Camping near Coconino National Forest Recreation

Camping around Coconino National Forest offers over 300 diverse campgrounds spanning from Sedona's red rock country to Flagstaff's pine forests, accommodating every camping type from primitive dispersed sites and glamping to full-service RV resorts. The forest's 1.8 million acres provide dramatic elevation changes, creating distinct camping zones from desert floor to alpine environments above 10,000 feet.

West Sedona Designated Dispersed Camping leads popularity with over 70 reviews, offering free camping with spectacular red rock views. One visitor noted, "The best dispersed camping options in Sedona Arizona! There are many options off of the main road." The area includes 160+ free dispersed camping spots scattered throughout forest roads, though another camper mentioned concerns about overuse: "You can tell the impact of too many humans on the land, it's quite shocking to see." Developed campgrounds like Cave Springs and Manzanita provide amenities for families and RV campers. Cave Springs offers over 80 sites along Oak Creek starting at around $30 per night, while private facilities like Rancho Sedona RV Park deliver full-service camping with rates from $42 nightly. One reviewer appreciated the upgraded experience: "Compared to another campground close by that is a little less but we had double the space and trees and a creek behind us."

The region accommodates all camping preferences: tent campers find shaded sites along Oak Creek, RV travelers access full-hookup parks near major attractions, and adventurous campers discover remote dispersed locations like Edge of the World's clifftop vistas. State parks like Dead Horse Ranch add another layer with developed facilities and recreational programs. Seasonal considerations vary dramatically by elevation. Lower desert areas near Sedona become extremely hot in summer, while mountain locations around Flagstaff offer cooler temperatures and winter snow sports. Spring and fall provide optimal conditions across all elevations, though popular locations fill quickly during these peak periods requiring advance planning.

Best Camping Sites Near Coconino National Forest Recreation (319)

    1. West Sedona Designated Dispersed Camping

    72 Reviews
    Coconino National Forest Recreation, AZ
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 203-2900

    "The best dispersed camping options in Sedona Arizona! There are many options off of the main road."

    "My friend from Maryland came to visit me here in Arizona, I told him we had to go to Sedona so we decided to camp, I heard about forest road 525 and it exceeded my expectations, never saw more stars in"

    2. Rancho Sedona RV Park

    40 Reviews
    Sedona, AZ
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 282-7255

    $42 - $84 / night

    "Compared to another campground close by that is a little less but we had double the space and trees and a creek behind us. They’re very busy and we were only able to get two nights."

    "Sites a little close to each other. Grounds were surrounded by nature and close by main Sedona street. Check in after hours were smooth."

    3. Edge of the World (East Pocket)

    53 Reviews
    Sedona, AZ
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 527-3600

    "The road in is bumpy and rocky, but not impossible (a Ford Mustang in the site next to us clearly made it)."

    "It is a bumpy road with large portion of potholes so drive cautiously but once you get to the location you get a number of different spots to camp at."

    4. Dead Horse Ranch State Park Campground

    62 Reviews
    Cottonwood, AZ
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 634-5283

    $25 - $70 / night

    "Dead Horse Ranch is a beautiful Arizona state park."

    "The forest was closed in Northern Arizona so I decided to camp out at Dead Horse Ranch SP.  I was pretty pleased overall with my trip. "

    5. Lo Lo Mai Springs Resort

    41 Reviews
    Cornville, AZ
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 634-4700

    $59 - $150 / night

    "We stayed here in June which is a hot time to camp in Arizona. This campground has Oak Creek running through it which is a great place to cool off."

    "Lo Lo Mai Springs has scores of beautiful shaded RV sites, many near the creek beneath the branches of ancient cottonwoods and soaring sycamores."

    6. Cave Springs

    44 Reviews
    Munds Park, AZ
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 282-1629

    $30 / night

    "Tucked into Oak Creek canyon, surrounded by trees, red dirt mountain sides, and a creek this campground is stunning."

    "Location: The location of the campground is perfect for all of the Sedona activities. This campground is only a few miles from the popular Slide Rock State Park."

    7. Manzanita Campground

    25 Reviews
    Munds Park, AZ
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 204-2034

    $30 / night

    "The river access also added to the positives of the spot.

    My only complaint is that a handful of sites are where you park on the pavement and have to walk down into your actual site."

    "This is pretty close to Sedona (10 minutes) and right along a river that’s fun to wade in (not sure if you can canoe it?), plus long hiking trails nearby."

    8. Pumphouse Wash (FR 237) Dispersed Camping Area

    50 Reviews
    Munds Park, AZ
    16 miles
    Website

    "Google may try to take you all the way through from I17 on FR237...suggest going past to exit 337 and coming back down 89A. The campsites are all on that end of the FR anyway."

    "Lots of campsites available and a good location between Sedona and Flagstaff. It tends to fill up quick, at least in the summer months."

    9. Pine Flat Campground West

    34 Reviews
    Munds Park, AZ
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 282-3233

    $30 / night

    "Other than being close to the highway, we love this campground. It is in a heavily wooded forest next to Oak Creek. It has multiple bathrooms and accessible drinking water."

    "What I liked about this was the great hosts (who seemed on constant patrol in their golf cart), the level sites for tents, and the great access to trails."

    10. Schnebly Hill Rd, Fox Borough Dam

    19 Reviews
    Munds Park, AZ
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 527-3600

    "The road from the I-17 entrance was well maintained and can be driven on with any vehicle. I had my Chevy trax (front wheel drive) and made it fine. There are plenty of pull off trails we explored."

    "Exit 226 off of I-17 and head west on Schnebly Hill Rd. There is dispersed camping all along the road for the first mile or two. It is first come first serve."

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Recent Reviews near Coconino National Forest Recreation

2116 Reviews of 319 Coconino National Forest Recreation Campgrounds



Guide to Coconino National Forest Recreation

Camping near Coconino National Forest Recreation, Arizona, offers a mix of stunning landscapes and diverse camping experiences. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly spot or a secluded getaway, there’s something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Explore hiking trails: The area is packed with trails for all skill levels. One camper at Dead Horse Ranch State Park Campground mentioned, “There are a couple of nice trails in the park, one leading into Old Town Cottonwood.”
  • Visit nearby attractions: Check out the beautiful views at Edge of the World (East Pocket). A reviewer said, “This not-so-hidden gem has nothing to offer besides majestic views overlooking Sedona.”
  • Enjoy water activities: At Lo Lo Mai Springs Resort, families can enjoy the river for swimming in the summer. One visitor noted, “A nice river runs through the campground for swimming in the summer.”

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Cave Springs highlighted, “The camp host was very friendly and put me on a waitlist... They have showers and bathrooms as well as multiple fresh water spouts around camp.”
  • Friendly staff: Many campers rave about the helpfulness of the campground hosts. At Flagstaff KOA, one reviewer said, “Nice pleasant staff. Bathrooms were clean.”
  • Scenic views: The breathtaking scenery is a big draw. A camper at Pumphouse Wash (FR 237) Dispersed Camping Area remarked, “It was a very calm night amongst the trees.”

What you should know:

  • Crowded during peak season: Many campgrounds can get packed. A visitor at West Sedona Designated Dispersed Camping mentioned, “You can tell the impact of too many humans on the land, it’s quite shocking to see.”
  • Limited amenities at dispersed sites: If you’re looking for a more rustic experience, be prepared for fewer facilities. A review for FR 222 Dispersed stated, “There are no toilets, no trash, and no water hookups.”
  • Weather can change quickly: Be ready for sudden weather shifts, especially in the mountains. A camper at Walnut Canyon Rd Dispersed Camping noted, “Unfortunately we hit some heavy snow in January.”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose family-friendly campgrounds: Dead Horse Ranch State Park Campground is great for kids. One parent said, “Great area with lots to do and see.”
  • Plan for activities: Look for campgrounds with nearby attractions. A reviewer at Rancho Sedona RV Park mentioned, “It’s a little tight but the grounds are pretty and peaceful.”
  • Bring entertainment: Since some sites can be crowded, having games or activities can keep kids engaged. A camper at Cave Springs shared, “My kids' favorite part was the soft sand base for the site.”

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A review for Flagstaff KOA noted, “With that said there was enough room for big rigs to maneuver around.”
  • Look for hookups: If you need electricity, check the campground features. A visitor at Lo Lo Mai Springs Resort mentioned, “I enjoyed the creek view and the springs, but the lack of campsite wifi is too much to give this campground my approval.”
  • Be prepared for noise: Some campgrounds are near highways, which can be noisy. A camper at West Sedona Designated Dispersed Camping said, “Mild but constant car noise.”

Camping near Coconino National Forest Recreation, Arizona, has its perks and challenges. With the right preparation, you can enjoy a memorable outdoor experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Coconino National Forest Recreation?

According to TheDyrt.com, Coconino National Forest Recreation offers a wide range of camping options, with 319 campgrounds and RV parks near Coconino National Forest Recreation and 169 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Coconino National Forest Recreation?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Coconino National Forest Recreation is West Sedona Designated Dispersed Camping with a 4.3-star rating from 72 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Coconino National Forest Recreation?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 169 free dispersed camping spots near Coconino National Forest Recreation.

What parks are near Coconino National Forest Recreation?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 7 parks near Coconino National Forest Recreation that allow camping, notably Coconino National Forest and Prescott National Forest.