The Parks area of Arizona sits at an elevation of about 7,000 feet, creating distinct seasonal temperature variations that affect camping conditions throughout the year. Summer days typically reach the high 70s but nights can drop into the 40s, making insulated sleeping gear essential even during warmer months. The surrounding Kaibab National Forest transitions between ponderosa pine woodlands and high desert terrain, offering campers diverse landscapes within short driving distances.
What to do
Explore Bearizona Wildlife Park: Located just 15 minutes from Railside RV Ranch, this drive-through wildlife park lets you see native animals up close. "Close to the town of Williams and Route 66. There is a nice dog park that is along the Grand Canyon railroad track," notes David M., who also found the campground's location perfect for area attractions.
Discover historic Williams: Downtown Williams preserves authentic Route 66 character with walking-distance shops and dining. "Williams is a cute small town. One of our favorite places to camp!" writes Jordan H. about her stay near Dogtown Lake Campground. The historic district is just 7 miles from Parks.
Fish at nearby alpine lakes: Dogtown Lake offers fishing with minimal crowds. "Decent fishing, plenty of crawdads to catch and eat during the summer months! They do have a boat ramp and we have brought our kayak before," shares a camper. The lake sits at 7,000 feet elevation, making summer temperatures more moderate than lower desert areas.
Hike adjacent forest trails: Many glamping sites provide direct access to hiking paths. At Arizona Nordic Village, the Morning Glory yurt "has great views and several people mentioned that Morning Glory is the best yurt to stay in since it is both remote and it has amazing views of the San Francisco Peaks. Additionally, Morning Glory is also placed in the middle of a field with a nearby bench."
What campers like
Secluded yurt experiences: Arizona Nordic Village provides remote backcountry accommodations with incredible silence. "We literally did not see a single person all afternoon, or up until we saw one lone hiker about 10am the next morning. We cooked our dinner on the stove and sat by a small fire in a cooler evening air and enjoyed just being together in the middle of nowhere," writes one reviewer.
Proximity to multiple destinations: The central location allows easy access to multiple attractions. "This is a great jump-off spot to see the grand canyon or the sights in historic Williams az and route 66," notes George B. about dispersed camping near Dogtown Lake. Most glamping sites sit 35-45 minutes from the Grand Canyon South Rim.
Wildlife encounters: The forest setting brings nature right to your doorstep. "Ran into a couple of deer and elk," mentions one camper about Dogtown Lake. Another adds, "Incredible star gazing at night. The water flows making it easy to sleep."
Propane heating options: At high elevations, nights get cold even in summer, making propane heat essential. "The yurt was so cozy and cute! It was pretty cold when we were there, but the fireplace kept it toasty inside," notes Julie D. about her glamping experience. Most yurts include wood-burning or propane heating systems.
What you should know
Temperature fluctuations: Even summer nights require warm bedding. "Even in the late summer, it can get cool in the evening, so we were thankful for the extra shelter," mentions Warren K. about his stay at Grand Canyon-Williams KOA. Pack accordingly with layers and warm sleeping bags.
Limited shower facilities: Many glamping sites have basic facilities. "Only 2 showers per sex for 70+ sites," notes one camper about a Flagstaff area campground. At Arizona Nordic Village, "The coin shower was nice and warm, but make sure you get tokens while someone is around the lodge."
Road conditions to remote sites: Access to backcountry glamping can require preparation. "This is a maintained fire road to access," notes a camper about the approach to one site. Most remote yurts require walking 1-3 miles from parking areas, though some offer gear transportation services for an additional fee.
Seasonal operations: Several glamping venues close during winter months. "The fire rings are very deep which in my opinion ruins a fire unless you are using it to cook. Some sites can be reserved," notes Dean H. about another area campground that operates from mid-March through early November.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with kid-friendly amenities: Some glamping options near Parks specialize in family activities. At Williams KOA, "Lots to do for kids. Camped in 32 Foot Class C. Easy to manuver and great hooks ups. VERY Kid friendly. We to Bearizona, Rode go-carts, played mini golf. Bikes work well here," shares Dave R.
Consider cabin options for mixed weather: When traveling with children, having solid shelter expands your options. "We stopped 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," writes Mike H. about camping with family in the area.
Plan for noise levels: Some family-friendly sites can get noisy. "Main complaint is loud campground. But lake is beautiful, tons of crawfish for the kids to play with, and nice trail!" shares Erin C. about Dogtown Lake. Sites further from main facilities typically offer more quiet.
Book early for holiday weekends: The most family-friendly glamping sites fill quickly during peak periods. "Stayed in one of the cabins here with kids. Was well maintained, but overall quite dusty. KOAs are nothing if not predictable. Twin Bunk Beds, one queen bed, bare light bulb, front porch," notes Robert G.
Tips from RVers
Choose Village Camp for premium RV glamping: For travelers seeking upscale RV glamping, Village Camp Flagstaff offers full amenities. "RV or tiny homes…this place is AMAZING. We were in the RV side very clean, level elite back in with a concrete patio. Picnic table AND propane fire pit provided. The clubhouse has a bar and grill with a GIANT patio, live music, a store, heated pool and spa," reports Jennifer O.
Check site dimensions carefully: Some glamping RV sites have tight configurations. "Nice park, plenty of amenities, dog park, pull thru sites..close but not unbearable...plenty of room for tip outs," notes Chuck T. about Williams Circle Pines KOA. Sites at premium glamping locations provide more generous spacing.
Plan for altitude effects on RVs: The high elevation affects RV systems differently than at lower altitudes. "The water when it first came out was rusty. Let it run before hooking up," advises Tim G. about his stay at Railside RV Ranch. Propane also burns less efficiently at higher elevations, requiring more for heating.
Consider noise factors: Train tracks and highways run near some glamping sites. "Cons: The noise from the highway is pretty annoying in the lower half of the park," notes Bryan S. about Williams KOA. The Village Camp reviewer also mentions: "Cons: trains in the distance and some interstate noise but that's to be expected."
