canyon and are recommended, but not necessary, for all hikers.

Continuing down the canyon, you will hike 7 more miles to reach the Bright Angel Campground. This day will bring you past the pristine Ribbon Waterfall.

Day three is a much shorter trek of 4.5 miles that leads to the Havasupai Garden Campground. This leg of the trail has special historical significance to the Native American Havasupai, as you will pass the  Havasupai Garden Spring .

The final day will bring you out of the canyon to enjoy the views of the South Rim. From Havasupai Garden Campground it is 4.8 miles until you reach the top.

Getting There

Since you’re starting at the North Rim, you will likely be coming from Flagstaff, AZ. However, there are many other routes to get to the North Rim depending on your starting point. The route is very clearly marked as you drive but for more detailed driving directions please visit the  Grand Canyon National Park website .

Permits, Fees, and Reservations

Grand Canyon National Park requires you to have a backcountry permit to hike and camp along the Rim to Rim trail. Permit requests can be made ahead of time and the permit cost is $10 per permit plus $8 per person or stock animal per night camped below the rim. For more details, and to apply for a permit, visit the  Grand Canyon National Park Permit Page .

When To Hike

Spring and Autumn are the best times of year to hike Rim to Rim in the Grand Canyon. The summer heat is no joke and makes it nearly impossible to safely hike during the day. Although winter temperatures are tolerable, the North Rim is closed during those winter months.

Hike The Grand Canyon With A Guide

Guided  Grand Canyon Rim to Rim backpacking trips  are available and are a stress-free, exciting way to do this trip. The tour company handles permits, gear, transportation, meals, and provides a professional guide so you can focus 100% on enjoying your adventure. If you choose to book a trip with Wildland Trekking, it is highly recommended that you get  trip insurance  for life’s unpredictable last-minute situations that can prevent you from embarking on the trek.

Wildland Trekking also offers other backpacking trips in Arizona as well as the Grand Canyon of varying length and difficulty.  Read more…

Havasu Falls

Located on the Havasupai Indian Reservation, Havasu Falls Trail has become one of the most sought-after backpacking trips in Arizona. Finding water in the desert is always a delight, but Havasu Falls is a true oasis. Also known as ‘the heart of the Grand Canyon’, you will see a part of the canyon that bus tours cannot reach.

This trail has some strenuous portions, but overall, it is not an overly taxing hike. It may prove to be quite challenging if this is your first backpacking trip but should be rated moderate overall. Therefore, as it isn’t an overly challenging or long backpacking venture, Havasu Falls is accessible to most backpackers!

This has become a rather crowded hike over the years as its popularity has exploded. So, if you are seeking solitude in the backcountry, this is not the place to find it. Once you get to camp, however, there are a few day hikes you can take within the falls area that may take you away from other hikers. But overall, you can expect a crowd.

In past years, this hike could be done in two days with just a one-night stay, but as of 2019, the Havasupai Tribe requires a minimum of a 3-night stay in the falls area. Most backpackers will therefore spend 4 days on this trail and the surrounding falls area.

This is an out and back trail and you will be hiking 10 miles on the first day to reach your campsite. Your adventure begins at Hualapai Hilltop. The start of the hike involves descending a series of steep switchbacks. After 6 miles, you will have reached Havasu Creek. Following the creek for 2 more miles, you will have arrived at the village of Supai. This leaves just 2 miles until you reach your campground.

On the first day, you will pass by three of the five major waterfalls found in this area: Rock Falls, Fifty Foot Falls, and Havasu Falls.

Day Two & Three:

Here you explore the falls area with some epic day hikes. You’ll have a chance to check out the 200 ft tall Mooney Falls, one of the most magnificent waterfalls in the area.Beaver Falls is also not to be missed. Take your time to explore the canyon and the seemingly endless number of waterfalls along the stream.

Time to say goodbye to this desert oasis and you will follow the same trail you used on your way into the canyon. Keep in mind, you descended some steep switchbacks on the way in so that means you’ll be climbing them on the way out. The journey out is 10 miles.

The trailhead is within a 5-hour drive from Phoenix, AZ, Flagstaff, AZ, and Las Vegas, NV. Depending where you’re coming from, the routes will be different. For specific driving directions, visit the Wildland Trekking website  here .

This hike requires a permit. All campground reservations are made for 3 nights / 4 days. They are $100 per person per weeknight and $125 per person per night for the weekend (Friday/Saturday/Sunday Nights). This would make it between $300-375 for a 3 night /4-day stay. You can stay longer than 3 nights but you will have additional nightly fees. All reservations for permits are non-refundable. For more detailed information on making reservations, visit the  Havasupai Reservations website .

Havasupai Falls is closed December-February every year. When deciding what time of year you’d like to hike to the falls area, you need to consider your experience and ideal temperature.

If you choose to hike in the Spring, snowmelt will ensure that water will be flowing. You will also have good daytime temperatures with longer days and even some swimming weather!

Summer hiking is not recommended for most backpacking trips in Arizona. The bottom of the canyon can reach 120 degrees Fahrenheit. You will want to spend early morning hiking, and afternoons in the shade or swimming. July and August are also monsoon season so check weather reports. Monsoons can cause flash flooding and make the falls area extremely dangerous.

The autumn certainly has potential for a fun backpacking trip to the falls area. Keep in mind that August is still within monsoon season so check the weather. By the time late November rolls around, temperatures are much lower and might not be suitable for swimming.

All-in-all, spring and autumn will be your best bet as the temperatures will not be dangerously hot. Some people hike the falls in the summer, but it is important to heed heat warnings and pack enough water to get you to the campsite. Even though the falls are surrounded by water and swimming areas, heat is a real danger.

Hike Havasu Falls With A Guide

This is undoubtedly one of the absolute best backpacking trips in Arizona, and we’d love to share the wonders of Havasu Falls with you on a guided trip. Unfortunately, commercial groups are no longer permitted due to new regulations that came into effect in 2019. If this changes, check out our  Havasu Falls trips  to arrange an unforgettable trip. But in the meantime, you have all the information you need to plan an epic adventure on your own!

Top Rated USA Hiking Tours

Paria Canyon

Paralleling the Arizona-Utah border, the Paria Wilderness area is most famously known for a breathtaking rock formation known as The Wave. Getting to The Wave requires a permit and is a fantastic day hike if you’re fortunate enough to get a permit. Nearby is amazing Paria Canyon, which has a thru-hike that follows a one-way route starting at White House, Buckskin Gulch, or Wire Pass Trailhead and ends at Lees Ferry.

Throughout this  backpacking trip , you will gradually lose around 1,130 feet of elevation making it a relatively moderate hike. The majority of the trail follows the riverbed, making it easy to follow. As there are parts of the trail that require you to wade through water, it’s important to know that your hiking pace will likely be slower – and wetter – than normal. Also take note of weather conditions before heading into the canyon as flash floods occur at certain times of the year.

Most backpackers will take 3-4 days to hike the trail. But this is very much a build your own adventure as there are many campsites along the route. Your personal hiking pace and water levels will dictate your daily mileage, and you may want to take your time on trail! You’ll be hiking between Navajo Sandstone walls reminiscent of  Zion’s Narrows . So slow down, take a breath, and simply bask in the wonder of these rock formations. You’re likely to be basking in complete solitude as well, as this hike offers fantastic remoteness as you meander through the riverbed and canyons.

Important Instruction:  Anytime you’re backpacking specifically in or near a source of water – or a wash that water could flow through – you will need to pack out your trash and practice Leave No Trace guidelines. Not only that, but you will need to pack out your toilet paper and human waste in  Wag Bags  as the use of catholes is not allowed.

There are three trailhead options to choose from when hiking Paria Canyon, but we will be detailing the hike starting from White House Trailhead. This keeps the distance to 38 miles. Other starting points will have longer mileage, so keep that in mind when choosing your route.

There are designated campsites along the trail, and three reliable springs as a water source. Most hikers won’t make it to the first spring to refill water until the second day, so pack accordingly. Despite the fact that you will be hiking down a river, it is not advised that you drink directly from the stream. Most water filters will not be able to properly filter out the silty grit and other water pollution coming from upstream. Filter water directly from springs.

Starting from White House Trailhead, you will follow the Paria River about 8 miles to reach your campsite for the night. It will be just below the confluence of the Paria River and Buckskin Gulch. You will, however, pass three campsites before you reach mile 7. So if you are extending the trip to more than 4 days of hiking, you can choose to stop at one of these earlier campsites. If you choose to hike to the first source of water, you can add 5.2 miles of hiking on the first day.

The second day will be a hike of 12.5 miles towards a campsite across the river from Wrather Canyon. You will pass Big Spring (first reliable water source) this day so be sure to fill up on your way. The next spring is just under two miles beyond your campsite. If you need more water, hike to this second spring and you’ll find camping there.

If you stick to the itinerary, you should have only 9.5 more miles to reach your third and final campground. It will be located on the right-hand side of the river just past Bush Head Canyon. You will pass the Last Reliable Spring at mile 25 on this day. Be sure not to miss it and fill up all the water canisters you have. The rest of the trail out of the canyon lacks shade.

This will be your last  day hiking . Continue to follow the riverbed for your final 8 miles until you reach Lees Ferry Trailhead.

You of course have the option to stick to the campsites that are across from the springs. This may make it easier for you to manage your water, especially with cooking in the evenings. Make a plan that works best for you and your group. Just remember to bring a map with you. There are a number of campsites to choose from so you can stop whenever it’s practical for you.

The trailhead for this hike is not far from  Paria Contact Station  located just outside of Kanab, Utah. You will start the hike in Utah, but the majority of your time will be spent hiking in Arizona. The Paria Contact Station is located between mile markers 20 and 21 on Highway 89 between Kanab, UT and Page, AZ.

You will need to arrange a shuttle to bring you back to your car once you finish the trail. There are a number of different shuttle companies but most shuttles from Lees Ferry back to White House Trailhead will be $200-300. If you are hiking with a group, many groups will leave a car at Lees Ferry and then drive one car up to Paria Contact Station to skip the shuttle. This method works depending on where you are coming from.

Paria Canyon requires a permit which can be  applied for online  or over the phone. Advance permits are required for overnight trips and cannot be paid for at the Contact Station. You can, however, purchase permits for day hikes at the station. Keep in mind that your permit application is a lottery system and they only distribute 20 permits per day.

Permits cost $5 per person per night. Dogs can be brought into the canyon for an additional nightly charge of $5. If you wish to change a permit, you will be charged $30 per transaction.

You can visit the  BLM website  to see open dates and permit availability.

Like most of the best backpacking trips in Arizona, Spring and Fall are the ideal times to go. There is a chance of flash flooding in the canyon from July until early September so it is best to avoid hiking during that time period. If you do choose to hike in early Fall, check the weather before your trip and ask the ranger’s advice on current conditions before setting out.

You can hike in the summer months, but you will likely need more time in order to avoid hiking in the hottest parts of the day.  As for winter, you need to keep in mind that you will be hiking in water for a significant portion of the trail. Fires are not permitted in the canyon, even at campsites, so if you do need to dry gear out, it may be difficult due and highly dependent on weather conditions.

Hike Paria Canyon with a Guide

Wildland Trekking offers a guided  Paria Canyon Backpacking Trip . This trip is all-inclusive, which means permits, gear, meals and transportation are included. It originates and ends in St. George, Utah and is offered in the spring and fall months. Going guided is an adventure you’ll never forget!

All Inclusive Backpacking Trips

White Rock Springs – Superstition Mountains

The Superstition Mountains are littered with amazing hiking and some of the best backpacking trips in Arizona. Many of the backpacking trails often connect with a number of different side-trails to make a unique route. With 160,200 acres, the Superstition Wilderness consists of over 170 miles of trail networks. This doesn’t imply that they will all be well-maintained, but there are still plenty to choose from.

The White Rock Springs figure-eight trail follows a network of trails to take you 23 miles round trip. This hike will have 3000 feet of elevation gain and sections with loose rock. Hiking poles may be useful and this hike should be considered strenuous.

Important Information: Before you embark on any backpacking or extended day hike in the Superstition Wilderness, be sure to contact the Tonto National Forest Mesa Ranger District to get an up-to-date backcountry water report.

This backpacking trip is referred to as White Rock Springs. However, you will not be following a trail by the same name. The name comes from the destination you are intending to reach and camp near. You will also have the opportunity to enjoy amazing views of Weaver’s Needle, an iconic 1,000ft high figure in the Superstition Wilderness.

The first day will be a trek of 7 miles. Register at First Water Trailhead, where the route begins. You will follow this trail only for a short time (0.3 miles) before you reach a fork. The recommended route is to follow Second Water Trail (1.5 miles) to Black Mesa Trail (3.3 miles) leading you past Dutchman’s Trail up Bull Pass and around Black Top Mesa (1.5 miles). You will meet up with the Dutchman’s Trail again, but do not follow it. Continue straight on a slight descent (0.4 miles) to get onto Calvary Trail. This will lead you to White Rock Springs and a number of backcountry camping options.

Perhaps one of the best parts of this backpacking trip is that you have a basecamp. You can leave your camp set-up and take a day pack out for day two’s 10-mile hiking loop. It is recommended that you hike this loop counterclockwise so you can stop by Charlebois Spring on the last mile of the hike. Start back the way you came and follow Dutchman’s Trail (1.2 miles) until you meet up with Terrapin Trail (2.8 miles). Follow this to Bluff Springs Trail until you intersect Dutchman’s Trail once more until you’ve reached the Spring (5 miles). Then just one more mile back to camp for the night.

On the way out, you will start back the way you came, but you will want to take the Dutchman’s Trail all the way to First Water Trailhead. This will be a 6.8-mile hike out. Descending this route may have loose rock and hiking poles are suggested.

See an online map  here  to follow the trail progression.

The First Water Trailhead is located just outside of Mesa, AZ past the Lost Dutchman State Park. Coming from Mesa and Apache Junction area, follow Highway 88 (N Apache Trail) until you can make a right turn onto N 1st Water Road. This will lead you to the trailhead.

Certain recreational activities may require a pass and you generally need a permit/pass for a multi-day trip. More information can be found on the  Tonto National Forest website .

It is recommended that you hike anywhere in the Superstition Mountains in either the Spring or Autumn. Shade is not prevalent and water is scarce so summer hiking is not recommended, just like most backpacking trips in Arizona. Daytime temperatures are comfortable in the winter months, and the evenings are usually around 40 degrees. It can snow in the Superstition Mountains, but rarely. As always, please keep a weather eye on the forecast!

Arizona boasts an absolute plethora of hiking opportunities. We’d love to list them all for you, but we’d have to grow this post into a multi-volume novel! But for now, you know our favorite  backpacking trips in Arizona  and have all the information you need for an incredible trip. Where to go, when to go, permits, itineraries, and more are all right here at your fingertips. So what’re you waiting for? Get out there and explore.

Wildland Trekking Hiking Adventures

As the world’s premier  hiking and trekking company , Wildland believes in connecting people to fantastic environments in amazing ways. Arizona offers an array of incredible hiking and trekking experiences, including the incredible  Grand Canyon . Wildland Trekking provides many different multi-day hiking and backpacking adventures throughout some of the State’s most breathtaking regions. Read more about our  Arizona trips .

To learn more about our  guided backpacking trips  and all of our award-winning  hiking vacations , please visit our website or connect with one of our Adventure Consultants: 800-715-HIKE

About Dan Purdy

Dan is an avid traveler and adventurer. From guiding in Norway, to studying wilderness medicine in Scotland, to leading volcano trips in Nicaragua, and – most recently – guiding with Wildland Trekking in the Pacific Northwest, he loves to share his love of the outdoors with others in every way he can.

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Most Scenic Campsites in Arizona 

Are you ready for an epic camping adventure in Arizona? With your slide-in truck camper or pop-up truck topper , you can explore some of the most scenic and remote campsites that this beautiful state has to offer. From red desert landscapes to rugged mountains, Arizona has something for every nature lover. In the piece, we’re detailing some of our favorite scenic campsites in the state, from easily accessible & maintained campsites to 4×4 routes with a little extra spice. 

Here are seven must-visit campsites that will leave you in awe:

1. Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument

Nestled in the southwestern corner of Arizona, Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument is a pristine desert oasis that can only be accessed via four-wheel drive roads. This remote park is known for its unique and diverse Sonoran Desert ecosystem, featuring rare and towering Organ Pipe Cactus. Set up your Four Wheel truck camper in one of the scenic camping areas and enjoy the serenity of the desert landscape. Explore the park on foot or by bike, take a scenic drive on the Ajo Mountain Loop Road, and stargaze at night, as the park is designated as an International Dark Sky Park, offering unparalleled views of the stars.

2. Superstition Mountains

For a rugged and picturesque camping experience, head to the Superstition Mountains, just 65 miles west of Phoenix. The area has great truck camping options, from maintained campgrounds to remote overlanding sites. Explore Goldfield Ghost Town, hike to The Wave Cave, or simply enjoy a few days off-the-grid in southern Arizona. 

Located in the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, White Pocket is a mesmerizing and otherworldly landscape that should be on everyone’s bucket list! The area features swirling sandstone formations, striped rock layers, and vibrant colors that resemble a painter’s palette. For Four Wheel truck camper owners, there are plenty of dispersed free camping areas, which makes it all the better! Explore the area on foot, capture stunning photos of the intricate rock formations, and be sure to stargaze at night, as the lack of light pollution offers unparalleled views of the night sky.

4. Havasu Falls

Tucked away in the Grand Canyon’s remote Havasupai Indian Reservation, Havasu Falls is a stunning waterfall oasis that can only be reached by a challenging twenty-mile round-trip hike. Chances are, you’ve probably seen a photo of this famous location before, with the aqua-blue waterfall plunging into the orange & red rock landscape below. Camping at the Havasu Falls campground is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, with the opportunity to swim in the refreshing pools, hike to other nearby waterfalls, and immerse yourself in the Native American culture of the Havasupai people. Permits are required to camp here. More information can be found on the National Park Website . 

5. Crown King

Nestled in the Bradshaw Mountains, Crown King is a historic mining town that offers a perfect truck camper excursion. The rugged and scenic Crown King Road is an adventure in itself, with steep climbs, switchbacks, and stunning mountain vistas along the way. Once you reach Crown King, you’ll find a charming town frozen in time, with historic buildings, old saloons, and a friendly local community. Set up camp at the nearby dispersed camping areas and soak in the rustic atmosphere of this historic town. Explore the surrounding trails, go overlanding, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful mountain scenery.

6. Saguaro National Park

No camping trip to Arizona is complete without experiencing the iconic Saguaro cactus-filled landscapes of Saguaro National Park! With two distinct districts, Tucson Mountain District and Rincon Mountain District, Saguaro National Park offers endless opportunities for camping and exploring the stunning Sonoran Desert. While the main roads in the park are paved, there are several backcountry camping areas that are only accessible by dirt or 4×4 roads, providing a unique and secluded camping experience. Set up camp amidst the towering Saguaro cacti, hike the scenic trails, and make sure to get up early for at least one sunrise over the desert. 

For a thrilling four-wheel drive adventure with stunning panoramic views, head to Schnebly Hill Road near Sedona. This rugged dirt road winds through the beautiful red rock canyons and offers incredible views of the Sedona Valley and all its formations. Set up camp at one of the designated dispersed camping areas along the road and wake up to jaw-dropping views of the red rock formations. This is a great option for those visiting Sedona during busier months. During peak season, campgrounds and easily accessible dispersed camping areas are often crowded or sold out, but the backcountry remains uncrowded and wild.  

Most Scenic Campsites in Arizona for 2023

As you embark on your truck camper expedition in Arizona with your FWC rig, be sure to come prepared with ample water, food, and supplies, as some of these remote campsites may have limited amenities. Respect the environment, follow Leave No Trace principles, and always practice safe off-roading and camping practices.

So, gear up, buckle in, and get ready for an unforgettable camping adventure in Arizona’s remote and scenic campsites! From desert landscapes to rugged mountains and historic mining towns to waterfall oases, Arizona has something for every adventurer seeking to explore the hidden gems of the Southwest with their Four Wheel Camper . Get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime as you navigate the thrilling four-wheel drive roads and experience the unparalleled beauty of Arizona’s natural wonders. Happy camping!

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Your Ultimate Guide to RV Campgrounds in Arizona

Looking for the best RV campgrounds & RV Parks in Arizona? A place for your family to go camping that has access to nature and beautiful views. Or maybe a place for your ATV's. Let us help you find your spot in the Grand Canyon State!

If you're looking for the best RV campgrounds in Arizona for families or to experience the desert landscape, we've got you covered. Not only will we help you find RV campgrounds with activities for kids and full hookups, but we'll help you locate the best places with direct access to the desert, boating, and those big sunsets Arizona gives its visitors every night.

With tons of RV campgrounds around this unique state, you have plenty of camping options. If you want to find an RV campground in the mountains, they've got that. If you want an RV campground along the water, they've got that too. And if you are looking for something near a ski resort, they even have that! Arizona is a great place for RV camping and experiencing America's unique desert landscapes.

Arizona gives you access to beautiful---yet harsh---desert landscapes, unique water features, and spectacular forests. Arizona is home to a giant hole in the ground---the Grand Canyon---a petrified forest, unique cowboy towns, and large cities.

So stick with us at CampersCard and we will help you find your Arizona campground and discover all the highlights of Arizona.

See RV Campgrounds in Arizona

Helpful Resources For Your Arizona Visit

Before we start digging into Arizona, there are some things you might need to know about this state.  Here are some resources for you to get familiar with. Check out these helpful resources on the state of Arizona.

• Arizona State Parks
• Arizona Tourism Department
• Arizona Emergency Services
• Arizona Fish & Game
• Arizona State Travel Guide

Now that you've got the essential information, let us help you figure out where you want to visit within this southwest Oasis.

A Little About Arizona

Arizona is just under 114,000 square miles and is the sixth-largest state in the United States. It became the 48th state on Valentine's Day in 1912 after years of conflict with Mexico.

The Grand Canyon State is incredibly unique. There are three National Parks, six National Forests, and seven National Monuments. On top of that, there are plenty of state and local parks too. Overall, 56.8% of Arizona's landmass is public lands---making it the sixth-highest percentage in the country.

In Arizona, you can enjoy world-class skiing and one of the top snowbird destinations in the United States within a three-hour drive---a little over 150 miles. This makes Arizona a dream destination for almost anyone who loves the outdoors.

The entire state might feel like one large desert, but there are technically four different deserts that contribute to the overall landscape of Arizona. The Sonoran Desert is the most popular among Arizonans because the majority of the state's population lives within its borders.

The other three deserts are scattered around the state. On the northwestern edge of Arizona, the Mojave desert spills over into Arizona and possesses its own unique flora and fauna. In the north, you'll find the Grand Canyon inside the Great Basin Desert. And finally, in the southwest corner, you'll find the Chihuahuan Desert.

As you prepare to plan your Arizona camping trip, take some time and get familiar with each distinct region and what it has to offer. And even though Arizona is a desert landscape, there are some fantastic water features in this state.

But to do all of that, you'll need to find those perfect camping sites. And that is what we are going to help you with now. We are going to look at the different regions below.

Explore Arizona's Regions Here

RVing in Arizona's Northern Region 

Northern Arizona is home to great skiing, the Grand Canyon, the Petrified Forest, and other memorable places. If you spend some time here, you'll get great views during the day and be offered some fantastic stargazing too---Arizona is known for clear night skies.

Northern Arizona Highlights

If you are considering Arizona, you might want to spend an entire trip to the northern part of the state. Here there is so much to see and do. Here there are National Parks and Forests, Native American Tribal Lands, college towns, and some unexpected waterfalls.

Grand Canyon National Park

The Grand Canyon is one of the gems of the National Park System that makes it on most people's bucket lists. It is a mile-deep canyon that was formed by the Colorado River over thousands of years.

Some of the most popular things to do are taking in the vistas, hiking part of the trails, and taking a mule to the bottom. There are some people who will hike the Rim to Rim trail , but this requires a lot of training, planning, and endurance.

This National Park---like many others---is quite remote which is why RVing at the Grand Canyon is the perfect way to experience it. Plan your trip and make your camping reservations early.

Coconino National Forest

Coconino National Forest is an incredibly diverse National Forest and covers 1,800,000+ acres of land. The land is quite dramatic with peaks reaching 12,633 feet at Humphrey's Peak, all the way down to 2,600 feet in elevation.

This National Forest is a favorite for many travelers for varying reasons. Boondockers love the great expanse and unique camping locations. Hikers love the trails and consistent weather. Photographers love the different objects to capture. And Sunday drivers like the many scenic loops that exist throughout the forest.

Inside Coconino National Forest, there are several great waterfalls---some are seasonal. One of the top waterfalls in the area is Grand Falls---occasionally referred to as Chocolate Falls. The best time to capture these falls is early spring---March through early May.

Petrified Forest National Park

The Petrified Forest National Park is one of the largest collections of colorful petrified logs in the world. The park consists of 221,390 acres with an extra Petrified Forest National Wilderness Area adding 50,000 acres to the north and south of the park.

This national park is great for people to see from the 28 miles route through the park. This route takes about an hour to drive, offers multiple pull-offs, and allows you to do a pretty good job of seeing the park.

With that being said, you will see much more on foot. While there aren't a lot of miles to trek, there are enough to get your steps in--- plus these trails are dog friendly for leashed pups.

Havasu Falls

On Havasupai Tribal Lands, you can find one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the United States. The extremes of these falls might be what makes them so spectacular. Perfect white waters flow over the edge of red rock into bright blue waters. The waterfall pools are so inviting that you won't be sure if you want to go for a swim or drink it up like a glass of kool-aid.

The trek to Havasu Falls and Havasupai Falls isn't an easy one though. It will require a long hike---including trekking through waist-deep waters---and probably an overnight stay. But the journey to these five waterfalls is worth it.

To enjoy this experience, you will need to coordinate with the Havasupai Tribe . You can make these arrangements and have a memory that will last a lifetime.

Red Rock State Park

Red Rock State Park is one of the most popular places in Arizona---besides the Grand Canyon. This is known for the iconic red rock formations, beautiful desert landscape, and the city of Sedona.

Here you can enjoy hiking, biking, backcountry camping, horseback riding, natural bridges, and much more. It is a beautiful area filled with people who truly love the outdoors and the uniqueness of this region of the state.

Prescott National Forest

If you are looking to avoid the big city but still be close to civilization, you may consider Prescott National Forest---and nearby Prescott, Arizona. This area is incredibly beautiful and a great place to connect with nature and find solitude.

This forest is unique as it functions as a transition point between cacti and pines. It offers a much more mild climate compared to the Phoenix area and thus both pine trees and cacti thrive in this environment.

Prescott National Forest has over 900 miles of trails and 100,000 acres of incredible wilderness.

Lake Havasu

It seems odd to mention a beautiful lake in such a dry climate, but Lake Havasu is worth a visit. It is perfect for those who love the water because boating, fishing, jet skiing, paddle boarding, and much more are enjoyed on this lake.

If you are an angler, this is a great place for bass fishing. In fact, there are a number of fishing tournaments here with plenty of trophy fish being pulled from its waters.

Lake Havasu City is also worth mentioning here. In fact, this city is a favorite for snowbirds and attracts spring breakers too. An interesting fact about this town is the London Bridge---yes the London Bridge Is Falling Down from the nursery rhyme---is in Lake Havasu City.

Monument Valley

Monument Valley has been featured in plenty of movies and tv shows due to its iconic landscape. The towering buttes and red rock make it the desert scene you see in your dreams.

This area along the Arizona and Utah border is on tribal lands. The Navajo Tribe has done a  wonderful job in maintaining and protecting these lands for you to enjoy.

Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest

The Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest---on the eastern side of the state---is over 2 million acres of beautiful landscape. It has less of a desert feel and more of that alpine mountain vibe.

Inside this National Forest, you can enjoy cold water lakes, trout fishing, and of course plenty of space to get lost. There are also plenty of wilderness areas for backcountry camping and plenty of boondocking sites to be had.

Top 6 Towns and Cities to Visit in Arizona's Northern Region

• Cottonwood & Jerome
• Lake Havasu City

Top RV Campgrounds in Northern Arizona

• Page Lake Powell Campground
• SMD Ranch and Campground
• Raptor Ranch RV Park and Campground
• Dazzo's Country Store and RV Park

Looking For More Campgrounds in Arizona's Northern?

If you didn't find what you were looking for, just wait until you look at these other great campgrounds through CampersCard .

RVing in Central Arizona

RVing in Central Arizona takes you from big city living to off-grid living. It has waterfalls and incredible desolate areas too. You'll never get bored in central Arizona.

Central Arizona plays host to the state's capital and largest city---Phoenix---and the largest National Forest in the state---Tonto National Forest. This region is also home to another large canyon and one of the most famous snowbird boondocking sites in the entire county---Quartzsite.

In addition to beauty and history, you can enjoy plenty of flora and fauna in this region. Here is where the number of Saguaro Cactus starts being plentiful. These are the iconic cacti that are depicted in many drawings, cartoons, and in our minds for what a cactus ought to look like.

Let's check out some of this region's most popular spots.

Central Arizona Highlights

Central Arizona is a great place to get lost in the desert, see amazing waterfalls, and enjoy some big city living. Here are some of the highlights.

Tonto National Forest

Tonto National Forest is the largest National Forest in Arizona and the ninth largest in the United States. At 2,873,200 acres, it is the largest in Arizona and has plenty to see, explore, and get lost in.

Inside Tonto National Forest, you can find its own beautiful canyon known as the Salt River Canyon Wilderness Area . This area is very rugged, but has a beautiful waterfall and plenty of hiking. It is between Globe and Show Low in the Fort Apache Reservation.

Tonto is also incredibly close to the greater Phoenix area. The Superstition Wilderness is probably the closest portion of the area and acts like the city's personal playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Here you'll find plenty of camping spots, hiking trails, and horseback riding trails too.

The Nellie E. Saloon---aka The Desert Bar

On the west side of the state, you'll find this unique destination. Typically, saloons don't make these lists, but this isn't a normal bar. This is an experience for anyone visiting the Quartzsite and Parker Arizona area.

Nellie E. Saloon is a cash-only bar that is known for its remote, unconnected location. In what was once an old mining camp, a man started a bar without a water source, electricity, or any other services.

Since the start, this has become a staple for off-road vehicles, UTV's, ATV's, and even those who enjoy a horseback rider as a destination in western Arizona. If you find yourself over on the west side of the state along the Colorado River, look up the Desert Bar.

Quartzsite---as its name suggests---is a great place to find gems and minerals. But more than that, it is a destination for snowbirds along the Arizona-California border. This town functions more like a migrant community than anything.

Here you'll find an incredible community of desert lovers coming together to form a seasonal community around a mutual love of simplicity and the outdoors. The area boasts access to the Colorado River and miles upon miles of trails for off-road enthusiasts.

Even if you don't want to stay in Quartzsite all winter, every RVer ought to make the journey once in their RVing career.

Top 5 Towns and Cities to Visit in Central Arizona

Top rv campgrounds in central arizona.

• Verde Ranch RV Resort
• Apache Acres RV & Mobile Home Park
• Arizona Oasis RV Park
• Burrwood RV Park
• Om Place RV Park

Looking For More Campgrounds in Central Arizona?

Rving in southern arizona.

Southern Arizona is one extreme. In the southwest corner of the state, you have the sunniest and one of the hottest places on earth in Yuma. But in this same region, you can see snow capped mountains near Sierra Vista.

This region is harsh and beautiful at the same time. It has historic western towns like Tombstone, quirky mining towns like Bisbee, and of course the college town of Tucson.

Southern Arizona is also home to wildlife refuges, National Forests, and National Parks.

Southern Arizona Highlights

Track the wild west routes, true desert art, and wonderful hiking in Southern Arizona. Let's look at some of the top spots to check out on your next trip to southern Arizona.

Is tucked in the southern part of the state in the midst of the Mule Mountains. This town isn't quite a border town---just 10 miles north---but it has that border town feel. It is traditionally a mining town that has turned into a trendy town for desert dwellers to seek refuge in during those incredibly hot days.

This town is often referred to as "Mayberry on Acid." The town feels stuck in history, but the arts and residents totally change the experience for visitors. It is a bit out of the way, but worth the trip to the area.

Tombstone is found in southern Arizona and has held onto its historic cowboy roots. The town has fully embraced its connection to Wyatt Earp. A visit to Tombstone will have you wanting to put on cowboy boots and make a stop at the O.K. Corral.

This town has many opportunities to experience the town as it was during the wild west days. There are horse carriage rides throughout town, wood board walks, and a dramatized show of the O.K. Corral Shootout.

Lake Mittry & Martinez Lake

Along the southwest edge of Arizona---just outside of Yuma, Arizona---you'll find plenty of water to enjoy. These lakes and waterways are created by the Colorado River and are great places to enjoy a day on the water.

In Martinez Lake, you'll have the chance for some great fishing. At Mittry Lake, you can paddle up and down the waterways and see tons of birds all winter long. The sunsets in this region are amazing due to the bright orange sun reflecting off the waters.

At Lake Mittry, you can enjoy up to 14 days on BLM lands for free camping.

Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument

This National Monument is inside the Sonoran Desert along the United States-Mexico border. This area will be filled with cacti---most notably the Organ Pipe Cacti. Along with these unique cacti, you'll see tons of birds in the winter months.

If you plan your visit to Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument during the winter, you might see the desert turn green. Just a little bit of rain that occurs here can bring the wilderness to life and make the birds sing.

Saguaro National Park

Home to the most iconic cacti in the world, Saguaro National Park is home to the largest concentration of giant saguaro in the American West. Here there are great hiking options, enormous cacti, and mountain backdrops.

This National Park is just outside of Tucson. In the spring, you will see this park come to life with bright flowers on the edges of the cacti. At night you will hear coyotes cry out. And of course, this is just minutes away from the beautiful city of Tucson.

Top RV Campgrounds in Southern Arizona

• Mesquite Ranch Campground
• Southside RV Park
• Sleeping Dog Ranch
• Tombstone Territories RV Park
• Indian Skies RV Resort
• Las Quintas RV Resort

Looking For More Campgrounds in Southern Arizona?

Use camperscard to find the best campgrounds and rv parks in any of arizona's unique regions.

The best way to find the top RV campgrounds in Arizona is to know what kind of experience you want. With six different National Forests boasting varying experiences, you'll never find the end of what there is to see and do in this state.

Whether you want to boondock, bring your horses with you, or live it up in luxury, Arizona has the perfect campgrounds for you. Mix that decision with an understanding of your budget, and you'll be ready to book your first campground with CampersCard .

When to Go Camping in Arizona

Because Arizona is so far south, your window to comfortably go camping is rather limited in certain regions. Consider how early or late you'd be willing to go to avoid the crowds and save on the prices. But the window is short for the areas surrounding Phoenix, Yuma, and Tucson. The summers can get incredibly hot, but the higher elevations are still very accessible.

As a whole, the state of Arizona is rather hot for RVers---because of the poor insulation. But finding some shade and staying out of the RV during the day can be an option. The overnight temperatures in the desert can still drop significantly making it quite nice still.

Having the sunshine for so many hours a year is wonderful---until it's not. The sun can take its toll on you and you will need to be sure to drink plenty of water. Just set some reminders for yourself before you head out for the day.

What to Pack When RVing in Arizona

Because Arizona is such a large state, there are different things you might need, depending on where you go, and what time of year you go.

• UV protective clothing, sunscreen, and eyewear are a must
• Warm-weather hiking boots
• Fishing gear
• Sunshades for your RV windows

Tips & Tricks for RVing in All of Arizona

If you've decided it is time to visit Arizona in your RV, then here are some things to consider.

• Don't wait to book your site. Arizona is a popular destination, and it's quite competitive for the best RV bookings.
• Watch out for scorpions in your shoes, snakes on the trail, and don't underestimate the sun's impact on your hiking.
• Be aware of the ground temperatures when walking your pets. Be sure to consider an infrared thermometer to help protect your dog's paws.

Use CampersCard to Find and Book Your Next RV Trip

With pine forests, red rock formations, various cacti, and plenty of sunsets, you'll love Arizona. The journey to get to Arizona could be long and that means you need to plan on staying for a while. To help you figure out all the details of your next booking, make sure to check out CampersCard today !

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11+ Arizona Winter Camping Parks & Campgrounds

Escape the ordinary and embark on an unforgettable winter camping experience in Arizona. With its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and mild climate, this southwestern state offers a unique opportunity to explore the great outdoors during the off-season. From breathtaking mountain views to tranquil desert landscapes, Arizona has it all.

In addition to its natural beauty, Arizona boasts a rich history and a variety of attractions for visitors year-round.

Whether you’re pitching your tent in one of the state’s picturesque campgrounds or tracing the footsteps of ancient civilizations at archaeological sites, there is something for everyone.

Be sure to verify all information. We are human, and human errors do happen in typing and writing. The most up-to-date information can be found directly on the linked page, which we’ve linked below for your convenience when possible. Otherwise, always double-check location rules, information, weather conditions, and product information before planning, using, or purchasing.

Get ready to start your adventure as we dive into the opportunities and challenges that come with winter camping in Arizona.

From exploring hidden gems to soaking up the sunshine, we’ll guide you through the best spots and provide tips for making your camping experience memorable.

So pack your gear and get ready to embrace nature’s wonders in this captivating corner of the United States.

Embracing Arizona’s Winter Camping Scene

If you’re looking for the best places to find a camping area in a popular destination, you’re in the right place. We’ve highlighted some of the most popular places where you’ll find some of the best RV parks.

There are so many great camping spots in Arizona and southern Arizona, and they’re all a great way to have the best time getting back to nature. 

Discovering the Charm of Off-Season Adventures

Embrace the tranquility and solitude of exploring Arizona’s wilderness in winter. When the temperatures drop, many tourists flock to warmer destinations, leaving behind uncrowded trails and campsites for you to enjoy.

This off-season adventure allows for a more intimate experience, where you can connect with nature on a deeper level.

As you venture into the great outdoors, you’ll have the opportunity to discover hidden gems and breathtaking landscapes that are often overlooked during peak tourist season.

Key Considerations for Winter Camping Safety

Stay prepared with proper gear, clothing, and equipment for cold weather conditions. Layer up with thermal clothing, pack warm sleeping bags and blankets, and ensure you have a reliable tent that can withstand low temperatures.

It’s crucial to understand potential hazards like hypothermia, frostbite, and icy trails. Stay vigilant by checking weather forecasts before your camping trip and adjusting your plans accordingly.

By taking these precautions, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable camping experience in Arizona’s winter wonderland.

Understanding Arizona’s Winter Weather Patterns

Explore Arizona’s diverse climate zones during the winter months. From the Sonoran Desert to the high plateaus of northern Arizona, each region offers its own unique weather patterns.

In southern parts of the state like Tucson or Phoenix, temperatures remain relatively mild during winter days but can drop significantly at night.

On the other hand, northern regions such as Flagstaff or Sedona experience colder temperatures due to higher elevations.

It’s essential to research temperature variations across different regions in order to pack appropriate clothing and gear for your camping trip.

Elevation plays a significant role in shaping Arizona’s winter weather conditions while camping. Higher elevations tend to be colder with more snowfall compared to lower elevations.

For instance, if you plan on camping near Flagstaff or in mountainous areas like the Mogollon Rim, be prepared for colder temperatures and the possibility of snow.

However, if you choose to camp in lower elevations like the Sonoran Desert or the Colorado River region, you can expect milder weather conditions with cooler nights.

Top Winter Camping Destinations in Arizona

National monuments and parks.

Arizona is home to several national monuments and parks that offer incredible winter camping experiences. One such destination is the Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument . Here, you can marvel at the unique desert landscape filled with towering cacti.

The park boasts scenic trails that showcase stunning views of rugged mountains and valleys, perfect for hiking enthusiasts. And when the night falls, campers are treated to clear skies that are ideal for stargazing.

Another must-visit national monument is the Chiricahua National Monument , often referred to as “The Wonderland of Rocks.” As you explore this park, you’ll come across fascinating rock formations that will leave you in awe.

Birdwatching enthusiasts will also be delighted by the diverse ecosystems within the park, providing ample opportunities to spot various bird species.

And if you’re looking for a peaceful retreat, well-maintained campgrounds await you.

Saguaro National Park is another gem worth exploring during winter in Arizona. Immerse yourself in an iconic desert landscape adorned with giant saguaro cacti.

Whether you prefer taking scenic drives or embarking on picturesque hikes through Sonoran Desert beauty, this park has it all.

And when it’s time to rest for the night, camping among towering cacti while witnessing breathtaking sunsets over Tucson is an experience like no other.

State Parks Galore

In addition to national monuments and parks, Arizona boasts numerous state parks that offer fantastic winter camping opportunities.

One such park is Patagonia Lake State Park . Surrounded by rolling hills and lush vegetation, Patagonia Lake provides a tranquil setting for fishing or kayaking.

Birdwatchers will be delighted by the various bird species found here—a renowned birding destination indeed! Set up camp near the lake and enjoy water activities or peaceful picnics amidst nature’s beauty.

For breathtaking panoramic views of the desert, head to Picacho Peak State Park . Hiking to the top of Picacho Peak rewards you with stunning vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see.

During the spring season, vibrant wildflower blooms add an extra touch of beauty to this already picturesque park. And when it’s time to rest, spacious campsites with modern amenities await campers amidst the scenic surroundings.

Catalina State Park is another gem nestled in Arizona’s winter camping scene. Explore scenic trails offering stunning views of the Santa Catalina Mountains while encountering diverse wildlife along the way.

Whether you’re hiking or biking, this park provides ample opportunities to immerse yourself in nature’s wonders.

And at the end of a day filled with outdoor adventures, camp in a beautiful desert setting and enjoy easy access to all that Catalina State Park has to offer.

The Allure of Dispersed Camping in Wintertime

Most people think of summertime adventures. But did you know that winter camping can be just as exciting, especially in Arizona?

We will also provide essential tips to help you prepare for a cozy and comfortable cold-weather camping experience.

Uncovering Dispersed Camping Secrets

If you’re looking for a unique camping experience away from crowded campgrounds, dispersed camping on public lands across Arizona is the way to go.

It allows you to find hidden gems off-the-beaten-path and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. From the stunning landscapes of the Sonoran Desert to picturesque mountain ranges, Arizona offers a diverse range of options for dispersed camping enthusiasts.

However, it’s important to familiarize yourself with regulations and best practices to ensure responsible camping and preserve these natural areas for future generations.

Plomosa Road Dispersed Area Exploration

One such hidden gem is the Plomosa Road dispersed area near Quartzsite, AZ . This vast expanse of land provides ample space for setting up your camp amidst breathtaking Sonoran Desert scenery.

Imagine waking up to panoramic views of cacti-studded landscapes or witnessing stunning sunsets over rugged mountains.

The Plomosa Road area also offers opportunities for recreational activities like off-roading and rockhounding, adding an extra element of adventure to your camping trip.

Essential Prep for Dispersed Camping in the Cold

Camping in winter requires some additional preparation compared to summer trips. To stay warm and comfortable during chilly nights, proper insulation and layering techniques are crucial.

Make sure to pack a four-season tent designed to withstand colder temperatures and strong winds. A warm sleeping bag rated for low temperatures is essential along with an insulated sleeping pad to prevent heat loss from the ground.

Don’t forget to pack warm clothing, extra blankets, and hand warmers to keep yourself cozy throughout your camping experience.

RV Camping Guide for Arizona Winters

Best rv sites for winter stays.

If you’re planning an RV camping trip in Arizona during the winter months, there are several fantastic sites to consider.

Here are three of the best options:

Tucson Mountain Park

Tucson Mountain Park is a desert oasis that offers breathtaking scenery and outdoor activities. With its scenic hiking trails and mountain biking routes, this urban wilderness area is perfect for adventure enthusiasts.

As you explore the park, you’ll have the opportunity to observe diverse flora and fauna in their natural habitat. And when it comes time to set up camp, you’ll find designated sites that are surrounded by stunning desert landscapes.

Lost Dutchman State Park

For those seeking a touch of mystery and legend during their winter RV camping trip, Lost Dutchman State Park is an ideal choice. This park is located in the legendary Superstition Mountains, where tales of hidden treasures abound.

As you hike through the rugged canyons and marvel at towering saguaros along picturesque trails, you’ll feel like a true explorer.

The well-maintained campsites with modern amenities provide a comfortable base from which to enjoy the park’s natural beauty.

Peppersauce Campground

Nestled near Mount Lemmon’s scenic wonders, Peppersauce Campground offers a unique winter camping experience. You can embark on exhilarating hikes to nearby waterfalls or explore picturesque canyons within Coronado National Forest.

The campground itself provides a peaceful retreat amidst tall pines and lush vegetation. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures or simply want to unwind in nature’s embrace, Peppersauce Campground has something for everyone.

Winter RV Camping Essentials

When embarking on an RV camping trip during the winter months in Arizona, it’s important to be prepared with essential supplies:

• Pack antifreeze to protect your plumbing system from freezing temperatures.
• Use heated hoses to prevent water lines from freezing.
• Insulate your RV properly to stay cozy during cold nights.
• Consider using skirting around the bottom of your RV to provide additional insulation.

It’s crucial to find campgrounds with full hookups or amenities suitable for winter RV camping . This ensures you have access to electricity, water, and sewer connections that can make your stay more comfortable.

Safe and Enjoyable RV Camping Tips

To ensure a safe and enjoyable winter RV camping trip in Arizona, keep these tips in mind:

• Learn essential safety precautions when driving an RV on icy or snowy roads. Slow down and allow for extra stopping distance.
• Before embarking on your trip, make sure your propane system is functioning properly. Propane is necessary for heating and cooking in many RVs during the winter months.
• Maximize comfort and enjoyment by bringing warm clothing, blankets, and hot beverages . Consider investing in portable heaters or electric blankets for added warmth.

Remember, the key to a successful winter RV camping trip is preparation.

Specialized Winter Camping Experiences

Grand canyon village in winter.

Experience the majestic Grand Canyon with fewer crowds during wintertime. The winter season offers a unique opportunity to explore this natural wonder without the usual hustle and bustle of tourists.

With milder temperatures, it’s an ideal time for outdoor activities like hiking or snowshoeing adventures. You can traverse the trails and witness the breathtaking beauty of the canyon covered in a blanket of snow.

You do have to be very careful and aware of snowy and slick conditions. Always research and call ahead before arriving.

Grand Canyon Village is also worth exploring during your winter camping trip. This charming village is home to historic buildings, shops, and restaurants that provide a cozy atmosphere amidst the winter landscape.

Take a stroll through the village streets, visit art galleries, or warm up with a hot drink at one of the local cafes. The quieter ambiance allows you to truly appreciate the serenity and beauty of this iconic destination.

Petrified Forest National Park Cold Season Visits

Discover the unique beauty of petrified wood and colorful badlands in winter at Petrified Forest National Park . As you explore this fascinating park during colder months, you’ll be greeted by peaceful walks along trails showcasing ancient fossils and stunning vistas. The absence of crowds allows for uninterrupted moments to take in nature’s wonders.

Winter also presents an excellent opportunity for photographers to capture breathtaking photos of snow-dusted landscapes within the park.

The contrast between white snow and vibrant petrified wood creates a captivating scene that will make your photographs truly memorable.

Sedona’s Winter Camping Beauty

Immerse yourself in Sedona’s red rock splendor during the quieter winter season. As you embark on scenic hikes or mountain biking adventures amidst stunning landscapes, you’ll find yourself surrounded by awe-inspiring views that are even more magical during this time of year.

Camping near iconic landmarks like Cathedral Rock or Bell Rock adds an extra touch of wonder to your experience. Picture waking up to breathtaking sunrises casting their golden hues on the red rocks, creating a picturesque backdrop for your camping adventure.

Planning Your Winter Road Trip in Arizona

Arizona is a fantastic destination for winter camping adventures. With its diverse landscapes and mild winter weather, it offers a plethora of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.

If you’re considering a road trip to Arizona during the winter months, here are some essential tips to help you plan your journey.

Mapping Out Scenic Routes and Campsites

To make the most of your winter road trip in Arizona, start by mapping out scenic routes that showcase the state’s natural wonders. From the iconic Grand Canyon to the stunning red rock formations of Sedona, there are plenty of breathtaking sights to explore.

Research these routes beforehand and identify campgrounds along the way, ensuring convenient overnight stays amidst nature’s splendor.

While popular attractions are undoubtedly worth a visit, don’t forget to venture off the beaten path and discover hidden gems.

Arizona is home to numerous lesser-known attractions that offer unique experiences away from crowds. These hidden treasures can provide an opportunity for solitude and a deeper connection with nature.

December Camping Considerations

When camping in Arizona during December, it’s crucial to be prepared for specific conditions associated with this time of year.

While temperatures may not be as cold as other parts of the country, they can still drop significantly at night. Pack accordingly with warm clothing, sleeping bags rated for colder temperatures, and extra blankets.

In addition to cooler temperatures, be aware that December can bring occasional rain showers. Make sure you have appropriate rain gear and waterproof equipment to keep yourself dry throughout your camping adventure.

Moreover, since daylight hours are shorter during winter, plan your activities accordingly and ensure you have ample lighting when needed.

If you’re looking for some festive cheer during your camping trip, keep an eye out for holiday celebrations or events happening near your chosen campsites.

Many towns and cities in Arizona embrace the holiday spirit with parades, light displays, and seasonal festivities that can add an extra touch of magic to your winter camping experience.

Adventure Awaits in Arizona’s Sky Islands and Southern Regions

Arizona’s sky islands, located primarily in the southeastern part of the state, offer a unique ecosystem that is worth exploring during the winter months. These mountain ranges rise dramatically from the desert floor, creating diverse habitats with lush forests, abundant wildlife, and stunning panoramic views. Hiking through these sky islands can be an adventure like no other.

If you prefer milder climates during your winter camping trip, consider heading to Arizona’s southern regions. Cities such as Tucson and Yuma boast pleasant temperatures even in the colder months.

This allows for a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the picturesque landscapes without battling freezing temperatures.

Preparing for the Arizona Winter Outdoors

Essential gear and supplies checklist.

When planning a winter camping trip in Arizona, it’s crucial to have the right gear and supplies. Make sure you pack essential items such as tents, sleeping bags, cooking equipment, and a reliable light source.

Layered clothing is also important to stay warm in fluctuating temperatures. Don’t forget to bring warm jackets, hats, gloves, and thermal socks to protect yourself from the chilly weather. And of course, don’t leave behind crucial supplies like food, water filters or purifiers, and first aid kits.

Staying Warm and Comfortable in the Wild

Camping in cold weather conditions requires some extra preparation to ensure your comfort and safety. Here are some tips to stay warm during your winter camping adventure in Arizona:

• Building Proper Campfires : Learn how to build an effective campfire that provides warmth without posing a risk. Use dry firewood and create a proper fire ring or pit for safety.
• Portable Heaters : Follow all safety guidelines when operating these devices.
• Cozy Sleeping Arrangements : Invest in insulated sleeping pads or air mattresses to provide insulation between you and the cold ground. Make sure you have appropriate sleeping bags rated for colder temperatures.
• Insulated Clothing: Layer your clothing wisely by wearing thermal base layers followed by insulating mid-layers and a waterproof outer layer if needed.

Leave No Trace Principles in Winter Conditions

Even in winter conditions, it’s important to practice Leave No Trace principles to minimize our impact on fragile environments:

• Proper Waste Disposal: Know how to properly dispose of waste even in snowy conditions. Pack out all garbage and dispose of human waste following established guidelines.
• Respect Wildlife: Remember that animals need space during the winter months. Observe wildlife from a distance and avoid disturbing their habitats.
• Stay on Designated Trails: Stick to established trails to prevent trampling vegetation or causing erosion, especially in snowy conditions.
• Minimize Campfire Impact: If campfires are allowed, use existing fire rings whenever possible. Keep fires small and ensure they are completely extinguished before leaving the area.

By following these guidelines, you can have a safe and enjoyable winter camping experience in Arizona. Remember to be prepared with the right gear, stay warm and comfortable, and leave no trace behind. Embrace the beauty of nature while respecting its fragility.

So there you have it, folks! Arizona’s winter camping scene is a hidden gem just waiting to be explored. From the stunning landscapes of the Grand Canyon to the peaceful serenity of dispersed camping, there’s something for everyone in this diverse state.

Whether you’re an RV enthusiast or a tent camper, Arizona offers a multitude of options to suit your preferences. So pack your bags, gather your friends or family, and embark on an unforgettable winter adventure in the great outdoors of Arizona!

But don’t just take our word for it. Experience it for yourself! Get out there and discover the beauty and excitement that winter camping in Arizona has to offer.

From breathtaking sunsets to star-filled nights, you’ll create memories that will last a lifetime. So grab your hiking boots, bundle up in warm layers, and get ready to experience the magic of winter camping in Arizona.

Can I go camping in Arizona during the winter?

Absolutely! Arizona offers fantastic camping opportunities during the winter months. With mild temperatures and breathtaking landscapes, it’s a great time to explore nature and enjoy outdoor activities.

Don’t forget to take in the wildlife viewing while you’re there. I love sitting in my camp chair and looking around the RV resort or campground. 

What are some popular camping spots in Arizona during winter?

Some popular camping spots in Arizona during winter include Grand Canyon National Park, Sedona, Saguaro National Park, and Tonto National Forest.

Each location offers unique experiences and stunning natural beauty. All of these locations are sure to have a great spot for camping. 

How cold does it get at night when camping in Arizona in winter?

Temperatures can vary depending on the specific location, but generally, you can expect nighttime temperatures to range from around 30°F (-1°C) to 50°F (10°C). It’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast for your chosen campground before heading out.

What should I pack for winter camping in Arizona?

When packing for winter camping in Arizona, make sure to bring warm clothing layers such as thermal underwear, fleece jackets, hats, gloves, and thick socks. Don’t forget a sturdy tent with a good sleeping bag rated for colder temperatures.

Are there any special precautions I need to take while camping in Arizona during winter?

While camping in Arizona during winter is generally safe, it’s important to be prepared. Stay updated on weather conditions, bring plenty of water and food supplies , and inform someone about your itinerary. Be cautious of potential wildlife encounters and follow Leave No Trace principles.

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11 Best Spots to go Lake Camping in Arizona

May 9, 2023

Arizona may be known as a primarily desert state, but that doesn’t mean we have a shortage of beautiful lakes to explore and enjoy. One of the best ways to spend time outside and enjoy these natural resources is by camping, whether in a tent or a trailer/camper of some kind.

As I’ve gotten older, I find myself enjoying sleeping on a cot or a bed when I’m camping (as opposed to “roughing it” in a tent on the ground) and luckily there’s no shortage of places to camp right from your vehicle.

In this article you’ll discover the best spots for lake camping in Arizona and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the state.

With over 128 lakes, there’s no shortage of options for car camping, RV camping, or backpacking. Explore reservoirs, man-made lakes, and the only two natural lakes in Arizona, including the famous Lake Powell and Lake Mead. With activities like fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, camping near the water brings endless fun.

Read ahead to find the perfect lakeside camping trip for you, whether you want to car camp, lakes with RV camping, or backpack some distance for solitude.

Let’s dive in!

Did you Know?

The vast majority of Arizona’s 128 lakes are actually reservoirs, which are man-made lakes created by building a dam. There are only two natural-occurring lakes in Arizona: Mormon Lake near Flagstaff, and Stoneman Lake in Sedona. The two biggest lakes/reservoirs in the Grand Canyon State, Lake Powell and Lake Mead, provide water and electricity (created by water flowing through the dams) to the majority of the state.

1. Lake Powell

2. lake mead, 3. bear canyon lake, 4. saguaro lake, 5. canyon lake, 6. patagonia lake, 7. big lake, 8. lake pleasant, 9. knoll lake campground, 10. kaibab lake campground, 11. woods canyon lake, before you go.

With dozens of campsites to choose from due to its vast size, camping at Lake Powell has no shortage of space for many to enjoy its beautiful slot canyons and red rock cliffs. Many families in Arizona choose to spend a few weeks at a time in the summer camped out on its sandy shores.

Houseboats are a popular way to camp on Lake Powell, allowing big groups to access some of the more remote canyons and campsites that are only accessible by the water. However, one of my favorite campsites, and the one I have spent the most time at on the shores of Lake Powell is Lone Rock Campground, located right on the border of Arizona and Utah.

The Lone Rock area is known for its long stretch of soft sandy shores, with miles of shoreline and room for substantial camping groups. You’ll need all-wheel-drive vehicles that can handle deep sand, as you’ll have a bit of driving after the pavement ends to get to your preferred spot. The appeal of Lone Rock campground is the vast expanse of wide open water in this area, perfect for boating, water skiing, and jet skiing.

• Location: Turn-off to Lone Rock is only a few miles north of Page, AZ.
• Facilities: Permanent porter-potty type bathrooms; outdoor cold showers
• Pet Friendly: Yes
• Nearby Attractions: City of Page, Glen Canyon Dam, hiking, slot canyons
• Price: $20 per site per night

Lake Mead is one of the largest reservoirs in the United States, and most of it rests on the Nevada/Arizona border. On the Arizona side, Willow Beach Campground is one of the more popular and beautiful campsites that attract RV and tent campers alike.

Lake Mead is technically the Colorado River (the same as Lake Powell) but it has been enlarged by the use of several dams. There are hidden coves and sandy beaches that can only be accessed by boat or other watercraft, which makes Lake Mead a vast and fun place to explore! Launching from Willow Beach Campground gives you access to all of Lake Mead’s secrets.

Willow Beach boasts a grill, marina, camp store, 28 full-service RV hookup sites, some tent camping sites, a 24-hour shower and laundry building, and even WiFi! Cell service is scarce in this part of the desert, so WiFi comes in handy for emergencies. You could easily spend an entire week here (or up to 6 months in an RV!) and not need to head back into the city for supplies or entertainment.

Campers praise the level sites, excellent facilities, and gorgeous views of the lake and surrounding countryside. The road to Willow Beach is a little rough, but worth the trek. The water flowing through Lake Mead (aka the Colorado River) is crisp and refreshing, offering a lovely respite from the blazing hot summer days. If you’re planning on spending time at Lake Mead this summer, strongly consider staying at Willow Beach.

• Location: South of Lake Mead on the Colorado River, just off Highway 93
• Facilities: Showers, laundry, WiFi, restaurant, marina, bathrooms
• Nearby Attractions: Colorado River, Lake Mead, Las Vegas
• Price: $35 tent site, $70 RV site, the nightly rate

If you’re looking for a little more “roughing it” type of lake camping, head up past Payson to the Mogollon Rim. There are a series of reservoirs along the edge of the Rim and my personal favorite is Bear Canyon Lake for its beauty and accessibility.

Here you won’t find showers, camp hosts, or numbered camping sites; the campsites are undeveloped and basically open dirt spots among the towering pine trees, and it’s first come, first serve. There are rustic toilets, which are infrequently maintained and quite stinky in my experience, but no other amenities.

The appeal to this type of camping is you can drive your car right up to your preferred spot and set up camp right next to your vehicle, which is my favorite way of camping due to its convenience. The camp spots are all situated above the lake, while Bear Canyon Lake itself is accessible by a short but rocky hiking trail down into the canyon (the trail is less than a half mile long).

Bear Canyon Lake itself is gorgeous! Situated in a long narrow canyon, the lake is about 50 feet deep and is frequently stocked with trout year-round, making it a popular destination for fishermen. You can fish from the shore or from a human-powered water vessel like a canoe or kayak (no motor boats allowed).

I’ve always spent my time at Bear Canyon Lake on the south end where the campsites are most plentiful. There is no camping allowed directly next to the lake to protect the water source, but I do enjoy setting up my hammock amongst the trees that line the lake for a relaxing afternoon!

• Location: 33 miles past Payson, AZ off of Rim Lakes Rd
• Facilities: Rustic bathrooms, undeveloped campsites
• Nearby Attractions: Rim Lakes reservoirs, Forest Lakes community, the mountain towns of Heber and Payson
• Price: No camping fees

Only a few miles east of Mesa is a local favorite for wakeboarding, water skiing, and all water sports- Saguaro Lake. Tucked inside desert walls and lined by the towering Saguaro cacti for which it is named, Saguaro Lake is one of the more popular lakes in the Phoenix Valley due to its proximity to the suburbs.

One of a long line of reservoirs along the Salt River, Saguaro Lake only has boat-accessible camping sites at the Bagley Flat Campground and Boat Dock on the eastern shore; the lake isn’t too big, so it’s not a long journey, but you’ll have to load all of your camping equipment into your boat. The 10 camping sites are first come, first serve, and there’s no knowing if people are already there until you get there!

For a “day camp” type experience (if you don’t want to boat camp or don’t have the time for an overnight trip) try setting up your chairs and awnings at the Butcher Jones Recreational Site, located on the shores of Saguaro Lake and accessible by car. This sandy beach-like area is a favorite in the summer and can fill up quickly in the mornings, but is a great place to relax, play in the water, or enjoy some kayaking.

• Location: Four miles off of State Highway 87, or 15 miles from northeast Mesa on Bush Highway
• Facilities: Bathrooms near the marina, no amenities or facilities at Bagley Flat Campground
• Pet Friendly: Yes, but watch for wild animals
• Nearby Attractions: Salt River tubing, Fort McDowell Casino, Mesa, Apache Junction
• Price: $8 Tonto National Forest day pass; $4 watercraft sticker required, no campsite fees

Upriver from Saguaro Lake lies Canyon Lake, which gets its name from the high and breathtaking canyon walls that line most of the lake. The lake can get pretty narrow towards the eastern end, but here you’ll find plenty of seclusions and may even spot some local Bighorn Sheep that make the red rock canyon walls their home.

There is more convenient camping to be found at Canyon Lake than at Saguaro Lake, partly due to its unique size that creates a more available shoreline. The Canyon Lake Marina is the only official campsite available, allowing campers to park their RVs or cars and camp right near the shores of the lake. With 28 RV sites and 18 tent sites, there’s plenty of room year-round for campers.

You may be able to boat-camp if you can find an open enough shoreline, but with the tall canyon walls, open space that is suitable for tent camping may be hard to come by! The Point Boat Dock and campground is located a couple of miles back into the canyon, but only has three available campsites and is only accessible by boat. The Marina is a guaranteed place to set up your camp for the weekend so you can be on the lake from sunrise until sundown.

• Location: East of Apache Junction on Highway 88
• Facilities: Bathrooms, boat docks, RV and tent sites, marina
• Nearby Attractions: Tortilla Flat, Lost Dutchman State Park, Goldfield Ghost Town
• Price: $8 Tonto Pass, plus $4 watercraft fee

In southern Arizona lies a true oasis; Patagonia Lake is surrounded by desert but its shores are lined with lush vegetation, making it the perfect habitat for local wild animals and migrating birds. With miles of hiking trails and plenty of shorelines to explore on foot, Patagonia Lake is a favorite for those looking to enjoy the outdoors in southern Arizona.

As far as camping goes, you have a few options at Patagonia Lake State Park. For those that don’t love the idea of “real” camping, there are seven cabins available for rent on the southeast end of the lake, with unbroken views of the lake from your front porch! Renters need to supply their own bedding, but each cabin is furnished with beds, ceiling fans, a barbecue pit with a picnic table outside, and a shower house only a short walk away.

If you want some more traditional camping at Patagonia Lake, pitch your tent at one of the 105 developed campsites along the beautiful shores. Each site has a fire ring, picnic table, and room for two cars or one RV. Some of these campsites even have a shaded ramada (perfect for those hotter summer days) .

For more seclusion and “roughing it”, there are 12 boat-in sites available on the far side of the Patagonia Lake, and you can even reserve these ahead of time! Spend your evenings watching for wildlife like whitetail deer and coatimundis roaming the lakeshore, and be sure to enjoy the famous Arizona sunsets. Fishing, boating, hiking, and other outdoor activities are sure to entertain for a weekend (or a week!) .

• Location: 15 miles north of Nogales (Mexico/US border)
• Facilities: Bathrooms, showers, cabins, tent/RV sites, boat rentals, visitor center, park store, marina, day-use areas
• Pet Friendly: Yes in campsites; pets allowed in only 2 of the cabins
• Nearby Attractions: Bisbee, Tombstone, Whipple Observatory, wineries in Sonoita
• Price: Cabin rental: $119 per night; campsite: $30-$40 per night

Some of my favorite childhood memories are camping in the White Mountains of eastern Arizona, especially in the lush forests around Big Lake. Dispersed camping is easy to come by in this area, but be warned this is true camping- no bathrooms or other facilities are available. Tents and RVs are welcome anywhere you can find a flat spot suitable for your campsite, and most of them have primitive fire rings left by previous campers.

Nearer to Big Lake, you’ll find a small store (with popsicles and cold drinks, a family favorite!), boat docks, and five different campgrounds providing flat ground, RV parking/sites, tent sites, fire rings, and easy access to the lake.

Big Lake itself is 575 acres in surface area (fitting for its name) and has plenty of room for fishing from its shores or your boat. This area of the White Mountains is one of the best for hiking, hunting, four-wheeling, and just getting out to enjoy Arizona at its best. To learn more about the area, pop into the visitor center or join one of the naturalist programs.

• Location: About 1-1.5 hours from Show Low
• Facilities: At the developed campsites at Big Lake, there are bathrooms, a small general store, and boat ramps
• Pet Friendly: Yes, but watch for wildlife
• Nearby Attractions: Sunrise Ski Resort, Mount Baldy, Crescent Lake, Black River, Lee Valley
• Price: Varies depending on the campground. Dispersed camping outside of Big Lake recreation area is free.

Lake Pleasant is located conveniently close to the state capital, Phoenix, and is one of the more popular summer destinations for the 7 million+ people that live in Maricopa county. The lake itself is 11.5 square miles of wide open water with plenty of room for wakeboarding, boating, fishing, and other water sports.

There are 148 total developed and semi-developed campsites at Lake Pleasant, and all are available for reservation in advance; the only difference between the two kinds of campsites is the semi-developed sites do not have hookups for electricity or water. Restrooms and shower facilities are available at each, making camping at Lake Pleasant less “roughing it” and more of an enjoyable experience for city folk.

If you want to get an early start, consider boat-in camping at Lake Pleasant; essentially, you don’t set up a tent or anything on the shore but instead camp out on your boat in the water. Be sure to check the weather ahead of time to save yourself a miserable night! This is a great option for fishermen and boaters who want to get the earliest start possible on the water.

The only shoreline camping allowed is in the Dirt Spillway Primitive Camp Area, a spot designated for tent campers to set up right on the water itself. Spaces are limited but can be reserved online. This is true primitive camping, with no bathrooms or other facilities available, so come prepared!

• Location: 60 miles northwest of Phoenix
• Facilities: Water/electricity hookups, tent sites, bathrooms, showers, covered ramadas, picnic tables, fire rings, BBQ grills
• Pet Friendly: Yes but must be on a leash
• Nearby Attractions: Wickenburg (museums, restaurants, Hassayampa River Preserve), located 10 miles from Lake Pleasant
• Price: $15-$40 depending on the site reserved

This picturesque little lake on the Mogollon Rim is kind of a hidden gem; with towering Ponderosa pine trees surrounding the shorelines, it feels like you’re secluded from the world. Here you’ll find the quiet that is hard to come by in other lake campgrounds. The most popular activities at Knoll Lake are fishing and boating.

There are a total of 33 designated camping sites- 30 single unit types (up to 8 people) and three double unit sites, for larger groups of up to 16 people. Plenty of room for a family reunion or weekend getaways with friends! There’s drinking water and rustic bathrooms available but not much else, and no hookups for RVs or trailers, but don’t let that deter you from visiting Knoll Lake Campground.

Many choose to camp by the lake for its beautiful setting and utilize the many trails and dirt roads in the area for 4-wheeling, hiking, and mountain biking. Camping at Knoll Lake is what summer getaways in Arizona are made of, as the weather is always much milder here than it is in the Phoenix Valley.

• Location: About a 1.5 hours drive from Payson, the last section is on a dirt road
• Facilities: Restrooms, drinking water
• Nearby Attractions: Mogollon Rim, Forest Lakes
• Price: $14 per night for a single site, $28 per night for a double site

If you’re wanting to enjoy both lake camping and the Grand Canyon in one weekend, Kaibab Lake Campground is for you! Located only an hour away from the popular south rim of Grand Canyon National Park, this scenic lake is surrounded by lush forests, grassy shores, and wildflowers in the spring and summer.

Kaibab Lake is a wonderful place for a summer picnic among the trees, but just be warned that afternoon storms can pop up without warning! The summer monsoons are especially strong and unpredictable in this region. While you can’t swim in this lake, visitors are free to fish from the shores, stroll along the nature trail, and enjoy a campfire under the stars.

All of the campsites at Kaibab Lake Campground have a picnic table and fire ring with restrooms and trash facilities nearby. You can conveniently buy firewood, fishing bait, ice, and even ice cream from a small store on-site! With 70+ reservable sites, there’s plenty of room for friends and family to enjoy a weekend in the pines.

• Location: 10 minutes north of Williams, AZ
• Facilities: Picnic tables, campfire rings, drinking water, restrooms
• Pet Friendly: Yes, must be on a leash
• Nearby Attractions: Bearizona, Grand Canyon National Park
• Price: Varies depending on site and group size

Another beautiful lake setting on the Mogollon Rim, Woods Canyon Lake is near the aforementioned Bear Canyon Lake but has some of the amenities and facilities that are lacking at Bear Canyon. If you need a huge campsite that can accommodate up to 100 people, reserving the group site at Woods Canyon Lake should be on your radar.

As one of the most visited of the seven Rim Lakes, Woods Canyon Lake can get a little busier but with 50+ acres of water surface for boating and fishing, there’s plenty of room. There is only one designated group camping site, so reserving online well in advance is recommended. The campsite is a short walk from the lake, and there is a boat ramp nearby as well. Drinking water and toilets are available too which makes camping here all the more convenient!

Want to go for a hike while you’re staying at Woods Canyon Lake? Hit up the nearby Rim Lakes Vista Trail for some of the most magnificent views from the edge of the Mogollon Rim, or jump onto the interpretive nature trail on the north end of the lake for a short stroll through the woods.

• Location: Rim Lakes Road on the Mogollon Rim about 35 miles from Payson
• Facilities: Vault toilet, grills, fire rings, drinking water
• Nearby Attractions: Payson, other Rim Lakes, Forest Lakes community, hiking
• Price: Group site is $230 per night

Many choose to camp near lakes for the extra activities that lakes offer, such as swimming, fishing, boating, kayaking, paddle boarding, and more! Many lakes also offer beautiful hiking trails along their shores . Camping by itself is fun, but camping by a lake takes it to the next level.

Lake camping in Arizona is especially popular since summer days tend to be hot; few things are better than jumping into the cool, deep waters of one of Arizona’s lakes to cool off and enjoy some sunshine. Many lakes have designated sites that can be reserved in advance, making it easy to plan your summer getaway. So take your pick from all of these beautiful lakes and get to making some memories!

About the author

Travel Reporter – Outdoors Expert

Alicia is a trail runner, hiker, ultra-marathoner, and adventurer. She previously worked as a physical therapist assistant for 8 years, and now works as a travel writer while being a stay-at-home mom to her little girl. Alicia is a native Arizonan going back 4 generations and has also lived in Utah and Montana. She is happiest in the mountains with her family, running long miles on trails, and bagging peaks with her baby in tow. Alicia currently resides with her husband, baby, and chocolate lab Maggie in Mesa, Arizona.

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7 Scenic Canyon Road Trips To Add To Your Arizona Bucket List

• There are many scenic road trips in Arizona to canyons, like Marble and Sycamore, as well as the Grand Canyon.
• Flagstaff to Marble Canyon boasts ancestral sites, natural springs, and limestone gorge views.
• Tucson to Sabino Canyon leads to lush desert landscapes, ideal for hiking and tram tours.

The United States, with its wide array of landscapes and historical monuments, provides an ideal backdrop for land travel in any direction, whether aboard a tiny vehicle or a luxurious RV. There are exciting Texas day trips only three hours from Dallas , for instance; iconic landmarks along the various sections of Route 66 ; or simply charming small towns in the Hudson Valley to explore .

However, the Grand Canyon State is particularly a traveler's favorite; in fact, 40.19 million people visited Arizona in 2022 , perhaps drawn by some of the most iconic landmarks in the USA, including the Grand Canyon, commonly said to be the top tourist attraction in the United States .

While this natural wonder gets most of the attention, there are actually a number of other canyons in Arizona in addition to the Grand Canyon , and what better way to explore them (as well as many of the state's other noteworthy landscapes, towns, and cities) on a road trip?

There's already a myriad of Arizona road trips to the Grand Canyon , but this list will expand on those, including scenic drives to its South Rim as well as other canyons in the state. The following Arizona canyon road trips also take adventurers through picturesque and interesting stops on their way to majestic canyons like Marble, Sabino, and the Grand Canyon's South Rim.

What To Know Before Visiting The Three Indian Canyons Of Palm Springs

Flagstaff to marble canyon, 130 miles via wupatki national monument and antelope pass.

The spring weather in Flagstaff is ideal for outdoor activities , although it's great to visit year-round, given its proximity to many natural wonders, such as the Wupatki National Monument , which is only 36 minutes away and features many ancestral Puebloan sites, three natural springs, ripple-marked sandstone, several blow holes, and evergreen trees like the One-seed Juniper and Mormon Tea.

The next photo stop after heading northwest is Antelope Pass Vista , a viewpoint of canyons and red rock formations at 6151 feet, via the hills and narrow curves of State Route 89A, just outside Bitter Springs.

As for the ultimate destination, Marble Canyon , it sits at 3,573 feet and is partially located within the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area and the Grand Canyon National Park. This impressive, free-access gorge features limestone rocks and cliff walls perched above the Colorado River, and it attracts whitewater rafters, trout-fishing lovers, picnickers, and photographers alike, especially in the early morning and at sunset.

• Total Drive Time: 2 hours 8 minutes
• Great Attractions and Stops: Wupatki National Monument (sunrise to sunset; from $15 ); Glen Canyon National Recreation Area ($15/person); Marble Canyon Lodge (rooms from $170)
• Easy Trail: Old Navajo Bridge (0.5 mile; 10 minutes)

Tucson To Sabino Canyon

51.9 miles via gates pass.

Once visitors are done with the city of Tucson’s unique activities and attractions , like the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun Museum, it’s time to explore the area’s natural marvel: the 20,000-acre Tucson Mountain Park , which is popular for hiking, mountain biking, picnicking, rifle shooting, horseback riding, bird watching, and archery hunting. For the best panoramic desert and mountain views around, one must head to the Gates Pass Scenic Overlook, named after Thomas Gates, a pioneer and rancher.

From there, it will take an hour and 15 minutes to reach Sabino Canyon Recreation Area , located in the Santa Catalina Mountains and the Coronado National Forest and which can be explored on the emission-free, English and Spanish-narrated, and open-air Sabino Canyon Crawler tram. Common plants and animals include saguaro and barrel cacti, palo verde and mesquite trees, rattlesnakes, jackrabbits, roadrunners, mountain lions, and hummingbirds.

• Total Drive Time: 1 hour 34 minutes
• Great Attractions and Stops: Tucson Mountain Park ( dusk to dawn; free ); Sabino Canyon ($8/vehicle/day; shuttle: from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm; $15/adult); Sabino Creek
• Easy Trails: Prickly Pear Gates Pass (1.9 miles; 40 minutes); Sabino Walkway Loop (2.3 miles; 48 minutes)

Pets and camping are not allowed in Sabino Canyon.

7 Scenic Yet Casual Hikes In Arizona

Phoenix to sycamore canyon, 149 miles via cave creek and montezuma castle.

Another one of the scenic canyon road trips in Arizona is the route from Phoenix to Sycamore Canyon. Driving only 20 minutes from the hustle and bustle of Phoenix’s downtown, which can be explored for just $100 over an entire weekend , will take road trippers to Phoenix Mountain Preserve , which features several parks combining small mountains, foothills, and deserts and offers many scenic hiking, mountain biking, and picnicking opportunities.

The next stop is the 2,922-acre Cave Creek Regional Park , a desert oasis popular among hikers, equestrians, and picnickers, followed by a visit to the historic Montezuma Castle National Monumen in Camp Verde, once the dwelling of the Sinagua people.

The final destination, Sycamore Canyon Wilderness , is 1 hour 18 minutes away; it is 21 miles long and 7 miles wide, spans pinnacles, red rocks, buttes, and arches, and is home to spy black bears, mountain lions, ringtail cats, canyon wrens, and hermit thrushes.

• Total Drive Time: 3 hours 22 minutes
• Great Attractions and Stops: Phoenix Mountains Preserve (8 am to 12 pm; free; scenic spots: Piestewa Peak and Camelback Mountain); Cave Creek Regional Park (November to April, daily, 6 am to 8 pm; May to October, 5 am to 9 pm; $7/vehicle); Montezuma Castle National Monument (8 am to 4:45 pm; $10/person ); Sycamore Canyon Wilderness (24/7; $5/day pass )
• Great Trails: Three Hill Loop (easy; 1.2 miles; 28 minutes); Parsons Trail (moderate; 7.3 miles; 2 hours 57 minutes)

Sycamore Canyon is the second-largest canyon in Arizona, after Oak Creek Canyon.

10 Affordable Small Towns In Arizona For A Vacation

Flagstaff to boynton canyon, 49.2 miles via kachina wetlands and munds park.

Explore another one of the many scenic Arizona canyon road trip itineraries: the the picturesque route from Flagstaff to Boynton Canyon. The first beautiful stop on this journey is the free-access Kachina Wetlands Preserve , an amalgamation of ponds, marshes, grasslands, and pine forests boasting 247 bird species, including the rare American and Least Bittern, Sabine’s Gull, and Greater White-fronted Goose.

Up next is the unincorporated town of Munds Park , a hidden gem founded in 1876 and providing ample outdoor activities among the pines of Coconino National Forest.

Then, on the way to the city of Sedona and its great art galleries, restaurants, and cowboy and New Age shops, a photo stop at the Schnebly Hill Vista Overlook is recommended for stunning views of red-rock landscapes all around.

As for the ultimate destination, Boynton Canyon , it is considered one of Sedona’s energy vortexes and is sacred to the Yavapai people. It will undoubtedly fill visitors with a sense of awe and peace as they admire the striking crimson cliffs, high buttes, and desert plants.

• Total Drive Time: 2 hours 19 minutes
• Great Attractions and Stops: Odell Lake in Munds Park; Sedona’s Main Street ; Boynton Canyon ( 6 am to 11 pm ; $5/Red Rock Pass )
• Great Trails: Kachina Wetlands Loop (easy; 1.6 miles; 29 minutes); Boynton Vista Trail (moderate; 1.1 miles; 28 minutes)

The best months to complete the Boynton Vortex Trail is between January and May.

Wahweap To Antelope Canyon

19.9 miles via lake powell and glen canyon dam.

Nestled in Coconino County, on the border with Utah, Wahweap boasts an overlook with a 360-degree panorama of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area that is especially colorful at sunrise and sunset.

It can be accessed freely by those who don’t want to go through the Recreation Area’s entrance; otherwise, there is plenty to see and do in the vicinity, including Lake Powell and its boating, photography, fishing, and paddleboarding activities, and the Glen Canyon Dam Overlook, perched at 1,000 feet and offering impressive views of the Colorado River, the canyon, and the dam.

On the way to Antelope Canyon , one of Arizona’s seven natural wonders to see on a road trip with its gold, red, and orange hues, a stop at the city of Page and its wellness and shopping venues may be warranted. Antelope Canyon looks like another planet, with Martian landscapes that are home to some of the most otherworldly hiking trails on Earth . Accessing the canyon is only possible via a guided tour, departing from 22 South Lake Powell Boulevard, and prior reservation is required.

• Total Drive Time: 40 minutes
• Great Attractions: Glen Canyon National Recreation Area ($15/person); Upper Antelope Canyon Tour (year-round; from $85/adult)
• Easy Trail: Dam Overlook Trail (940 feet)

7 Arizona National Park Road Trips With Scenic Stops

Williams to oak creek canyon, 66.3 miles via bellemont and rogers lake county natural area.

The town of Williams is known for being a major stop along Route 66 and a trip to the Grand Canyon, but it’s also charming in and of itself with its historic buildings, hearty restaurants, and fishing, camping, and equestrian activities. The nearby community of Bellemont is also worth checking out for the Pine Breeze Inn, which was featured in the 1969 movie Easy Rider , as well as its WWII Army camp.

Up next is Rogers Lake County Natural Area , which includes high-elevation wetland and forested uplands that are home to many wildlife species, such as elks, black bears, prairie dogs, mule deer, pronghorns, and bald eagles.

The following stop, Slide Rock State Park , is 1 hour and 4 minutes away and technically within Oak Creek Canyon . It is considered a prime swimming and hiking destination, featuring rustic cabins that date back to the 1930s. As for the canyon, it is a 12-mile-long, red-rock river gorge with depths that range from 800 to 2000 feet and many hiking, picnicking, camping, swimming, and fishing opportunities.

• Total Drive Time: 2 hours 3 minutes
• Great Attractions and Stops: Grand Canyon Deer Farm ( March 16 to October 15, 9 am to 5 or 6 pm; October 16 to March 15, 10 am to 5 pm; $16/adult ); Rogers Lake County Natural Area (6 am to 10 pm; free); Slide Rock State Park (8 am to 6 pm; from $20/vehicle)
• Moderate Trail: Two-Spot Loop (2.4 miles; 47 minutes)

10 Underrated Arizona State Parks

Seligman to grand canyon south rim, 112 miles via mcclelland lake and kaibab national forest.

This drive starts from the quaint town of Seligman, known as the birthplace of Route 66, and first stops at McClelland Lake, a serene fishing location for the Channel Catfish, Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, and Yellow Perch.

Up next is Buckskinner Park , a municipal park in Williams with hiking trails, picnic tables, volleyball and basketball courts, and a fishing Reservoir.

As for Kaibab National Forest , it is located 1 hour 27 minutes away and offers a wide tapestry of canyons, prairies, mountains, and plateaus. Better still, it borders the Grand Canyon, whose South Rim is easier to access but is particularly crowded during spring break and in summer. Fortunately, there is a free shuttle bus system and dozens of viewpoints with fantastic panoramic vistas to conclude this bucket-list Arizona road trip itinerary.

• Total Drive Time: 3 hours 7 minutes
• Great Attractions and Stops: Angel & Vilma Delgadillo's Original Route 66 Gift Shop (daily from 9 am to 5 pm); Buckskinner Park (7 am to 7 pm; free); Kaibab National Forest (Monday to Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm; free); Grand Canyon South Rim (24/7; $20/person; $35/vehicle; overlooks include Powell Point, Mohave Point, and Pima Point)
• Easy Trail: Dogtown Lake Trail (2.2 miles; 39 minutes)