Equestrian and recreational camping options surround Gray Mountain, Arizona, with elevations ranging from 4,800 to 7,000 feet in the Coconino National Forest. This high-desert region experiences dramatic temperature fluctuations, with summer highs averaging 85°F and winter lows often below freezing. Most campgrounds in the area remain open May through October when road conditions permit reliable access.
What to Do
Trail riding from Little Elden Springs Horsecamp: Little Elden Springs Horsecamp provides direct trail access to numerous equestrian trails. "Camp host was very helpful he keeps the sites looking great. The outhouse is the cleanest we have ever seen. Nice trails," notes Jack M.
Explore Fort Tuthill recreation facilities: Fort Tuthill Recreation Area offers extensive recreational options beyond camping. "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 a easy mountain bike trail around the area," according to Bryan S.
Wildlife viewing: The forest areas around Gray Mountain provide opportunities to observe native wildlife. At Trailer Village RV Park, campers report frequent wildlife encounters: "We saw TONS of wildlife! Female elk roamed all around the campsites, and one even wandered up while we cooked dinner to snack on the bush next to our truck," reports Carlee S.
What Campers Like
Proximity to Grand Canyon: Saddle Mountain offers exceptional views and access to the canyon. "Free sites, t mobile and Verizon service, amazing views and sunrises. Hikes all around. 2 mile hike into the actual national park," says Brad L.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds near Gray Mountain maintain high cleanliness standards. "The pit toilets are kept VERY clean and well supplied," notes Roger W. about Canyon Vista Campground.
Natural water features: Some nearby camping areas feature streams or creeks. "The creek is right across from the campsites, and you can hear it babbling all night long. Bring a hammock! Sleep out under the stars!!" recommends Levi V. about Clear Creek Area Dispersed camping.
What You Should Know
Reservation requirements: Many horse campgrounds near Gray Mountain require advance reservations. "The Little Elden Springs Horse Campground is a reservation HORSE/MULE ONLY campground. There are 15 pull-through sites, many that can accommodate 4-horse live-n trailers," explains RvNaut.
Weather considerations: Temperature variations can be extreme. "3 Day trip in October. The temps dropped into the teens so be ready for some cold temps at the rim of the canyon," warns Tory B. about Mather Campground.
Road conditions: Access to some dispersed camping areas requires preparation. "Road is rough, very rough, but 2wd and moderate clearance is fine," advises Brad L. about Saddle Mountain camping.
Campground amenities: "Vault toilets are well kept, I will saw that the Dyrt app has the cost as $22, but we paid $30 so the price must have increased recently," reports Nina M. about Canyon Vista Campground.
Tips for Camping with Families
Educational opportunities: Canyon Vista Campground provides learning resources. "They have a box of reading materials, books, maps, etc. like a little free library set up," mentions Fritz B.
Activity options: "We were here for a group event and had a great time. Sites were large and shady. Great temps. The campground is close to an event center, though, so expect noise on the weekends even after quiet hours," shares Christina S. about Fort Tuthill Recreation Area.
Wildlife encounters: "Loads of elk walking through the campsite!" reports Tory B. about Mather Campground, providing exciting nature viewing opportunities for children.
Amenities for extended stays: "If you have pets, check them for ticks after, just a heads up! Friends and I use this area for when we don't feel like back country camping," advises Tommy R. about Clear Creek Area.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Trailer Village RV Park, site placement matters. "Sites are easy access to shuttle bus, and a short walk to visitor center. Bath houses are clean sites are a bit close but shaded and nice," explains Melissa F.
Hookup availability: "This the only full hookup campground in the Grand Canyon NP. Spots are good size and pull through. Wildlife walks through regularly and for the most part it is nice and quiet," notes Nick J. about Trailer Village.
Seasonal planning: "If you come here at the ends and beginning of the seasons. It is awesome. Hardly anyone here and its the Grand Canyon son!" recommends Michael K.
Site leveling considerations: "Site is level, didn't have to do any leveling adjustments. Luck my site had a couple pine trees providing shade. It's a pull through but not long enough to stay connected had to disconnect and park beside the camper," advises Rod A.
