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.
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.
For facility specific information, please call (928) 474-7900.
$20 - $170 / 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.
For facility specific information, please call (928) 535-0181.
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.
$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.
$34 - $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.
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.
$25 - $50 / night
Traveler
This site is well kept and spacious. And the closest site to Water Wheel which is about ten miles away and Arizona’s best kept secret. I usually set up camp the afternoon before and get up early to make the drive to Water Wheel and get in a day hike. This place has extraordinary water falls and swimming holes. I have probably camped at Mesa Houston more than any other place in Arizona just so I can hike Water Wheel and have never had a negative experience. Payson is beautiful and this camp site is near amenities and great hiking spots.
Scout
My dog and I love it up here during an Arizona summer. Nice and cool with the Willow Springs lake nearby. Clean good camping.
Ranger
This place is huge! Nestled in the red rock country of Arizona, this Thousand Trails campground offers a scenic and tranquil escape. The sites are well-spaced, and the amenities include a pool, hot tub, 2 dog parks, hiking trails, river access and clubhouse. Its proximity to Sedona, Jerome and local wineries makes it an excellent choice for those seeking relaxation and exploration.
Guide
The campground is being totally overhauled. It looks great so far and the facilities are very clean and nice. there is a nice big pool. the major thing missing are trees for shade and some privacy. there are only a few spots with nice big trees, all other sites have nothing. Which is OK in the Arizona winter, but not when it is still hot.
We were here when it as really slow, not sure what it will like when the campground is full.
GuideWe'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!
GuideThe Thousand Trails Verde Valley RV Resort is a lovely Thousand Trails RV park located in Cottonwood, Arizona in the Verde Valley. The park is very well-kept and maintained and the staff is friendly and helpful. The premium sites are unbelievably huge in size and have upgraded FHU. The views from them are worth the extra $5-7.50 per night alone! They are level and gravel which makes parking a dream! The amenities here include pool, sauna, community room, shuffleboard, volleyball, basketball, tennis, mini golf, hiking trails, game room, pool tables, horseshoes, ping pong, dog runs, etc. The park is located just down the road from Cottonwood and the historic downtown district. There is a lot of things to do nearby including hiking trails, wineries and vineyards, shopping, historical sites, state parks and more! The only downside we have found to this park is the Wifi. Our signals have been pretty spotty here. This is definitely one of the nicer Thousand Trails parks we’ve been to and we will certainly be back. 👍🏻
For campground videos and more, check out our YouTube channel: Jeff & Steff’s Excellent Adventure.
Scout
For every good thing there was a bad. We stayed at Coyote Loop. You can’t fish from the shore because all the dead trees that go out about 10 feet along the entire shore (awesome if you have a boat; I guess). I expected lots of generators and the sound that it makes, myself included. I didn’t expect three campsites to be taken up by the same group of people and here F-bombs all night till 10 o’clock. Then people turn high power lamps on you and everyone for long periods of time because they can afford expensive toys but not a simple flashlight. It was peaceful at 10:00pm and we could hear the lake wildlife. Maybe not a good place to take children. There seem to be one super secret place to dump your trailer water, grey & black. While you can dump there for free; you cannot find it without a treasure map, a devining rod, and a map of the stars. Don’t bother asking the site Camp Host because his directions were equally as cryptic; if you can find them at all. I and to wait to get home and map it so here it is:
PQJV+2J Tonto Basin, Arizona
RangerBeautiful retreat in the Arizona forest. Saw many different birds while there, especially hawks. Could smell skunks but none seen at the campground. Was warned by rangers that bears had been spotted in the area, so keep that in mind with food and trash.
Each site I saw had a good amount of space and wasn't right next to other campsites. We were lucky and got shade in our campsite. Plenty of hiking opportunities nearby, and a caves not too far away.
The restroom facilities were clean and included flush toilets. Showers were available for $3 (coin operated).
Gear Review: This contains a review of the LuminAID Packlight 16 and the LuminAID Packlight Spectra, which were provided to me free of charge***
LuminAID's lanterns are a gamechanger. Seriously. They are incredibly lightweight, bright, float when inflated, and most amazingly are solar powered.
The Packlight 16 resembles a pillow and has several settings depending on how bright you want it. I was able to read a book with the Packlight 16 hanging from the ceiling of my tent. Everyday I set it outside to charge for a couple hours and have yet to see it run out of energy, even when left on the dimmest setting for several hours.
The Packlight Spectra is a fun little box shaped lantern that has seven colors (including white) and a color-changing mode (see the video I included in this review). The first color is red, which is nice when you don't want to scrub your nightvision.
I'll definitely be ordering these for my friends. They are great for hiking and the perfect addition to an emergency kit (when folded the Packlight 16 is about the size and weight of an emergency poncho).
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.
Ranger
What a great find! This spot seemed quite unique in comparison to the surrounding camping areas. The town of Mormon Lake was bustling with 4 wheelers and camper trailers, but this "first-come, first-served" camp ground had an entirely different vibe. Of course, it is 4th of July weekend, but campers here were quiet and respectful, observed quite hours. I arrived early, having taken a Thursday off and snagged campsite #11, what I felt was one of the best spots. Sites 10, 11 and 12 are large, with parking for 2 cars and very spread apart. Not near the dumpster (one site is … why they would do that, I don't know). There is a fresh water spigot right across from the site and the restroom is just a short jaunt away. At the moment there is a strict fire ban, so no late night campfires this time around.
The back of the campsite is walled by trees, ready for exploring. The tiny nearby creek can almost be heard from the site, and to the right there is a small field that the Arizona Trail crosses through. I made use of my time her by hiking both directions of the trail straight from the campground. This time of year I also found an ample butterfly population! The hummingbirds were sociable, and the bugs weren't bad, I made it without bug spray but I came across a mosquito or two.
Just across the street from Mormon Lake - notorious for never actually having any water - this time it also didn't.So … don't expect much as far attractions at this spot. However, just down the road you can visit Upper Lake Mary and play in the slighter quieter area away from the bustle of the main part of the lake.
The camp hosts are very friendly, the sites are $20 a night per group for 1 vehicle (up to 8 people) and any additional cars are $8 each. There is no recycling - I packed mine up to take home and recycle. They are dog friendly and I found it really a great spot to camp with a dog. The toilets are decent-ish, cleaned (really as clean as those standard campground toilet pots can be) and at the moment there is a sanitizer jug with a squirt top outside, which is helpful. I didn't see the nearby Dairy Springs campground but I would DEFINITELY come back to this one. On Thursday night they didn't fill up but about 2pm on Friday all the sites were full.
Do note: Campsite does not have cell service (and I have Verizon). You can walk out to the camp entrance just at the main road and pick up some service there if needed.
Traveler
We chose this camp ground due to it having full hooks up's.
Our spot was a bit tight with camper & 2 SUV's but we managed.
Our stay was the end of April 2024, We're volunteer HAM radio operators assisting with the Zane Grey foot race.
We'll be back in April 2025 to support the event again and have already reserved a spot for our stay.
RangerI got to tryout my new hammock setup, and although it was very chilly at night, I was a great testing ground for my new gear!
TravelerI am not sure where the pictures posted here are from but it is definitely not from this campground.
It is a nice little campground with a pool and small launder mat room. Bathrooms are always clean. The spaces are close together so if you are spot picky (want more of a personal space feel) you will need to get recommendations or visit it to mark your spots.
Saturday nights include karaoke by the pool or live cover band. My kids enjoy staying here but be warned that "resort" should be taken lightly. There is a "playground" which consists of a metal swing set, uncovered and a small basketball court. This is also right near the dog pin area.
You are off a major road so near by shopping is a breeze but you will not be forced to hear the traffic so no worries there.
TravelerNice fairly quiet well kept. Only complaint spaces are tight if you have slide outs on both sides and the only trash disposal is at the office.
GuideOk so we decided to stay here since we have young kids and thought having a pool and showers available would be great. Well the pool was great but the showers were lack luster at best. We stayed 3 nights and two of the 3 nights there were people so loud is ruined the experience. It seems the people who are in charge of enforcing quite time weren’t interested in it. We had one of the biggest sites there was, site 91, so that was a bonus but it was up a large hill and hard to get in and out of since the “driveway” was uneven with lots of dips that has loose dirt. Also i called ahead to see if our site could accommodate our large family tents. They said yes. Thankfully we opted to being one large and one small tent otherwise there would not have been room. There was barely enough flat ground for our two tents. Some of the sites were so small only a small tent would fit and nothing else. Also fire rings are not included which we knew ahead of time but is still annoying. Also if you want a specific site you have to pay extra when you reserve or they could move you to a smaller or less ideal location. Also you can hear the noise from the main road that runs right next to the campground. I had read reviews that said you couldn’t. Well we could.... all night long. We will not be returning to this campground.
GuideGreat place, laundry, pool and close to town. Each spot is level and very clean restrooms. We spent two months there while my husband received treatment at the Mayo Clinic in Phoenix. However, the roads are a bit of a challenge.
ScoutNice private campsites, clean restrooms. If you like TV while camping there is no cable hookup.
GuideCampground has a pool and sites have full hookups which is nice. The sites are very close together which meant a bit more noise than I would normally like.
GuideTook a weekend girls trip. Amazing views, clean grounds, super space! Will be going back this weekend!
GuideMade good memories here with my son test driving our COViD bubble travel tank(is motorhome). Love this spot- but road up from Phoenix is very busy unless you time it. Place has resort amenities and nice size lots. Great pool!
TravelerThis spot really is nice. It’s right in town so if you need anything it’s walking distance full hookups and room for some pretty large rigs. Since you are in town you can hear the traffic and the spots are packed pretty close to each other
ScoutVery clean and well kept. Staff was very friendly and helpful. Good mix of "parking lot" style camping and secluded sites. Even the cheap lot camping had good space between trailers.
GuideNice but kinda loud
TravelerWe 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!!!
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.
TravelerWell I felt a bit deceived by the website… it said there was a basketball court, a dog park, and a playground but honestly they are the saddest excuses of any of those things I have ever seen. The pool is very nice, if not a bit cold and seating is limited. Bathrooms/ showers are very clean. Getting in and out is pretty crazy as you’re on a steep hill. The weather was nice but I was looking for a more family friendly campground and this was not it. Great as a stop on your way somewhere maybe but not a good weekend getaway unless you have stuff in town to see or do.
GuidePerfect for the campers that still want amenities , such as showers, flush toilets and running water.. Campsites had campfire ring, picnic table at each site.. had cell service every now and then can hear traffic from a nearby Main Street which meant to close to town for me..
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.
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