Glamping close to Holbrook, Arizona offers sheltered accommodations in an area characterized by high desert terrain at approximately 5,000 feet elevation. Summer temperatures average 90°F during day and 55°F at night, while winter nights regularly drop below freezing. Most glamping options cluster along the I-40 corridor, providing convenient access to Petrified Forest National Park while shielding travelers from extreme desert conditions.
What to do
Explore prehistoric landscapes: Tent campers staying at Holbrook KOA can visit Petrified Forest National Park just 30 minutes away. "The proximity and position of this campground to the national park allows for easy visiting and minimal backtracking. We'd suggest starting your trip along Highway 40 to the northern Painted Desert Visitor Center to get acquainted with the park, then making your way south and exit near the Rainbow Forest Museum," notes one reviewer at Holbrook/Petrified Forest KOA.
Stargaze under dark skies: The open desert offers exceptional night sky viewing opportunities, especially at more remote sites. A camper at JoeStar Ranch Under Milky Way explains the appeal: "Upon arrival you find yourself on a prehistoric lakebed, just nature. Away from it all on the off beaten path to get there but hey 1.25 acres for camping and exploring Jojo! Centrally located and under the Milky Way."
Visit Route 66 landmarks: Many glamping options near Holbrook provide access to historic Route 66 attractions. "Close to Walmart, Flying J, Standing on a Corner. Close to town and restaurant's within 2 mile diameter," reports a visitor about the convenient location of Take It Easy RV Park in nearby Winslow.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Glamping accommodations in the area maintain high standards despite harsh desert conditions. A Holbrook KOA visitor mentioned, "The facilities are clean, at least they have got that right." Another camper noted about Take It Easy RV Park: "Loved this park for an overnight. $38 was a bargain we felt. Level site close to I40 but road noise not too bad but makes it an easy stop. Loved the hot shower room."
Convenience to attractions: The strategic positioning between Interstate 40 and major attractions draws favorable reviews. "Convenient to the interstate, clean, straight forward, and easy spot to stop while traveling!" writes one KOA guest. Another adds: "Nothing fancy but just what we needed. Staff is friendly and helpful. Sites are very close together but most seem to have some sort of tree offering some shade."
Kid-friendly amenities: Families appreciate recreational options at larger glamping establishments. As one reviewer at Holbrook KOA stated: "Very nice park, pool is nice, basketball courts, lots for kids to do, camp sites are close together not much shade, but very nice park with lots to see and do in area."
What you should know
Highway noise impacts sleep: Most glamping sites near Holbrook sit close to Interstate 40, creating noise challenges. A camper at Mountain Retreat in Heber explains why some travelers opt for more distant sites: "This place is great for the whole family and there is no trailer year restriction. You definitely cant beat the price and its nice that the rate includes water, electric and sewage."
Crowded conditions during peak season: Sites position close together at established campgrounds. One KOA visitor observed: "The only downsides would be the less-than-inspiring scenic views and the cramped sites during peak season." Another noted: "All of the tent campsites are right next to each other, so you will get to know your neighbors pretty well."
Weather extremes require preparation: Desert conditions create planning challenges. One JoeStar Ranch visitor warned: "We arrived just in time for a huge amount of rain, hence the mudfest. Got bogged down and had a little difficulty getting out." Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F, while winter nights can drop below freezing.
Tips for camping with families
Book cabins with AC for summer visits: Temperature control matters for family comfort. A Holbrook KOA visitor shared: "During this trip we took a big family group, and normally we tent camp, but we decided to stay in their biggest cabin, it was big and beautiful 3 a/c units, full small kitchen, loft full bathroom and lot's of comfy seat's, all you had to do was bring your clothes and food, everything was there for you."
Morning activities benefit children: Schedule outdoor exploration before midday heat. "We were pleasantly surprised with our campsite at the KOA outside of Petrified Forest. Typically, we prefer campgrounds that are more scenic and rustic, but after a few weeks on the road, we enjoyed the amenities (hot showers, coin laundry, wifi, all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast) and convenience."
Look for recreational infrastructure: Pools and playgrounds provide essential entertainment. A reviewer noted: "This KOA has lot's of space, from private tent sites to RV with full hookups, fully equipped cabins, even a giant Wigwam to stay at. It also has a pool, playground, small libary, and a well stocked store."
Tips from RVers
Level sites reduce setup time: RV travelers value efficient parking at glamping sites. A Take It Easy RV Park visitor mentioned: "This campground was brought to us by Passport America for $40 for 3 nights. It is not fancy but if you like Mexican food, there is a restaurant right in front of the campground. Our site had FHUs with a level, rock pad in full sun."
Arrive early during summer: Premium shaded spots fill quickly in warm months. A KOA visitor shared: "We chose the 'deluxe' tent site, which, for $2 more than the regular tent site, offered a covered picnic table, hot & cold water, and electricity at the site. The campground was nearly empty at this time of the year, so although the sites are close together, we felt alone."
Verify amenity availability: Some glamping facilities undergo seasonal maintenance. One reviewer advised: "Showed up late hoping for a last minute stay. They were happy to help. Place is under reconstruction. Currently showers aren't available but there is sewer and electric hookup available."
