Best Campgrounds in Arizona

Overview
Map
Top 10
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Reviews
Guide
FAQ

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

Compare 2 top campgrounds at a time to find your favorite!

Mather Campground — Grand Canyon National Park

Click to VoteCampground A

Lone Rock Beach Primitive Camping Area — Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

Click to VoteCampground B

Round 1 of 5

Best Camping Sites in Arizona (1,898)

1. Mather Campground — Grand Canyon National Park
212 Reviews
Grand Canyon, AZ
Website
+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 Reviews
Big Water, UT
Website
+1 (928) 608-6200
"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."

"Plenty of toilets and trash cans are by the entrance/exit. A little windy because it’s exposed but very calm and quiet otherwise."

3. Forest Service Road 328 Dispersed
94 Reviews
Grand 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
90 Reviews
Superstition Mtn, AZ
Website
+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
83 Reviews
Cortaro, AZ
Website
+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. Catalina State Park Campground
68 Reviews
Oro Valley, AZ
Website
+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."

7. Flagstaff KOA
73 Reviews
Flagstaff, AZ
Website
+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."
8. Homolovi State Park Campground
69 Reviews
Winslow, AZ
Website
+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."

"The site was plenty long and we had no problem positioning and running our electric and water under the rig. Sites throughout the CG are nicely spaced apart."

9. Dead Horse Ranch State Park Campground
66 Reviews
Cottonwood, AZ
Website
+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. "
10. Trailer Village RV Park — Grand Canyon National Park
70 Reviews
Grand Canyon, AZ
Website
+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."

Showing results 1-10 of 1,898 campgrounds

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Recent Camping Photos in Arizona

2147 Photos of 1898 Arizona Campgrounds

Recent Reviews in Arizona

9329 Reviews of 1898 Arizona Campgrounds

M
Missy A.
Guide
Jun. 30, 2026
Bonito Campground — Sunset Crater National Monument
Great One Night Stay
We stopped here for one night on our way north to Utah. We had Site 23 which, after walking the whole campground, truly was the best. Large and level back in site that allowed us to stayed hooked up for the night. We are 47 feet nose to tail. This spot is in the back of the campground so you back up to forest. There is no wi-fi or phone service on Verizon in the campground, but I did get a connection out on the main road. The campground is so quiet and peaceful and the main road coming in was safe for a morning run even though it shares the entrance to Sunset Crater. We had been there before so did not go this time. The hosts Frank and Sandy came by. They were very friendly and made sure that everything was good. We brought water with us so did not look for a water hookup. Our next stop had full hookups so we did not need to find a dump station. We have a generator onboard, but did not need it. If you need any amenities or hookups, then this campground will not work for you. If you can do without, this campground is well worth the stop for a peaceful, quiet place in the beautiful forest just outside of Flagstaff.
Chris N.
Traveler
Jun. 29, 2026
North Rim Campground (Closed for Remainder of 2025)— Grand Canyon National Park
Amenities are very limited following the fire
This is a beautiful campground that has an awesome Host in Matt. The Campground was thankfully saved from burning by the hard work of the NPS fire crews. NPS opened this campground without disclosing what actually works.

You're paying the FULL$45/night fare for:

-NO WATER;

-NO DUMP STATION;

-NO BATHROOMS (just porta-potties);

-NO LAUNDRY;

-NO SHOWERS; and

-NO FIRES!

If you're coming in an RV with an empty water tank, you'll be incredibly upset to discover that the nearest water is about 1 hour away! The NPS reservation sites do not tell you this. I complained to Rec.gov, asking them to at least update the campground page to warn people but to date the only references about water are buried. Hopefully, this review alerts fellow campers.

On a positive note, the campground is virtually empty and quiet. the best spots with a partial view of the canyon are A11-22.
cindy T.
Traveler
Jun. 29, 2026
FR 222 Dispersed
Quiet
Quite a few campers but sites are really spaced apart. A bit of traffic from off roaders but not loud. Peaceful
C
Chris B.
Traveler
Jun. 28, 2026
Garden Grove RV Park
Lowest full RV hookups rate in this area, as far as I know .
I just sold everything I own & bought an RV. This has been my first stop, still local, while I learn to use the vehicle before setting out. This RV park used to be an almost abandoned trailer park under uncertain management, but now it is busy & well-maintained with friendly management & good hookups & polite neighbors (and they had free burgers & dogs for all residents last Friday for groundbreaking on their new clubhouse), with laundry/restroom/ahower amenities , & and a coming-soon clubhouse (under construction). The rates are 15 per night (no deposit), 99 per week (no deposit), or 350 per month (yes deposit). Edge of a small city in southeastern Arizona, 30 minutes drive from mexico, easy access for large rigs, right off the little local bypass loop.
Vinny D.
Guide
Jun. 28, 2026
Hualapai Mountain Road
Great place to stay
Really good spot to stay, was nice and quiet. One SXS came by as I was coming in around 2230-2300 but never came back though. If you like to trail ride as well this is a good spot. From easy to a few washouts need a 4x4 though for some areas. But if you stay on the main dirt road you should be okay.
B
Byron M.
Traveler
Jun. 28, 2026
NF 200A Dispersed
Secluded and quiet!
We have been in a red flag and wind advisory for a few days and this awesome site gives us a breeze without the whiplash of the high winds we can still hear over the tree tops

Supposedly there was a tank and flowing water in nearby stream bed but it’s dry as a bone. You need to plan to bring in water. There wasn’t even water in the water area marked as no camping nearby.

You will need some clearance to get back here and not recommended for big rigs. No problem for my Jeep and trailer.
l
leo K.
Scout
Jun. 27, 2026
DW Ranch Road
Hot hot hot!
Nice area for an overnight trip. However you will have to beat the locals. It seems that they live here.
April H.
Ranger
Jun. 26, 2026
Knoll Lake Campground
Family friendly camping among Ponderosa pines.
You will travel over 11 miles of dirt road to get here. Most of it is pretty easy with a few rougher spots here and there. The roads in are well marked. This is a fee area run by the forest service. The fees are cash only-no recreation.gov app use available. I read before I went that there was an issue with the water so I brought plenty. There was signage at the spigots explaining what was going on. I'm glad I brought my own! The campground itself is small but the sites are good sized and well spaced. Plus the thick forest provides a decent amount of privacy. The bathrooms are vault toilets, no showers. There are tables, fire rings & BBQs at each site. There were bear boxes in some sites-I don't know why they weren't in all sites-but there was no evidence of bears passing through. Quiet hours were observed and the hosts were on top of things. There is a footpath from the campground to the lake, roughly 1/2 mile, and of course you can drive down to it. There was no real beach at the lake that I could see, no one was swimming, but there were shaded picnic tables & a bathroom available. Lots of fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding though. Note-no gasoline powered boats are allowed on the lake.
Jim S.
Scout
Jun. 26, 2026
Garland Prairie Rd Dispersed Camping
BIG RIG FRIENDLY
Passing through Williams AZ. Came across this spot worked out perfectly. There's nice spots right off the main road. Kept going a couple miles down the dirt road. Have a 42.5 foot 5th wheel and Ram dually truck. Theres plenty room to maneuver around. Have Verizon. Cell service 2 bars. Starlink of course works great 👍 👌

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?

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?

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?

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?

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.

Keep Exploring

Best Campgrounds in Arizona

Campground Showdown in Arizona

Best Camping Sites in Arizona (1,898)

1. Mather Campground — Grand Canyon National Park

2. Lone Rock Beach Primitive Camping Area — Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

3. Forest Service Road 328 Dispersed

4. Lost Dutchman State Park Campground

5. Gilbert Ray Campground

6. Catalina State Park Campground

7. Flagstaff KOA

8. Homolovi State Park Campground

9. Dead Horse Ranch State Park Campground

10. Trailer Village RV Park — Grand Canyon National Park

2026 Explorer Giveaway

Recent Camping Photos in Arizona

2147 Photos of 1898 Arizona Campgrounds

Recent Reviews in Arizona

9329 Reviews of 1898 Arizona Campgrounds

Great One Night Stay

Amenities are very limited following the fire

Quiet

Lowest full RV hookups rate in this area, as far as I know .

Great place to stay

Secluded and quiet!

Hot hot hot!

Family friendly camping among Ponderosa pines.

BIG RIG FRIENDLY