Equestrian camping near Mormon Lake, Arizona offers access to extensive trail systems at elevations around 7,000 feet. The area features ponderosa pine forests with seasonal water levels that fluctuate, making Mormon Lake sometimes completely dry depending on precipitation patterns. Campgrounds in this high-elevation region experience significant temperature drops at night, even during summer months.
What to do
Trail riding on Hangover trail: Located near Rancho Sedona RV Park, riders can access scenic routes within walking distance. "Walking distance to trails (Hangover trail was our favorite) and restaurants. Can't beat the location. City of Sedona shuttle connect can pick you up directly from campground," notes Daniel Z.
Explore historic sites: The Shofly Indian ruins provide cultural interest for equestrians taking a break from riding. "2 miles East on Houston Mesa rd. Away you can drive to shofly Indian ruins," recommends csey R. from Houston Mesa Campground.
Water activities at nearby lakes: The Mormon Lake area offers seasonal lake access when water levels permit. "There are about eight small cabins as well. This park offers a much needed break from the Arizona heat in the spring and summer months. The 'lakes' are really more like ponds but plenty large enough to fish in as is the Verde River," explains Audrey R.
What campers like
Shade protection: The tall ponderosa pines provide relief from summer sun. "Sites are spaced out a bit; not as tight as some other RV parks. There are huge shade trees. You can walk down along the creek and find some peaceful rocks for sitting on to read or contemplate," shares Kim G. from Dead Horse Ranch State Park Campground.
Well-distributed campsite layouts: Campers appreciate the thoughtful arrangement of sites. "Well distributed sites. Very clean. Camp host extremely helpful. 10 minutes into Flag. Recently changed some sites to reservation on rec.gov which changes the dynamics of staying here a bit," reports Ted M. about Canyon Vista Campground.
Water access points: Multiple creeks and small water features enhance the camping experience. "An exceptionally well run site, easy out of hours check in, very clean. We stayed in the adults only section near ish to the creek. Very shady, and really good sized spaces. The creek is lovely to sit in or swim in and chill down," states Karen D.
What you should know
Road noise proximity: Some campgrounds have traffic sound from nearby highways. "The noise from the highway is pretty annoying in the lower half of the park," notes Bryan S. about Williams-Circle Pines KOA.
Water supply limitations: Some sites have restricted water availability. "Limit is 5 gallons per day for each site. A market about 10 minutes SE sells water to fill at a reasonable rate. Can fill into containers or direct into the RV," advises Roger W.
Strict quiet hours: Certain campgrounds enforce noise restrictions. "This place is located right in the heart of Sedona, the bathrooms were clean, sites are shaded with lots of trees around. I gave it 4 stars because they are a little ridiculous with the quiet times, they don't like you coming and going in vehicles after 10 pm, and all lights must be off too," explains Estefania R.
Tips for camping with families
Activity variety for children: Multiple recreation options keep younger campers engaged. "We love this campground! We have camped here around 5 times and always had a great stay. They have a pool and hot tub, mini golf, playground, pickle ball court, clubhouse, and lots of crafts and activities for the kids!" reports Mstwister E. from Verde River RV Resort & Cottages.
Space for play areas: Look for sites with sufficient room for children to explore safely. "We've camped at Houston Mesa Campground several times and consistently have a fantastic experience. Our kids adore playing in the dirt and exploring the trees," shares Brad & Britany B.
Swimming access for cooling off: Natural water features provide relief from heat. "2 miles north on 260 is creek on the West side of the road," suggests csey R., offering a nearby option for children to cool down during hot days.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some campsites require significant adjustment. "So unlevel that I ran out of leveling blocks trying to compensate. And the worst part the sewer connection was HIGHER than my TT so every time I had to empty my tanks I had to jack my trailer up higher than the drain," warns Chris N.
Spacing between large vehicles: RV campers should consider site dimensions. "The RV sites are so packed together that you barely have room to put out your slides or awnings. They do have a few sites with 50amp hook ups. The remaining hook-up sites are 30amp," explains Derek C. from Mormon Lake Lodge RV Park & Campground.
Solar access considerations: Site selection impacts power generation capabilities. "Solar: Good in most sites. Sites: a bit more secluded, less solar: 8,10, 14. Better Solar and a bit more secluded: 7,9, 5,6," advises Roger W., providing specific site numbers for solar-dependent RVers.
