Dispersed camping near Petrified Forest National Park provides several options for travelers exploring this unique high desert environment. The park sits at approximately 5,400 feet elevation in northeastern Arizona where temperatures fluctuate dramatically between seasons. Many camping areas lack shade, making spring and fall the most comfortable seasons for overnight stays.
What to do
Explore backcountry hiking: Petrified Forest National Park offers permit-based backcountry camping for those seeking solitude. "Since there are no developed campgrounds inside Petrified Forest National Park, you have two options: choose a private campground outside of the park, or grab a permit and set off into the backcountry. We did both during our visit," notes a visitor at Holbrook/Petrified Forest KOA.
Visit prehistoric ruins: The Homolovi State Park Campground provides access to archaeological sites with Native American history. "The ruins are cool, there are a few different sites and more is being uncovered all the time," shared a camper who found the visitor center "amazing architecture for a visitor center in the middle of nowhere."
Stargaze without light pollution: The clear desert air allows for exceptional night sky viewing. A camper at Crystal Forest Campground noted, "Great overnight stop after a visit through The Petrified Forest. We went to the area through the gate past the sheltered electric camp spots. There were cement pads as well in the fenced area."
What campers like
Close proximity to park entrances: Many campers value locations that minimize driving time to both sections of the national park. "The proximity and position of this campground to the national park allows for easy visiting and minimal backtracking. We'd suggest starting your trip along Highway 40 to the northern Painted Desert Visitor Center to get acquainted with the park," recommended a reviewer at Holbrook/Petrified Forest KOA.
Electric hookups for desert comfort: OK RV Park offers electrical connections that help manage the extreme temperatures. "Sites are pull through and almost level. The space was large, well-marked, and easy to find in the dark. The campground was clean and quiet, and the restrooms were nice," shared one camper who noted this was "a simple RV park and not a resort."
Open camping areas for astronomy: The lack of trees creates unobstructed views of the night sky. "We positioned our trailer to block the light from the Crystal shop so we could photograph the milky way," noted a camper at Crystal Forest Campground who appreciated the safety of the location.
What you should know
Limited shade throughout region: The high desert environment offers minimal natural protection from the sun. A visitor to Homolovi State Park Campground observed, "Although they have planted trees, it's a lot of wide open space and sand. All spaces appear to have tables and fire rings."
Fire restrictions are common: Many locations prohibit open flames due to fire danger. At OK RV Park, a visitor noted, "The campground was clean and quiet, and the restrooms were nice. We'd definitely stay here again if we wanted to stay near Holbrook for a day or two."
Traffic and train noise at some locations: Proximity to Interstate 40 means some campgrounds experience noise disruption. "The tent sites sit packed together on the perimeter of the park overlooking the highway, which you can here all night long," reported one camper at Holbrook/Petrified Forest KOA.
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds offer facilities specifically designed for children. At Holbrook/Petrified Forest KOA, a visitor praised the "pool, basketball courts" and noted, "Very nice park, pool is nice, lots for kids to do, camp sites are close together not much shade, but very nice park with lots to see and do in area."
Consider educational opportunities: JoeStar Ranch Under Milky Way provides a different perspective for stargazing. The owner notes, "Each stay helps towards planting trees, on the property and in the fossil creek woods after the fire/closure of 2021."
Plan for temperature management: The desert climate requires additional preparation for families. A visitor to Homolovi State Park Campground shared, "Sites were clean with a little space from neighbors. Shower rooms look a bit rough, but the water was hot."
Tips from RVers
Choose pull-through sites for convenience: Several campgrounds offer easily accessible parking for larger vehicles. A camper at Sun Valley RV Park noted, "The owners and staff here is really friendly, great location as they are conveniently located right off the interstate, and yet still fairly quiet."
Check campground restrictions: Some locations have specific limitations on vehicle types. "Clean facilities, friendly staff, level sites and at a good price," reported a visitor at OK RV Park who found it a "perfect through stop."
Consider unique overnight options: For RVers seeking unusual experiences, alternative campgrounds provide memorable stays. "So the drive here is pretty bumpy but Bruce is a great host and gives excellent directions. The compound is surrounded by an electric fence and aliens to keep you safe," shared a visitor at Alien Acres.
