j
jim K.
Scout
ScoutRancho Sedona RV Park
Great place
The grounds are very well kept with grass and flowers. The staff is very helpful. It is very close to town and we would stay here again.
Best Campgrounds in Arizona
Arizona features a diverse spectrum of camping environments across its desert landscapes, pine forests, and canyon rims. From well-established sites like Mather Campground at Grand Canyon National Park with drinking water and fire rings to free dispersed options like Forest Service Road 328, the state accommodates various camping styles. Tent, RV, and glamping options exist at locations such as Lost Dutchman State Park and Flagstaff KOA, where amenities range from basic to full-service. Several areas permit free camping on public lands, particularly in national forest areas surrounding Sedona, Flagstaff, and near recreational lakes.
Road conditions vary significantly throughout Arizona camping areas, with many dispersed sites requiring high-clearance vehicles. "The drive itself is an adventure, but doable in just about any car if it hasn't rained. I would still recommend some kind of SUV," noted one visitor describing the rough roads to East Pocket in Sedona. Seasonal considerations heavily influence camping experiences, with summer temperatures frequently exceeding 100°F in lower desert regions while higher elevations remain moderate. Winter brings snow to northern Arizona and mild conditions to southern regions. Cell service is typically limited at remote sites, especially in canyon areas and wilderness zones. Fire restrictions commonly affect camping during dry periods from April through October, with complete bans often implemented during high fire danger.
Campers consistently rate waterfront sites among Arizona's most desirable camping locations. Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground and areas along Lake Mohave receive strong reviews for their water access, though they tend to fill quickly during warmer months. One reviewer described Pot Cove in Lake Mohave as having "crystal clear water. Amazing experience," despite requiring navigation of 18 miles of dirt road. Privacy and scenery vary considerably between developed campgrounds and dispersed options. Most dispersed areas offer greater solitude but minimal amenities, while established campgrounds provide more facilities at the cost of proximity to other campers. Wildlife encounters are common throughout Arizona's camping areas, with visitors reporting sightings of everything from wild turkeys to bears in mountainous regions.
Best Camping Sites in Arizona (1,836)
1. Mather Campground — Grand Canyon National Park
208 ReviewsGrand Canyon, AZWebsite+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. Lone Rock Beach Primitive Camping Area — Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
116 ReviewsBig Water, UTWebsite+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."
3. Forest Service Road 328 Dispersed
90 ReviewsGrand 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."
4. Lost Dutchman State Park Campground
90 ReviewsSuperstition Mtn, AZWebsite+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
81 ReviewsCortaro, AZWebsite+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. Boulder Beach Campground — Lake Mead National Recreation Area
69 ReviewsTemple Bar Marina, AZWebsite+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."
7. Catalina State Park Campground
66 ReviewsOro Valley, AZWebsite+1 (520) 628-5798$50 / night
"Dump station near exit of loops and another near state park entrance. Nice selection of pull through and back-in sites. We had a back-in on outer edge and had beautiful views."
"Catalina State Park in Tucson, Arizona, is a fantastic campground that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and convenience."
8. Flagstaff KOA
71 ReviewsFlagstaff, AZWebsite+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. Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground
66 ReviewsPeoria, AZWebsite+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."
10. Homolovi State Park Campground
66 ReviewsWinslow, AZWebsite+1 (928) 289-4106$25 - $35 / 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."
Recent Camping Photos in Arizona
2130 Photos of 1836 Arizona Campgrounds
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Mt. Trittle Rd Site #10/11
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Pivot Rock Canyon
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Apache Lake Marina & Resort
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Canyon Gateway RV Park
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Haak'u Cuervo Canyon Overlook
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Recent Reviews in Arizona
8944 Reviews of 1836 Arizona Campgrounds
Joel S.
GuideKingman KOA
Well maintained KOA
I stayed 3 nights and had a good experience. It is a typical KOA. I want to react to another review that complained about the showers and the neighborhood. The showers were good. I have experienced far worse at campgrounds. The neighborhood is fine. No homeless people that I saw. All properties looked clean and taken care of. There is a large vacant lot next door but no homeless encampment or drugged out tweakers hanging around.
- aalexis E.Scout
Senetor Highway Dispersed spot 5
Not bad!
The fire pits weren’t the best but the camp ground was huge no view and not super peaceful but I would come here again to
- DDana H.Scout
Route 66 Roadside Camp
Awesome crash spot!
Right off route 66 so you get some of the road nostalgia en route to this camp site. Note that the coordinates took us to the dirt pull out right along side 66. It was dark. We were headed east. So took a minute of looking with headlights to see the stop sign just down about 50 yards that was the actual entry to the dirt road. Only ones here. Perfect flat spot for our camper van. Highly recommend. Although we saw the train tracks with a train as we were driving there were no trains overnight and very little car noise as R66 is quiet
Akio O.ScoutBox Bar Road Dispersed
Private and quiet
Great spot if you’re wanting to stay just a night or up to two weeks. No place for trash or bathrooms but other than that all good and not too far from town
William J.GuideAlaskan RV Park
Friendly folks. A bit rough around the edges.
Ok. It's Bowie Az. Now $25 a night cash. Full hookups and a laundry that's affordable. Showers were clean with good pressure and plenty of hot water. Lots of full timers and winter campers. But everyone was friendly and kept to themselves. Highway noise was barely noticeable. Good for a night or couple of days to explore the area. Safe travels.
- William J.Guide
South Side RV Park
no phone, no pool, no pets.....
Thanks Roger Miller for the intro. This place is the epitomy of no frills rv park. And using the word park is being generous. South side does allow pets. But keep them close as we heard coyotes yiping in the night. What you get for $44 a night is a very large space with full hookups and trash removal . And maybe the owner will wheel and deal for weekly or monthly stays. Circle K within walking distance and a Family Dollar also. The caretaker Larry will lead you to your spot. Again. No bathrooms. Or laundry. But the sunsets were great. If you are use to staying in rv resorts then maybe this ain't for you. But if you are looking for a quiet place to park with no crowds and affordable then give it a shot. Safe travels.
- JJenna P.
TravelerSnyder Hill BLM Camping Area
Popular, fine for a night.
Solo traveler and I was not the most comfortable here as there were a couple more permanent set ups. All in all the night was fine. Large flat lot for bigger rigs seemed popular, other spots require definite high clearance for more privacy up the hill. Even in my truck I wasn’t going to attempt some of the roads this time. Getting level higher up is tricky.
There’s tons of glass everywhere?? At every spot I stopped by. It’s very bright and loud as it is by a main road, stoplight and business lights visible. Would stay again in a pinch but I would recommend looking into ironwood and the proper cheap permits for that area only 20 minutes away. Significantly better but has confusing signage on trespassing.
This place felt a little trashed. Not my favorite, but not the worst spot either.
Rob S.GuideMather Campground — Grand Canyon National Park
Lots of people camping
I have stayed here 4 times. I have a van now , but great on a tent too. Nice bathrooms, showers, laundry. Well stocked store across the road.
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
- Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with amenities for kids, like Dead Horse Ranch State Park Campground. A family shared, “The hosts were very nice and the bathrooms were very clean.”
- Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. One camper at Lost Dutchman State Park Campground said, “There is plenty to see around the area.”
- Pack Snacks and Games: Keep kids entertained with snacks and games. A reviewer at Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground mentioned, “Great trails for hiking in the park.”
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?
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?
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?
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?
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.
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