Top Tent Camping near St. Johns, AZ

Looking for the best St. Johns tent camping? With The Dyrt, it's easy to find St. Johns campgrounds for you and your tent. Each tent site offers quick access to one or more of St. Johns, Arizona's most popular destinations.

Best Tent Sites Near St. Johns, AZ (25)

    Camper-submitted photo from Peace of Mind Campgrounds: SHOW LOW, AZ
    Camper-submitted photo from Peace of Mind Campgrounds: SHOW LOW, AZ
    Camper-submitted photo from Peace of Mind Campgrounds: SHOW LOW, AZ
    Camper-submitted photo from Peace of Mind Campgrounds: SHOW LOW, AZ
    Camper-submitted photo from Peace of Mind Campgrounds: SHOW LOW, AZ
    Camper-submitted photo from Peace of Mind Campgrounds: SHOW LOW, AZ

    1. Peace of Mind Campgrounds: SHOW LOW, AZ

    1 Review
    8 Photos
    1 Save

    THE BEST BASIC CAMPGROUND IN SHOW LOW, AZ. ENJOY PEACE OF MIND WITH YOUR FAMILY, PITCH A TENT OR HAUL AN RV DOWN TO THE LOT, JUST 20 MINS FROM PINETOP-LAKESIDE, MINUTES AWAY FROM MULTIPLE LAKES, TONS OF FUN STUFF TO DO IN THE AREA. ENJOY PEACE OF MIND IN NATURE FOR ONE NIGHT.

    HOUSE RULES:

    LEAVE IT AS CLEAN OR CLEANER THAN YOU FIND IT.

    KEEP CAMPFIRES NEAT AND ORGANIZED FOR EVERYONE'S SAFETY.

    DRINKING/SMOKING ALLOWED WITHIN REASON, ANY DAMAGE INCURRED TO THE LOT WILL BE DEDUCTED FROM THE RENTERS ACCOUNT.

    MANAGEMENT NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR WHAT HAPPENS ON THE CAMPGROUND, ITEMS LOST ETC.

    CHILDREN ALLOWED.

    THERE IS NOTHING ON THE LOT BUT THE BEAUTY OF NATURE. PREPARE ACCORDINGLY.

    IT IS ARIZONA, BRING WATER.

    AM AVAILABLE FROM 6:00 TO 6:00PM EVERYDAY FOR ANY QUESTIONS.

    DOGS, CATS, GIRAFFES, ETC. ALLOWED. TAKE PICTURES IF BRINGING A GIRAFFE.

    CONTACT AT 602-618-4564 FOR ALL INQUIRIES.

    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Market

    $50 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Brown Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Brown Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Brown Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Brown Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Brown Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Brown Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Petrified Forest National Park Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Petrified Forest National Park Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Petrified Forest National Park Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Petrified Forest National Park Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Petrified Forest National Park Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Petrified Forest National Park Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Shush Bezahze
    Camper-submitted photo from Shush Bezahze
    Camper-submitted photo from Shush Bezahze

    4. Shush Bezahze

    1 Review
    3 Photos
    57 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Dispersed
    • Trash
    • No image available

      5. Concho Lake Recreation Area

      Be the first to review!
      1 Save
      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Tents
      • Standard (Tent/RV)
      • Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from Hulsey Lake Fishing Site
      Camper-submitted photo from Hulsey Lake Fishing Site
      Camper-submitted photo from Hulsey Lake Fishing Site
      Camper-submitted photo from Hulsey Lake Fishing Site
      Camper-submitted photo from Hulsey Lake Fishing Site
      Camper-submitted photo from Hulsey Lake Fishing Site

      6. Hulsey Lake Fishing Site

      1 Review
      11 Photos
      2 Saves

      NOTICE Fishing conditions, and Hulsey Lake itself, have been severely affected by the Wallow Fire of June 2011, and the Monoon rains that followed. Please contact the Alpine Ranger District regarding current conditions, and advice for alternative fishing opportunites close by to Hulsey Lake.

      • Tents
      Camper-submitted photo from Pratt Lake Dispersed

      7. Pratt Lake Dispersed

      1 Review
      2 Photos
      3 Saves
      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Tents
      • Group
      • Standard (Tent/RV)
      • Dispersed
      • No image available
        Camper-submitted photo from Cutthroat
        Camper-submitted photo from Cutthroat
        Camper-submitted photo from Cutthroat
        Camper-submitted photo from Cutthroat
        Camper-submitted photo from Cutthroat
        Camper-submitted photo from Cutthroat

        9. Cutthroat

        2 Reviews
        15 Photos
        26 Saves

        Overview

        Cutthroat Campground lies at an elevation of 9,000 feet in the White Mountains of eastern Arizona. It sits on the shoreline of Big Lake and affords visitors many recreational opportunities in a quiet, scenic setting. Popular activities include trout fishing and hiking.

        Recreation

        Named after a species of trout, Cutthroat is adjacent to 450-acre Big Lake, one of Arizona's top fishing lakes. The lake is known for its trout fishing, with rainbow, cutthroat, brook and Apache being the most sought-after species. The recreation area is also popular for hiking, mountain biking, birding and wildlife viewing.

        Natural Features

        The campground is located in a very scenic area, forested with ponderosa pine, spruce, Douglas fir, and aspen trees, which provide ample shade. Summer temperatures are pleasant and cool, a nice respite from the heat of lower deserts. Visitors should come prepared for cool nighttime temperatures and occasional summer rain storms.

        Contact Info

        For facility specific information, please call (928) 537-8888.

        Nearby Attractions

        Visitors can explore endless vistas and take part in many outdoor activities in the surrounding Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, which encompasses 2 million acres of magnificent mountain country in east-central Arizona and New Mexico.

        • Pets
        • Reservable
        • Tents
        • Market
        • Trash
        • Firewood Available

        $20 / night

        Camper-submitted photo from Reservation Lake
        Camper-submitted photo from Reservation Lake
        Camper-submitted photo from Reservation Lake
      Showing results 1-10 of 25 campgrounds

      Recent Tent Reviews In St. Johns

      187 Reviews of 25 St. Johns Campgrounds


      • Jan P.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from LunaGaia Nomadic Village
        Oct. 27, 2024

        LunaGaia Nomadic Village

        Neat community vibe, off the beaten track, re-inventing community!

        Gorgeous place, beautiful landscape (awesome sunsets and sunrises), very welcoming hosts and a real sense of community.

        This is NOT your ordinary campground.

        Some sites with electrical hookups... 

        less expensive... quieter...

        Not far from the petrified forest.

        Short dirt road travel off I-40.

      • Candy P.
        Camper-submitted photo from Rainbow (az)
        Oct. 8, 2024

        Rainbow (az)

        Arizona’s best kept secret!

        Rainbow campground at big lake is magical! This is the place to beat the heat and make summer memories. Tucked into the pines and aspens this campsite is a quick drive or hike down to the lake. You can’t go wrong with any of the sites, including the first come first serve loops.

      • mThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Rolfe C. Hoyer Campground
        Aug. 5, 2024

        Rolfe C. Hoyer Campground

        Great campground in Greer ($30)

        Wonderful campground with flat sites, well spaced. Pit toilets and a shower. Dump on site! A bit expensive for dry camping but there in no dispersed camping in Greer and the neighboring apache res requires a $9 permit to dispersed camp. Three reservoirs nearby to hike to or fish at.

      • SThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Alpine Divide Campground
        Jul. 15, 2024

        Alpine Divide Campground

        If you just need to pull off easy to sleep

        Right along the highway on a big climb from both sides. Maybe when the b/w photo was taken it was cool with 10% of the traffic now? The road is crazy busy these days. I would not recommend this location.

      • Rod D.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Rainbow (az)
        Jun. 25, 2024

        Rainbow (az)

        Still a great place to escape the desert heat

        It had been 28 years since we last camped at Rainbow. It is still a great place to escape the desert heat.  It was 115 when we left the big city. Five hours later we found ourselves camped at 9100 feet, enjoying the cool temps in the mid 60's and the passing rain showers.  Aspens, pines, and wildlife were all in abundance.  Big Lake is a good fishing lake too.  

        The sites have plenty of space, shade, and privacy.  Roads are paved and in good shape. The restrooms were constantly cleaned by the very friendly and capable staff from recreation resource management which operates the campground for the forest service.

        Firewood and ice are available (stage 2 fire restrictions were in effect so no campfires), water was convenient as was gray water disposal.  There is a centralized dump station, showers, and a small but educational visitor center.  Trash dumpsters are centralized and easy to access.  

        If you don't fish there is still hiking to Mount Baldy, and short scenic drives to the very small towns of Greer and Alpine.  We enjoyed exploring the miles of scenic forest roads, and wildlife viewing.  We saw 4 Mexican gray wolves which was very special.  

        This is a very popular campground that accommodates all types of rigs. They do have first come first serve sites available, but it is recommended to make reservations at least 4 days in advance.  Reservations can be made at recreation.gov.  It's always best practice to print a copy of your reservation.   There is no cell service in this area. 

        We look forward to camping again at Rainbow.

      • SThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Hulsey Lake Fishing Site
        May. 26, 2024

        Hulsey Lake Fishing Site

        Been a favorite spot since 1985

        Always great fishing here. There is NO camping here. I repeat, NO CAMPING. But plenty of dispersed to be found up the road further all the way to Terry Flat. There are trails up the road and some OHV and a Jeep trail. There is housing when coming off the highway. Be respectful and don’t drive 45 down the road. Take your time and take it in.

      • SThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Pratt Lake Dispersed
        May. 24, 2024

        Pratt Lake Dispersed

        More of a pond than a lake

        Nice quiet area. Small lake. Didn’t fish, so unsure. No amenities at all, which is fine. Road is a little rough going in, in places.

      • CThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from LunaGaia Nomadic Village
        May. 19, 2024

        LunaGaia Nomadic Village

        Super close to petrified forest!

        A little hard to find but Janet was so helpful! There’s a shower and a communal cooking space and tons of options for camping. There’s not really designated camp spots, so pretty bare bones, but you can’t beat the price.

      • Colin M.
        Camper-submitted photo from Petrified Forest Campground
        Mar. 21, 2024

        Petrified Forest Campground

        Great Location

        Super close to petrified forest, roads are easy to get over with any awd car with decent clearance. Host was very nice and easy to contact! Just make sure to ask/clarify directions before going it's not too obvious when you get in initially.

      • Doug C.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from LunaGaia Nomadic Village
        Mar. 20, 2024

        LunaGaia Nomadic Village

        Not what we had thought …

        We actually didn’t stay as it just felt uncomfortable. Unfortunately Janet was not there and while we spoke on the phone, the person who was to greet us was not there. No signage at all which would have been helpful. The area is somewhat unkempt - the few rigs there were in rough shape and looked as though they had been there for a while. Sites were not obvious. An old wrecked car is near the site. We were just kind of creeped out so didn’t stay.

      • BThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Springerville RV Park
        Feb. 29, 2024

        Springerville RV Park

        Nice place to stop

        Just an overnighter, very quiet, looks to very new. Good internet reception. Very level site, we didn't have to unhook.

      • Brodie D.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Lyman Lake State Park
        Feb. 24, 2024

        Lyman Lake State Park

        Great spot!

        We pulled in after hours and a ranger kindly helped us find our spot. She recommended a cool hiking trail to check out the next morning. Bathrooms and showers are super clean and well maintained. There is only one designated bathhouse building so if you park far, you’ll be walking a ways. Did I mention the views are gorgeous? The views alone are worth staying here.

      • Kelley K.
        Camper-submitted photo from LunaGaia Nomadic Village
        Feb. 21, 2024

        LunaGaia Nomadic Village

        Beautiful, simple, everything we needed

        Very laid back. Nothing fancy but everything you need. Community space with kitchen and bathroom. Plenty of space to privately disperse camp among the Junipers. Spots with electric too. Janet is an amazing host.

      • Brian L.
        Camper-submitted photo from Petrified Forest Campground
        Feb. 19, 2024

        Petrified Forest Campground

        A Tranquil Retreat Amidst Nature’s Embrace

        I recently had the pleasure of staying at Nicks place, and despite a few initial concerns, my overall experience was nothing short of delightful.

        Upon arrival, I encountered a slight discrepancy in pricing from what was advertised on Dyrt, expecting $20 but discovering it to be $30. However, any uncertainty quickly dissipated thanks to the exceptional hospitality of the owner, Nick. His warmth and willingness to assist instantly put me at ease, setting the tone for a memorable stay.

        While the scenery might not have been as elaborate as anticipated, the tranquility of the surroundings provided the perfect backdrop for a restful night’s sleep. Though I had hoped to find petrified wood, its absence did not detract from the beauty of the natural landscape.

        Navigating to the campsite posed a minor challenge despite the provided directions. Eventually with Nick assisting I found the campsite around midnight. Nevertheless, the secluded location added to the allure of the experience, offering a sense of escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

        Admittedly, the unpaved dirt roads leading to the campsite stretched for about 4 miles, which came as a surprise. However, this added element of adventure only served to enhance the overall rustic charm of the location. I should add that the only piece of instruction missing is the left turn on cattleman’s which is the left just before sun country’s campground. Good luck finding the camp area!

        In retrospect, while there were minor inconveniences, they were far outweighed by the peace and tranquility that permeated every corner of this area. I would recommend this hidden gem to anyone seeking a serene retreat amidst nature’s embrace. My sincerest thanks to Nick and for providing such a memorable experience.

      • Des R.
        Camper-submitted photo from Elk Horn RV Park
        Feb. 5, 2024

        Elk Horn RV Park

        Gross

        They have a registered sex offender here that hits on you if you cross his path. Meth heads around and dirty spaces. I'd avoid the place. Way nicer parks around with nicer management. It's a gross place. The manager walks around with a gun and they have cameras everywhere due to high crime.

      • J
        Camper-submitted photo from Lyman Lake State Park
        Sep. 28, 2023

        Lyman Lake State Park

        Amazing

        The park was practically empty. The views are always amazing, and the weather was perfect. The wind picked up in the evenings to about 10 mph, but then was calm around 9pm. In the morning the lake was very calm, and taking the kayak out was so peaceful. I spoke with the ranger and ahead said next summer a vendor will have boat and jet ski rentals. Good and bad, but maybe that will help keep camping rates low. Highly recommend a trip here when you have a long weekend.

      • Beth G.
        Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Crossing Campground
        Sep. 21, 2023

        Buffalo Crossing Campground

        Perfect Spot for fishing

        -Update- 🛑Currently Closed 🛑

        The NFS is repairing the bridge to this site, so it is closed until 2024.

        ———- Such a nice little campground- perfect for fishing. Right next to the river with trash bins and toilets.

        The lack of trees make this site seem more crowded then it actually is

        Sites are first come , first served.

      • Marie J.
        Camper-submitted photo from Elk Horn RV Park
        Sep. 15, 2023

        Elk Horn RV Park

        STAY AWAY FROM THIS PLACE!!!

        THERE IS A a REGISTERED SEX OFFENDER DOING THE MAINTENANCE WORK ON THIS PROPERTY!! KEEP YOUR LOVED ONES AWAY FROM THIS PREDATOR IF YOU KNOW WHAT'S GOOD FOR YOUR FAMILIES!!!

      • Jake C.The Dyrt ADMIN User
        Camper-submitted photo from Petrified Forest Campground
        Sep. 13, 2023

        Petrified Forest Campground

        A rare place to stay near the petrified forest

        Jake from the Dyrt here!  Nick's Place is a sprawling piece of land near the petrified forest with great views to take in while you escape the city.  Check them out and share your experience on the Dyrt!

      • Carl L.
        Camper-submitted photo from Brook Char Campground
        Aug. 22, 2023

        Brook Char Campground

        Bogus

        Reserved site #13 on line for August 15th. On arriving this site has no flat areas and you must pass directly through site #12 to access. The entire campground was EMPTY except us. We decided to move to site #12 to get a flat area. I informed the host out of courtesy of our move to the empty adjoining site. He said NO! I had to pay him $20 to make the change. If I did it on-line, it would be zero fee. THERE IS NO CELL COVERAGE at this campground, so it is impossible to go online and make that useless change. Another caretaker drove by and said he didn't see a problem moving if it was his call. The dude at Brookchar would NOT budge...he wanted his $20 bucks ( I have a senior pass and at worst it would have been $8.00). Told him to stuff it and to contact his manager. He refused. The other caretaker guy drove away and and said he would discuss it with her. Bear in mind, the entire campground had zero reservations for that evening besides us. He returned later to inform me that the manger had "OK'ed" the change for no fee. It is zero fee to change a campsites....zero! Unbelievable,,,,Beware....

      • Jamie T.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from LunaGaia Nomadic Village
        Aug. 17, 2023

        LunaGaia Nomadic Village

        Awesome place!

        For our first place ever, this is a really great place. Janet was awesome and the places off grid, but only 5 minutes from the interstate. She was very helpful and we love it. Our dog also loves all the free reigns running. He can do, thank you, Janet for an awesome day.

      • Jamie T.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from LunaGaia Nomadic Village
        Aug. 17, 2023

        LunaGaia Nomadic Village

        Super awesome Vibe

        We just got here and it's amazing and semi offgrid but really close to highway. Janet is amazing and an awesome friendly host. This is our first actual camp site as we were running propane from VA to CA AND VISE VERSA.



      Guide to St. Johns

      Camping near St. Johns, Arizona, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

      What to do:

      • Fishing: Many campers enjoy fishing at Big Lake Campground. One camper said, "The scenery is beautiful. The weather was beautiful and the fishing was good."
      • Hiking: Explore the trails around Lyman Lake State Park Campground. A visitor mentioned, "The views are always amazing, and the weather was perfect."
      • Wildlife Watching: Campers at Rainbow Campground often spot deer and other wildlife. One reviewer shared, "We even had visits from deer, a very bold skunk, chipmunks, squirrels, and blue jays."

      What campers like:

      • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area Campground. A reviewer noted, "Show and bathroom facilities are clean and nearby."
      • Spacious Sites: Many enjoy the roomy sites at Holbrook/Petrified Forest KOA. One camper said, "The sites are wide and level. Nice amenities include the chairs, table, and fire pit."
      • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpful staff at OK RV Park. A visitor remarked, "The staff were very friendly and making a reservation was easy."

      What you should know:

      • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Crystal Forest Museum and Gifts, do not have drinking water or electric hookups. A camper mentioned, "Store opens in the am with bathrooms, big dumpster, beautiful stars."
      • Road Noise: Campers at Holbrook/Petrified Forest KOA noted that while it's convenient, you can hear some freeway noise. One reviewer said, "You can hear some of the freeway noise and an occasional train."
      • Reservations Recommended: Popular spots like Rainbow Campground fill up quickly. A visitor advised, "It's recommended to make reservations at least 4 days in advance."

      Tips for camping with families:

      • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with amenities for kids, like Show Low Lake Campground. One camper said, "The hosts are incredible," making it a welcoming place for families.
      • Explore Nature: Encourage kids to explore the outdoors. A camper at Lyman Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "There is only one designated bathhouse building, so if you park far, you’ll be walking a ways."
      • Plan for Quiet Hours: Many campgrounds have quiet hours, like Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area Campground, which are from 8 PM to 7 AM. A reviewer noted, "Quiet hours 8 PM-7 AM."

      Tips from RVers:

      • Check Site Size: RVers at OK RV Park appreciated the spacious sites. One camper said, "They took us to our site and it was huge."
      • Laundry Facilities: Look for campgrounds with laundry options, like Holbrook/Petrified Forest KOA. A visitor mentioned, "The laundry area was clean and reasonable."
      • Be Prepared for Weather: Campers at Big Lake Campground noted the weather can change quickly. One camper said, "The wind picked up in the evenings to about 10 mph, but then was calm around 9 PM."

      Camping near St. Johns, Arizona, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

      Frequently Asked Questions

      • Which is the most popular tent campsite near St. Johns, AZ?

        According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near St. Johns, AZ is Peace of Mind Campgrounds: SHOW LOW, AZ with a 5-star rating from 1 review.

      • What is the best site to find tent camping near St. Johns, AZ?

        TheDyrt.com has all 25 tent camping locations near St. Johns, AZ, with real photos and reviews from campers.