Are you in need of a campground near Paulden, AZ? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Discover great camping spots near Paulden, reviewed by campers like you.
Quail Loop Campground
$20 - $60 / night
No fires or grills allowed at any time. Charcoal and wood campfires are prohibited. However, stoves and grills operating solely on liquified petroleum gas that can be turned on and off ARE allowed.
These designated sites are the only areas you may camp in within the west Sedona area. Dispersed camping is prohibited outside of these sites.
This camping area is open 24/7 on a first-come, first-served basis. There is a 14-day maximum stay limit.
Along FR525, there are 5 designated camping areas:
Surprise (3.72 acres)
Windmill (1.41 acres)
Cockscomb (3.23 acres)
Greasy Spoon (2.47 acres)
Nolan (11.85 acres)
Across from FR525 is FR89B, which has 2 designated camping areas:
Javelina (1.24 acres)
Angel Valley (1.14 acres)
A short distance down Highway 89A from FR 525 is FR9570A, which includes 1 designated camping area:
Rockview (10.82 acres)
Point of Rocks RV Park is a unique and picturesque RV Campground in Northern Arizona, nestled in Prescott's Granite Dells next to Watson Lake. Reservations are required to be booked online via porocks.com using our interactive website and campground map. We offer back-in level gravel/dirt RV only campsites; 30amp or 50amp electric, water, sewer, picnic table on each campsite. We have a laundry facility, secured restrooms with showers, and WiFi. Only a 10 minute walk from your campsite to Watson Lake Park. 5 miles from historic downtown Prescott. Our website also includes current campground rates, amenities, rules, park video, campsite photos, local event calendar and top attractions! Find us on YouTube. We are Open All Year.
$51 - $66 / night
White Spar Campground at 5,641 feet in elevation is a short drive of 2.7 miles south of downtown Prescott and east of Hwy 89. Campers will appreciate the mild weather and the cool ponderosa pine forest the campground is nestled in. The campground's convenient location allows for many opportunities for pursuing camping, hiking, mountain biking and bird watching. Several loop trails in the area allow for multiple modes of travel. The Tri-City Community comprising Prescott, Chino Valley, and Prescott Valley has events, functions, benefits, and attractions throughout the year are all within a few minutes' drive. To make reservations click on the availability button to the right to book this site or call 1 (877) 444-6777. For general campground questions contact the Bradshaw Ranger District at 1 (928) 443-8000.
White Spar Campground is available year-round, but campsites are limited during the winter season. Campsites are designed for RV, trailer or tent camping. Many popular outdoor activities abound in the area. Visitors may enjoy fishing, bird-watching, boating, backpacking, hiking, horseback riding, rock climbing, mountain biking, picnicking and just plain relaxing.
White Spar Campground is surrounded by a forest of ponderosa pine, oak, manzanita, and a variety of shrubs and grasses. In the Prescott Basin, the campground is near Granite Basin Recreation Area, Granite Mountain Wilderness Area, Granite Basin Lake, Lynx Lake Recreation Area, and Thumb Butte. Access to these areas can either be made by several interlocking hiking trails or by driving a short distance.
Northwest of White Spar Campground, within ten miles, is the Granite Basin Recreation Area. Granite Basin Recreation Area has several day-use areas, and Granite Basin Lake (five acres), which is known for channel catfish, large-mouth bass, and sunfish. Rising prominently north of Granite Basin Lake is Granite Mountain at 6,874 feet. The Granite Mountain Wilderness Area is comprised of the mountain's rugged topography and mixed vegetation suite. Also, within ten miles, is Alto Pit Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Campground and Day-Use Area. OHV riders of all skill levels can ride the several miles of trails that meander through the area's challenging terrain and vegetative cover. Southeast of downtown Prescott and within eight miles of White Spar Campground is Lynx Lake Recreation Area. Lynx Lake (55 acres) is an popular attraction in the Prescott National Forest that offers a variety of recreation opportunities for all age groups. Activities include fishing, boating, and hiking. West and within four miles, is the Thumb Butte Recreation Area. At 6,515-feet Thumb Butte is quite visible in the Prescott Basin. The Butte is popular for its scenic vistas, jogging and hiking. Rock climbing is allowed, but only between July 16 and January 31 as it is closed to climbing during the peregrine falcon nesting period. Birdwatching is popular outside the closed area. The City of Prescott offers several day-use recreation facilities within ten miles. To the north and northeast are Watson (70 acres) and Willow Lakes and to the south Goldwater Lake (15 acres). Each have unique qualities and recreation opportunities including boating, fishing, birdwatching and hiking.
$14 - $28 / night
Lo Lo Mai Springs Resort is located on Oak Creek, just minutes from Sedona. Visitors have been staying at Lo Lo Mai Springs in RV's, tents and cabins for over 50 years. Our gorgeous sites are surrounded by water and shaded by ancient cottonwoods and soaring sycamores. Our Cabins, RV and tent sites are nestled in the middle of nature, amongst the trees, near the flowing sounds of beautiful Oak Creek.
Lo Lo Mai is more than camping, we are an oasis escape from time and the desert. On the grounds you can find families camping, children on bicycles, dogs laying in the creek... and all just minutes from Sedona! Many of our guest never leave the park during their stay while others use Lo Lo Mai as a beautiful and relaxing base camp to explore the wonders of the surrounding area.
$59 - $150 / night
Campers looking for some peace and quiet will find this relaxing campground offers cool summertime temperatures and easy access from scenic Hwy 89A in central Arizona. The campground is located at 7,200 ft. in elevation between Mingus Mountain and Woodchute Wilderness in a beautiful ponderosa pine forest. To make reservations click on the availability button to the right to book this site or call 1 (877) 444-6777. For general campground questions contact the Verde Ranger District at 1 (928) 567-4121.
Wildlife viewing, hiking, scenic driving and off-highway scenic driving are popular in the area. The wanderer in you will appreciate your close proximity to Yeager Canyon Trail #28 and Woodchute Trail #102, a rewarding hike into the 5,923 acre Woodchute Wilderness and view from the top of Woodchute Mountain. Access to a segment of The Great Western Trail is located adjacent to the campground. Mingus Lake is just across the highway and stocked for fishing. The Verde River in the valley below offers rafting, kayaking and bird watching.
This mountain top campground offers a cool respite from hot Arizona summers -- a classic forest setting for a memorable camping adventure. Connect with your inner naturalist and observe the wildlife and wildflowers found in abundance around the campground. Interesting geology can be found in any direction with many significant rock formations, canyons and mountains within easy driving distance from Potato Patch.
The historic and eclectic mining town of Jerome is just down the steep, winding mountain road, with unique shopping and dining opportunities and Jerome State Historic Park. Tuzigoot National Monument, an ancient pueblo, and the lively historic towns of Clarkdale and Cottonwood with museums and basic services are just over 9 miles away. Hayfield Draw OHV Area is located on Highway 260 between Cottonwood and Camp Verde for a unique OHV recreational experience. The towns of Prescott Valley and Prescott are 20 miles away and provide a wide array of services, shopping and dining.
$14 - $36 / night
The Kaibab National Forest truly offers something for everyone. If you are anywhere near Northern Arizona, you won't want to miss the chance to visit us! From canyons to prairies, peaks to plateaus, the Kaibab National Forest offers layers of opportunity for peace, solitude & discovery. Whether you are seeking a primitive, dispersed camping experience or something with a few more amenities, Kaibab National Forest has lots of camping opportunities and the option to rent historic cabins.
It is labelled as East Pocket on a map, but known to locals as “The End of The World,” the perfect nickname to describe this climactic viewpoint. Flagstaff sits upon a lofty plateau carpeted in high-elevation pine forest, but just south of town, the bottom drops out. Below a craggy rim of volcanic rock, the land takes a precipitous plunge into an entirely different world of red rock and sandstone towers. This is the realm of Sedona, and End of The World overlooks all of it.
"Drifting along like a tumbleweed, you're right where you're supposed to be!" :)
ENJOY! 40 acres of beautiful mountain / desert / prairie views on this private homestead. Tents, vans, RVs, travel trailers and whatever else you might arrive in… Whatever you're looking for, this "Primitive Plus" (with extras!) campground is sure to be a unique experience for making some great memories! There are only a handful of available sites to ensure you have a very large area to yourself - wherever you choose to set up in this diverse environment. Great for large group retreats or the single camper needing a meditative experience in nature. Also great for very large events (hit me up for planning)! The focus here is private, raw, beautiful nature. :) Oh, and just as important - your camping will be HASSLE-FREE! Spend your time at your camp the way YOU want - the host won't bother you. (I'm pretty sure I can speak for the host, as I am he. Lol)
LAYOUT! The Spark is divided into two very large areas. Almost half the property is dedicated to drive-up campsites which are placed along a peaceful, meandering service road. Another huge portion is dedicated to the nature trail and areas you can explore. Take pics out there, search for cool rocks, plants, and wildlife, or set up an area to create as a second "satellite camp!" An old road, dry pond, meditation spots… anywhere you find yourself day or night you are welcome to be!
STARS! The deep, dark night sky is filled with shooting stars, The Milky Way, satellites, and maybe even a random UFO! There is nearly zero light pollution here and the night sky unfolds above us like a dazzling 3D light show!
WILDLIFE! Most of the usual northern Arizona wildlife is possible, and sometimes very likely here! From pronghorn antelope and the occasional elk and mule deer all the way down to jackrabbits, prairie dogs, and packrats… You're almost guaranteed to see neat animals sharing the property along with you!
RESTROOM! Bring a flashlight for those nighttime trips to the restroom. It's a Porta Potty style restroom and it's nicer than you'd expect. :) It also has the official Guest Book where you can share your experience in the area with other campers and music to give you something nice to listen to! Since this is a Porta Potty, there can sometimes be a smell inside but I keep the surfaces clean and anti-bacterialized!
WEATHER! Please check the weather at zip code 86320 before coming. We are open all year during any weather (excepting emergencies) so you are responsible for making sure the weather forecast is compatible with your camping expectations! Weather considerations: during windy days prepare to pay special attention to using extra long stakes for anchoring things like tents, tables, and shade canopies. When rain is in the forecast it can get VERY muddy out here very fast. So if you see that rain is a possibility, be prepared for that. :)
FUN AND GAMES! The Spark includes a modest "community fairgrounds" style area separate from the camping sites which includes a Horseshoe Pit and Cornhole Toss! Stay tuned for future outdoor weekend movie nights! (coming soon)
HOST! I live on the property and will check you in when you arrive unless we've made other arrangements ahead of time. And I'm here for YOU. Forget something important that isn't available in the camp market? I might have something from my personal stash you can borrow. Anything you might need I'll do what I can to accommodate. :) By the way, I'm also an officially ordained Dudeist Priest - so if you want to get married while you're here and have everything in order I can handle it Big Lebowski style. ;)
PACK IN/PACK OUT! There is NO TRASH PICKUP at this time at The Spark so be prepared to pack-out what you bring in. :) Any dumpsters you may see on your way in are privately owned by other people and are NOT for our use. :) Also The Spark is a private homestead - there are no hookups for RVs. This is a boondocking, dry camping experience. :) However! There are full services only 4 miles east on the I-40 where you can dump your trash, empty waste tanks, and refill your water and fuel! (The Belen and Star station).
MOONLIGHT MARKET! This is a self-serve collection of stuff you might want or need! Gallons of water for sale, firewood, some loaner items like ground stakes, emergency pet food, bug spray, sunscreen, maybe a few souvenirs… and a changing selection of various items are available with a wide variety of ways to pay. Self-service 24 hours day and night!
FREEDOM OF CHOICE! After checking in, the host will point out a few things you'll want to know such as the restroom, wandering area, and camping sites. From there you will simply enjoy a search of the property to find your perfect spot and enjoy the sun and the stars!
CHECK-IN AND CHECK-OUT! Check-in time is after 12 noon and check-out is 11am. YOUR SCHEDULE IS MY SCHEDULE - so if you're coming in after dark please let me know in advance as I have a separate check-in process to make things easier in the dark. If you need to come earlier, just message me first and we'll work something out!
"THANK YOU!" from the bottom of my heart for your interest in A Spark in the Dark private camping - my passion. :) I will send you a welcome message on the day of your check-in with critical notes on directions to get here, current weather and the like. And I look forward to sharing my property with you!
NEARBY: Essentials like grocery, gas, post office, souvenirs, service station, full RV services, and a couple of small town restaurants - only 5 miles away in local Ash Fork. Emergency services also available nearby.
RULES:
~ Cannabis/MJ friendly. Enjoy openly - you're fine!
~ pet and child friendly (under supervision, of course!) Pets can roam off-leash as long as they are fully under your control. :) We love pets here!
~ please observe the included camp rules and quiet hours (10pm-8am)
~ emergency services available nearby
$20 / night
Dogtown Lake offers a scenic setting convenient to Grand Canyon National Park and the cities of Williams and Flagstaff, Arizona. The campground is situated in a pine forest along the shore of a small and scenic lake. Visitors come here to hike, fish, mountain bike and explore the area's cultural and natural history. It's also a great place to relax and enjoy the sound of the wind in the pines and the spectacular view of nearby Bill Williams Mountain.
Campers are drawn to the area's hiking and fishing opportunities. The lake is stocked with trout, crappie and channel catfish. Visitors can enjoy a guided nature trail near the lake and a hiking trail that leads to a scenic overlook of the area from the top of nearby Davenport Hill. The calm waters are inviting for canoes, kayaks and electric motorboats. Single motors of one horsepower or less are permitted.
Kaibab National Forest is nestled on the Colorado Plateau, an area of land that was uplifted by geologic processes. Dogtown Lake sits at an elevation of 7,050 feet. The lake got its name from the extensive prairie dog "towns" that once covered open areas near the lake. In spite of the name, this medium-sized body of water is surrounded by trees. Summer temperatures range from 50 degrees at night to 80-90 degrees during the day. Summer thunderstorms, known as the monsoon, can build up quickly, especially during July and August. Snow is common from December through March.
For facility specific information, please call +0000000.
Grand Canyon National Park's South Rim is just over one hour north of the campground. The cities of Williams and Flagstaff have amenities such as shops, restaurants and cultural and historic sites. From canyons to prairies, peaks to plateaus, Kaibab National Forest offers layers of opportunity for peace, solitude and discovery. Over 300 miles of trails, some clinging to the rims of the Grand Canyon, allow visitors to step off the beaten path into uncrowded landscapes.
$28 - $276 / night
Traveler
Nice sites, 3 of which are first come first serve. We got one of those. Wooded area with drinking water pumps scattered about, trash receptacles, and toilets.
Traveler
The road is extremely washed out with huge potholes. Spaces small and very crowded
Scout
We drove to the end and then came back and took a left up a hill next to another campsite! It was a great site and clean. We were presently surprised!
Scout
Easy spot to camp for a night, with pretty good views. Lots and lots of shell casings and related trash, so not great for little kids.
Scout
Rough paved roads, but our Recvan did fine. We saw an Elk, it saw us, we walked back quickly. The surroundings are mainly bushes and rocks. Free camping with total solitude. AT&T and Tmobile both show good service. Verizon is unknown.
Scout
We were here the weekend after Christmas to do some bike riding. All sites are pull through, really well located in sedona. We rode our bikes everywhere. Site was clean and we'll maintained. We didn't use any facilities provided, since we had full hookups, so can't comment to them.
ScoutThis place is gorgeous the sites are spaced well . Unfortunately there's been a lot of homeless and left behind trash when we stay we always leave with bags and bags of trash. We can complain about the problem or be part of the solution.
Scout
LoLoMai 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.
Guide
Do not waste your time visiting this place. Do not get sucked in by the river because the RV park is the worst I have ever seen. Campers burning down because of bad wiring throughout the park. Long term tenants that refuse to clean up their sites, allow their kids to run wild and trash the place further, an owner that cares only about how much he can can you and suck as much money as he can out of you while providing less than adequate and most often less than safe services and an entire staff that is treated like something the owner stepped in and wiped off his shoes. There are way better places in the area!
Legend
I've parked my van as well as my skoolie out there many times over 5 years. It is under the canopy of the trees, very popular place so it gets crazy crowded. Think off grid intentional community. Is your are into herbal medicine, usnea grows here in mass. Mushrooms, yarrow herb. It is usually quiet at night, busy in the day. The road through there is a direct route from Belmont to flag, so expect that traffic. Also they shut down the interstate, this road actually becomes the route to flag. Everything from sheriff to semi trucks will drive it, and not slow! But tons of space in the forest.
Scout
Rock quarry right next to the site is great for shooting some rounds. There’s a mini lake next to the spot as well. Beautiful area.
Scout
Stayed 3 nights. Easy access to/from town, recently graded road as of this writing, and (kind of) level sites. Quiet during the winter season at least and plenty of wildlife. Like most dispersed camping, kooks leave trash everywhere.
Guide
Great dispersed camping spot close to Sedona!
Heads up we camped a little further down on Beaverhead Rd where there were more open spots and an easier dirt road to drive onto. Plenty of spots to choose from which was surprising on a holiday week (Christmas to New Years). The camping was a lot quieter than I expected even though there were a bunch of other campers. Everyone seemed to be able to find a spot far enough from another to have a secluded space.
The location is super convenient from Oak Village and downtown Sedona. There is even a back way on highway 89 if you find yourself in West Sedona and don't want to drive through traffic to get to highway 179.
Scout
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. Clean bathroom and hot showers. Laundry. Quiet. Overall very happy with our 7 night stay.
Traveler
Spent a few days here last Spring and loved it. The sites were decent. I was lucky to have one with a view but overall the site was decent. There are quite a few campgrounds and a couple were up the mountain slightly. Def suggest checking those campgrounds out - not much shade in those areas. The Quail campground had ample shade. Nearby towns - Cottonwood, Jerome - have lots of shopping, dining options. Sedona is also not a far drive and beautiful. Definitely recommend staying in this area if not at Dead Horse.
Scout
Had a wonderful time white tail deer walking thru the campsite. Plenty of sites to choose from. The only problem we ran into were the wild pigs trying to open our tote (no food in the store ) board games and camp kitchen utensils.
Scout
The road is totally doable in a minivan or the likes if you have some experience driving on rougher terrain, but only if you are coming in off of hwy 17. If you are in Sedona and decide to take 89A because you don’t want to drive out to hwy 17 like we did you will be met with a side by side trail. It is not a road. We barely made it in a 2025 Subaru Outback wilderness. If you have 4x4 and a solid 12 inches of ground clearance then go for it cause it is fun but damn. We took hwy 17 the rest of the days we camped here and it was a breeze. Beautiful views!
Traveler
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! The bathrooms and showers are very nice and clean too!
Scout
Beautiful camping surrounded by ponderosa pines and boulders. Rich in wildlife.
We were pushing the envelope with a 30 ft camper. Would strongly suggest motorhomes and longer RV's not consider this location. Our family were the only campers during our stay. Lots of activity in and around Crown King. Gas and water available in town. Due to roads, add an hour to any estimated drive time if pulling a trailer.
TravelerOutstanding one night stay at the DHR Cabins. The family had an awesome stay. Cabins right on the river, quiet and spread out enough. Walked and fished the river, so peaceful. Cleanest bathrooms I have ever been to at a campsite. Would suggest this to anyone, had a blast!
GuideDecent dispersed spot, the road in is old asphalt with some big dips and holes but mostly avoidable. Bunch of rocks sticking up in the dirt as you drive around the loop of the campsite but my truck was fine. Stayed here a couple times, first time was almost a week and second time was a few days. Can hear a little bit of highway noise but mostly white noise which I did not mind.
Traveler
Quiet and calm vibe. Found some random deer hooves at my site which is a little strange but otherwise it was perfect
Traveler
The area was really beautiful. I had a pretty strange experience, however. I arrived late at night and once I finally found a camping space, there was a truck that pulled up after me, parked about 10 feet away and the person just sat in the truck without ever getting out. At first I thought, they're just Sharing the space, but then I started to feel very unsettled- like they were watching me or something. As a single female, this is something that was fairly uncomfortable. They sat there for at least an hour, never moving and finally drove away. The next morning I saw this elk skin was draped over the fence behind me and hooves along the fence as well.
Traveler
Dirt road is a bit washboard but very manageable by any vehicle.
Spots line the road to the left & right as you travel down the road. cell Service can be excellent or poor depending on site you choose (avoid the ones in the dips/valleys if its a concern for you)
No facilities, just good ol’ convenient Arizona boondocking.
I came in mid December and there were only a handful of others.
ScoutThe climb from Sedona was a bit torturous for my poor 3” lifted Tacoma. The road has intentionally been unmaintained to make it spicy for the paid ORV tours. Around dusk, I saw a guy come in from 17 and start dropping down towards town. He had Honda Goldwing strapped in the bed of his pickup. He made it a few hundred yards down and decided to go back the way he came.
Scout
I enjoyed the creek view and the springs, but the lack of campsite wifi is too much to give this campground my approval. The lack of wifi, especially when there is no cell coverage, is unbelievable. Had FHU, but again the connectivity is not existent, even being close to Sedona.
Edited by slope game 2 days ago
Ranger
This place is huge! Nestled in the red rock country of Arizona, this Thousand Trails campground offers a scenic and tranquil escape. The sites are well-spaced, and the amenities include a pool, hot tub, 2 dog parks, hiking trails, river access and clubhouse. Its proximity to Sedona, Jerome and local wineries makes it an excellent choice for those seeking relaxation and exploration.
Camping near Paulden, Arizona, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and unique experiences. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a quiet place to unwind, there are options that cater to all types of campers.
Camping near Paulden, Arizona, offers a variety of experiences for everyone. Whether you're in an RV or tent, there's something for you to enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Paulden, AZ?
According to TheDyrt.com, Paulden, AZ offers a wide range of camping options, with 207 campgrounds and RV parks near Paulden, AZ and 101 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Paulden, AZ?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Paulden, AZ is Dead Horse Ranch State Park Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 58 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Paulden, AZ?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 101 free dispersed camping spots near Paulden, AZ.
What parks are near Paulden, AZ?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 7 parks near Paulden, AZ that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.
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