RV camping near Lake Montezuma, Arizona provides access to red rock country and desert landscapes at approximately 3,500 feet elevation. The region experiences distinct seasonal changes with summer temperatures often exceeding 100°F while winter nights can drop below freezing. Most campgrounds remain accessible year-round with gravel pads that handle both wet and dry conditions.
What to Do
River Access: Verde Valley RV Resort offers direct river access from section C. "River access is available at site C which we stayed at and our furbabies loved it! Sedona is only 45 mins from here so an even bigger two thumbs up!" notes a camper.
Hiking Trails: Many RV parks connect to nearby trails. "If you like hiking, this is right next to the National Forest with a trailhead right in the Park," mentions one visitor at Sedona View RV Resort.
Scenic Drives: Explore the surrounding towns within 30 minutes of your basecamp. "About 30 minutes or so to Sedona, nice drive to old mining town Jerome build on side of mountain maybe 15 minutes, take the road on past Jerome to mingus mountain recreation area. Beautiful!" shares a camper at Rain Spirit RV Resort.
What Campers Like
Pool Facilities: Swimming pools are highly valued amenities during warmer months. "They have a pool and hot tub, mini golf, playground, pickle ball court, clubhouse, and lots of crafts and activities for the kids! The bathrooms and showers are very nice and clean too!" reports a visitor to Verde River RV Resort.
Natural Shade: Mature trees provide natural cooling in summer heat. "Shady, lots of trees, pristine condition of all facilities including dog park, walking trail next to the creek, and large enough sites for our 42' rig," notes a camper at Zane Grey RV Village.
Creek Access: Water features add recreational value. "You can walk down along the creek and find some peaceful rocks for sitting on to read or contemplate. There are also a couple of hikes accessible 1/4-1/2 mile from the RV park," says one visitor to Rancho Sedona RV Park.
What You Should Know
Highway Noise: Some parks experience traffic noise due to proximity to major roads. "Based on the campground map, we chose a site near the river. However, the map does not show that the river flows right next to I-17. Interstate noise is a real presence," notes a camper at Verde Ranch RV Resort.
Reservation Systems: Parks have different reservation protocols. "At registration they will give you a map and highlight which spots are open. It can be tough to decide which section to focus on and which spot to pick but overall there will likely be a decent flat spot that you'll have," explains a visitor about Verde Valley RV Resort.
Fire Restrictions: Fire policies vary between parks. "They have a group firepit, they supply the wood," notes one camper at Zane Grey RV Village, while other parks prohibit open flames entirely during certain seasons.
Tips for Camping with Families
Planned Activities: Some parks offer organized events for kids. "We were given free donuts upon arrival and were escorted to our site! We explored the insanely well kept/clean park and found an incredible little creek! We threw rocks in it for hours with our 2 little kids," shares a family who stayed at Zane Grey RV Village.
Recreational Facilities: Look for parks with diverse activities. "This resort is nestled behind some hills right next to the Verde River. They have a horseshoe pit, tennis courts, and basketball courts that didn't seem to get much use. Still, nice to have for people staying longer term," mentions a camper at Verde Valley RV Resort.
Kid-Friendly Water Features: Creeks provide natural entertainment. "We were able to use the pool on our visit. 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," reports a family at Verde Ranch RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Site Selection Strategy: Request specific site types based on your preferences. "The motorhome sites are along the perimeter with a view. The large 5th wheel sites are tighter and make up the middle of the park (back ins) and the front of the park which are pull thrus but very small yards," explains a camper at Distant Drums RV Resort.
Timing Arrivals: Early arrival improves site options at first-come parks. "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," advises a visitor to Verde Valley RV Resort.
Satellite Access: Tree coverage affects satellite reception. "The trees that provide the shade also may block access to satellites," cautions an RVer staying at Rancho Sedona RV Park.
