Reservations fill up months in advance at this 18-site Forest Service campground positioned directly along Oak Creek, just off Highway 89A north of Sedona. The single-loop layout sits close to the main road, with sites ranging from drive-up spots on pavement to walk-in areas that require carrying gear down to creek-side locations.
Oak Creek flows directly through the campground, providing access to swimming holes and a small waterfall that several reviewers highlight as a major draw. The sound of running water helps mask traffic noise from the adjacent highway, though road sounds remain noticeable until evening hours. Sites closer to the creek fill first and offer the most space, while upper sites near the pavement feel more cramped. Alex S. notes "Clean bathrooms, clean campground and excellent hosts make this place a winner. The river access also added to the positives of the spot."
Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring, though burn restrictions often apply during dry periods. The campground operates as tent-only, with no RV hookups available. Pit toilets serve the area, and campers consistently mention the active camp host presence. Snake warning signs are posted throughout the grounds. Sites 9-12 and 19 receive frequent recommendations from returning visitors, with creek-adjacent spots being the most sought after.
Cell service is minimal to nonexistent within the campground boundaries. The location provides easy access to Slide Rock State Park and Sedona's hiking trails, sitting about 10 minutes from town. Kimberly D. explains that "Listening to the babbling brook at night is priceless. However, the sites are close to each other and you will be right off Hwy 89A so expect traffic noise until late evening."
Campers seeking more space and solitude can explore Cave Springs, located a few miles north with larger sites and less road noise.
Description
Overview
Manzanita Campground is a small, year-round, tent-only facility with campsites that fill up very quickly. Visitors enjoy the campground for its fishing and swimming holes along Oak Creek, beautiful scenery and excellent wildlife watching. Oak Creek Canyon is very crowded, especially on weekends; to get a campsite, it is best to reserve a weekday.
Recreation
Recreation and relaxation abound in Oak Creek Canyon. Camping, fishing, swimming, wading and hiking are some of the activities awaiting visitors. Anglers have the convenience of creekside campsites, where they can cast a line for trout. Families love driving down the road to nearby Slide Rock State Park, one of Arizona's most popular swimming spots, or trying out several nearby hiking trails.
Facilities
The campground is very easy to access and has paved parking. It is made up of single-family campsites that are fairly close together. Each site has a picnic table, campfire ring and grill. A campground host is available for visitor assistance. Firewood can be purchased on-site.Campground has 4 first-come-first-serve sites which are often occupied. Campground host is unable to "hold" any first-come-first-serve sites for customers.
Natural Features
The campground borders Oak Creek in a lush, forested riparian zone with Arizona ash and box elders, gravel beaches and stream-bed boulders. Colorful songbirds add flashes of brilliance to the trees. The creek's crystal clear waters are cool and refreshing on hot summer days.
Nearby Attractions
The well-known town of Sedona is popular for its red rock vistas, resorts and shopping. Slide Rock State Park is a great local spot for swimming and only a few minutes away. Campers can also explore the 1.8 million-acre Coconino National Forest, which boasts a spectacular variety of scenery and outdoor activities.
Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (928) 203-0624.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundManzanita Campground is located in Arizona
Directions
From Phoenix, take I-17 north to Exit 298 for Highway 179. Take 179 north to Sedona. Turn right (north) onto Highway 89A in Oak Creek Canyon and travel 6 miles to the campground. From Flagstaff, take I-17 south and exit for Highway 89A toward Sedona. Travel 23 miles south on 89A (a winding mountain road) into Oak Creek Canyon. The campground is located just south of Slide Rock State Park.
Address
5900 N HW 89A
Sedona, AZ 86336
Coordinates
34.9416667 N
111.7416667 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 10 usersLast on 3/15/26
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 6 usersLast on 3/15/26
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 7 usersLast on 3/15/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 10 usersLast on 3/15/26
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 6 usersLast on 3/15/26
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 7 usersLast on 3/15/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
Drive Time
- 30 min from Flagstaff, AZ
- 1 hr 8 min from Prescott Valley, AZ
- 1 hr 43 min from Phoenix, AZ
- 3 hrs 23 min from Lake Havasu City, AZ















































