Kaibab National Forest spans 1.6 million acres across northern Arizona, with elevations ranging from 5,500 to 10,000 feet providing relief from summer desert temperatures. Most RV campgrounds near Kaibab National Forest offer varying levels of amenities, from basic water hookups to full-service sites with 50-amp electrical connections and sewer access. Winter camping remains available at several year-round facilities though access roads may require snow chains during storms.
What to do
Hike from your campsite: At Flagstaff RV Park, trails connect directly to the campground property. "I love walking out the back gate right onto a wonderful network of trails, everything from easy walking to a run on the AZT to a solid hike up Elden Mountain," notes camper Marcy.
Visit Bedrock City: The Flintstones-themed attraction provides entertainment for families staying at Raptor Ranch RV Park. "Kids loved it, great halfway point to the Grand Canyon to spend the day, bed rock city and raptor tour was great," says Lorena V. The site preserves childhood memories for older generations while entertaining younger visitors.
Take the Grand Canyon Railway: Train excursions depart daily from Williams to the South Rim. The Canyon Motel & RV Park offers proximity to the station. "You can also purchase train tickets to the Grand Canyon through them when you book your stay. Train station is about 5 min away," explains Billy W., who visited during Easter.
What campers like
Large concrete pads: Grand Canyon Railway RV Park provides level, paved sites that accommodate larger RVs. "The pavement on which the RV was leveled was pretty much level so we didn't need to make any adjustments," reports Michael A., who experienced his first back-in site at this park.
Hotel amenities access: RV guests can use additional facilities beyond their campsite. "Showers were great, laundry was cheap and you get access to the hotels pool and spa!" according to Stacia M., who appreciated these extras during her stay at Grand Canyon Railway RV Park.
Dog-friendly facilities: Some parks offer specialized pet amenities beyond standard leash rules. Railside RV Ranch features "a nice dog park that is along the Grand Canyon railroad track," according to David M., making it convenient for pet owners to exercise their dogs while watching trains pass.
What you should know
Train noise variations: Williams-based campgrounds experience different levels of train activity. "The BNSF train goes through all night long without regard to schedule. I'm sure it affects the whole town, just be prepared for the horn blaring and train cars click-clacking by," warns Jason M. at Grand Canyon Railway RV Park. At Railside RV Ranch, however, train noise proves more predictable and limited to tourism hours: "9:35 in the AM it leaves, 5:45 in the PM it returns. Everyone goes outside and waves."
Shower tokens required: Some facilities charge for shower access through token systems. "We reached around 7pm after visiting Grand Canyon, as it was already passed business hours, the gift shop had already closed and we had to wait till the next day to get tokens for showers," explains Qiu Xia C. about Raptor Ranch RV Park, where showers cost tokens and run on 7-minute timers.
Varied dump station setups: RV parks differ in waste disposal configurations. At Raptor Ranch, "There is one dump station - no site dump for grey water," according to Thomas S., requiring campers to drive to a central station rather than empty tanks at their site.
Tips for camping with families
Consider proximity vs amenities tradeoff: Canyon Motel & RV Park offers families easy access to area attractions without long drives. "This site is probably the closest you can get to the Grand Canyon without actually being on park premises. About 45 minutes from the south rim entrance," explains Sarah M., though she adds "If I had to pick and do it all again, I'd probably stay somewhere in the park."
Research seasonal operation dates: Not all facilities operate year-round. Lane H. notes Canyon Motel & RV Park's strengths for family gatherings: "We went looking for a spot that could house our 29' TT, a tent, and a motel room for a family get together over Father's Day. This place delivered!" However, travelers should confirm operating seasons as some parks close during winter months.
Check for family entertainment options: Some campgrounds include on-site activities for children. Bree W. shares about Raptor Ranch: "The flintstone park opens at 9am and my kids had a blast playing in the park. The people who run the grounds are so sweet. When my son hurt himself going down a slide, one of the ladies helped take care of his wound and bandaged him up."
Tips from RVers
Verify RV size restrictions: Some campgrounds have changed their policies regarding larger rigs. "Even though the website says they accept large RV's they don't. New policy is what I was told, despite an email conversation where our trailer length was mentioned," warns Travis B. about one Canyon Gateway RV park, suggesting travelers confirm size allowances directly before booking.
Expect variable site spacing: Rancho Sedona RV Park uses landscaping to create separation between sites. "Sites are tight, but with the layout, fences, and trees it does not feel crowded," observes Joe C., while Kim G. notes, "Sites are spaced out a bit; not as tight as some other RV parks. There are huge shade trees."
Monitor water quality issues: Some parks experience discoloration in water systems. Tim G. advises Railside RV Ranch visitors: "The only down sides are the water when it first came out was rusty. Let it run before hooking up." This practical tip helps prevent staining of RV water systems and ensures cleaner water for campers.
