Tent camping in Peach Springs, Arizona offers access to high desert landscapes with elevations ranging from 1,500 feet near the Colorado River to over 6,000 feet in the nearby mountains. The area's dramatic elevation changes create distinct temperature zones, with mountaintop campgrounds often 15-20 degrees cooler than river locations during summer months. Most dispersed camping areas require visitors to pack out all trash and bring their own water.
What to do
Explore abandoned mines: The area surrounding Windy Point Campground features historic mining sites accessible by hiking trails. "Check out some of the abandoned mines scattered throughout this area. If you look hard enough as your drive you will find great little places to check out. Just be safe and DO NOT try to go inside them," advises one camper.
Enjoy mountain hiking: The remote mountain setting at BLM Wild Cow Springs Recreation Area offers extensive trail networks. A visitor noted, "Hiking and views for days. Clean vaulted toilets and well maintained site. Each site has a table and fire ring as well as parking for one, sometimes two vehicles."
Experience the Colorado River: Campers can access the river directly from Diamond Creek Camp. "River is within 200 yards of camp site with really good access," notes a camper who visited the area. The cold river water provides welcome relief during hot summer days when temperatures frequently climb above 100°F.
What campers like
Natural privacy between sites: At Wild Cow Springs Recreation Area, campsites offer good separation. "The sites are well spread out so each camp has privacy. We will definitely be back!" reports one visitor who appreciated the secluded feel despite being in an established campground.
Cooler temperatures at higher elevations: The mountaintop location of Windy Point offers escape from summer heat. "We went in June when it was probably 110 degrees at the base of the mountain, mid 90s up at the camp site," shares one camper who appreciated the temperature differential.
Solitude during weekdays: Desert Glamping Getaway and other sites in the area typically see fewer visitors midweek. Many campers report having entire campgrounds to themselves, especially during spring and fall shoulder seasons when weather conditions are most favorable.
What you should know
High clearance vehicles recommended: Roads to most camping areas require appropriate vehicles. For Windy Point Campground, one camper warns, "I would recommend a 4 Wheel Drive especially after any weather. You can make it in your 2 Wheel Drive but lets just say I wouldn't even think about trying it again."
Limited services: Most dispersed camping areas lack basic amenities. Anvil Rock Roadside Camp has no toilets, water, or designated fire rings. "Great place to spend the night if you're traveling through. We got here late at night, and managed to find a spot to pull in with our teardrop trailer," reports one visitor.
Variable road conditions: Access roads can deteriorate quickly after rain. "4x4 or all-wheel drive recommended but on a dry day with a well maintained grade a crossover had no problem with the ascent," notes a camper describing the route to Wild Cow Springs Recreation Area.
Permit requirements: Some camping areas require advance permits. For Diamond Creek Camp, a visitor explains, "Before you start down the road to this campsite you need to get a Trespassing Permit from the Tribal Game Wardens Office which is located next to the store at the top of the trail."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with shade: Summer temperatures can be extreme at lower elevations. Wild Cow Springs offers better conditions for families with children. "Trees cover almost everything, there is a little creek, and plenty of opportunities to go exploring on hikes," describes one camper who visited in September.
Consider accessibility needs: When camping with children or those with limited mobility, choose more developed sites. "Each site has a table and fire ring as well as parking for one, sometimes two vehicles. Plenty of tree coverage to slow the occasional chilly breeze that crept up on us," notes a visitor to Wild Cow Springs.
Plan for weather variations: Mountain campgrounds can experience sudden temperature changes. "Loved it!" exclaimed a camper about their September stay at Wild Cow Springs, noting the "beautiful" weather—but be prepared for cooler nighttime temperatures even when days are warm.
Tips from RVers
Limited spaces for larger rigs: Most tent camping areas near Peach Springs accommodate only small trailers or truck campers. At Diamond Creek Camp, a visitor observed, "This is a cool little spot on the CO River... They have roughly 10 sites all have very nice awnings and picnic tables. The sites are not level or very big."
Consider pull-in dispersed options: For overnight RV stops, Anvil Rock offers convenient access. "As soon as you get off the highway it's a right then a right and your in the parking lot. Next to highway so you will hear traffic but a quick stop for sure!" notes one RVer who found it suitable for a brief stay.
Smaller trailers fare better: Truck campers and teardrop trailers can access more remote sites. "The camping area is more like a day use area where they let you camp. Works well for a truck camper," explains a visitor to Diamond Creek Camp, adding "I had the camping area all to myself."
