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.

Arizona

The Best Camping in Arizona | 100+ AZ Campgrounds

Join the fun near Sun Valley. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Sun Valley, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Find the best campgrounds near Sun Valley, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Sun Valley

The Best Camping Near Sun Valley, Arizona

Located just 2 miles south of Payson, AZ just off highway 87.

Large area for big rigs to pull in and turn around.

This is a horse facility but you do not have to have horses to stay here.

Campers with horses can reserve a 15' x 32' partially covered stall for $15 per night.

Pets are welcome but must be contained or on a leash at all times.

Facility is in a very quiet neighborhood and is a 5 minute walk to several different surround trails.



Round Valley Remuda

## Overview

Houston Mesa Campground is located in the forested northern section of Tonto National Forest, just one mile north of Payson, Arizona and less than two hours from Phoenix.   
  
With family, equestrian and tent-only campsites, this campground can accommodate a range of visitors and offers plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors, including several miles of hiking and horseback riding trails nearby.   
  
As the fifth largest forest in the United States, the Tonto National Forest is one of the most-visited "urban" forests in the United States (approximately 5.8 million visitors annually). Its boundaries are Phoenix to the south, the Mogollon Rim to the north and the San Carlos and Fort Apache Indian reservations to the east.

## Recreation

Many visitors come to Houston Mesa to horseback ride, hike, camp and picnic. Houston Mesa Loop Trail is a 9-mile round trip through a pinyon and juniper woodland and can be accessed from the horse camping area. The Houston Mesa Interpretive Trail is a 0.5-mile self-guided trail. 

## Facilities

Houston Mesa has 74 campsites, including 29 equestrian sites for campers with horses or mules, and 17 tent-only sites for those who want a quieter experience. There are several amenities to make campers feel at home, including showers (coin-operated) and flush toilets. All of the sites are accessible.  
  
  
  
The horse camping section (Mule Deer Loop) is across the street from the main campground and features 29 individual sites with tables and grills. Corrals are also available. Campers who reserve these sites must have horses or mules. 

## Natural Features

The campground is located at an elevation of 5,200 ft. in a mixed forest and shrub area, with spacious campsites offering both sun and shade. Winters are pleasant and cool with cold nighttime temperatures, while summers are warm and sunny, providing a nice getaway from the hotter deserts around Phoenix. Hawks, eagles, javelina, deer, fox, skunk and coyote live in the area. 

## Nearby Attractions

Campers who make the quick trip to the town of Payson, one mile south, will find restaurants, shopping and other conveniences.   
  
Scenic driving and outdoor recreation abound in the surrounding Tonto National Forest, which embraces almost 3 million acres of rugged and spectacularly beautiful country, ranging from saguaro cactus-studded desert to pine-forested mountains beneath the Mogollon Rim.

Houston Mesa Campground

Named for the towering pines under which it sits, Ponderosa Campground is tucked in the rolling forests of northern Arizona. As the fifth-largest forest in the country, the Tonto National Forest is one of the most-visited urban forests in the United States, boasting about 5.8 million visitors annually. Its boundaries are Phoenix to the south, the Mogollon Rim to the north and the San Carlos and Fort Apache Indian reservations to the east. Recreation Most visitors enjoy walking along the campground's nature trail, traveling into the town of Payson, taking advantage of the area's hiking trails and lakes or simply relaxing at the campsite. Scenic driving and outdoor recreation abound in the surrounding Tonto National Forest. A series of lakes called the Rim Country Lakes are about a 15 minute drive east. Woods Canyon Lake is one of the most popular recreational lakes in the state and offers options for boating. Facilities The facility provides 48 single campsites and two group sites that can accommodate up to 50 people guests each. The campsites are clean, flat and spacious with a good amount of shade from pine trees. Natural Features The ponderosa pine trees make this a memorable campground. Larger ponderosas release a vanilla scent into the air and have a relatively open understory, making the area perfect for camping. Mixed into the understory are junipers, oaks and manzanita shrubs. The campground sits on the border of the Mogollon Rim, pronounced by locals as "muggy-own," a 200-mile-long cliff in northern Arizona that ranges between 5,000 and 7,000 feet in elevation. The unique landscape was created by extreme erosion and faulting that has sculpted spectacular canyons and buttes. The rim serves as the geographical dividing line between the cool high country above and the hot, dry desert below. There is a second vehicle charge of $8 per night. Second vehicle charge will be collected at time of check-in. Nearby Attractions The nearby town of Payson, Arizona, offers restaurants, shopping and other conveniences. ADA Access: N

Ponderosa  Campground (AZ) Tonto National Forest

## Overview

With an elevation over a mile-high(5640 ft), Christopher Creek Campground's crisp, fresh air and vibrant views are a joy to behold. The facility is tucked along the banks of the spring-fed Christopher Creek, which passes just below the Mogollon Rim. 

The Mogollon Rim, pronounced by locals as "muggy-own," is a 200-mile long cliff in northern Arizona that ranges between 5,000 and 7,000 ft in elevation. The unique landscape was created by extreme erosion and faulting that has sculpted spectacular canyons and buttes. The rim serves as the geographical dividing line between the cool high country above and the hot, dry desert below. Christopher Creek is located in the desert portion, but is balanced by the cool waters of the creek and forested surroundings.

## Recreation

After a day of horseback riding or mountain biking, take a dip in one of the facility's three swimming holes to cool off from the summer sun. Or if winter is more your thing, visit during the snowy months to take advantage of the miles of cross-country skiing available. Each spring, the creek is stocked with rainbow trout, allowing anglers the opportunity to cast their hearts out for rainbows as well as brook and brown trout. 

## Facilities

The family-friendly campground has 43 sites on both sides of the creek, plus a group site that accommodates a maximum of 25 people. 37 campsites are reservable, 3 campsites are available for first-come-first-served customers and 3 sites are occupied by the camp hosts.

## Natural Features

Christopher Creek provides creek side dwelling in Tonto National Forest, at the base of the Mogollon Rim. Sites are surrounded by ponderosa pines, junipers, oaks and manzanita evergreen shrubs. 

## Nearby Attractions

The small town of Christopher Creek is just a short drive away and offers a few restaurant options for those who tire of cooking at the campground.. A series of lakes called the Rim Country Lakes are about a 10 minute drive east. Woods Canyon Lake is one of the most popular recreational lakes in the state and offers options for boating as well as a nature trail that loops around the lake's perimeter. 

## contact_info

For facility specific information, please call (928) 474-7900.

Christopher Creek

## Overview

Sharp Creek is a small campground located in an area of central Arizona known for its pleasant temperatures, spectacular scenery and outdoor recreation. There are tent-only, family and group sites to accommodate a wide range of visitors.

## Recreation

The campground is in a central location for hiking, fishing, boating and picnicking.   
  
Anglers can try for trout in nearby Christopher Creek. Hikers can access the historic Highline National Recreational Trail, which runs for 51 miles along the base of the Mogollon Rim, from the 260 Trail three miles east of the campground. Two lakes nearby offer additional fishing and boating options.

## Facilities

Sharp Creek is a small campground with 20 campsites conveniently spread out into four loops. Campsites are spacious, comfortable and well-maintained, with some shade. Each has a picnic table, grill, campfire ring and lantern holder. One loop contains three group campsites that can each accommodate 50 people. A group picnic shelter is available as well. A dump station is located at nearby Ponderosa Campground.

## Natural Features

Sharp Creek sits at a cool 6,000 feet elevation, perfect for escaping the desert heat of southern Arizona and getting away to shaded forests and refreshing creeks and lakes. It is surrounded by a thick ponderosa pine forest below the Mogollon Rim. The clear waters of Christopher Creek are less than a mile away.   
  
The Mogollon Rim, pronounced by locals as "muggy-own," is a 200-mile long cliff in northern Arizona that ranges between 5,000 and 7,000 feet in elevation. The unique landscape was created by extreme erosion and faulting that has sculpted spectacular canyons and buttes. The rim serves as the geographical dividing line between the cool high country above and the hot, dry desert below. 

## Nearby Attractions

The small town of Christopher Creek is less than a mile away and has a few restaurant and shopping options for basic conveniences.   
  
Woods Canyon and Willow Springs Lakes sit above the Mogollon Rim, only a 10-minute drive away, and offer boating and fishing.

Sharp Creek

Trail 1371 Dispersed Camping

Little Green Valley - NF405A Dispersed

We are located in a quiet country setting, bordered by the Tonto National Forest. You're sure to enjoy your visit with us whether your looking to take in the sights, hike, ride ATV or just beat the heat and relax.  We are just minutes from the restaurants,  local attractions, and shopping. 

Amenities include: 
Cable, Ramada for Group Activities, Shower House, Restrooms, and Laundry facilities
Full hook-ups and picnic table and barbeque at every space.
Propane now available on site, as well as an Osmosis water system

Oxbow Estates RV Park

FR414 Dispersed Camp Site

Upper Tonto Creek Campground The union of Tonto and Horton Creeks is at the north end of the campground. Fishing in both creeks is a popular sport. The trailheads for Horton Creek Trail 285 and Derrick Trail 33 are located in the campground. Both of these trails access the Highline National Recreation Trail (#31). Tonto Fish Hatchery is four miles north of Highway 260 on Forest Road 289. The Arizona Game & Fish Department welcomes visitors and has a self-guided tour of the hatchery.

Upper Tonto Creek Campground

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Phoenix, AZ has a lot to offer. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Phoenix. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Phoenix camping trip.

Phoenix

The Best Camping Near Phoenix, Arizona

Tucson, AZ is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Tucson

The Best Tucson Camping | Arizona Campgrounds

Looking for the best campgrounds near Mesa, AZ? Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Mesa. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Mesa camping trip.

Mesa

The Best Camping Near Mesa, Arizona

Chandler, AZ is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Arizona camping has to offer. Discover great camping spots near Chandler, reviewed by campers like you.

Chandler

The Best Camping Near Chandler, Arizona

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Glendale, AZ is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Glendale, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Arizona camping adventure.

Glendale

The Best Camping Near Glendale, Arizona

Scottsdale is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Scottsdale, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Find the best campgrounds near Scottsdale, AZ. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Scottsdale

The Best Camping Near Scottsdale, Arizona

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Gilbert, AZ has a lot to offer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Find the best campgrounds near Gilbert, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Gilbert

The Best Camping Near Gilbert, Arizona

Are you in need of a campground near Tempe, AZ? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Arizona camping has to offer. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Tempe camping trip.

Tempe

The Best Camping Near Tempe, Arizona

Peoria is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Peoria and user-submitted reviews.

Peoria

The Best Camping Near Peoria, Arizona

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Surprise, AZ is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Surprise is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Find the best campgrounds near Surprise, AZ. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Surprise

The Best Camping Near Surprise, Arizona

Prescott National Forest, AZ is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Prescott National Forest and user-submitted reviews.

Prescott National Forest

The Best Camping Near Prescott National Forest, Arizona

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Kaibab National Forest. Kaibab National Forest is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Find the best campgrounds near Kaibab National Forest, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Kaibab National Forest

The Best Camping Near Kaibab National Forest, Arizona

Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Arizona camping adventure.

Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest

The Best Camping Near Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, Arizona

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Coconino National Forest Recreation, AZ is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Coconino National Forest Recreation is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Find the best campgrounds near Coconino National Forest Recreation, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Coconino National Forest Recreation

The Best Camping Near Coconino National Forest Recreation, Arizona

Coronado National Forest, AZ is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Find the best campgrounds near Coronado National Forest, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Coronado National Forest

The Best Camping Near Coronado National Forest, Arizona

Tonto National Forest is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Discover great camping spots near Tonto National Forest, reviewed by campers like you.

Tonto National Forest

The Best Camping Near Tonto National Forest, Arizona

Near Tucson, AZ — with the city dividing the national park in half — visitors and residents can find some of the best camping in the state. Saguaro National Park is named for the large desert cactus that decorates the Arizona landscape. Along with camping among the gigantic cacti, you can explore the Tucson Mountain District, follow trails to petroglyphs created by the ancient Hohokam from your campsite, and enjoy stunning sunsets and starry night skies in the Rincon Mountains. Campgrounds accommodate RV and walk-in campers. Visitors can also find roomy cabins near Saguaro National Park to stay in comfort.

Saguaro National Park

The Best Camping Near Saguaro National Park, Arizona

Grand Canyon National Park, AZ is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Grand Canyon National Park camping trip.

Grand Canyon National Park

The Best Camping Near Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, AZ is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Arizona camping adventure.

Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument

The Best Camping Near Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, Arizona

Looking for the best campgrounds near Degray Lake, AZ? Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Degray Lake is surrounded by family-friendly activities. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Degray Lake camping trip.

The Best Camping in Sun Valley

Top Campgrounds in Sun Valley (269)

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