Looking for an adventure where you can explore Mayer and then fall asleep in your tent? Finding a place to camp in Arizona with your tent has never been easier. Search nearby tent campsites or find top-rated spots from other campers.
Horsethief Basin Recreation Area offers a variety of recreational opportunities including: hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, camping, fishing, and OHV riding. Castle Creek Wilderness is located nearby, and Horsethief Cabin and Turney Gulch Group Campground are available by reservation. Day use sites and trails are open year-round; overnight accomodations are not available during the winter. Scroll down (below the recreation map) to learn more about these recreational opportunities. Note: Until further notice, use of a high-clearance vehicle is recommended for those who plan to visit recreation sites in Horsethief Basin.
Manzanita Campground is a small, year-round, tent-only facility with campsites that fill up very quickly. Visitors enjoy the campground for its fishing and swimming holes along Oak Creek, beautiful scenery and excellent wildlife watching. Oak Creek Canyon is very crowded, especially on weekends; to get a campsite, it is best to reserve a weekday.
Recreation and relaxation abound in Oak Creek Canyon. Camping, fishing, swimming, wading and hiking are some of the activities awaiting visitors. Anglers have the convenience of creekside campsites, where they can cast a line for trout. Families love driving down the road to nearby Slide Rock State Park, one of Arizona's most popular swimming spots, or trying out several nearby hiking trails.
The campground borders Oak Creek in a lush, forested riparian zone with Arizona ash and box elders, gravel beaches and stream-bed boulders. Colorful songbirds add flashes of brilliance to the trees. The creek's crystal clear waters are cool and refreshing on hot summer days.
For facility specific information, please call (928) 203-0624.
The well-known town of Sedona is popular for its red rock vistas, resorts and shopping. Slide Rock State Park is a great local spot for swimming and only a few minutes away. Campers can also explore the 1.8 million-acre Coconino National Forest, which boasts a spectacular variety of scenery and outdoor activities.
$30 / night
In 1908 the Arizona Power Company began construction of the Childs Power Plant. For more than 90 years, the water of Fossil Creek had been diverted by a system of pipes and flumes from its natural course to power the turbines of the Childs and Irving hydroelectric plants. During this time, Fossil Creek had been reduced to a mere trickle, compared with the normal one million gallons per hour flow once witnessed by early inhabitants of the region.
In 2004, APS, the current owner of the plants, agreed to decommission them and restore the creek to its natural flow. (From "Pine-Strawberry Archeological and Historical Society")
The area is now a very popular dispersed camping area. It sits below the remnants of the old power plant buildings on the edge of the Verde River. A short hike upstream and some wading will get you to the ruins of the Verde Hot Springs, a once famous resort.
Recreational opportunities in the Cherry area include: camping, hiking, mountain biking, horse riding, scenic driving, and OHV riding. Trail markers will be added to the map as time allows. For now, please use the left-hand navigation bar to find more information about the trails in the area: Ash Creek #9705 General Crook #64 Medlar Springs #9706 Sheep #532 Grapevine Gulch Trail #9708 Thank you for your patience as we continue to improve this site.
Built in 1902, this historic schoolhouse and adjacent picnic area in Arizona's Prescott National Forest may be reserved for day use for groups of up to 60 people. The facility offers a picturesque, quiet setting with indoor and outdoor areas for weddings, reunions, luncheons and group meetings. The schoolhouse served about 10 to 15 children in the early 1900s. The building was an active school until 1952. It is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is used for administrative and training purposes.
Groups enjoy gathering in the outdoor picnic area during nice weather or heading indoors into the the two-room schoolhouse if the weather turns. A leisurely walk through the forest on the accessible, paved Groom Creek Nature Trail provides a nice afternoon respite, and visitors can camp nearby if desired. Prescott National Forest has miles of hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding trails for visitors wishing to explore the area.
The schoolhouse building has two rooms with new furniture(tables and chairs) for indoor use. The outdoor picnic area is accessible and equipped with 10 picnic tables, vault toilets, an amphitheater (limited access) and parking for 12 vehicles or two buses. No drinking water is available at this site; guests must bring their own.
The group area is set in a ponderosa pine ecosystem, an area dominated by pines and mixed with juniper trees, Gambel oaks and native grasses. A multitude of colorful wildflowers bloom in the spring and during the summer monsoon season. Afternoon thunderstorms are possible from late June through mid-September. The forest is home to a wide variety of wildlife. Visitors may spot deer, mountain lions, bobcats, coyotes, foxes, rabbits, lizards, snakes and birds.
Upper Wolf Creek Campground is just around the corner if you want to camp overnight. Restaurants, shopping, historic sites and many amenities are nearby in the historic town of Prescott.
$150 / night
Guide
Great place for tent camping with a friendly staff and nice amenities. The campground sits on Oak Creek, and is in the perfect location where you are far enough away from Sedona city center to have some peace and quiet, and within an amazing setting of red rocks, tall pines and the sound of a creek surround you. The tent sites are spacious, and offer plenty of privacy. The campground has shower facilities, a small general store where you can get firewood and small groceries, and restrooms. The pit toilets are a bit nasty; I wish they would update them and make them a little cleaner and user-friendly...lol. They can get really disgusting and stink horribly during warmer weather. But the rest of the experience here makes the restrooms the least of the issues. We always stay here when in Sedona.
Ranger
We had a lovely time staying at the Willow Lake RV Park on our visit to Prescott. The bathrooms were spacious and there is a trail directly behind the park that leads out to Willow Lake and a plethora of trails for the trail runner/hiker/explorer. They have great wi-fi, the area has lots of trees and shade and picnic tables too!
We actually arrived late for check-in the the office left our our map and information for us.
We had a 30' RV we wanted to pull through and had no problems with this park. I'd recommend a stop-in here for sure! Their neat little tent-camp sites were even closer to the lake and the trails.
Guide
I've been trail riding in the Wickenburg area since I was a kid, and the rodeo grounds across the street from Constellation Park is a gathering site for just about everyone who heads out into the desert on their 4-legged transportation. On my most recent visit to Constellation Park, the park and rodeo grounds were empty, but this place fills up fast whenever there are events scheduled, and the sites are first come, first served with NO reservations system, so plan ahead!
There are 35 dry camp sites along a dirt road north of the rodeo grounds on Constellation Road in Wickenburg - they are primitive dry sites with no tents allowed - all camping must be self contained. Site fees are $8 per night, or $12 per night to have a horse corral included. Yes, I'm confused too - horses are ok, but tents are not? I'm not sure what the logic for self contained camping is for these sites, as they would make excellent car camping/tenting sites, but I'm not the one who makes the rules.
The park opens onto state and BLM land, which you can ride or backpack into with a permit -
https://land.az.gov/recreational-permit-portal
Wickenburg is already a relatively quiet town with not much traffic outside the US 60 / US 93 interchange for people traveling from Phoenix to Las Vegas, so it's nice and quiet up here. The road undulates up over small rises, so unless there's a late night at the rodeo arena, there are no lights to compete with the star gazing show either. Again, tent camping would make so much sense here. . .
I'd give the park 5 stars for the pretty desert views, quiet location and big skies if you were allowed to enjoy them outside of an RV. Oh well, we don't get everything we want, right?
Traveler
Had a great time here, clean bathrooms, spacious area to tent camp and friendly staff.
Guide
We tent camped here and it was still too hot in late summer months. Campsites were clean and ok size more for tent but kind of small for RV. There were lots of trees. Host was friendly.
Traveler
Friendly staff. Lots of amenities including hot showers, electric or tent sites, beautiful trees in large sites, pool, fire wood, laundry, and more.
Legend
What a cool little park. The campground was nothing fancy, but the park and lake were beautiful! The sites were a nice size and layout of the campground. Seemed like a place that tent camping would be best, but there were campers and RV's there too.
TravelerMy husband and I tent camped here with one of our dogs while doing doordash in the area
Gorgeous trees fantastic fantastic views
If handicap id use electronic chair but for others of able body its a resort 🏕 ..pool and store and showers to bot
LegendNo tent camping. Self contained RVs only. Constellation park campground hosts horse events and rodeos that draw crowds from everywhere and of all ages. Campground is directly across the street from all horse and rodeo activities so this is very convenient if you are in the area for horsemanship.
Traveler
This place has it all. River access, 2 lagoon areas, horseback riding (not affiliated with park), hiking, a playground with a zip line, fishing and Cottonwood is 1 mile away! There are full hook up sites and tent camping plus cabins. I love this state park- camp hosts are helpful.
Guide
The camp hosts were great! Toilets and grounds were clean and access to the creek was the high light. The sites are a lot more snug than you’d think with the amount of people they accommodate. It is really set up for tent camping. To right for multiple campers and cars.
Ranger
Lots to do in the surrounding area, including a winery right outside the gate. Good RV and tent campsites. Nice pool and spa area, lodge area, library and mini golfing green.
ScoutI tent camped last minute and it was one of the best stays my entire trip. The sound of the water running down the creek was peaceful and relaxing. The park was clean. At&t service doesn't work down there but they have WiFi available for a fee. Even with the lack of cell service, I highly recommend this location! Great for pets too!
ScoutLoLoMai is our go-to campground. It has an ideal 2h drive distance, is nestled into the oak creek canyon, and secluded from the road. Kids can roam freely. From sitting in the creek during the summer heat, to exploring the nearby wineries, venturing to the parks, or just sitting by the fire enjoying the cicadas sing, there is something nice for every day. The mix of full hookups, cabins and tent camping allows for every style that you might prefer.
GuideOur kids loved this place. They have RV sites that can accommodate big rigs with full hookups and also a tent camping area. We stayed in the full hookups up area and we had a lot of space between our RV and the one the next to us. We didn’t feel crammed at all. There are lots of trees for shade and very spacious to hang out. Kids rode bikes all over. There’s a store that seeks a bunch of stuff. We were there in June.
Traveler
A dozen or so free tent sites. Tables, fire rings, grills. Vault toilets. Campers under 20’ should be okay. Larger RVs should consider a spot back off seven springs road. Going too much further up the road isn’t a good idea for RVs.
Road in is pretty good. Some washboard. Most vehicles will make it. I’ve done it several times in a compact car.
Late fall to early spring is best.
Zero cell service.
ScoutI've camped here twice, once solo in a tent and once in a cabin with my family and dog.
This facility is clean, quiet (depending on your site neighbors, of course), close to town, and has great amenities.
The tent sites had decent separation from each other with adequate shrubbery in between.
The cabin loop is wonderfully private from the rest of the park and a great getaway for anyone looking for some peace and quiet.
Bathrooms are well maintained, lots of trails, good fishing opportunities in the lagoons.
Absolutely will camp here again.
LegendIf the sites had a little more privacy, I'd give five stars. Whenever I take my family, I remind myself I'm not there for the actual tent camping, I'm there for everything else the state park offers. 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, running through the park. Make sure to go down and take a dip during the warm seasons. They've recently improved the playground for young ones and offer horseback riding as well. Facilities are always clean. If you're tired of camping food, drive down the road to Cottonwood and be sure to visit Larry's Antiques (if you're into that of course).
TravelerWe tent camped here in July and really appreciated the cool temperatures at night. The drive to the campground (either direction) is breathtaking and dramatic, and we loved the stream near our site. We thought the site was a good size- we didn’t feel anyone was too close. You can see so many stars above the ponderosas, and it smells amazing! No bug bites either, so that was a plus! The first night we were there, the bathrooms were completely full and dirty, but they were clean the second night. Showers are $4 for 8 minutes, and no electricity at the sites. $22 per night.
Guide
Camped 5 nights at the desert tortoise campground in my NoBo travel trailer. Semi developed so no hook ups. Bathrooms were clean and the area was well kept. The spot includes a ramada with picnic table. There is also a fire ring pit w/ grill which you’ll need to bring firewood for. I fished off the shoreline which was only a few hundred feet from my spot. The spots are relatively close to each other and tent camping is also allowed. Water is clear and very nice. Wild donkeys from old miners back in the day still roam around. They are very accustomed to humans so won’t hesitate to steal food. Definitely something to watch pets around as well.
GuideThis is part of the Encore/Thousand Trails network (although anyone can use it). They do offer a 20% military discount.
The resort has spacious RV spots with extra room to park your vehicle(if towing). Each spot has a nice concrete slab with a picnic table. 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. Trees are everywhere providing shade. A nice breeze is always blowing and there is a creek down behind the resort where you can cool off. if you're looking for a great relaxing place to stay I highly recommend it.
Close by is Jerome and Sedona for things to do
GuideOnce again we were impressed by Lo Lo Mai. This time our tent site was literally right next to the creek. And it was a beautiful site surrounded by trees. Bathrooms and showers were clean (Atleast the woman’s were, my husband complained about the male showers being a bit dirty). The swimming pool and hot tub are also a big hit. We hit a few wineries around the area that were great. Only downside to Lo Lo Mai is they don’t provide drinking water spickets like most campgrounds do. And it’s a heavily used campground, but not surprising because it’s a beautiful and fun campground right next to the creek. Overall great stay once again.
Scout
Newer RV Park in Clarkdale, AZ. It is located right on the main road for easy access, but we did not hear road noise st night. Amazing views of Tuzigoot National Monument and the surrounding mountains, especially from the sites at the rear and west side of the park. 63 RV sites, no tent camping allowed. Sites are average size, level, gravel, with paver patios. Restrooms/showers are private, very large and clean. They have a pool, sauna, and rec/game room. No fires or charcoal grills allowed. Some sites have tables. There are trees, but they are very small. Rain Spirit is located between historic Cottonwood and Clarkdale, about 5 miles from Jerome, and 20 miles from Sedona. Great restaurants, wineries and shops in Cottonwood are close by.
TravelerStopped here on our way back to California from Colorado. It was the middle of August so we were looking for somewhere with some water and shade and we found both. It is definitely a popular campground with lots of families but if you can get a spot it is an amazing little retreat. We were tent camping and had plenty of shade and only a short walk to the creek (it is a creek not a river but still nice to put your feet in and cool down). Put toilets but they were well maintained for how crowded the campground was. Despite the crowds, a lot of the campgrounds are decent size and even if not secluded give you some space. Not my favorite destination but for the area and price it was amazing.
Scout
I am a frequent camper at Hilltop. I tent camp so I camp on 16 which isn't as big a the other sites but fine for me. I came spring and fall and never summer. I just went at the end of Sept 2024. Weather was gorgeous 80 hi/ 50 low. This is earlier than I normally camp. I have camped late October and have sleep in my tent in 19° weather. A Mr Buddy heater helps but have a carbon monoxide alarm just in case. Quieter than Lynx Lake campground but a bit further out. Still it's beautiful. I am local so of I forget something I can go home and come back out. Host normally has firewood for sale. They are still working on the water lines so as of the end of Sept there was only the water you bring in yourself. Costco is down the road a ways and they fill propane tanks pretty cheap. Lots to do in the area if you want to go to town and enjoy dinner. Prescott and Prescott Valley have great restaurants.
Scout
We pulled onto forest road 525 and drove about a little over 5 miles in to a beautiful large camp site that went in deep off of the road. It allowed for multiple visitors and yet still provided lots of space and privacy.
We showed up around noon on a friday afternoon and was able to find this gem.
Remember! Whatever you pack in, pack it out !
We drove a honda civic and had no problems. Just take it slow. Some turn offs have more of a drop off than others. Just drove a little further and find one that’s perfect for you and yours.
I recommend tent camping or atleast leaving something to sort of “hold” your spot while you do your day activities. Otherwise, you might have a difficult time finding somewhere to sleep when you come back in the dark.
Everyone is very nice and respectful of your space.
Guide
We wanted one last tent camping trip before it got to cold and chose a quick trip up to Camp Verde. (We’re from Phoenix) It was a short hour and a half drive up the 17. Clear Creek Campground is about a 10 min drive passed Camp Verde, so if you forget any supplies it’s a quick trip into town. The Campground itself is pretty wide open, which is not my cup of tea normally but we found a cute spot that is right next to the exit. It’s great! It’s totally hidden and separated from the rest of the camp. Bathrooms were clean, plenty of water pumps and the host is super on top of things. We had issues with some other rude campers ,so beware. I have a feeling it’s an amateur campground, so if it’s summer and you want peace and quiet, this is not the place. Our timing was great Tue-Thur, Oct 9th thru the 12th. The Creek is just across the dirt road. It’s so peaceful and beautiful! Has a nice little trail that runs next to the creek.
Tent camping near Mayer, Arizona offers a chance to immerse yourself in nature, with stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities to enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Mayer, AZ?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Mayer, AZ is Crown King Area (Horsethief Basin lake) with a 4.7-star rating from 7 reviews.
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