Best Campgrounds near Bowie, AZ

Alaska offers a diverse range of camping experiences across its vast wilderness areas, with established campgrounds like Homer Spit Campground and Eklutna Lake Campground providing amenities for tent, RV, and cabin camping. The region includes both developed sites with electric hookups and more primitive options within state parks and national forests. Campgrounds near Anchorage, Seward, and Homer provide strategic bases for exploring Alaska's renowned landscapes, while accommodating various camping styles from basic tent sites to full-service RV parks with water and electric hookups.

Seasonal considerations heavily impact camping in Alaska, with most campgrounds operating from May through September. Winter camping is limited to a few year-round facilities like Riley Creek Campground in Denali National Park. Road conditions vary significantly, with some campgrounds requiring travel on gravel or washboard roads. Many campgrounds require advance reservations, particularly during the peak summer season when tourism surges. Weather patterns can change rapidly, demanding proper preparation even in summer months. A visitor noted, "This is a small, quiet campground just off the Alaska Highway between Tok and the border, sitting on the edge of a lake in the Tetlin National Wildlife Refuge."

Waterfront camping locations receive consistently high ratings from visitors, with many campgrounds situated along lakes, rivers, or coastal areas. Mendenhall Lake Campground offers views of its namesake glacier, while Seward City Campgrounds provides oceanfront sites. Wildlife viewing opportunities represent a significant draw, with several campgrounds noting the presence of bears, beavers, and various bird species. Campers frequently mention the quality of hiking trails accessible from campgrounds, particularly those in Chugach State Park near Anchorage. According to one review, "Exit glacier is an amazing destination for all ages and capabilities. Although dogs are not welcome on the hike, it is short enough that you won't be missed long." Mosquitoes and other insects are commonly mentioned in reviews, with intensity varying by location and season.

Best Camping Sites Near Bowie, Arizona (105)

    1. Happy Camp Trail

    22 Reviews
    Bowie, AZ
    6 miles

    "This is a wonderful place to boondock if you are driving the I-10 or visiting Fort Bowie Nation Historic Park. The dirt road is easily passable for most vehicles. Ver quiet."

    "A beautiful, serene location not too far from I-10 and Fort Bowie. We arrived at around 10pm in our Sprinter van and found a quiet location."

    2. Alaskan RV Park

    7 Reviews
    Bowie, AZ
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 322-6778

    $20 / night

    "Alaskan RV Park is conveniently located off of I-10 at Exit 366 near Bowie. The park features affordable RV sites at $20/night. The sites are all spacious pull-throughs."

    "This place is right off the highway but was still pretty quiet. Everyone there was so nice and friendly. And FHU for $20 a night? You can’t beat that!"

    3. Indian Bread Rocks

    6 Reviews
    Bowie, AZ
    6 miles

    "Pit toilets and tables at entrance. Not really a big rig place in my opinion."

    "You can park very close to the rock formations here but I couldn’t find level ground ( bring some blocks)."

    4. Bonita Canyon Campground — Chiricahua National Monument

    26 Reviews
    Portal, AZ
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 824-3560

    $25 - $50 / night

    "The campground is small, beautiful, shaded and right in the middle of some incredible scenery providing easy access to the fantastic hiking and wildlife viewing that is all around you.  "

    "Super underrated and amazing national monument on the south eastern border of Arizona. Definitely worth a stop in!"

    5. Hot Well Dunes Recreation Area

    6 Reviews
    Bowie, AZ
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 348-4400

    "A 24 mile drive from Stafford AZ, along a bumpy asphalt road brings you to some lovely desert camping with miles of OHV trails and 2 hot thermal pools for soaking.  "

    "Camping is $3a day near the hot wells but outside the recreation area, is all BLM camping. Hot wells right next to our spot were amazing. I just wish they were working all 24 hours a day."

    6. Mountain View RV

    1 Review
    Bowie, AZ
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (520) 847-2510

    7. Playa Dispersed Campsite

    10 Reviews
    Willcox, AZ
    20 miles

    "Playa Dispersed Campsite is a hidden gem located in the stunning landscapes of Arizona."

    "One of the standout features of Playa Dispersed Campsite is its proximity to the Willcox Playa Wildlife Area, renowned for its wintering population of sandhill cranes."

    8. Willcox-Cochise KOA

    10 Reviews
    Willcox, AZ
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 384-3212

    "Large sites, lots of amenities including a restaurant & pool, easy access to the highway, friendly staff."

    "Great dog walking area, laundry, store, restaurant, and pool. Very friendly staff. Sites are large for a KOA. All gravel though. Highway noise is significant."

    9. Cochise Lake Wildlife Viewing Area Dispersed

    6 Reviews
    Willcox, AZ
    21 miles

    "Review of RV Boondocking at Cochise Lake Willcox, AZ

    Cochise Lake is a fantastic boondocking spot with plenty of space, making it perfect for big rigs."

    "It was incredibly easy to locate, the road is well-maintained, and the surrounding area is spotlessly clean."

    10. Grande Vista RV Park

    6 Reviews
    Willcox, AZ
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 384-4002

    $20 - $40 / night

    "Gravel drive-through and back-in spots for RVs with 30 or 50 amp connections, water and sewer. Two tent spots."

    "Management lives in a mobile home near office and it was nice as he is available after regular hours.

    Quiet place overall."

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Showing results 1-10 of 105 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Bowie, AZ

326 Reviews of 105 Bowie Campgrounds



Guide to Bowie

Camping near Bowie, Arizona, offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family getaway, this area has something for everyone.

What to do

  • Hiking: Explore the beautiful trails around the Chiricahua Mountains. One reviewer mentioned, "There are hundreds of beautiful, well-maintained trails throughout the mountain range." This makes it a great spot for both casual walkers and serious hikers.
  • Birdwatching: The area is known for its rich wildlife. A visitor at Bonita Canyon Campground said, "This is premier birdwatching country," highlighting the diverse bird species you can spot.
  • Stargazing: With minimal light pollution, the night sky is breathtaking. A camper at Hot Well Dunes Recreation Area noted, "We woke each morning to Gambel Quail and Mourning Doves," making it a serene place to enjoy nature.

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and campsites. One reviewer at Roper Lake State Park said, "The bathrooms, showers, and sinks were all well maintained."
  • Friendly Atmosphere: Many visitors mention the welcoming vibe. A guest at Willcox-Cochise KOA shared, "Staff is very friendly," which adds to the overall camping experience.
  • Scenic Views: The natural beauty of the area is a big draw. A camper at Sunny Flat Campground remarked, "Gorgeous views from every single direction!"

What you should know

  • Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially on weekends. A visitor at Bonita Canyon Campground advised, "Reservations are a must."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Happy Camp Trail, do not have drinking water or electric hookups. A reviewer noted, "No drinking water, no electric hookups," so be prepared to bring your own supplies.
  • Wildlife Encounters: Expect to see various wildlife, including deer and turkeys. A camper at Chiricahua Mountains mentioned, "We heard turkeys, had a nightly skunk visitor," which adds to the adventure.

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like Roper Lake State Park, which has a designated swimming area and picnic tables. A reviewer said, "They have cabins that overlook the lake and plenty of camping spots for both tents and RVs."
  • Plan Activities: Engage kids with birdwatching or hiking. One family at Sunny Flat Campground enjoyed, "Great hikes in the area," which kept everyone entertained.
  • Pack Snacks and Games: Keep the little ones happy with snacks and games for downtime. A camper at Willcox-Cochise KOA mentioned, "Fire pit and pool," which can be great for family bonding.

Tips from RVers

  • Check Size Restrictions: Some campgrounds, like Bonita Canyon Campground, have size limits for RVs. A reviewer cautioned, "Don't try to bring any big rigs as they simply won't fit."
  • Bring Your Own Firewood: Many places do not sell firewood. A visitor at Hot Well Dunes Recreation Area noted, "You will need to bring your own wood," so plan accordingly.
  • Stay Connected: Some campgrounds have limited cell service. A camper at Grande Vista RV Park mentioned, "Verizon is the best in this small town," so check your provider before heading out.

Camping in Bowie, AZ, offers a mix of adventure and relaxation, making it a great spot for your next outdoor getaway.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Bowie, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, Bowie, AZ offers a wide range of camping options, with 105 campgrounds and RV parks near Bowie, AZ and 30 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Bowie, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Bowie, AZ is Happy Camp Trail with a 4.6-star rating from 22 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Bowie, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 30 free dispersed camping spots near Bowie, AZ.