Campgrounds near Clarkdale, Arizona offer diverse experiences ranging from riverfront sites to higher-elevation retreats with mountain views. Located in Verde Valley at approximately 3,500 feet elevation, the area experiences milder temperatures than Phoenix with summer highs averaging 95°F and winter lows around 30°F. The region's volcanic past has created distinctive geological features surrounding campgrounds, with nearby waterways providing natural cooling during warmer months.
What to do
Creek exploration: At Thousand Trails Verde Valley, campers can access the Verde River directly from the park. "River access is available at site C which we stayed at and our furbabies loved it! Sedona is only 45 mins from here so an even bigger two thumbs up!" notes Rebecca N.
Hiking options: Several campgrounds offer direct trail access. A reviewer at Sedona View RV Resort mentions, "If you like hiking, this is right next to the National Forest with a trailhead right in the Park." Many trails are accessible without driving to trailheads.
Cultural exploration: The area's rich history offers numerous day trips. "It's a little cooler than Phoenix or Tucson as far as temperatures go. The staff is so nice and help you right when you pull in, including helping as you back into your spot. Its only 30 minute drive to Sedona and the drive is pretty," reports Brian P. of his stay at Distant Drums RV Resort.
What campers like
Evening gatherings: Many parks feature community activities after sunset. "We had a site that had a perfect sunset view every night. This resort is easy to get to from the interstate, but we weren't bothered by road noise," writes Mark about Distant Drums RV Resort.
Communal amenities: Recreational facilities receive frequent praise. "Verde Ranch was an amazing stay for us. The Customer Service and Hospitality was truly why we came back. All the amenities one could ask for," writes Scott and Ariane T. from Verde Ranch RV Resort.
Shaded sites: Tree cover matters significantly in this climate. "This is part of the Encore/Thousand Trails network (although anyone can use it). They do offer a 20% military discount. The Small trailer, tent camping sites are very big and have a lot of distance between them. Trees are everywhere providing shade," notes Patti S. about Zane Grey RV Village.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Temperature variations are significant between seasons and elevations. "We'd go back in the fall or spring to hot in the summer," advises Fawn C. about Zane Grey RV Village, noting it stays "consistently 5 degrees below the towns of Camp Verde and Cottonwood."
Road noise: Highway proximity affects some locations. "Our site was down by the Verde River and even though a busy Hiway was right there we never heard much road noise at all," reports Debbie H. about Rio Verde RV Park, showing location within parks matters.
Seasonal crowds: Booking early is essential during peak periods. "We spent May through August here. It is about 30 minutes to emergency medical care. There are quite a few long term residents," mentions Candy H. about her stay at Distant Drums.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Family-friendly parks provide structured entertainment. "We love this campground! We have camped here around 5 times and always had a great stay. They have a pool and hot tub, mini golf, playground, pickle ball court, clubhouse, and lots of crafts and activities for the kids!" raves Mstwister E. about Verde River RV Resort & Cottages.
Water features: Pools provide relief during warmer months. "They have a great heated pool and hot tub. The staff is very friendly and there are activities every weekend," shares marcia F. about Verde River RV Resort.
Space considerations: Site selection affects the family experience. "The sites are spacious but pretty open (not much shade). We had a site that had a perfect sunset view every night," notes Mark about Distant Drums RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Experienced RVers suggest researching specific site locations. "We stayed near the pool lodge. The pool and hot tub were very clean. There is a horseshoe pit, tennis courts, and basketball courts that didn't seem to get much use," notes Steve N. about Verde Valley Thousand Trails.
Internet connectivity: Signal strength varies significantly. "We paid $15 for a week of WiFi, but ended up asking for a refund as it was even more unusable than our phones. Still, you can only ask so much from a campsite when it gets far enough off the grid," advises Steve N.
Leveling needs: Terrain varies across RV parks in Clarkdale. "RV Park is slightly hilly so you'll need to level accordingly," advises Traveling Photographer G. about Sedona View RV Resort, a consideration for larger vehicles.
