The Verde Valley region surrounding Mayer, Arizona, sits at elevations ranging from 3,200 to 4,500 feet, creating a moderate climate zone between the Phoenix desert and Flagstaff's mountain environment. Camping options near Mayer include traditional RV parks, yurt accommodations, and dispersed sites with river access. Seasonal considerations vary dramatically with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 100°F while winter nights can drop below freezing.
What to do
Explore creek trails: Cave Springs Campground provides access to Oak Creek with multiple swimming holes and hiking paths. "This campground has tons of sites to choose from many of them a short walk from the creek. There's a swimming hole on the creek nearby," notes a visitor to Cave Springs.
Visit historic mining towns: The camping areas around Mayer serve as convenient bases for exploring nearby historic sites. "Close to Sedona but a fraction of the cost of the RV parks there. We were able to stay for a few nights and took our motorcycle into Sedona to explore," explains a reviewer at Rio Verde RV Park.
Attend local events: Many campgrounds organize regular activities throughout the week. "They have a pool and hot tub, mini golf, playground, pickle ball court, clubhouse, and lots of crafts and activities for the kids!" shares a camper from Verde River RV Resort & Cottages.
What campers like
Creekside relaxation: Riparian areas offer respite from desert heat. "The creek is lovely to sit in or swim in and chill down. It's walking distance from Sedona town, and also walking distance to some great trails," notes a visitor to Rancho Sedona RV Park.
Spacious yurt camping: Yurt options near Mayer, Arizona provide more room than traditional tent camping. "5 star," states a concise review of Riparian Ridge Ranch, which offers yurt accommodations with views of House Mountain.
Convenient location: Camping spots in the Verde Valley provide strategic access to multiple attractions. "You are only 10 minutes from Cottonwood, 30 minutes from Sedona, 30 minutes to Prescott and an hour and a half to Phoenix," explains a camper at Verde River RV Resort & Cottages.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer heat can be intense while winters bring freezing nights. "We'd go back in the fall or spring, too hot in the summer," advises a camper from Verde Valley RV and Camping Resort.
Varying campground rules: Quiet hours and restrictions differ significantly between properties. "A laundry list of rules at this place, but never were an issue. The biggest was outdoor lights out and be inside by 10 pm," notes a visitor to Rancho Sedona RV Park.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies widely throughout the area. "Internet is almost non-existent. I had a T-Mobile, AT&T, and Verizon phone, and all were pretty much worthless most of the time," reports a reviewer at Thousand Trails Verde Valley.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Several campgrounds maintain swimming facilities for children. "They have a good pool (Fri & Sat you have to reserve a one hour time slot)," notes a visitor to Verde Valley RV and Camping Resort.
Organized activities: Check campground schedules for family-friendly events. "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!" shares an enthusiastic reviewer at Verde River RV Resort & Cottages.
Space between sites: Look for campgrounds offering adequate separation for family privacy. "The Small trailer, tent camping sites are very big and have a lot of distance between them. Staff are always patrolling around keeping everything nice and clean," explains a visitor to Verde Valley RV and Camping Resort.
Tips from RVers
Premium site selection: Campgrounds often offer varying levels of RV sites. "We stayed in both the premium sites and the regular and have enjoyed both," notes a camper at Verde Valley RV and Camping Resort.
Speed limit awareness: Some campgrounds enforce strict driving regulations. "The only irritation I had was the speed limits. I understand the reasoning, but getting in and out of the park was a pain just because it took so long to drive 5-10 mph for 1-2 mile stretches," warns a reviewer at Verde Valley.
OHV opportunities: For those with recreational vehicles, dedicated areas exist for off-road exploration. "Miles of desert and washes to explore with tons of dispersed camping sites. Can get busy on holiday or event weekends but worth it otherwise," reports a visitor to Boulders OHV Area.
