Groom Creek Horse Camp operates from May 1 through October 31. Located at 6,000 feet elevation in the Prescott National Forest, the camp provides options for equestrians requiring specialized camping arrangements. The pine-forested surroundings offer riders miles of shaded trails with varied terrain. Dispersed camping opportunities exist for those seeking alternatives to the main campground facility.
What to do
Trail riding routes: Explore the network of forest trails directly accessible from Groom Creek Horse Camp, where each site includes a highline and one pen for horses. "This is a very beautiful campground for horse people only. Most sites are pull through to accommodate large trailers. The trails are very pretty. Parts are hilly, but well shaded," notes Ted B.
Water activities: Visit Dead Horse Ranch State Park for fishing and water recreation. "The park offers a much needed break from the Arizona heat in the spring and summer months. The 'lakes' are really more like ponds but plenty large enough to fish in as is the Verde River, running through the park," shares Audrey R.
Mountain exploration: Take a day trip to Crown King for high-elevation adventures. "This majestic spot is roughly ~26 miles (from Bumble Bee) of bumpy dirt roads, steep terrain, switchbacks, and the occasional one vehicle bridge," explains Justin M. The area sits at approximately 7,000-8,000 feet with cooler temperatures than Prescott Valley.
What campers like
Natural shade coverage: Camping under the pines at Yavapai Campground provides relief from summer heat. "This campground was exactly what we were looking for. We were in the woods, shaded, our site had power but not all do. The sites were nicely spaced apart," reports James C., highlighting the campground's layout.
Proximity to towns: Many campsites serve as good base locations for exploring nearby communities. "Nearby towns - Cottonwood, Jerome - have lots of shopping, dining options. Sedona is also not a far drive and beautiful," notes Gonzo A. when describing Dead Horse Ranch State Park's strategic location.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Morning and evening wildlife sightings enhance the camping experience. A camper at South Mingus Mountain reported: "Lots of shade. Easy dirt road for RVs. No cell reception. No WI-FI. Lots of cows, bulls, deer, seen mountain lion, fox, coyote." The diverse animal population adds to the natural experience.
What you should know
Water access limitations: Many equestrian camping areas have specific water arrangements. At Groom Creek Horse Camp, "Take some way of hauling water to your camp site, there are several water Fawcett [spigots] for filling but not close to all sites," advises Edward W. Campers should bring containers for transporting water.
Road conditions: Access to some camping areas requires appropriate vehicles. The road to Crown King Area "requires a high clearance vehicle (4x4 highly recommended)," according to Justin M., who notes that Horse Thief Lake is "~7 miles from the main city of Crown King."
Seasonal considerations: Weather affects camping conditions throughout the year. "Camped in november from the 13th to the 15th, not cold at all!!!" reports Levi V. about Dead Horse Ranch State Park, while Crown King offers "amazing weather all year round, but extremely limited travel available while snow is on the ground."
Tips for camping with families
Recreation options: Look for campgrounds with facilities for children. At Verde River RV Resort, "They have a pool and hot tub, mini golf, playground, pickle ball court, clubhouse, and lots of crafts and activities for the kids!" according to Mstwister E.
Shade importance: Select sites with adequate coverage during warmer months. "When making a reservation make sure you find spots with shade," recommends Rich M. for Dead Horse Ranch State Park, a consideration particularly important when camping with children.
Water play areas: Seek out campgrounds with safe water access for children. "One of the hikes, per suggestion of the ranger, leads down to a little lagoon of water stopped between two dams. The kids were able to splash and play there," shares Ashley C. about her family's experience at Dead Horse Ranch State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: Choose locations based on your specific needs and rig size. At Rancho Sedona RV Park, "Sites are spaced out a bit; not as tight as some other RV parks. There are huge shade trees," notes Kim G., who appreciated the layout and spacing.
Generator policies: Check campground rules regarding generator use. Many equestrian camping areas near Prescott Valley restrict generator hours or prohibit them entirely. Instead, some campgrounds like Yavapai offer electric hookups at specific sites for those requiring power.
Trailer accommodation: For equestrian camping near Prescott Valley, confirm trailer parking specifications. "We take portable panels also due to traveling with 2 horses," mentions Edward W., explaining how he supplemented the existing facilities at Groom Creek Horse Camp to accommodate multiple horses.
