Camping options near Paulden, Arizona range from riverside sites to high-elevation forest campgrounds. The area sits at 4,500-7,000 feet elevation, creating distinct camping conditions throughout the year with temperature variations of up to 30°F between day and night. Fall camping near Paulden offers prime wildlife viewing opportunities with elk, deer, and various bird species active during cooler months.
What to do
Explore nearby waterways: Cave Springs Campground provides excellent creek access for fishing and cooling off. "Main complaint is loud campground. But lake is beautiful, tons of crawfish for the kids to play with, and nice trail!" notes Erin C. about Dogtown Lake Campground.
Day trip to historic sites: Camp Verde serves as an ideal base for exploring nearby attractions. "We stayed in site 31, which was large enough for a family of 6 and 2 large tents. This also means you are very close to Bearizona, Flagstaff and the Grand Canyon if you want to take day trips," shares Penny A.
Stargazing: Clear night skies make the Paulden area perfect for stargazing. "Incredible star gazing at night. The water flows making it easy to sleep. Ran into a couple of deer and elk," mentions Overland Pioneer about Dogtown Lake.
What campers like
Natural swimming options: The Verde River provides cooling relief during warmer months. "Staff is very friendly. River access is available at site C which we stayed at and our furbabies loved it! Sedona is only 45 mins from here so an even bigger two thumbs up!" shares Rebecca N. about Thousand Trails Verde Valley.
Quieter alternatives to Sedona: Some campgrounds offer more affordable options with similar access to attractions. According to Michael C., "We were here in November, but I could see this place getting HOT in August. It has been reported the park is near a major highway, but our spot at the back of the park is very quiet."
Wildlife viewing: Many campsites provide opportunities to observe local wildlife. "Ran into a couple of deer and elk," reports one camper at Dogtown Lake, while others mention bird watching opportunities throughout the area.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Temperature swings can be significant in this region. "We stayed in one of the cabins here with kids. Was well maintained, but overall quite dusty," notes Robert G. about Grand Canyon-Williams KOA.
Site selection matters: Not all sites are created equal, even within the same campground. "I really enjoyed the location of this campground but like other reviews have mentioned it is pretty noisy. For some reason this place just attracts campers which have a lot going on at their site," reports Crystal C.
Water availability: Some campgrounds have limited water access, particularly during drier months. "There are plenty of tent and RV spots, and unlike many campgrounds the spots can be close to each other if needed, which is great when you have a group of half tent half RV folks," explains Courtney E.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with built-in entertainment options. "Lots to do here. 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. about Williams-Circle Pines KOA.
Cooling options: During summer months, water access becomes essential for families. "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," explains Karen D. about Rancho Sedona RV Park.
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer nature programs or are near educational attractions. "This was our first time camping in our travel trailer. Circle Pines KOA was great. The campsites and facilities are very clean. There were tons of activities for the kids and the campground is very dog friendly," reports Katie S.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Many campgrounds offer complete RV services, but reservations are often necessary. "This is now one if my favorite RV Parks. We have stayed in so many RV Parks that make you feel like a can of soup on a grocery shelf, but not this one! The spaces are nice and big! I think all spaces are full hookups," reports Melody M. about Verde River RV Resort.
Level site challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain that requires preparation. "Nice park clean friendly staff. But here's a warning site #67 was so small I couldn't put my awning out. So unlevel that I ran out of leveling blocks trying to compensate," cautions Chris N.
WiFi and cell coverage: Connectivity varies significantly between glamping sites near Paulden. "Very clean warm restrooms. Clean and Hot. Has everything you need for a good night stay. Small store with the basics," mentions Robert M. when describing basic but essential amenities.
