Camping options near Winslow, Arizona range from established state park campgrounds to dispersed sites on public lands. Homolovi State Park Campground, located just 5 miles from downtown Winslow, provides developed sites with electric hookups, water, picnic tables, and fire rings. McHood Park Campground offers a more rustic experience along the water with tent and RV sites but no hookups. The region also includes several dispersed camping areas such as the Winslow Visitor Center parking lot and Painted Desert Rim Drive pulloffs, which provide free overnight parking primarily for self-contained vehicles.
Access to camping areas varies seasonally with summer bringing higher temperatures and winter potentially affecting water availability at some sites. "The water at sites is turned off in the winter," noted one camper at Homolovi State Park. Most developed campgrounds remain open year-round, though primitive sites may become difficult to access during monsoon season when rain can affect road conditions. Cell service is generally good near established campgrounds but may be limited at dispersed sites farther from town. Reservations are recommended for Homolovi State Park and other developed campgrounds, especially during peak travel seasons, while dispersed camping areas typically operate on a first-come, first-served basis with varying stay limits.
Campers frequently mention the peaceful desert setting and dark skies as highlights of staying near Winslow. "This place is so peaceful. You can see the mesas in the distance," wrote one visitor about Homolovi State Park. The archaeological sites within the state park provide educational opportunities, with ancient pottery shards and ruins accessible via short hikes from the campground. McHood Park receives positive reviews for its waterfront location and fishing access, though reviews mention insects can be more prevalent near the water than at higher campsites. Proximity to attractions like Petrified Forest National Park, Painted Desert, and the famous "Standing on the Corner" site in downtown Winslow makes the area's campgrounds convenient bases for regional exploration. Train noise affects some camping areas closer to town, particularly the Visitor Center overnight parking area.
$30 - $40 / night
"You can see the mesas in the distance. It's not far from Winslow or Flagstaff. But it's nice and quiet there. It has a wonderful feeling."
"Only about 2 miles from Winslow, which has anything you might need."
$15 / night
"The City try’s is best to keep it clean and so do the camps host as we saw both city works and the host walking around picking up trash is a nice little weekend trip for dry camping."
"Very close to the cute town of Winslow."
$30 - $55 / night
"Close to but not on top of neighboring RVs. Dirt Dog Park. Nice Laundry facilities. Front desk staff pleasant at check in. "
"Clean and decent campground between Winslow and Flagstaff."
"Very grateful that Winslow allows overnight camping. This is a large parking lot at the welcome center. Best for a quick stopover."
"Big shout out to Winslow AZ visitors center for allowing us to overnight. In exchange we spent money in town."
$15 - $38 / night
"Nice campground Close to Walmart, Flying J, Standing on a Corner Close to town and restaurant’s Within 2 mile diameter"
"Level site close to I40 but road noise not too bad but makes it an easy stop. Loved the hot shower room😀 The Thai restaurant at the corner also owned by the park owner apparently."
"This run down defunct old county park is rough around the edges, but worth the drive off the interstate for the beauty, peace and quiet."
"I camped at the end of the road near the trailhead. There was only one other group there so I figured it was a nice, spaced out area."
$50 - $653 / night
"I often stop at Loves travel stops anyway, because of their convenient locations along interstates, and I can fill up my DEF tank as needed. The spots are very clean. Please be noted."
$35 / night
"Wide open spaces, plenty of space to walk my dog."
$25 - $45 / night
"Sandstones is perfect for an off-road experience."
"We were pleasantly surprised with our campsite at the KOA outside of Petrified Forest."
"Lots are standard RV set-ups, all right next to each other. Lot was fairly level, but still needed from front/back leveling even in my small van. Gravel driveways, gravel lots."
TravelerGo past the knoll lake campground turnoff and turn left on FR 752 you can go down to about .15 miles from the lake but it takes a lifted car to get all the way down. My Kia sorento made it to about 1 mile from the lake but a ton of great dispersed sites all along the road. Go as far as you are comfortable
TravelerFor us with a 20 foot RV in tow, this was about perfect. Great well spaced sites in the pines. Hosts were very helpful. Half is first come first serve, other half about is reserved. There were plenty open when we arrived. No hookups, but a good dump and full station which is included in the 34 per night fee or 5$ for fill, 15 for empty.
GuideThursday-Sunday. Was quieter at east end of campground away from FS219. Side by side noise from the convention was not too disruptive.
TravelerLoads of spots and pretty quiet, especially during the week. Somewhat decent cell coverage, too.
TravelerPro: We were able to find a great site not too far off FR128. Right now it's not too busy. We'd come again.
Con: A great free dispersed area needs everyone to pack out what they packed in. Our site had a lot of trash strewn around and what looked to be human waste trash bags left behind. We always try to leave it better so we picked up what we could.
GuideThis was an okay Campground. The dog park needs some work. The little town of Holbrook is pretty cool and there is a great Navajo Historical Society Museum... Definitely worth a visit.
TravelerThe location is everything. If your goal is to visit the Petrified forest and have a convenient place, this is it. Our view from our site included the entrance to the park! Beautiful sunsets and sunrises.
GuideGreat location (Mogollon Dispersed).. The views and surrounding forest are beautiful.. There is a men's & women's outhouse at the entrance to the area. Each site has a number assigned, camping 50 feet within the designated sign. There is no trash receptacles or amenities. There is a designated dump station 2 miles at the Woods Canyon Lake turnoff, fees are collected. $10 to dump waste and $5 to fill water tanks.. $7 per bag of trash.
ScoutThis is easy in and close to Petrified Forest National Park south entrance. It is free for no hookups and quiet.
Camping spots near Winslow, Arizona range from developed state park facilities to primitive desert camping areas. Located in the high desert at approximately 4,850 feet elevation, the region experiences temperature swings of 30+ degrees between day and night in summer months. Most camping areas remain accessible year-round, though winter temperatures can drop below freezing from November through March.
Explore archaeological sites: At Homolovi State Park Campground, campers can visit multiple Hopi ruins within walking distance. "The visitor center is awesome. Amazing architecture for a visitor center in the middle of nowhere. The ruins are cool, there are a few different sites and more is being uncovered all the time," notes Megan B. The park offers a 1.2-mile trail through historic areas where pottery fragments can be observed.
Kayak Clear Creek: McHood Park Campground provides direct access to water recreation. "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," explains Alex D. The reservoir supports fishing, swimming, and boating during warmer months.
Visit ghost town ruins: At Two Guns Ghost Town, visitors can explore abandoned structures dating back to Route 66's heyday. "Not only is this a ghost town but is a ghost RV park as well. I visited the nearby death caves. Very interesting," mentions Ron R. The canyon area features remnants of old buildings, cave formations, and historic markers.
Dark skies for stargazing: Camping areas away from Winslow provide exceptional night sky viewing opportunities. "If astronomy is your thing, the view of the night sky is spectacular," shares Co A. about their experience at Homolovi State Park. The high desert elevation and minimal light pollution create optimal conditions for astronomical observation.
Scenic desert sunsets: Painted Desert Rim Drive Dispersed Pulloff offers dramatic sunset views across the painted desert landscape. "OMG!!! THIS PLACE WAS AMAZING!! Private, there was 1 other camper on the rim, and they were probably 1/4 mile away. The sunset and sunrise was magical!" reports Dana H. The elevated position along the rim provides unobstructed horizon views.
Convenient overnight parking: For travelers passing through, Winslow Visitor Center provides free overnight parking in town. "It's a few blocks from the fun and kitchy part of town with all the 'Standing on the Corner' things, plus some other interesting things to see and some good places to eat," explains Laura M. This central location allows for easy access to downtown attractions.
Train noise affects some sites: Railroad tracks run near several camping areas, particularly those closest to town. "If you love the sound of trains, this is the spot for you. There must have been a dozen trains that ran past my site," warns FearLes about the Winslow Visitor Center.
Seasonal weather considerations: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F while winter nights can drop below freezing. "Being so exposed high up on a flat ridge, it was a bit breezy. I can imagine it can get extremely windy and sandy during a dust storm," notes Make Memes Not War P. about Painted Desert Rim Drive.
Limited facilities at dispersed sites: Most free camping areas lack amenities. "There is a repeater tower within line of sight - I'm guessing that's why I had great cell service (T-Mobile)," reports Steven G. about Painted Desert Rim Drive, highlighting that cell coverage can be unexpectedly good at some remote sites.
Bathroom quality varies: Meteor Crater RV Park provides private shower facilities. "The shower rooms are great with locking private sink, toilet, shower," shares Jessica M. At developed campgrounds, check if facilities are operational seasonally, as some close in winter.
Educational opportunities: Plan time for historical sites that interest children. "Camp sites are right by the water for good fishing or you can park up above if you do not like bugs as they are worse down by the water than on the upper campsites," advises Amber B. about McHood Park Campground.
Spacing between sites: Site privacy differs significantly between campgrounds. "Sites were clean with a little space from neighbors. Some train/highway noise," notes Meghan B. about Homolovi State Park. For families wanting more space, dispersed camping areas typically offer greater separation from other campers.
Accessibility and parking: OK RV Park in nearby Holbrook provides level sites for larger rigs. "All roadways and spaces are paved. The hook-ups are easy to access and spaces all appear relatively level," explains Melody M. about Homolovi State Park, noting its suitability for RVs.
Temperature management: The high desert environment means extreme temperature fluctuations. "There is good space between sites. They have primitive sites, sites with water, and sites with water & electric. I chose water & electric, for $40/nite. One thing to know and be prepared for, is this is the desert plains. It is VERY windy," advises Sheri K.
Dump station availability: Only developed campgrounds offer sanitary dump facilities. "However just be aware that there are no hookups at all and no place to dump your tanks that I can find," cautions Ronald about McHood Park Campground. RVers staying at dispersed sites should plan accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the best campgrounds in Winslow, AZ?
Homolovi State Park Campground is widely considered the best camping option near Winslow, located just 2-5 miles outside town. This peaceful park offers paved sites with 20/30 amp electric and water hookups, clean restrooms and showers, and a dump station. The grounds feature Hopi ruins to explore, and the setting provides beautiful views of distant mesas with excellent stargazing opportunities. For a free alternative, McHood Park Campground offers basic dry camping with knowledgeable camp hosts from Winslow who can provide local information. While amenities are limited, it's a nice weekend getaway option that's well-maintained by city workers and hosts.
How far is Chevelon Lake from Winslow for camping?
Chevelon Lake is approximately 30-35 miles southwest of Winslow, Arizona. The drive takes about 45-60 minutes, with the last portion on forest roads that can be rough at times. For camping at the lake, Lakeview Campground in Coconino National Forest offers established sites near the water. Alternatively, Pinegrove Campground provides another option in the vicinity. The area is primarily suited for tent camping and smaller RVs due to the access roads. Bring all necessary supplies as facilities are minimal and there's no cell service in most areas around the lake.
Are there good RV parks in Winslow, Arizona?
Yes, Winslow offers several good RV park options. Take It Easy RV Park provides full hookups, is big-rig friendly, and has reservable sites. For those seeking a convenient overnight stop, the Winslow Visitor Center allows free overnight RV parking in their large lot, though it can be noisy due to nearby trains and trucks. In the surrounding area, Meteor Crater RV Park offers pull-through sites with easy highway access, clean bathrooms and showers, fenced dog walking areas, plus an on-site gas station and convenience store, making it a good option for overnight stays or when visiting the nearby crater.
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