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Little Elden Springs Horsecamp offers camping facilities for riders in Coconino National Forest near Flagstaff, approximately 30 miles east of Williams. The campground features toilets, drinking water, and trash collection with sites accommodating both tents and RVs. Campgrounds are reservable with sites specifically designed for equestrian use. Large parking areas accommodate horse trailers with room for unloading and securing horses. The campground maintains a 4.5-star rating from visitors who appreciate the well-maintained grounds and proximity to riding trails. Primitive equestrian camping is also available at FR 151 Dispersed Camping area north of Williams, where free camping is permitted with pets allowed and campfires permitted when restrictions are not in place.
Direct access to forest service trails begins at Little Elden Springs, connecting riders to extensive trail networks throughout Coconino National Forest. Trail riders can access routes suitable for day rides of varying difficulty levels. Water for horses is available at the campground, eliminating the need to haul water for equine companions. The FR 151 dispersed camping area provides a more primitive horse camping experience with ample space for horse trailer parking but without dedicated facilities. During summer months, afternoon thunderstorms are common in the high country around Williams and Flagstaff, so proper shelter for horses is advisable. The surrounding pine forests provide natural shade and protection for both horses and riders during Arizona's warmer months.
"Definitely take a visit to Williams, it’s like a step back in time. People were friendly and helpful. A ton to do here! Also, there is a hiking trail just behind the campground."
"Big campground tucked in the forest with many activities for the kids. Place has an indoor pool for those cold nights. Polar express in Williams is a short 10min drive from here."
"They have a lake to fish in and equestrian center to go on horse back rides."
"Dead Horse Ranch is a beautiful Arizona state park."
from $25 - $70 / night
Check Availability"Aside from all the other reviews here detailing what a great affordable campground this is, I'll point out that it is literally right next door to the Pepsi Amphitheatre which means walking distance to"
"All amenities are shared so we had access to a large playground, basketball and volleyball courts, the store, and the bathhouse."
from $10 - $25 / night
Check Availability"Open meadow with trees in the area, with views of the surrounding mountains when the weather permits. Never packed at this location, even during the summer!"
"The road in was dry but had ruts from muddy times but doable with our 26' travel trailer. 20 min drive back to Flag but there is a truck stop close by."
"Compared to another campground close by that is a little less but we had double the space and trees and a creek behind us. They’re very busy and we were only able to get two nights."
"Sites a little close to each other. Grounds were surrounded by nature and close by main Sedona street. Check in after hours were smooth."
from $42 - $84 / night
Check Availability"Cool in the Arizona summer, and there are bonfire pits (did not use due to heat/fire warnings)"
"Less busy then FR 525 yet great views and easy drive in."
"The Little Elden Springs Horse Campground is a reservation HORSE/MULE ONLY campground. There are 15 pull-through sites, many that can accommodate 4-horse live-n trailers."
"Nice trails"
from $34 / night
Check Availability"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."
"There are lots of trees and it’s a great park to walk around. At the back you have the River you can walk around and you are surrounded with mountain views."
"Driving distance or short walk to lake. No Verizon cell service."
"Quiet with nearby hiking and biking even a little lake."
from $18 - $36 / night
Check Availability
GuideWe stayed here for our first trip with a TT in December 2020. Water and electric hookups. They have a dump station. They have a lake to fish in and equestrian center to go on horse back rides.
LegendDead Horse Ranch is a beautiful Arizona state park. It is also a great home base because it is down the street from Tuzigoot National Monument and close to Sedona and Monetzuma Castle National Monument. It is just outside the charming city of Cottonwood.
GuideAmazing campground roughly 30 mins west of Flagstaff and just under an hour to the south rim of the Grand Canyon. Definitely take a visit to Williams, it’s like a step back in time. People were friendly and helpful. A ton to do here! Also, there is a hiking trail just behind the campground. But beware that you would most likely get packed in here during high season. The sites are very close together.
GuideBig campground tucked in the forest with many activities for the kids. Place has an indoor pool for those cold nights. Polar express in Williams is a short 10min drive from here. Staff is super friendly!
GuideThe forest was closed in Northern Arizona so I decided to camp out at Dead Horse Ranch SP. I was pretty pleased overall with my trip. My campsite was comfortable and private enough, considering how close the sites are at this campground. I had some shade trees to help keep my travel trailer cool but definitely needed to run the AC all night in order to stay comfortable. The RV sites here have fresh water and power, but no sewer. There is a dump station at the park entrance that is easily accessible when both entering and exiting the park. I enjoyed fishing, hiking, and bike riding while I was here but had to limit my outdoor activities to the morning hours due to the heat.
One afternoon I went into old town Cottonwood, which is only a couple of miles from the park. It's a great place to visit if you're into antiques or wine tasting.
RangerThis KOA is very clean and has ton's of amenities on site, very nice showers and bathrooms, some of the amenities are mini golf, pan for gems, trails, go karts, peddle cars, playground, laundry room, store,small arcade, just to name a few, not all the amenities are free. Close to Williams,AZ one exit away, also close to Bearizona, Grand Canyon, Deer farm. They have everything from campsites that are primitive to a full group cabin to rent and everything in between.
During our stay we rented a 4 person cabin, while other family members that we were there to camp with had a pull thru spot for there 5th wheel.
Our cabin has a queen size bed and a bunk bed, the room had a TV, picnic table. fire pit, swinging porch bench, and a heater, the rest rooms where a quick minute walk away.
RangerLots to do for kids. Nice wooded sites. Rzr trails in the area and close to lots of fishing. Town of Williams is a tourist adventure and Bearzona is a Blast!! 🎣🐻🦉🌲
LegendWow, what an awesome state park! Camping here with little ones was awesome, it had so much to do. The three small lakes are a great spot to fish and lots of shade. A horse stable and playground are nearby. There are 4 camping loops, 1 tent only. The cabins are on a separate road and have so much space and shade between. There is also river access. Close to national monuments and wineries. Not too far from Sedona and Jerome. Lots of day trips close by. We will be back!
GuideNice park, plenty of amenities, dog park, pull thru sites..close but not unbearable...plenty of room for tip outs..Close to Williams, hour drive to Grand canyon NP. Seems like there's abundant KOA bashing going on these days...This park is not one of them...
Equestrian camping near Williams, Arizona offers pine forest settings with varying levels of facilities for riders and their horses. Located at elevations around 7,000 feet in Coconino National Forest, the area experiences summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F with afternoon thunderstorms common. Campers can access high-country trails through ponderosa pine forests that provide natural shade during Arizona's warmer months.
Explore Mingus Mountain trails: South Mingus Mountain Basecamp on Forest Road 413 provides access to numerous hiking paths through pine forests. "Lots of hiking trails" with opportunities to see wildlife including "deer, mountain lion, fox, coyote" according to Chris P., who notes the area has "lots of shade" making it comfortable for summer exploration.
Visit nearby attractions: Williams-Circle Pines KOA serves as a convenient base for family activities. "We visited our beloved Bearizona, and downtown Williams. Some of our favorite things to do in AZ," notes Jordan H., who stayed at this campground. The KOA is also near "Kaibab lake" and a "Deer farm" as mentioned by Bryan S.
Fishing opportunities: Yavapai Campground offers access to a small lake just north of the campground. "There is a small lake just north of the CG which makes for a good evening or morning stroll," notes Alex S. The quiet setting provides a perfect weekend getaway with "clean toilets, water, etc. and all the amenities you expect from a FS CG."
Well-maintained equestrian facilities: Little Elden Springs Horsecamp receives praise for its upkeep. "Camp host was very helpful he keeps the sites looking great. The outhouse is the cleanest we have ever seen. Nice trails," writes Jack M. The campground features 15 pull-through sites specifically designed for equestrian use.
Natural surroundings: Canyon Vista Campground offers a forested setting with spacious, well-distributed sites. "Beautiful campground with hiking trails, bathrooms and friendly hosts. Conveniently located near Flag and lots of shady sites," John R. comments. Ted M. adds that sites are "Well distributed" in the "ponderosa pines" creating a comfortable camping environment.
Family-friendly amenities: Verde River RV Resort provides extensive recreational options. "We love this campground! We have camped here around 5 times and always had a great stay. They have a pool and hot tub, mini golf, playground, pickle ball court, clubhouse, and lots of crafts and activities for the kids!" reports Mstwister E., highlighting why families return repeatedly.
Seasonal considerations: Summer thunderstorms affect the high country around Williams and Flagstaff. "During summer months, afternoon thunderstorms are common" so proper shelter for horses is important when equestrian camping. The ponderosa pine forests provide natural shade during warmer months.
Site availability changes: Canyon Vista has shifted to partial reservation system. "Recently changed some sites to reservation on rec.gov which changes the dynamics of staying here a bit," notes Ted M., suggesting campers should plan ahead rather than counting on first-come availability for all sites.
Road conditions: When considering dispersed equestrian camping, weather impacts accessibility. At South Mingus Mountain Basecamp, Michael F. warns, "Stay away if rain is in the forecast. This place gets muddy and you will get stuck in a larger RV," which is especially relevant for horse trailers that need firm ground for safe maneuvering.
Choose campgrounds with kid-specific amenities: Many families praise Williams-Circle Pines KOA for its child-friendly features. "Lots to do here... VERY Kid friendly. We to Bearizona, Rode go-carts, played mini golf. Bikes work well here," notes Dave R., making it ideal for active families.
Look for water features: Dead Horse Ranch State Park offers water recreation options perfect for children. "This park offers a much needed break from the Arizona heat in the spring and summer months. The 'lakes' are really more like ponds but plenty large enough to fish in as is the Verde River, running through the park," writes Audrey R., adding that "They've recently improved the playground for young ones."
Consider cabin options: For families new to equestrian camping, cabins provide comfort while still accessing trails. "We had a great time at Dead Horse Ranch! We just moved to Arizona, so we went in with zero expectations and were very pleased with just about everything," reports Ashley C., noting the cabins have "an air conditioner/heater, so what more could you want!"
Select sites with amenities that match needs: Verde River RV Resort offers various site types based on features. "They price the space according to size, whether it has trees, and whether it is along the river. We took a cheap space with none of the above, but it was still great!" shares Melody M., noting that even basic sites provide comfort and value.
Plan for limited utilities: At equestrian camping areas like FR 151 Dispersed Camping north of Williams, there are no hookups available. "Beautiful campsites among the trees with high meadows for star gazing. Enjoy the wildlife and free range cattle as they stroll through the area," notes Gar, emphasizing the trade-off between amenities and natural experience when horse camping.
Consider accessibility for horse trailers: When selecting equestrian camping spots, assess site dimensions. Little Elden Springs Horsecamp offers "15 pull-through sites, many that can accommodate 4-horse live-n trailers" according to RvNaut, who created a video tour of the facilities showing the campground layout designed specifically for equestrian needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Williams, AZ?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Williams, AZ is Williams-Circle Pines KOA with a 4.4-star rating from 31 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Williams, AZ?
TheDyrt.com has all 20 equestrian camping locations near Williams, AZ, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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