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Best Campgrounds in Arizona

9,031 Reviews

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 (1,851)

    1. Mather Campground — Grand Canyon National Park

    208 Reviews
    Grand Canyon, AZ
    Website
    +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

    117 Reviews
    Big Water, UT
    Website
    +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

    91 Reviews
    Grand 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 Reviews
    Superstition Mtn, AZ
    Website
    +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

    82 Reviews
    Cortaro, AZ
    Website
    +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 Reviews
    Temple Bar Marina, AZ
    Website
    +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 Reviews
    Oro Valley, AZ
    Website
    +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 Reviews
    Flagstaff, AZ
    Website
    +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. Homolovi State Park Campground

    67 Reviews
    Winslow, AZ
    Website
    +1 (928) 289-4106

    $30 - $40 / 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."

    10. Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground

    66 Reviews
    Peoria, AZ
    Website
    +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."

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Recent Reviews in Arizona

9031 Reviews of 1851 Arizona Campgrounds

  • Brian E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 21, 2026

    Oak Creek Mobile Lodge

    A hidden gem in Sedona

    We have spent the last 5 nights in the OAK CREEK MOBILELODGE in Sedona Arizona. The good things: Location! Just blocks from all the good stuff in Sedona. Also, very nice private creek access to Oak Creek for people staying in the park. The free Sedona shuttle van picks up just outside the entrance to the park. The parking spots are fairly spacious with some nice mature tree coverage. There are several pull-through spots and back in spots too. The 50 amp electric worked well as we had unseasonably hot weather in the 90s. My ACs ran all day without issue. Water pressure was ok not strong but not weak. Each site has sewer access. There is a laundry, bathroom, shower facility. But we dont use those so i have no opinion. The owners live on-site and are out and about meeting people and are very helpful. The creek area is very nice with a beach area and some pools for swimming and wading. It is very quiet in the park. No traffic noise from the road and all the campers are polite and friendly. There is a nice paved bike, walking path at the entry to the park which goes for miles in both directions. Dog Friendly! Our dogs were 100% satisfied! The negative: There are several 1970s single wide trailers permanently located here. But, the inhabitants are working families or people of means as they all drive newer expensive vehicles. There are no trouble makers. No riff-raf types. We have been surrounded by people in $200k-$450k RVs If you want a nice quiet RV park very conveniently located in Sedona, you will be pleasantly surprised with Oak Creek Mobile Lodge. We would definitely return here!

  • David R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 21, 2026

    Kartchner Caverns State Park Campground

    Camping Area Feels Like An RV Park

    Kartchner Caverns is well worth a visit. Although the campground was clean and well kept it kind of felt like an RV park. Watch out for the turkeys!

  • lThe Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 21, 2026

    Crystal Forest Campground

    It is a great place to stay

    On the east side of the highway heading into the petrified Forest is the free side first come first serve, and it is a pretty good place to stay. We stayed there the first night we was here before we went into the petrified Forest, which is pretty cool. It was pretty hot so the second night we was here we moved over to the paid place. It cost $25 a night for 30 amp hookup $35 a night for 50 amp hookup. The staff is very friendly they have a gift store on both sides of the highway selling mostly rocks and and souvenirs.

  • sThe Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 20, 2026

    34.52862° N, 111.81001° W

    secluded camp spot

    pretty quiet open area (that doubles as a shooting area FYI) that wasn’t busy on a Thursday night. close to thirteen-mile rock climbing area and hiking trails. need to open gate en route in.

    no cell service or amenities

  • YThe Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 20, 2026

    Mogollon Rimn Dispersed, AZ FR 9350

    Fantastic Views of the Rim!

    Road was slightly rough, but still manageable without a 4WD. Just make sure to drive slowly. Very spacious camp spots & decent phone reception. Only downside was that it was extremely windy at night to the point that it broke one of my poles so my tent collapsed on me, lol. That’s ok because I was looking to buy another tent. Despite that, I look forward to re-visit this area during the summer since the weather should still be pleasant in the daytime. ❤️

  • VThe Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 20, 2026

    Concho lake

    Arrived after dark

    It was dark when I arrived so I parked near the entrance. Quiet, easy to find. Could see others already settled in.

  • Cory E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 19, 2026

    Cherry Creek Rd

    Back woods camp beautiful spot

    It was nice and quiet 14 day dispersed camping outside of the 12 spot campground near by. Perhaps 12 additional road side pull offs some in rougher shape than others.

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

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?

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?

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?

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?

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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