Do you enjoy camping but don't want to rough it? Glamping is a great option. Glamping near Sun Valley is a great way to travel off the beaten path. Find the right glamping site for you with our user-submitted photos, reviews, and tips. The Dyrt makes it easy to find glamping near Sun Valley.
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.
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.
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.
For facility specific information, please call (928) 474-7900.
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.
$20 - $22 / night
Aspen Campground is a scenic hideaway for anglers, boaters, families and photographers, located in north central Arizona near Heber and Payson. It sits in a dense pine and aspen area forest near the shore of Woods Canyon Lake at an elevation of 7,000 ft. With spacious campsites, calm and scenic lake waters, a marina, boat ramp and many amenities, Aspen is one of the most popular camping spots in Arizona.
Popular activities include trout fishing, hiking, boating and photography. Woods Canyon Lake is one of seven lakes in the Rim Lakes Recreation Area, and one of the most visited. Two other lakes are within a short drive. Woods Canyon Lake only allows electric boat motors. An easy hiking trail meanders around the lake, and the campground's paved roads make for great bike rides. Families might also enjoy attending educational programs given by Forest Service rangers on the weekends.
The large and rambling campground offers several camping experiences and environments from marshy meadows to a rocky forest. Wildlife viewing includes birds, squirrels, deer and elk. Deer, skunks and bears are common campground visitors. Summer temperatures can be very pleasant because of the elevation. However, the rainy season often brings afternoon thunderstorms from late June through August. Visitors should come prepared for rain and cool nighttime temperatures.
Visitors can explore endless vistas and take part in many outdoor activities in the surrounding Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, which encompasses 2 million acres of magnificent mountain country in east-central Arizona and New Mexico. The Mogollon Rim Visitor Center, open weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day, is only a short drive from Aspen Campground. Visitors can find an informative staff as well as books and gifts related to the local area. The nearest towns are Heber and Payson.
For facility specific information, please call (928) 535-0181.
$34 / night
This secluded forest camp offers easy access to two features of high visitor interest.The first is Knoll Lake, a medium-sized body of water tucked away in a picturesque setting. People come here to fish for trout and tour the lake in small boats.The second feature of interest near this campground is the spectacular Mogollon Rim, a two thousand foot escarpment that marks the southern edge of the Colorado Plateau. This picturesque plunge from cool highlands to low deserts extends across most of Arizona. The area around Knoll Lake, however, is the home of some of the Rim's most magnificent views. It provides a scenic setting for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding or just sitting back and enjoying the panorama.Group Campouts and Events: This campground does not have facilities for large groups or group activities. If one campsite cannot accommodate your group (eight at a single site, 16 at a double site), please call the Mogollon Rim Ranger District at 928-477-2255 to plan your group camp-out at Elks, Moqui, or Long Valley group campgrounds.__Hover mouse over photo to display slideshow controls. View album on Flicker
Located in the ponderosa pine forest, this campground is within walking distance of Willow Springs Lake which provides boating and fishing opportunities. Hiking and mountain biking opportunities are nearby in the non-motorized Wildlife Area. The General Crook National Recreation Trail is also within a mile of the campground. Be prepared for rain, often heavy, through July and August. Expect cool to cold nighttime temperatures.
Fishing and boating are available at nearby Willow Springs Lake which is approximately one mile from the campground.
Sinkhole Campground is surrounded by ponderosa pines. The entrance, roads and back-in section is asphalt.
Woods Canyon Lakes is located approximately 10 miles west off of Road 300 and Road 105. The store at the lake has boat and kayak rentals. Gas, phone and groceries are available approximately four miles east at Forest Lakes.
For facility specific information, please call (928) 535-0181.
$24 / night
Spillway Campground is on the shores of popular Woods Canyon Lake near the town of Heber in north central Arizona. Situated in a pine forest with plenty of shade, the campground has individual campsites as well as one group campsite for small gatherings. Given its proximity to the lake, hiking trails and scenic areas, Spillway is a convenient getaway for anglers, boaters, hikers, families and photographers.
Woods Canyon Lake is one of seven lakes in the Rim Lakes Recreation Area, and one of the most visited. Trout fishing (both lake and stream) is a favorite pastime. Woods Canyon Lake only allows electric boat motors. Two other lakes are within a short drive. The Rim Lakes Vista Trail, less than a mile from the campground, and others in the area lead to spectacular views of the Mogollon Rim. An easy hiking trail meanders around the lake, and the paved roads in the recreation area make for great afternoon bike rides. Families might also enjoy attending educational programs given by Forest Service rangers on the weekends.
Spillway is located in a thick forest of ponderosa pine, oak and Douglas fir at an elevation of 7,500 ft. The campground is situated on the lakeshore overlooking the calm blue waters of 52-acre Woods Canyon Lake, where visitors may see squirrels, deer, elk and a variety of birds. Nearby hiking trails offer views of the Mogollon Rim, a 200-mile long cliff in northern Arizona that ranges between 5,000 and 7,000 feet in elevation and serves as the geographical dividing line between the cool high country above and the hot, dry desert below. Summer temperatures can be very pleasant because of the elevation. However, the rainy season often brings afternoon thunderstorms from late June through August. Visitors should come prepared for rain and cool nighttime temperatures.
For facility specific information, please call (928) 535-0181.
Gas, phone and groceries are available 10 miles east at Forest Lakes. The nearest full service community is Payson, Arizona, 35 miles west on Highway 260. Visitors can explore endless vistas and take part in many outdoor activities in the surrounding Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, which encompasses 2 million acres of magnificent mountain country in east-central Arizona and New Mexico.
$185 / night
Verde Valley RV Camping is a scenic RV campground in Arizona best known for its expansive desert and mountain backdrops. Situated on the Verde River, this 300-acre oasis in the high desert of Arizona is surrounded by the majestic beauty of the Red Rocks to the north, Mingus Mountains to the west, the Hackberry Mountains to the south and adjacent to beautiful Alcantara Vineyards! Perhaps one of the best reasons for visiting Verde Valley RV is the moderate year-round climate. In fact, many of our guests stay at this RV campground when traveling in Arizona for the comfort it provides to them. Rich in geological and cultural history, the area surrounding Verde Valley RV Camping offers hours of exploration and sightseeing. From the famous ghost town of Jerome, to kayaking the Verde River to scenic drives through Sedona, and wine tasting right next-door, there is adventure and mystery at every turn. Book your stay today in one of our cabins, pitch a tent or park your RV in one of our many scenic sites! Naturally Beautiful RV Campground in Arizona Whether you're planning a retreat for the whole family, a group of friends or a getaway for two, there's no shortage of unique activities to explore at Verde Valley RV & Camping Resort. Plan activities upon arrival or visit this page before your departure to plan ahead. Looking for more? Our friendly staff can fill you in on all of the great ways to make your stay a memorable experience.
The Moqui Group Campground sits in a beautiful setting surrounded by ponderosa, oak, and aspen at an elevation of 6,915'. The campground consists of 3 individual group sites: Simmons, Spooner, and Ernst. Each site can accomodate up to 50 people offering picnic tables, fire rings, grills, vault tolets, trash collections, and piped drinking water. For groups larger than 50 people, multiple sites can be reserved. The Simmons and Spooner Group sites can each accomodate a maximum of 3 trailers or RV's up to 22'. The Earnst Group site is best suited for tents and smaller equipment.
Many visitors spend time relaxing and exploring the area. The nearby C.C. Cragin Reservoir and Knoll Lake offer opportunities for water based recreation, while the Arizona National Scenic Trail, General Crook National Recreation Trail, and historic Cabin Loop Trail System offer opportunities for hikers, bicyclist, and equestrian users. There are also several Fire Lookout Towers in the area.
Many visitors spend time relaxing and exploring the area. The nearby C.C. Cragin Reservoir and Knoll Lake offer opportunities for water based recreation, while the Arizona National Scenic Trail, General Crook National Recreation Trail, and historic Cabin Loop Trail System offer opportunities for hikers, bicyclist, and equestrian users. There are also several Fire Lookout Towers in the area.
The campground is in a forested setting. The nearby Mogollon Rim is one of the most striking geologic features in the state. This steep escarpment, measured in thousands of feet, stretches from New Mexico diagonally accross two thirds of Arizona and offers sweeping views of the landscape.
The community of Happy Jack, Arizona has a gas station, two convenience stores and two restaurants.
$85 / night
Located on central Arizona's largest lake, Windy Hill offers great water recreation opportunities to the public. Because of its close proximity to the Lake, Windy Hill allows fishing, non-motorized and motorized boating, along with hiking trails. There are plenty of developed campsites available at Windy Hill, which allows for an easy, quick escape during any time of the year for families and individuals.
Fishing is popular activity where anglers can expect to catch a variety of fish species, such as Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass; Crappie; Sunfish; Channel and Flathead Catfish. This campground is also situated right on the shore of Roosevelt Lake which is open to boating, kayaking, and other water-related activites. A fully accessible boat ramp and fishing dock are available for easy lake access, and maps and other important site details can be found at the kiosks at the entrance to the campground.
Two National Scenic Byways (AZ Hwy 88 Apache Trail and AZ Hwy 288 Spines to Pines Highway). Roosevelt Dam, Tonto National Monument, the Arizona Trail, endless miles of jeep trails, Towns of Payson and Globe, Superstition, Sierra Ancha, and Four Peaks Wilderness'. Don't forget to stop by the Tonto Basin Environmental Center learn about the history of the area.
$50 / night
Scout
The veiws from most sited are awesome. Staff friendly, camp clean. Bring kayak for river!
GuideThis was our first TT park and we knew we had to not only stay the full 21 days but actually book a week out of the system and come back for another round of 21 days. Very clean campground, good amenities and huge sites if you are willing to pay extra for the 50 amp spots. We loved the location, it was quite with gorgeous views and close to town that has great little spots for wine, restaurants and love music.
Ranger
Gorgeous location and more spaced out than other campgrounds in the area (we stayed at the first loop). Be aware that if you have Verizon you may have bars but no LTE and that access and senior passes don’t work for double sites - also the host made rude remarks to other campers about my partner and I not being seniors because her access pass (she’s very visibly disabled) showed automatically as “senior” when we paid. Bathrooms are clean but bring your own soap!
Traveler
We really enjoyed our stay. 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. We also really enjoyed the pool and jacuzzi.
Guide
We've camped at Houston Mesa Campground several times and consistently have a fantastic experience. Here's why we give it 5 stars:
Amazing Staff: The camp hosts are incredibly friendly and helpful, adding to the welcoming atmosphere.
Spacious Sites: We love the ample space at each campsite, allowing us to park comfortably and spread out for a relaxing stay. Our kids adore playing in the dirt and exploring the trees.
Nature's Playground: The campground's proximity to swimming holes, hiking trails, and the charming town of Payson provides endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. Serene Setting: The abundance of trees creates a peaceful and shady environment, perfect for escaping the Arizona sun.
Clean Facilities: The bathrooms are well-maintained and clean, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Dry Camping Friendly: We appreciate the ability to dry camp at Houston Mesa, making it a budget-friendly option.
Heads Up: While Verizon service isn't optimal, it's manageable. Additionally, campsites near the freeway can experience some road noise. However, the convenience of having Home Depot and Walmart nearby outweighs these minor drawbacks. Overall, Houston Mesa Campground is a fantastic choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a comfortable and scenic camping experience. We highly recommend it and will definitely be back soon!
GuideThis is a hidden gem Thousand Trails campground for us. So many amenities. The off leash dog park, pickleball court, and hot tub/pool are just a few to name that we use! On the weekends they have a wonderful food truck that also serves espresso drinks and fresh pressed juice! Bathrooms are clean and showers are pretty big. Full hookups at most sites as well! We have stayed in both the premium sites and the regular and have enjoyed both. Pool was closed this last visit for renovations but they say it should be open any day now!
TravelerIf you're seeking a convenient and comfortable RV park amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Verde Valley in Arizona look no further than the Verde Valley Campground and RV Park. This hidden gem offers a remarkable combination of friendly service, spacious sites, modern facilities, and a refreshing swimming pool. Our during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays turned out to be a delightful surprise!
From the moment we arrived, the staff made us feel right at home. The warm and welcoming team greeted us with genuine smiles, providing excellent customer service that went above and beyond our expectations. Their knowledge of the area and willingness to offer helpful advice truly enhanced our stay.
The spacious sites at the park were a pleasant surprise, providing ample room for our RV and additional outdoor living space. The park's layout ensured a sense of privacy and tranquility, shielding us from the noise of nearby AZ 260 and offering a peaceful atmosphere.
One highlight of our stay was the modern and clean restrooms and showers. Maintained to a high standard, these facilities were a welcome sight after a long day of travel. The attention to cleanliness and the availability of hot water left us feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. It's evident that the management takes pride in providing a comfortable and enjoyable experience for their guests.
Of course, the cherry on top was the great swimming pool that beckoned us to cool off and relax. The pool area was immaculate, with plenty of seating options to soak up the sun or enjoy a refreshing dip. It was the perfect spot to unwind and escape, providing endless fun for both children and adults alike.
In conclusion, Verde Valley RV Park exceeded our expectations in every way. The combination of friendly service, spacious sites, modern facilities, and a fantastic swimming pool make it a standout choice for RV enthusiasts passing through the Verde Valley. Whether you're planning ahead or seeking a last-minute retreat, this hidden gem offers a convenient oasis.
GuideI was really looking forward to Cottonwood camp, outside of the Sedona area. The campground had excellent reviews so we booked three nights. There are many different sections of the park and your experience overall could be impacted by which site. We were in site 141 close to the main activity room. These sites are very packed and there are a lot of long-term guests and it looks like it. The other sites throughout the park are better, especially the ones on the ridge with a view.
The other challenge was almost zero connectivity even using a hot spot. I work remote so this was a challenge and I had to take work calls in the public lodge. The lack of WiFi at all limited our other devices as well. Not an option if you work on the road.
The area however has amazing natural beauty, parks and lots of hikes. Some are dog-friendly, but some are not, so recommend checking. The town of Sedona has changed over the years with many more tourists, traffic and high prices. I would likely not return or stay somewhere more in nature, but with cell service as well.
ScoutThe spots are spacious depending on which section of the campground you are in. Facilities are decent and the people are really friendly. Just be mindful of the speed limit within the park because they are strict on that.
Traveler
Our first visit here was mid August, and since then we have already returned for Labor Day weekend, and have our 3rd visit scheduled for the beginning of October. Great place for families, good restrooms and plenty of water spickets. The lake is only a minute away as well.
Traveler
We recently got our first pop up camper and this was a great place to get our feet wet! Property is kept up very well and staff were very friendly and helpful! Would definitely stay again!!!
TravelerWas disappointed with premium pull thru spot 325. No shade and no where to place your outdoor carpet. It must be placed inside the railroad ties which is impossible with a class A motor coach. To make this worse they placed plastic runners between the railroad ties which did nothing other than a trip hazard especially at night. The patio tables were worn and unsightly to look at let alone eat at. They don’t want you to put your mat outside of the railroad ties since they are trying to grow grass. Good luck. Nice club house and recreation room. Very clean and pleasant.
RangerLook if you want to really camp this is not the place for you. Spots are close together with a fair amount of trees around. Because campsites are close there is some noise but not bad. Some road noise as well and to be expected since you are camping in town. Sites are clean and maintained and full hook ups including sewer, electric and water. I don’t consider this camping because I usually head out into the forest but overall this was good and got me spending time in my camper so all good.
Traveler
The campground host was super cool and pointed out some wildlife to us. It was a neat place to camp. Only drawback was the noisy neighbors.
GuideI can’t say enough about this place. It’s a pretty property, lots of clean and updated amenities. The pool area and clubhouse are amazing. Lots of events during the week plus holiday events. Their mission is to be family friendly and they are, they have activities for kids on the weekends and during holiday months. Very cute and well designed mini golf court. Cabins are available if you don’t have a camper. And the price is right.
Traveler
This was a beautiful campground, nice and quiet. Very clean and the camp host was helpful and kind. The nearby trail to the overlook is a pleasant hike, not too intense.
Guide
Overall great experience camping here. Wife and I tent camped here for 2 nights 3 days. Sucked that we couldn’t have a fire due to a fire state-ban. Close to the highway but not bad on highway noise. Our site was 7 which faces east. Lake is half a mile or so we kayaked so we drove it.
Scout
Our family had a wonderful time at the Moqui Group Campground. The woods are amazing and there were signs posted what to do in case a bear wandered into camp. The host were amazing and the facilitites were well maintained and clean!
Travelernot clean. Leave no trace! The Campgrounds stewards slow to cleaning campsites.
Traveler
LegendThe site was lovely we got one that made it so you did not feel in top of your neighbors. The bathrooms are externally well kept. The host are very friendly and helpful. You are a short walk from the lake and a few other trails. The general store is reasonably priced if you forget something. The sites are rocky so be sure to check that the site will work for your tent first. They will not accept your National Parks pass and give you the discount so I knocked off a star for that.
ScoutStaff is very friendly. River access is available at site C which we stayed at and our furbabies loved it! Sedona is only 45 mins from here so an even bigger two thumbs up!
ScoutGreat spot
ScoutDeer in campground in trees! The bathrooms are immaculate! Very friendly people!
RangerWe really enjoyed our time here. We used the pool almost everyday. A lot of long term people here. We did have a package delivered while here and it was very easy. Only a $2/package fee.
TravelerWe enjoyed a couple of days car/tent camping at this multiuser campground . We parked on a private shaded pad next to a fire pit and table. Very quiet (mid week). Showers were closed but the bathrooms were spotless. Camp host on grounds firewood for sale. Close by Payson.
TravelerHosts are nice. Amazing place to be! We saw few times elk and deer. Parking can be full jn Summer. Lake is near by. Road is rocky and raw. I has to replace one tires. Beautiful I ll be back!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular glamping campsite near Sun Valley, AZ?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular glamping campground near Sun Valley, AZ is Houston Mesa Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 37 reviews.
What is the best site to find glamping camping near Sun Valley, AZ?
TheDyrt.com has all 17 glamping camping locations near Sun Valley, AZ, with real photos and reviews from campers.
