The Verde Valley camping scene offers diverse options at elevations ranging from 3,300 feet in Cottonwood to nearly 8,000 feet at Mingus Mountain. Temperature swings between campgrounds can exceed 20°F on the same day due to these elevation differences. The region's riparian areas along Oak Creek and the Verde River maintain water year-round, creating microhabitats with cooler temperatures than surrounding terrain.
What to do
Hiking to swimming holes: During summer months, visitors camping near Cottonwood, Arizona can cool off at swimming spots along Oak Creek. At Lo Lo Mai Springs Resort, one camper noted, "Our kids loved this place... There's a store that sells a bunch of stuff. We were there in June." The creek access provides natural relief from heat.
Visit local wineries: The Cornville area near Cottonwood features multiple vineyards within a short drive of campgrounds. "We hit a few wineries around the area that were great," shared one visitor at Lo Lo Mai Springs. Another camper at Thousand Trails Verde Valley mentioned, "Its proximity to Sedona, Jerome and local wineries makes it an excellent choice for those seeking relaxation and exploration."
Mountain exploring: The higher elevation campgrounds offer cooler temperatures and forest recreation. At Mingus Mountain Campground, a camper explained, "Close by is a hang glide launch pad and amazing views. Only negative is the road up is unpaved and rough 5-10mph for about 7-10 miles but definitely worth the trip." The campground sits at 7,800 feet elevation, providing significant temperature differences from Cottonwood.
What campers like
Verde River access: Water features rank highly among campers. At Rio Verde RV Park, a reviewer mentioned, "We were in spot 59 which is by the river and secluded somewhat, although it can be tricky getting in and out of! Tons of wildlife plays around the river with humming birds and other beautiful little creatures!"
Temperature variations: The elevation differences between campgrounds create options for escaping heat. A Mingus Mountain camper reported, "The temperature in Phoenix, where I live, is supposed to be 116 degrees today. Only 85 at this campground (7800 ft elevation) and only a quick 2 hour drive."
Walking distance to towns: Some campgrounds offer proximity to urban amenities. At Rancho Sedona RV Park, one visitor appreciated, "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."
Cabin options: For those without tents or RVs, several parks offer cabin rentals. At Dead Horse Ranch State Park, a camper shared, "Outstanding one night stay at the DHR Cabins. The family had an awesome stay. Cabins right on the river, quiet and spread out enough. Walked and fished the river, so peaceful."
What you should know
Limited cell coverage: Connectivity varies significantly by location. At Edge of the World, you'll find "very little reception" according to reviewers. Another camper at Thousand Trails noted, "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."
Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds requires navigation of rough roads. One camper warned about Edge of the World: "The way up is bumpy and could prove difficult if muddy. We pulled a small 4x8 camper with a jeep wrangler and did okay."
Campsite availability: During peak seasons, arriving early is essential. At Mingus Mountain, a camper advised, "Beautiful campground, but get here early. It's small (~20 sites) and if you're lucky you can get close to the rim."
Reservation requirements: Some parks have complicated systems. At Thousand Trails, a camper explained, "Next time we will do our best to get there as early as possible (noon is the earliest to check in)...as the spots are first come/first serve. At registration they will give you a map and highlight which spots are open."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. At Dead Horse Ranch State Park, one camper noted, "They've recently improved the playground for young ones and offer horseback riding as well. Facilities are always clean."
Kid-friendly water features: Shallow creek access points provide safe water play. A Lo Lo Mai Springs visitor shared, "Kids rode bikes all over. There's a store that sells a bunch of stuff. We were there in June."
Educational opportunities: Montezuma Castle National Monument offers historical learning just 10 minutes from Verde Ranch RV Resort. A visitor mentioned, "The biggest draw for these grounds was proximity to Sedona (30 min), Montezuma's Castle (10 min) and Tuzigoot (25 min). We enjoyed a visit to all 3 within our 2-day stay."
Recreation facilities: Pools and activity areas provide entertainment options. At Thousand Trails, families appreciate the "pool, hot tub, 2 dog parks, hiking trails, river access and clubhouse."
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: At some parks, the placement of utilities can be challenging. One RVer at Verde Ranch noted, "Our hookups were in the very far back corner of the space so we needed to choose between a small sliver of shade provided by the solar cover or the reach of our dump hose."
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some campgrounds. A Rio Verde RV Park visitor mentioned, "Cons: right off the highway so you can hear the traffic" while another at Verde Ranch noted, "Be prepared for some road noise from the nearby I-17 freeway, especially at night."
Site selection strategy: At West Sedona Designated Dispersed Camping, a traveler advised, "The road in from Cottonwood is actually easier than the road from Sedona. We tow a travel trailer with a high clearance pickup and did it fine."
