Seasonal camping in the Leupp area transitions between high desert and ponderosa pine forest, with temperature variations of 30-40°F between day and night at higher elevations. Flagstaff KOA offers proximity to the Arizona Trail, while McHood Park Campground provides access to Clear Creek for water recreation. Campers should prepare for wind in open areas, particularly at Cinder Hills OHV Area where volcanic ash terrain creates unique camping conditions.
What to do
Paddle Clear Creek: At McHood Park Campground, visitors can enjoy water activities along Clear Creek. "I woke up the next morning and went for a run around the reservoir before kayaking the 6.5 mile round trip out & back along Clear Creek," notes Alex D. The park costs $15 per night and offers camping areas right along the water.
Explore Native American history: Homolovi State Park provides access to Hopi historical sites. "There are a lot of Hopi Indian historical sites within this State Park. They also have 'Star parties' throughout the spring/summer," writes Sheri K. The park features a well-designed visitor center and multiple archaeological areas to explore.
Visit the Meteor Crater: Just 5 minutes from Meteor Crater RV Park, this impressive impact site makes for a fascinating day trip. "Meteor Crater is a well presented privately held site. We commented that the displays and information definitely showed great stewardship of this geological attraction. We easily spent 3-4 hours at the crater," reports Tom D.
Hike the Arizona Trail: Accessible from Pinegrove Campground, this long-distance trail provides excellent day hiking. "The Arizona trail passes through near the entrance of the campground, so there is trail access for hiking/biking nearby," mentions Carly E. The trail segment offers a mix of forest and meadow terrain.
What campers like
Dark night skies: The Leupp region provides excellent stargazing opportunities away from urban light pollution. "The night sky there took our breath away," reports Emily R. about Pinegrove Campground. Similarly, at Meteor Crater RV Park, RichMichelle M. notes, "We could see the stars but there was obviously light pollution from the low-standing lights in the park. However, that was the only light pollution and if you gave it some time, your eyes adjusted to see an amazing array of stars!"
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds in the area maintain well-kept amenities. At Homolovi State Park Campground, "Bathrooms were decent and the camping area was very clean," according to Alex D. Similarly, at Pinegrove Campground, "The shower rooms are clean with ample hot water," notes a visitor.
Space between sites: Unlike more crowded camping areas, many Leupp-area campgrounds offer good separation between campsites. "Sites were clean with a little space from neighbors," writes Meghan B. about Homolovi State Park. At McHood Park, "Spaces are nice and well-spaced with table and fire pit," according to Ronald.
What you should know
Train noise affects some areas: In Winslow, train noise can impact sleep quality. At Winslow Visitor Center, Laura M. reports, "VERY noisy trains all night long. Not just trains passing by, but some kind of dramatic CLU-CLUNKing going on pretty frequently." However, another camper notes, "I enjoyed the low ambient hum of the intermittent trains passing by."
Wind exposure: Due to the open terrain, some camping areas experience significant wind. At Cinder Hills OHV Area, a camper advises, "Remember that wind and dust go together, and park accordingly. The dark-gray areas are volcanic ash and produce less dust." Similarly, at Homolovi, Sheri K. warns, "One thing to know and be prepared for, is this is the desert plains. It is VERY windy."
Cell service varies: Connectivity fluctuates across the region. At Cinder Hills OHV Area, one camper notes it has "terrible internet for all carriers." In contrast, at Pinegrove Campground, Marcy reports, "Some cell service (Google Fi), not super strong but manageable."
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly amenities: Flagstaff KOA caters specifically to families with children. "This is a great place if you have children. Lots for them to do and lots of kids to play with," notes Terry T. The campground includes play areas and organized activities.
Consider off-peak visits: Weekend crowds can affect camping experience, especially at popular sites. At Cinder Hills OHV Area, MP C. reports, "Great spot and lots of room. But some creeps were racing their ATVs till 2 AM," suggesting weekdays might offer a quieter experience for families.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer chances to observe wildlife. At Homolovi State Park, Co A. shares, "The campsite itself is simple, clean and quiet. Due its location, its easily accessible and the sunsets and sunrises are wonderful." McHood Park visitors report seeing various bird species along the water.
Tips from RVers
Accessibility varies widely: Some sites accommodate large rigs better than others. At Winona Dispersed Camping, one RVer notes, "Took our 38 ft class a here," while another advises, "The rd is bumpy but if you're slow our 26ft class A made it through no problem."
Weather preparation is essential: Temperature swings can be dramatic. "It's very cold at night, so bring all the clothes you've got," advises Shayla S. at Cinder Hills OHV Area. Similarly, Jessica M. at Meteor Crater RV Park recommends preparing for both hot days and cool nights.
Dump stations are limited: Plan waste management carefully. At Pinegrove Campground, "The free dump was good (with paid visit)," notes one RVer, while at McHood Park, Ronald observes, "There are no hookups at all and no place to dump your tanks that I can find."
