Equestrian camping in the Sedona area provides access to high-elevation forest trails and red rock landscapes at elevations ranging from 3,000 to 7,000 feet. The Verde Valley region offers seasonal camping options for horse owners seeking both developed and primitive accommodations. Water access varies significantly between campgrounds, with some locations requiring campers to haul in their own water supply for horses.
What to do
Trail riding near Jerome: South Mingus Mountain Basecamp on Forest Road 413 offers direct access to extensive trail networks. "Lots of hiking trails" with wildlife viewing opportunities including "cows, bulls, deer, seen mountain lion, fox, coyote" according to Chris P.
Swimming opportunities: When temperatures rise, campers at Dead Horse Ranch State Park can access water recreation. "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 -- it was just perfect!" reports Ashley C.
Explore nearby towns: Campgrounds in the Verde Valley provide access to historic sites and attractions. The Verde River RV Resort & Cottages location "is only 10 minutes from Cottonwood, 30 minutes from Sedona, 30 minutes to Prescott and an hour and a half to Phoenix," according to Thomas S.
What campers like
Shaded sites: Horse campgrounds near Sedona, Arizona frequently offer tree cover for relief from summer heat. At Mormon Lake Lodge RV Park & Campground, "The first three rows of sites are wooded, the rest are basically just in an open field," notes Derek C., highlighting the importance of site selection for shade.
Creek access: Several campgrounds feature water access for horses and humans. Rancho Sedona RV Park visitors appreciate natural water features: "You can walk down along the creek and find some peaceful rocks for sitting on to read or contemplate," mentions Kim G.
Clean facilities: Despite primitive conditions at some horse camps, maintained facilities stand out to campers. Canyon Vista Campground offers "Vault toilets (one for each binary gender) are kept clean and well stocked with TP," according to Owen M., adding that the campground "drains well when it rains."
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Wildfire risk affects camping regulations throughout the region. "Due to fire restrictions can only use propane for fires, bbq and ground," explains Rona P. about Williams-Circle Pines KOA, which applies to many horse camping areas during dry periods.
Water limitations: Horse campers must plan for water needs. At Canyon Vista Campground, "Limit is 5 gallons per day for each site. A market about 10 minutes SE sells water to fill at a reasonable rate," notes Roger W.
Road conditions: Access to primitive horse campsites requires preparation. South Mingus Mountain visitors should "Stay away if rain is in the forecast. This place gets muddy and you will get stuck in a larger RV," warns Michael F.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Horse campgrounds provide educational experiences for children. At Dead Horse Ranch State Park Campground, "The campground is nice and has well maintained bathhouse. When making a reservation make sure you find spots with shade," advises Rich M.
Kid-friendly amenities: Some equestrian campgrounds include facilities for children. 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," reports Mstwister E.
Balance of activities: Plan for non-horse activities when camping with children. "This 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," suggests Audrey R.
Tips from RVers
Campsite selection: At Verde Valley Fairgrounds, electric hookups vary. "Electric is only 50 amp or 110. You will need an adapter if you have a 30 amp rig," advises Kathy B., noting it's "super basic. Essentially a parking lot" but offers good value.
Cell service considerations: Connectivity varies significantly between horse campgrounds near Sedona. At South Mingus Mountain, campers report "No cell reception. No WI-FI," while noting there are "at least 100 camping spots and of course some are meant for 4 wheel truck and others are meant for RV's."
Weather planning: RVers should plan for elevation changes. At Canyon Vista Campground, "Recent Weather: Sunny and windy, 20mph, some of the time" with good solar potential in most sites, reports Roger W., highlighting the importance of securing equipment in mountain conditions.
