Coconino National Forest covers over 1.8 million acres of diverse terrain, with elevations ranging from 2,600 to 12,633 feet at Humphreys Peak. This dramatic elevation change creates distinct camping microclimates across the forest, with cooler temperatures in higher-elevation campgrounds even during summer months. Most developed campgrounds throughout the forest operate seasonally from April through October due to winter snow conditions.
What to do
Creekside relaxation: At Cave Springs Campground, campers can access Oak Creek for cooling 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," notes Victor R.
Mountain biking access: Trails connect directly from Fort Tuthill Luke AFB Recreation Area to larger trail systems. "Bike park is a blast. Also have an adventure course and zip line. Bike park is free ropes course has fee. Also has a easy mountain bike trail around the area," reports Bryan S.
Unique winter activities: When snow accumulates, several campgrounds transition to winter recreation. "When there is enough snow, there is a tube run that is so much fun!" mentions Jason H. about Fort Tuthill Recreation Area, which maintains year-round operations with additional winter activities not available at other campgrounds.
Arizona Trail exploration: Camping at Double Springs provides direct connection to the Arizona Trail. "The nearby trail to the overlook is a pleasant hike, not too intense," explains Renee H. This makes the campground popular with hikers wanting easy trail access without driving.
What campers like
Shade and forest settings: Woody Mountain Campground offers dense tree coverage that campers appreciate. "Very clean and orderly campground, sites can vary is shape size and fitment. But most are shaded," shares Cyndie W., highlighting the natural forest environment that provides relief from summer heat.
River access spots: Riverside camping options provide water-based recreation. "We stayed in spot 59 which is by the river and secluded somewhat... Tons of wildlife plays around the river with humming birds and other beautiful little creatures!" notes Will S. about Rio Verde RV Park.
Walking distance to towns: Some campgrounds offer proximity to local communities. "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. about Rancho Sedona RV Park.
Yurt camping options: Several campgrounds near Coconino National Forest provide alternative accommodation. "We stayed in the adults only section near ish to the creek. Very shady, and really good sized spaces. The creek is lovely to sit in or swim in and chill down," Karen D. writes about her yurt camping experience at Thousand Trails Verde Valley.
What you should know
Seasonal water levels: Mormon Lake, despite its name, often lacks water. "Not a lot here. Even without dealing with Covid there is very little to do," notes Vic R. about Mormon Lake Lodge, highlighting how campers expecting lakeside recreation might be disappointed during dry seasons.
Train noise considerations: Several campgrounds near Flagstaff experience railroad noise. "Frequent trains but with no train horns (great background noise)," mentions Cyndie W. about Woody Mountain, showing how some campers view the trains positively as ambient sound.
Highway proximity: Some campgrounds sit near major roadways. "My only complaint was that there wasn't enough lighting throughout the park so it was hard to find the bathroom once it got dark," Amanda shares about Rio Verde RV Park, which borders Highway 89A but offers convenient access to surrounding attractions.
Shower token systems: Many campgrounds require payment for showers. "The bathhouse was clean, and costs $4 for a shower," notes Meghan H. about Cave Springs, representing a common feature across several Coconino Forest campgrounds.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Flagstaff KOA offers dedicated facilities for children. "This is a great place if you have children. Lots for them to do and lots of kids to play with," notes Terry T., highlighting the social opportunities for younger campers.
Educational opportunities: Meteor Crater RV Park provides unique learning experiences. "Meteor Crater is a well presented privately held site. We commented that the displays and information definitely showed great stewardship of this geological attraction. We easily spent 3-4 hours at the crater," shares Tom D.
Space considerations: Cave Springs offers varying site privacy levels. "The campsites that are on the outside perimeter of the campground have more privacy than those on the inner loops. I wouldn't call them private though by any means," advises Meghan H., helping families choose appropriate sites for their needs.
Yurt camping for families: Yurt accommodations at Coconino Forest campgrounds provide comfortable options for families with small children. "I've stayed here many times, and have loved every time. I've stayed in the cabins, the teepee, a 5th wheel, and a tent," explains Jason M. about Flagstaff KOA's diverse sleeping arrangements.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Arrive early for best site options at Meteor Crater RV Park. "We had no trouble codes with both our on-board surge guard and the pedestal surge guard. However, the campground was not busy," reports Tom D., indicating electrical reliability but suggesting early arrival during busy periods.
Accessibility considerations: "The shower and restroom at this location is some of the best I've seen so far. The only bad thing is the entryway is an extremely tall door frame on top of a concrete lip that causes a big jump to get up and over," explains Lara O. at Meteor Crater RV Park, providing important details for campers with mobility concerns.
Overnight connectivity: WiFi varies significantly between campgrounds. "Internet is almost non-existent. I had a T-Mobile, AT&T, and Verizon phone, and all were pretty much worthless most of the time," shares Steve N. about Verde Valley, highlighting the importance of planning for limited connectivity.
Space limitations: Some RV parks have tight sites. "The RV sites are so packed together that you barely have room to put out your slides or awnings. They do have a few sites with 50amp hook ups," warns Derek C. about Mormon Lake Lodge, advising larger rigs to research site dimensions before booking.
