Best Campgrounds in Arizona

Arizona boasts itself as the gateway to the Grand Canyon. And, it’s true: There’s no better place to set off into the red- and orange-painted cliffs, winding canyons, and rippling rivers of this wild and grand desert landscape. But, camping in Arizona doesn’t stop at The Big Ditch. From Flagstaff to Sedona, and beyond, you’ll find some of the best desert camping in the U.S. right in this state.

The Colorado River carved through 277 miles of ancient sandstone and limestone to form the Grand Canyon. Stop along the edges of this natural wonder for some of the most famous and scenic camping in Arizona. Go straight to Grand Canyon Village and camp at the Mather campground on the South Rim to experience the best pit stops and catch jaw-dropping canyon views on the Bright Angel Trail. Or, opt for areas less saturated with people and head to Desert View Campground on the South Rim. Hike to Coconino Overlook to sample views of the massive canyon or put your boots on the Arizona Trail, one of the country’s National Scenic Trails.

For those interested in venturing into other parts of Arizona, head to Sedona for more red rock desert camping. There’s a variety of things to do in Sedona, and camping, of course, is one of the best. From red rock canyons to rock formations fabled as energy vortexes, you’ll find views and adventures in Sedona unlike any other. Camp at Pine Flat Campground, where tall ponderosas brush up against red rock walls. Get up to hike for sunrise or start out at sunset to see the best colors amidst the desert. Or, bring your bike along for the ride to experience world-class mountain biking trails right in Sedona.

Whether it’s hiking, biking, or just sleeping beneath the desert sky when camping in Arizona, the state is truly an outdoor-lover’s desert mecca. So grab your tent and head to the edges of the Grand Canyon or into the quiet nooks of Sedona and discover a land of red-rock beauty.

Best Camping Sites in Arizona (1,755)

    1. Mather Campground — Grand Canyon National Park

    203 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. Forest Service Road 328 Dispersed

    124 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."

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

    115 Reviews
    Big Water, UT
    Website
    +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."

    4. Lost Dutchman State Park Campground

    83 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

    75 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. West Sedona Designated Dispersed Camping

    72 Reviews
    Coconino National Forest Recreation, AZ
    Website
    +1 (928) 203-2900

    "The best dispersed camping options in Sedona Arizona! There are many options off of the main road."

    "My friend from Maryland came to visit me here in Arizona, I told him we had to go to Sedona so we decided to camp, I heard about forest road 525 and it exceeded my expectations, never saw more stars in"

    7. Boulder Beach Campground — Lake Mead National Recreation Area

    67 Reviews
    Temple Bar Marina, AZ
    Website
    +1 (702) 293-8906

    $20 / night

    "Took my kids and my mom camping for a little vacation away from the hustle and bustle of Las Vegas. I chose Boulder Beach campground as it was our first time and didn't want to be too far from home."

    "Nice flat RV parking with hook ups and some spots have Wii Fii although with all the beauty around you you should find no need to use it."

    8. Flagstaff KOA

    69 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."

    9. Homolovi State Park Campground

    65 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."

    "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."

    10. Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground

    65 Reviews
    Peoria, AZ
    Website
    +1 (602) 506-2930

    $15 - $300 / night

    "We stayed in late September and had no neighbors next to us so we felt like we were in the desert. There was no direction that had a bad view."

    "It was an great way to be exposed to trails I may not have chosen on my own."

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Recent Reviews in Arizona

8303 Reviews of 1755 Arizona Campgrounds


  • Kiran B.
    Oct. 9, 2025

    Concho Lake Recreation Area

    Not a bad spot

    Open campsites with shade available, concrete slabs for RVs available. No bathrooms (October) or water available here but there is a water machine and showers at a laundromat .5mile away. Dirt roads with a bit of rutting and rocks but easy enough to handle, rain does get it pretty muddy and slick.

  • Michelle O.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 9, 2025

    Voyager RV Resort & Hotel

    This is a wonderful place to stay

    The community is huge. Very nice staff. They have everything you need here. The pools have different temps. So if you want a bath like experience it is here. The indoor pool is covered. We enjoyed the warmest water there. I would highly recommend this park.

  • Alisa P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 9, 2025

    Chloride Western R.V. Park

    5+ stars

    This place is great! It is super clean and the spots are big and level. Mike and Lori the owners are very friendly and really love having guest. They have some full time RVers but everyone here is polite and the park is very quiet. The laundry and bathroom facilities are clean and available 24 hours. The town of Chloride is rich with mining history and the locals are very friendly. We did a lot of ATV riding while here. Lots of rain recently made a couple roads a little scary but we went far enough to see some old mines. This is definitely a great spot to stop for a night or more, and at only $45 for full hook ups and WiFi worth the stop! We didn’t have any cell service but it wasn’t a problem since we didn’t have the WiFi

  • Craig R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 8, 2025

    Winona Dispersed Camping

    Nice spot

    This was a good stay. Getting there was not a lot of fun going down a washboard forest service road.

  • Natalie  G.
    Oct. 8, 2025

    Wahweap Campground & RV Park — Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

    Great showers!

    Everything was clean and we loved the showers and bathrooms! The bathrooms were nicely designed so people could change comfortably and get ready in the morning/evening with large counters.

    We also loved the outdoor sinks that had space to put dishes down as needed. And loved how long the showers were for the price!

  • Natalie  G.
    Oct. 8, 2025

    Mather Campground — Grand Canyon National Park

    Great spot!

    They had clean showers and good priced laundry. There were several bathrooms and they were clean.

    We saw elk every morning, it is not a long walk to shuttle access and to the store/showers. It felt quiet and secluded even though the campground is big. Overall was a great stay!

  • D M.
    Oct. 8, 2025

    Snowbird RV Resort

    Retaliatory evictions, disagreement of manager,dog owner responsibilities

    ***SNOW BIRD RV RESORTS***

    NON LEGAL EVICTION 10/2/25

    VIOLATION OF LEASH LAW & PET OWNER RESPONSIBILTY***

    I Dennis Fagan, 10/02/2025

     recieved a notice from management . 

    The noticed stated that I need to pick up dog poo against the fence line, so maintenence workers dont step in it or should havevto pick up Dog poo when clening out at fence line. Since I dont own any pets I went to management.

    I informed her I don't have any pets, and my yard is clean of debris and trash. She stated it is tenants responsibility to pick up dog poo. I recited the rules that state, All dogs must be on leash and not tresspass into others lot. I Also stated it is the responsibility of dog owner to clean up after their animals and they should locate the dog owners and give them the notice and or fines.

    She said if you dont like it I will just terminate your lease, cause I am not arguing about this , I do not want to hear it. Threw her hands up and walked away to her office. 

     A new order of tenants responsibilitys newly made up and what circumvents the real and original rules of park to managements threats of termination of renting. 

    My lot is clean and neat and I do not own no Dog and feel not responceable to pick up after others dog craping on my lot. She/manager got pissy with me and said I was to be and had to pick up any dog crap on my lot. Which there's none. Then said or else I could move out and go to another park. I told her yea, I know that. And I know I'm not the one who's responsible for any dog crap being on my lot. That i dont even own a Dog. Then she threatened to terminate my rental space. Then in a beavalent tone, well them I'll write you up a termination of residency and refused to discuss this at all.

    So yesterday after she went off and end of her work day, sent a letter to vacate property, taped to my door. I found the rules of park sent to me and it dose not say anything about all residents having the job of cleaning up after other dogs on our lots. As a matter of fact it says the dog owners are not allowed to trespass on our lots even with dog. And those dog owner were responsible for policing there dogs and walking on leash and not allowed tresspass on other lots.

    So I think she pick a very bad hill to die on, but im going to fight her on this principal of making up punishable rules that were not part of any move-in rules given, emailed to me on day one. After eight months, to evict a 60 year old man cause anyone disagrees with her/ managements notions that everyone in park are responsible for the owners of dogs and the crap left behind the owner refused to pick up after there dog.

     Stated all others are required to pick up after anyone's dog that happen to trespass on our lots. When the rules state that they are not to trespass on our lots in first place. Second to have dogs on leash and third are not to trespass on other lots invading privacy of others.

    And was not in any of the previous move-in rules of park. I told her/manager my lot is clean and I keep it that way. That she can not be serious to make it our responsibility the clean up after others that violate the rules in first place, that don't pick up after there own dogs, when walking and they trespass on lots so dog can crap at fence line of bushes, just so there maintained crews dont have to deal with what is the responsibility of the park to go after the offenders of the real and expected rules of the park and make up new rules to get it resolved and not even address the real issue. No matter how un just or fair it may be. They burden with threats of eviction. Then threaten and actually evicte people cause we dont share her/managements circumventing the established rules and views to make up rules that try and replace the real parks rules on dog owners, to any and all none dog owners. That should pick up after there dogs when walking there dogs.

    To place fines to the violators and threaten to eviction to them. No dogs are allowed to be off leash and are not to trespass on others lots to cause destruction and mess up others area they are not allowed to be on in the first place. 

    Too, they should be fined as other parks do and if this issue keeps up then its the responsibility of management to evict those that are literally braking the rules and are trespassing onto other lots with there dogs. And allows those to check out what goods are at other people's lots. Making this a possible way to incurage for others to steal or take things off tresspassed lots. These that do not follow the real rules of park should bare retaliation of management, not the rule abiding and elderly citizens that mind there own place. 

    Her/management evicting me cause, I disagree of my being told I'm responsible for others dog owners lack of abiding and violating to, said rules. I find it absurd they would be evicting for knowing it is the true responsibility (of management) to find who is violating parks rules and to address them for there obvious infractions. To make it easier on there camp workers when trimming bushes and fence line as stated. As if its not possible that the camp workers should be having to work around the dog owners clear violations or should have to rack up said dog poo. Instead they'd rather place blame and responsibility onto elderly and other renters only. On made up new rules that are not in renters rules as they write is everyone's responsibility not managements.

    If they can enforce there rules in the first place and fine and kick out violators ignoring said rules as other parks do. We'd not have a dictators ego and stressing out others when not nessasary and violates the tenants peace of mind. To live without management harassment when they feel like imposing dictatorship rules over established rules that obviously are not being inforced.

    I think its a low handed disgraceful act of management to place sole responsibility on none dog owners of rule violations, done by others not the victims of someone violating the rules. And go to evicting persons that keep there lots well maintained and abide by the real rules set and given on first arrive.

     Saying no tenants have any rights to disagree with management that places and shifts responsibility of the owners of dogs to everyone else, so there camp workers don't have to deal with the poo in there way of trimming trees and bushes.

     And treaten to eviction anyone that don't want to jump and do there every made up rules to satisfy there egos as dictators not addressing or to inforce the rules of park and said violated the established rules. Then violate the rights of other tenants and stressing them out and placing a fear factor on everyone's heads, that they may serve an eviction on you if you disagree or dont feel it's our jobs to clean up after violators of rules we originally agreed to moving into park.

  • R
    Oct. 8, 2025

    Beaverhead Flats Road Dispersed Camping

    Seems to be a heavy duty construction site. Pulled in and backed out.

    poor conditions as heavy equipment seems to have rutted the area pretty good. I was towing a 22 foot travel trailer with good clearance and did not attempt to explore.


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

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.