Nestled between Flagstaff and Sedona at elevations ranging from 3,500 to 7,000 feet, Coconino National Forest offers diverse camping environments from desert landscapes to pine forests. Temperatures can fluctuate dramatically, with summer days reaching 90°F while nights drop to 50°F, requiring campers to prepare for significant temperature variations within the same 24-hour period.
What to do
Explore creek swimming areas: Cave Springs Campground provides access to Oak Creek where visitors can cool off during hot days. "There's a swimming hole on the creek nearby. The hosts are very helpful and keep the place looking really nice. It's an idyllic spot with sycamores, oaks, and pines," reports Victor R. who stayed at Cave Springs.
Hike directly from camp: Double Springs Campground connects to the Arizona Trail. "The back of the campsite is walled by trees, ready for exploring. The tiny nearby creek can almost be heard from the site, and to the right there is a small field that the Arizona Trail crosses through," notes Kaysha R. who appreciated being able to "hike both directions of the trail straight from the campground."
Access mountain biking trails: Fort Tuthill Recreation Area offers extensive bike trail networks. "Tons of fun stuff for the kids and adults. Bike park is a blast. Also have an adventure course and zip line. Bike park is free ropes course has fee. Also has an easy mountain bike trail around the area," shares Bryan S. about Fort Tuthill.
What campers like
Convenient locations: Rancho Sedona RV Park provides walkable access to trails and town. "Walking distance to trails (Hangover trail was our favorite) and restaurants. Can't beat the location. City of Sedona shuttle connect can pick you up directly from campground," explains Daniel Z. who stayed at Rancho Sedona.
Waterfront sites: Verde River RV Resort offers premium spots along the river. "They price the space according to size, whether it has trees, and whether it is along the river," mentions Melody M. who notes that even the "cheap space with none of the above" still provided "some mountains and enjoyed our view of the trees."
Clean facilities: Flagstaff KOA maintains their facilities meticulously. "Very clean, accessible and the best camp location to town. Friendly staff, well-maintained facilities dog and kid play areas," writes Ryan M. about Flagstaff KOA.
What you should know
Temperature variation: Prepare for significant temperature swings, especially at higher elevation sites like Double Springs Campground. "The hummingbirds were sociable, and the bugs weren't bad, I made it without bug spray but I came across a mosquito or two," reports Kaysha R.
Fire restrictions: Fire policies vary by location and season. Rio Verde RV Park provides alternatives when restrictions are in place. "The people who manage this park could run Disneyland. Very friendly and helpful. The amenities of the park are very good. Full hookups, laundry, WiFi and ice available," notes Michael C. from Rio Verde RV Park.
Cell service limitations: Many forest campsites have limited connectivity. "Campsite does not have cell service (and I have Verizon). You can walk out to the camp entrance just at the main road and pick up some service there if needed," advises a Double Springs camper.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Verde River RV Resort offers multiple family facilities. "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," shares Mstwister E. from Verde River RV Resort.
Consider proximity to attractions: Cave Springs provides easy access to popular recreation sites. "It is convenient to many other local parks and hiking, including slide rock and West fork. It is a quick ride into the downtown area of Sedona as well, and less than an hour to Flagstaff," explains Carly E.
Check site spacing: Some campgrounds offer more separation between sites. "Most of the spots have ample room so that you can only hear your neighbors if they are yelling. There's a steel fire ring and picnic table at each site," notes a camper at Cave Springs.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Thousand Trails Verde Valley, site choice affects experience quality. "We have stayed in both the premium sites and the regular and have enjoyed both. Pool was closed this last visit for renovations but they say it should be open any day now," mentions Brodie D. about their stay at Thousand Trails Verde Valley.
Watch for tight spaces: Some glamping accommodations at Coconino National Forest Recreation have limited turning radius for larger vehicles. "The sites are super small and close together. For camping with groups it may work but for RV I do not recommend. Such a tight fit in (we are 32 ft and barely fit in the site)," warns Shirlee A. about Double Springs.
Level site availability: Check reviews for information about site grading. "We found one with a level parking pad that was fairly secluded and was perfect," shares Carly E., adding that "some sites are very close together" at their campground.
