Clear Creek runs through McHood Park Campground, creating a popular kayaking route for outdoor enthusiasts camping near Winslow, Arizona. The area sits in a high desert landscape with elevations around 5,000 feet, creating dramatic temperature swings between day and night. Most dispersed camping locations offer unobstructed views of the surrounding painted desert terrain with minimal natural shade.
What to do
Explore ghost town ruins: Two Guns Ghost Town allows camping near abandoned buildings and a canyon. "The dogs and I had fun exploring the ruins. There aren't any trees and its close to I-40 but the noise isn't too bad," reports Cobalt B.
Kayak Clear Creek: McHood Park Campground offers water access for paddling. "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," writes Alex D.
Visit Meteor Crater: The impact site is minutes from camping options. "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," notes Tom D.
What campers like
Level campsites: Meteor Crater RV Park provides well-maintained spaces. "Sites are well laid out but close. Clean and staff are helpful," mentions Melissa F.
Quiet desert nights: Painted Desert Rim Drive offers isolation for stargazing. "Private, there was 1 other camper on the rim, and they were probably 1/4 mile away. The place was absolutely beautiful. No light noise to ruin the stars," explains Dana H.
Budget-friendly options: Winslow Visitor Center permits free overnight parking. "I always appreciate when cities allow overnight parking in town. As boondockers, it's hard to explore a city and then go out to the outskirts to find a place for the night," notes Laura M.
What you should know
Bathroom conditions vary: Facilities at campgrounds may be limited. "Bathrooms were decent and the camping area was very clean. $15 to camp but it was well worth it," says Alex D. about McHood Park.
Highway noise affects some sites: Take It Easy RV Park sits near I-40. "Close to I40 but road noise not too bad but makes it an easy stop," reports Rosie G.
Train sounds continue overnight: Winslow Visitor Center parking sits near active tracks. "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," Laura M. notes.
Campsite fees vary: Prices range from free to $40+ per night. "This is a handy place to stay if you're in Winslow. Spaces are nice and well-spaced with table and fire pit. No problem getting a space," Ronald mentions about McHood Park.
Tips for camping with families
Check campground accessibility: Some facilities accommodate mobility needs. "The shower and restroom at this location is some of the best I've seen so far. The only bad thing is the entryway is an extremely tall door frame on top of a concrete lip," explains Lara O. at Meteor Crater RV Park.
Bring entertainment: Many dog-friendly campgrounds near Winslow have minimal built-in activities. "We had a great night camping at McHood Campground along Clear Creek. It was very peaceful and quiet on a Friday night," Alex D. shares.
Pack sun protection: Shade is limited at most sites. "I find this kind of off the beaten path non-commercial history fascinating. The canyon is very pretty... We were the only ones camping," notes Cheryl T. about Two Guns Ghost Town.
Tips from RVers
Arrive with full tanks: Painted Desert Rim Drive Dispersed Pulloff offers no services. "A bit of rough road, paved but holy, some graffiti on the pavilion says degenerate kids where here, gravel road is beat up, but OMG THE SUNSET, you gotta see this sunset," advises SomadNomad M.
Prepare for weather fluctuations: Temperatures can drop significantly overnight. "This is a large parking lot at the welcome center. Best for a quick stopover. This spot is adjacent to a train station and large strucks were also parked," notes Carolyn S.
Utilize local amenities: Restaurants and services often sit near camping areas. "The Thai restaurant at the corner also owned by the park owner apparently," mentions Rosie G. about Take It Easy RV Park.
Select sites strategically: Campgrounds offer different terrain options. "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.
