Sedona's camping experiences range from 4,500 to 6,500 feet in elevation, creating distinct temperature variations even within short distances. Glamping sites along waterways like Oak Creek and Verde River maintain temperatures 10-15 degrees cooler than surrounding areas due to natural evaporative cooling. Most sites near Sedona operate on a first-come, first-served basis outside designated reservation periods.
What to do
Trail access from camp: At Cave Springs, campers can explore hiking routes directly from their sites. "A short drive gets you to Flagstaff or Sedona and it is a gorgeous drive either way. One of my favorite campgrounds," notes one visitor who appreciated the strategic location between these two destinations.
Creekside cooling: The Verde River at Thousand Trails Verde Valley provides natural relief from summer heat. "River access is available at site C which we stayed at and our furbabies loved it! Sedona is only 45 mins from here," reports a camper who used the water access for dog recreation during warmer periods.
Off-site adventures: While many glamping accommodations in Sedona focus on self-contained experiences, nearby Fort Tuthill offers "a bike park that is a blast. Also have an adventure course and zip line. Bike park is free, ropes course has fee. Also has an easy mountain bike trail around the area," making it suitable for families seeking structured outdoor activities.
What campers like
Year-round availability: Unlike some Arizona destinations, glamping in Sedona happens throughout all seasons. Double Springs Campground demonstrates the area's natural cooling systems where "the tiny nearby creek can almost be heard from the site, and to the right there is a small field that the Arizona Trail crosses through. I made use of my time here by hiking both directions of the trail straight from the campground."
Wildlife encounters: Sedona's glamping sites often feature unexpected wildlife interactions. "This time of year I also found an ample butterfly population! The hummingbirds were sociable, and the bugs weren't bad," notes one Double Springs visitor, pointing to the milder insect conditions compared to other Arizona locations.
Private spaces: Many campers appreciate the thoughtfully designed layouts at Sedona glamping sites. At Verde River RV Resort, "We had an end/corner spot, which felt very spacious. The landscaping was nice with grass between units and trees in some areas. Felt more like a park than packed in parking lot feel of others."
What you should know
Seasonal temperature shifts: Summer camping in Sedona brings challenges. A Rio Verde visitor noted: "The down side is, the trees are few and so is the shade. We were here in November, but I could see this place getting HOT in August." Consider glamping options with creek access during summer.
Cell service variations: Digital access varies dramatically across Sedona's glamping locations. At Double Springs, "Campsite does not have cell service (and I have Verizon). You can walk out to the camp entrance just at the main road and pick up some service there if needed."
Transportation logistics: Glamping sites with stringent vehicle policies may impact your visit. At Rio Verde RV Park, "We don't tow a car so we use bikes and walking. Both seemed dicey with cars moving fast close by," highlighting the need for transportation planning when selecting more remote glamping locations.
Tips for camping with families
Activity variety: Multiple glamping options include family recreation beyond hiking. Verde River RV Resort "has a pool and hot tub, mini golf, playground, pickle ball court, clubhouse, and lots of crafts and activities for the kids! The bathrooms and showers are very nice and clean too!"
Natural play spaces: Creek access provides natural entertainment. One Cave Springs visitor explained: "There's a swimming hole on the creek nearby. The hosts are very helpful and keep the place looking really nice. It's an idyllic spot with sycamores, oaks, and pines."
Quieter locations: For families seeking less crowded experiences, Double Springs Campground offers "spacious and clean" sites. "The campsites were pretty good sized. They all come with a picnic table and fire ring. The campsites that are on the outside perimeter of the campground have more privacy than those on the inner loops."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Experienced RVers recommend arriving early at Thousand Trails Verde Valley: "Next time we will do our best to get there as early as possible (noon is the earliest to check in)...as the spots are first come/first serve. At registration they will give you a map and highlight which spots are open."
Layout considerations: At Rio Verde RV Park, "Awesome little park! Set in the middle of everything just about... a short drive to national monuments, Sedona, Jerome and loads of great local food! We were in spot 59 which is by the river and secluded somewhat, although it can be tricky getting in and out of!"
Amenity accessibility: RVers note that some parks have concentrated amenity locations. At Woody Mountain, one site was "across the street from a small fenced doggy play yard, bathrooms and laundry facilities," making it convenient for campers who prioritize short walking distances to facilities.
