Best Campgrounds in Arizona

Arizona boasts itself as the gateway to the Grand Canyon. And, it’s true: There’s no better place to set off into the red- and orange-painted cliffs, winding canyons, and rippling rivers of this wild and grand desert landscape. But, camping in Arizona doesn’t stop at The Big Ditch. From Flagstaff to Sedona, and beyond, you’ll find some of the best desert camping in the U.S. right in this state.

The Colorado River carved through 277 miles of ancient sandstone and limestone to form the Grand Canyon. Stop along the edges of this natural wonder for some of the most famous and scenic camping in Arizona. Go straight to Grand Canyon Village and camp at the Mather campground on the South Rim to experience the best pit stops and catch jaw-dropping canyon views on the Bright Angel Trail. Or, opt for areas less saturated with people and head to Desert View Campground on the South Rim. Hike to Coconino Overlook to sample views of the massive canyon or put your boots on the Arizona Trail, one of the country’s National Scenic Trails.

For those interested in venturing into other parts of Arizona, head to Sedona for more red rock desert camping. There’s a variety of things to do in Sedona, and camping, of course, is one of the best. From red rock canyons to rock formations fabled as energy vortexes, you’ll find views and adventures in Sedona unlike any other. Camp at Pine Flat Campground, where tall ponderosas brush up against red rock walls. Get up to hike for sunrise or start out at sunset to see the best colors amidst the desert. Or, bring your bike along for the ride to experience world-class mountain biking trails right in Sedona.

Whether it’s hiking, biking, or just sleeping beneath the desert sky when camping in Arizona, the state is truly an outdoor-lover’s desert mecca. So grab your tent and head to the edges of the Grand Canyon or into the quiet nooks of Sedona and discover a land of red-rock beauty.

Best Camping Sites in Arizona (1,695)

    1. Mather Campground — Grand Canyon National Park

    198 Reviews
    Grand Canyon, AZ
    Website
    +1 (877) 444-6777

    $6 - $50 / night

    "If you want to camp relatively close to the rim of the Grand Canyon, this is the spot."

    "I consider myself some what ocd when it comes to preparing for camping trips, although on this occasion, of all things to forget, the tent was left behind!"

    2. Forest Service Road 328 Dispersed

    104 Reviews
    Grand Canyon, AZ

    "Could only get one night at the Mather CG in Grand Canyon, so we went boondocking just outside of the National Park in Kaibab NF. "

    "The sites are pretty big and private, I recommend tucking yourself as far back as possible to stay away from the dust kicked up by passing cars."

    3. Lone Rock Beach Primitive Camping Area — Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

    107 Reviews
    Big Water, AZ
    Website
    +1 (928) 608-6200

    "Plenty of toilets and trash cans are by the entrance/exit. A little windy because it’s exposed but very calm and quiet otherwise."

    "My wife and I took a random trip through Arizona on the way to The North Rim Grand Canyon! We happened upon Page Arizona, and found that we are the only ones whom didn't already know about the area."

    4. Lost Dutchman State Park Campground

    82 Reviews
    Superstition Mtn, AZ
    Website
    +1 (480) 982-4485

    $25 - $89 / night

    "It kind of poked off the main loop away from other neighbors which is why we picked it, very close to the mtb trail and easy access to the trail leading to siphon draw. Very little shade."

    "One of my favorite trails in Arizona."

    5. Gilbert Ray Campground

    73 Reviews
    Cortaro, AZ
    Website
    +1 (520) 724-5000

    $10 - $75 / night

    "The scenery here is perfect for Arizona. Great views of Tucson Mountain and surrounded by all kinds of hiking trails in the Tucson Mountain Park. The sites are gravel and mostly flat."

    "Fantastic place to stay in the Arizona countryside. Cacti everywhere! So cool!"

    6. West Sedona Designated Dispersed Camping

    72 Reviews
    Coconino National Forest Recreation, AZ
    Website
    +1 (928) 203-2900

    "The best dispersed camping options in Sedona Arizona! There are many options off of the main road."

    "My friend from Maryland came to visit me here in Arizona, I told him we had to go to Sedona so we decided to camp, I heard about forest road 525 and it exceeded my expectations, never saw more stars in"

    7. Boulder Beach Campground — Lake Mead National Recreation Area

    67 Reviews
    Temple Bar Marina, AZ
    Website
    +1 (702) 293-8906

    $20 / night

    "Took my kids and my mom camping for a little vacation away from the hustle and bustle of Las Vegas. I chose Boulder Beach campground as it was our first time and didn't want to be too far from home."

    "Nice flat RV parking with hook ups and some spots have Wii Fii although with all the beauty around you you should find no need to use it."

    8. Catalina State Park Campground

    62 Reviews
    Oro Valley, AZ
    Website
    +1 (520) 628-5798

    $50 / night

    "Dump station near exit of loops and another near state park entrance. Nice selection of pull through and back-in sites. We had a back-in on outer edge and had beautiful views."

    "Catalina State Park in Tucson, Arizona, is a fantastic campground that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and convenience."

    9. Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground

    64 Reviews
    Peoria, AZ
    Website
    +1 (602) 506-2930

    $15 - $300 / night

    "We stayed in late September and had no neighbors next to us so we felt like we were in the desert. There was no direction that had a bad view."

    "It was an great way to be exposed to trails I may not have chosen on my own."

    10. Homolovi State Park Campground

    63 Reviews
    Winslow, AZ
    Website
    +1 (928) 289-4106

    $15 - $25 / night

    "This is a great little campground 2 miles outside of Winslow Arizona. It’s in the middle of a state park that has two areas of ruins. One area is located about a mile from the campground."

    "Very surprised at how quiet it is because it is pretty close to I40. Only 5 miles outside of Winslow.

    Dump station and water fill at the entrance. Most sites have electric and water."

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Showing results 1-10 of 1,695 campgrounds

Recent Reviews in Arizona

7964 Reviews of 1695 Arizona Campgrounds



Guide to Arizona

Camping in Arizona offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. From desert vistas to lush forests, there's something for everyone. Here’s what you need to know about camping in this beautiful state.

What to do

  • Hiking and Exploring: Many campgrounds, like Lost Dutchman State Park Campground, have fantastic hiking trails. One camper said, “Lace up your boots and conquer one of the park's diverse hiking trails. From challenging climbs to scenic strolls, there's a path for every level.”
  • Off-Roading: If you’re into off-roading, check out the trails near Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground. A reviewer mentioned, “Dust off your UTVs and get ready for a blast! The washboard washes offer thrilling rides for off-road enthusiasts.”
  • Wildlife Watching: Campgrounds like Houston Mesa Campground are great for spotting deer. One visitor noted, “Deer in campground in trees! The bathrooms are immaculate!”

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A reviewer at Dead Horse Ranch State Park Campground said, “Bathrooms are extremely clean with nice showers.”
  • Spacious Campsites: Many campgrounds offer ample space between sites. One camper at Cave Springs mentioned, “There are a lot of sites here and yet a lot of them feel secluded.”
  • Friendly Hosts: Campground hosts often receive high praise. A visitor at Rancho Sedona RV Park shared, “The camp hosts are incredibly friendly and helpful, adding to the welcoming atmosphere.”

What you should know

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground, lack drinking water and showers. A camper noted, “No hot water in bathrooms. No showers.”
  • Crowded During Peak Season: Popular spots can get packed. A reviewer at Cave Springs said, “Packed in like sardines. Spaces are pretty small.”
  • Wildlife Caution: Be aware of wildlife, especially in areas like Houston Mesa Campground. One camper warned, “The amount of camping spaces available went to such small of a number that it’s basically become a parking lot.”

Tips for camping with families

Tips from RVers

  • Check Hookups: Make sure your campground has the right hookups for your RV. A visitor at Rancho Sedona RV Park noted, “Good late check-in setup though.”
  • Be Prepared for Limited Cell Service: Some areas have spotty cell service. A camper at Houston Mesa Campground mentioned, “While Verizon service isn't optimal, it's manageable.”
  • Respect Quiet Hours: Many campgrounds have quiet hours. A reviewer at Pumphouse Wash (FR 237) said, “People ride ATVs at night, so don’t plan on quiet at all times.”

With these insights, you’re all set for a memorable camping experience in Arizona!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available in Arizona?

According to TheDyrt.com, Arizona offers a wide range of camping options, with 1695 campgrounds and RV parks in Arizona and 548 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground in Arizona?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground in Arizona is Mather Campground — Grand Canyon National Park with a 5-star rating from 198 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping in Arizona?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 548 free dispersed camping spots in Arizona.

What are the best parks in Arizona?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 463 parks in Arizona that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.