Curt D.
Traveler
TravelerGarland Prairie Rd Dispersed Camping
Don't recommend
Very few sites. Mostly occupied by people squatting no real views road is rough do not recommend wanted to save someone else the hassle.
Best Campgrounds in Arizona
Arizona features a diverse spectrum of camping environments across its desert landscapes, pine forests, and canyon rims. From well-established sites like Mather Campground at Grand Canyon National Park with drinking water and fire rings to free dispersed options like Forest Service Road 328, the state accommodates various camping styles. Tent, RV, and glamping options exist at locations such as Lost Dutchman State Park and Flagstaff KOA, where amenities range from basic to full-service. Several areas permit free camping on public lands, particularly in national forest areas surrounding Sedona, Flagstaff, and near recreational lakes.
Road conditions vary significantly throughout Arizona camping areas, with many dispersed sites requiring high-clearance vehicles. "The drive itself is an adventure, but doable in just about any car if it hasn't rained. I would still recommend some kind of SUV," noted one visitor describing the rough roads to East Pocket in Sedona. Seasonal considerations heavily influence camping experiences, with summer temperatures frequently exceeding 100°F in lower desert regions while higher elevations remain moderate. Winter brings snow to northern Arizona and mild conditions to southern regions. Cell service is typically limited at remote sites, especially in canyon areas and wilderness zones. Fire restrictions commonly affect camping during dry periods from April through October, with complete bans often implemented during high fire danger.
Campers consistently rate waterfront sites among Arizona's most desirable camping locations. Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground and areas along Lake Mohave receive strong reviews for their water access, though they tend to fill quickly during warmer months. One reviewer described Pot Cove in Lake Mohave as having "crystal clear water. Amazing experience," despite requiring navigation of 18 miles of dirt road. Privacy and scenery vary considerably between developed campgrounds and dispersed options. Most dispersed areas offer greater solitude but minimal amenities, while established campgrounds provide more facilities at the cost of proximity to other campers. Wildlife encounters are common throughout Arizona's camping areas, with visitors reporting sightings of everything from wild turkeys to bears in mountainous regions.
Campground Showdown in Arizona
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Round 1 of 5
Best Camping Sites in Arizona (1,917)
1. Mather Campground — Grand Canyon National Park
214 ReviewsGrand Canyon, AZWebsite+1 (877) 444-6777$6 - $50 / night
"If you want to camp relatively close to the rim of the Grand Canyon, this is the spot."
"I consider myself some what ocd when it comes to preparing for camping trips, although on this occasion, of all things to forget, the tent was left behind!"
2. Lone Rock Beach Primitive Camping Area — Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
122 ReviewsBig Water, UTWebsite+1 (928) 608-6200"Plenty of toilets and trash cans are by the entrance/exit. A little windy because it’s exposed but very calm and quiet otherwise."
"My wife and I took a random trip through Arizona on the way to The North Rim Grand Canyon! We happened upon Page Arizona, and found that we are the only ones whom didn't already know about the area."
3. Forest Service Road 328 Dispersed
94 ReviewsGrand Canyon, AZ"Could only get one night at the Mather CG in Grand Canyon, so we went boondocking just outside of the National Park in Kaibab NF. "
"The sites are pretty big and private, I recommend tucking yourself as far back as possible to stay away from the dust kicked up by passing cars."
4. Lost Dutchman State Park Campground
91 ReviewsSuperstition Mtn, AZWebsite+1 (480) 982-4485$35 - $99 / night
"It kind of poked off the main loop away from other neighbors which is why we picked it, very close to the mtb trail and easy access to the trail leading to siphon draw. Very little shade."
"One of my favorite trails in Arizona."
5. Gilbert Ray Campground
84 ReviewsCortaro, AZWebsite+1 (520) 724-5000$10 - $75 / night
"The scenery here is perfect for Arizona. Great views of Tucson Mountain and surrounded by all kinds of hiking trails in the Tucson Mountain Park. The sites are gravel and mostly flat."
"Fantastic place to stay in the Arizona countryside. Cacti everywhere! So cool!"
6. Flagstaff KOA
76 ReviewsFlagstaff, AZWebsite+1 (928) 526-9926$100 / night
"Nice campground near highway. Nice pleasant staff. Bathrooms were clean. Beautiful setting with mountain right behind the campground. Short walking trails within campground."
"There is access to some great trails right behind the park. Sites are descent size but definitely not level but that is an easy fix."
7. Homolovi State Park Campground
70 ReviewsWinslow, AZWebsite+1 (928) 289-4106$30 - $40 / night
"This is a great little campground 2 miles outside of Winslow Arizona. It’s in the middle of a state park that has two areas of ruins. One area is located about a mile from the campground."
"Very surprised at how quiet it is because it is pretty close to I40. Only 5 miles outside of Winslow. Dump station and water fill at the entrance. Most sites have electric and water."
8. Catalina State Park Campground
68 ReviewsOro Valley, AZWebsite+1 (520) 628-5798$50 / night
"Dump station near exit of loops and another near state park entrance. Nice selection of pull through and back-in sites. We had a back-in on outer edge and had beautiful views."
"Catalina State Park in Tucson, Arizona, is a fantastic campground that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and convenience."
9. Trailer Village RV Park — Grand Canyon National Park
72 ReviewsGrand Canyon, AZWebsite+1 (928) 638-1006"The spots are quite large and we were lucky enough to get one with a large treed area next to it. Full hookups and all."
"Walking distance to some amazing lookouts and to the dining hall. Drove to Keys Point lookout tower and left the park by that exit as we headed toward Lake Powell."
10. Dead Horse Ranch State Park Campground
66 ReviewsCottonwood, AZWebsite+1 (928) 634-5283$25 - $70 / night
"Dead Horse Ranch is a beautiful Arizona state park."
"The forest was closed in Northern Arizona so I decided to camp out at Dead Horse Ranch SP. I was pretty pleased overall with my trip. "
Recent Camping Photos in Arizona
2161 Photos of 1917 Arizona Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Recent Reviews in Arizona
9488 Reviews of 1917 Arizona Campgrounds
Don R.
RangerPayson Campground & RV Resort
Just ok
Nothing special. Quiet. Mostly long term.
John H.TravelerBlack Rock Road Dispersed
Great for one or two nights (30’ FW)
Easy in and out
- Don R.Ranger
Holbrook/Petrified Forest KOA
Fenced in sites are worth it.
Secluded fenced in sites are great when you have dogs or just want to be antisocial. Food on site also resteraunts within walking distance. Close to 40 but the noise wasn't an issue. The staff here is great as well.
- KKathie
ScoutWilliams-Circle Pines KOA
Kids Paradise!
The first time I came to this campground, I came on my own with a small teardrop camper. I found it to be clean and the people very kind and helpful. I couldn’t help but thinking how much fun my grandkids would have because the place is literally created for families.
Last week I took my six and seven-year-old grandchildren. They had so much fun! They rode the train, went to the movies, swam in the pool, went panning for gold and had ice cream! My hope is that they would fall in love with Camp camping, even if this was truly Glamping. We stayed in one of the cabins and it was wonderful.
Icy B.
GuideLarson Ridge Camping Area
It's Good
Good spot. Seems well taken care of. Not many people here although its a Sunday night. Saw a spot with a sign that said camp here so thats where I stayed LOL
- Liz G.Traveler
Garden Grove RV Park
TERRIBLE
We booked Garden Grove RV Resort in Sierra Vista for three months, but after two months we made the decision to leave early because we no longer felt safe or comfortable staying there. During our stay, there was a major law-enforcement incident at the park involving Sierra Vista police, a SWAT team, and a helicopter. That alone was extremely unsettling. There was another law-enforcement incident involving park personnel the following week. After everything that happened, we did not feel comfortable remaining at the park. There were also many ongoing problems with the condition and management of the campground. For a park with more than 100 RV tenants, we observed only one garbage container available for residents. Around a number of sites, there were household items and other belongings left outside, and many sites appeared to be occupied by long-term residential campers. The interior roads were also in very poor condition. There were large washed-out areas and deep holes where we had to almost come to a complete stop to get through them safely. With a motorhome or other low-clearance vehicle, there is a real concern about scraping or damaging the underside of the vehicle. Another major concern was enforcement of the park rules. In our experience, many of the posted rules did not appear to be consistently enforced. One of the rules requires dogs to be on a leash. My husband was walking our two Labrador retrievers, both properly leashed, when an unleashed dog ran toward our dogs. Their leashes became wrapped around my husband's legs, causing him to fall hard. He severely injured his arm and was bleeding. This was especially upsetting because we were following the park's leash rule. The rules also state limits on the number of vehicles allowed at a site and prohibit tow dollies, yet we saw multiple sites with additional vehicles and tow dollies. Our neighbor had three vehicles parked so close to our Class A motorhome that at times we could not properly open one of our basement storage doors. Another site had what appeared to be a portable carport along with numerous vehicles. Our biggest issue was not simply that rules existed— it was that, from what we personally observed, they were routinely ignored or inconsistently enforced. We have traveled extensively and stayed in many RV parks. We understand that no campground is perfect, but we expect reasonable maintenance, enforcement of basic safety rules, and an environment where guests feel secure. Unfortunately, that was not our experience at Garden Grove RV Resort. We gave up the final month of our three-month reservation and left because our safety and peace of mind were more important than staying for the time we had already paid for. Based on our personal experience, we would not stay here again.
- PPaul S.Traveler
Route 66 General Store & RV Park
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ A Great Route 66 Stop — Friendly, Relaxed & Full of Character
We really enjoyed our stay at the Route 66 General Store & RV Park. It’s exactly the kind of place you hope to find while traveling Route 66 — friendly, welcoming, unpretentious, and with plenty of character.
The RV park was easy to access and provided a comfortable, peaceful place to stop after a day on the road. The General Store adds to the experience and gives the whole place that classic Route 66 atmosphere that you just don’t get at the big commercial RV resorts.
What really stood out was the hospitality. We felt genuinely welcome from the moment we arrived, and that makes a huge difference when you’re traveling by RV.
If you’re exploring Route 66 or simply passing through and need a good place to stay, this is definitely worth a stop. We would happily stay here again and recommend it to fellow RV travelers.
Great people, great atmosphere, and a proper Route 66 experience. Five stars from us!
Tamra H.TravelerNolan Tank Large Dispersed Area
Beautiful scenery
There's multiple campgrounds leading up here but we chose this particular one because it was the closest to the Boynton canyon trail we were hiking that morning. (Google maps will have you back track, but dirt road leads you there. 10 minutes)
We arrived at about 3 pm and it was still fairly empty, but did fill up that evening. The mountains were beautiful at sunset.
Coyotes were hovering pretty close to the area. If you have pets just keep them close.
Overall it was a great experience!
Guide to Arizona
Camping in Arizona offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. From desert vistas to lush forests, there's something for everyone. Here’s what you need to know about camping in this beautiful state.
What to do
- Hiking and Exploring: Many campgrounds, like Lost Dutchman State Park Campground, have fantastic hiking trails. One camper said, “Lace up your boots and conquer one of the park's diverse hiking trails. From challenging climbs to scenic strolls, there's a path for every level.”
- Off-Roading: If you’re into off-roading, check out the trails near Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground. A reviewer mentioned, “Dust off your UTVs and get ready for a blast! The washboard washes offer thrilling rides for off-road enthusiasts.”
- Wildlife Watching: Campgrounds like Houston Mesa Campground are great for spotting deer. One visitor noted, “Deer in campground in trees! The bathrooms are immaculate!”
What campers like
- Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A reviewer at Dead Horse Ranch State Park Campground said, “Bathrooms are extremely clean with nice showers.”
- Spacious Campsites: Many campgrounds offer ample space between sites. One camper at Cave Springs mentioned, “There are a lot of sites here and yet a lot of them feel secluded.”
- Friendly Hosts: Campground hosts often receive high praise. A visitor at Rancho Sedona RV Park shared, “The camp hosts are incredibly friendly and helpful, adding to the welcoming atmosphere.”
What you should know
- Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground, lack drinking water and showers. A camper noted, “No hot water in bathrooms. No showers.”
- Crowded During Peak Season: Popular spots can get packed. A reviewer at Cave Springs said, “Packed in like sardines. Spaces are pretty small.”
- Wildlife Caution: Be aware of wildlife, especially in areas like Houston Mesa Campground. One camper warned, “The amount of camping spaces available went to such small of a number that it’s basically become a parking lot.”
Tips for camping with families
- Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with amenities for kids, like Dead Horse Ranch State Park Campground. A family shared, “The hosts were very nice and the bathrooms were very clean.”
- Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. One camper at Lost Dutchman State Park Campground said, “There is plenty to see around the area.”
- Pack Snacks and Games: Keep kids entertained with snacks and games. A reviewer at Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground mentioned, “Great trails for hiking in the park.”
Tips from RVers
- Check Hookups: Make sure your campground has the right hookups for your RV. A visitor at Rancho Sedona RV Park noted, “Good late check-in setup though.”
- Be Prepared for Limited Cell Service: Some areas have spotty cell service. A camper at Houston Mesa Campground mentioned, “While Verizon service isn't optimal, it's manageable.”
- Respect Quiet Hours: Many campgrounds have quiet hours. A reviewer at Pumphouse Wash (FR 237) said, “People ride ATVs at night, so don’t plan on quiet at all times.”
With these insights, you’re all set for a memorable camping experience in Arizona!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best camping spots in Arizona for scenic views and natural attractions?
What are the best camping spots in Arizona for scenic views and natural attractions?
Arizona offers stunning camping destinations with spectacular natural scenery. Wahweap Campground & RV Park provides breathtaking views of Lake Powell and convenient access to Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon. The location is ideal for exploring multiple natural wonders within an hour's drive. For desert landscapes, Alamo Canyon Primitive Campground in Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument offers a small but spectacular setting among classic Sonoran Desert vegetation. Other scenic options include Mather Campground near the Grand Canyon for rim views, White Horse Lake for peaceful forest and lake vistas, and the Sedona area for stunning red rock formations. Many Arizona campgrounds balance natural beauty with accessibility, allowing campers to enjoy diverse landscapes from alpine forests to desert expanses.
Where can I find free or low-cost camping options throughout Arizona?
Where can I find free or low-cost camping options throughout Arizona?
Arizona offers abundant free dispersed camping on public lands. Forest Service Rd #205/225 Upper Dispersed Camping provides free sites along a well-maintained graded gravel road with scattered camping spots along the main road and down open Forest Service spur roads. Remember that dispersed camping requires setting up at least 1 mile from developed areas. Black Rock Road Dispersed offers no-frills free camping near the Arizona/Utah border with great sunset views—follow signs to the gypsum mine for more secluded spots. Other free options include Harshaw Road Dispersed Camping in San Rafael Canyon, Forest Service Road 328 Dispersed, and West Sedona Designated Dispersed Camping. Most dispersed sites lack facilities, so come prepared with water and waste disposal solutions, and always follow Leave No Trace principles.
When is the ideal season for tent camping in Arizona to avoid extreme temperatures?
When is the ideal season for tent camping in Arizona to avoid extreme temperatures?
The ideal tent camping season in Arizona varies dramatically by elevation. In lower desert regions, spring (March-May) and fall (October-November) offer pleasant temperatures with daytime highs of 65-85°F and cool nights. Summer desert camping can be dangerous with temperatures regularly exceeding 100°F. Tonto National Forest Riverside Campground typifies low desert camping—beautiful but extremely hot in summer months. For summer camping, head to higher elevations. White Horse Lake Campground near Flagstaff offers a cooler alternative during hot months. The Arizona camping calendar essentially inverts by elevation: northern/high-elevation areas (Flagstaff, White Mountains) are ideal May-September, while southern/low-elevation areas (Phoenix, Tucson, Yuma) are best October-April. Always check weather forecasts and bring appropriate gear for sudden temperature changes, particularly in spring and fall.
Are there family-friendly campgrounds in Arizona with amenities like showers and restrooms?
Are there family-friendly campgrounds in Arizona with amenities like showers and restrooms?
Pinegrove Campground offers excellent family amenities with spacious sites featuring level paved parking pads and tent pads. Families will appreciate the clean bathrooms, pay showers, and firewood for sale near the host sites. Each site includes a fire pit and picnic table, with beautiful settings among the pines bordering a meadow. Lo Lo Mai Springs Resort is another family-friendly option with Oak Creek running through the property—perfect for cooling off during hot months. The mature trees provide welcome shade at most sites. Other family-suitable options include Lost Dutchman State Park with modern facilities, Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground with water recreation opportunities, and Flagstaff KOA offering full amenities including Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and a playground for children.
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