Little Elden Springs Horsecamp provides unique equestrian camping near Munds Park, Arizona within the Coconino National Forest. Located at an elevation of approximately 7,000 feet, the area offers a cooler climate during summer months when temperatures in lower elevations soar. The forest terrain includes extensive pine coverage with several trail networks specifically designed to accommodate horses and riders.
What to Do
Trail riding options: The Coconino National Forest offers extensive riding trails that connect to Little Elden Springs Horsecamp. A camper notes, "Nice trails" and "Camp host was very helpful he keeps the sites looking great." These trails range from beginner-friendly paths to more challenging terrain.
Swimming spots: Verde River access points provide cooling relief during hot days. At Verde River RV Resort, "You can walk down along the creek and find some peaceful rocks for sitting on to read or contemplate" and "The creek is lovely to sit in or swim in and chill down."
Mountain activities: The higher elevations near Flagstaff offer mountain recreation opportunities. A visitor to Canyon Vista Campground shares: "Repelling area. Lots of shade trees, fire pit & rest room. Good size spaces. Friendly hosts."
What Campers Like
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain high standards for restrooms and common areas. At Canyon Vista Campground, "Vault toilets (one for each binary gender) are kept clean and well stocked with TP" and the camp hosts have "installed little motion sensor lights in the bathroom, so you don't have to fumble with phones or flashlights to use the loo."
Helpful camp hosts: Staff and hosts receive consistent praise for their assistance and maintenance. One camper at Little Elden Springs Horsecamp mentioned, "The outhouse is the cleanest we have ever seen" while another noted the "Camp host was very helpful."
Proximity to towns: Many campgrounds offer convenient access to nearby communities. Dead Horse Ranch State Park provides "walking distance to trails (Hangover trail was our favorite) and restaurants" and is a "great location in Sedona."
What You Should Know
Reservation systems: Some campgrounds require advance planning. Williams-Circle Pines KOA uses a reservation system and can fill quickly during peak seasons, particularly for specialized accommodations.
Fire restrictions: Seasonal fire regulations may limit campfire activities. A camper at Fort Tuthill noted, "due to fire restrictions can only use propane for fires, bbq and ground."
Weather considerations: The area experiences significant temperature variations. One Canyon Vista visitor mentioned, "Even when full, might only be 5' feet deep" regarding Mormon Lake water levels, highlighting how precipitation affects the region.
Horse containment: Most equestrian campgrounds in the area require guests to bring their own containment systems. According to a review at Little Elden Springs Horse Campground, "There are 15 pull-through sites, many that can accommodate 4-horse live-n trailers."
Tips for Camping with Families
Kid-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds offer specialized facilities for children. At Fort Tuthill Recreation Area, visitors appreciate that it's "great for groups" and offers "a nice playground" plus "an adventure course and zip line."
Educational opportunities: Nature programs provide learning experiences. A Canyon Vista Campground visitor noted, "They have a box of reading materials, books, maps, etc. like a little free library set up."
Swimming areas: Safe water access points offer recreational opportunities. At Verde River RV Resort, "The creek is lovely to sit in or swim in and chill down" providing a natural water feature that appeals to families.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose locations based on shade and amenities. At Mormon Lake Lodge RV Park & Campground, "Only the first three rows of sites are wooded, the rest are basically just in an open field."
Hookup variations: Not all sites provide equal utility access. A camper at Fort Tuthill mentioned, "Hookups for water and power, had a dump station" but noted that "it's dusty from the roads when vehicles pass your camp."
Camping with horses: Equestrian travelers should plan for specific needs. At Little Elden Springs, "There is a new pit toilet building as of 2022 and 7 water points around the campus" offering convenience for those camping with horses.
