Camping near Woodruff, Arizona ranges from high desert terrain at 5,000 feet to pine forests reaching 6,500 feet, creating dramatic temperature variations throughout the year. The Little Colorado River flows through the region, providing water access at certain camping areas during spring runoff, though many sites remain arid with minimal shade even in forested sections.
What to do
Explore ancient ruins: Visit Homolovi State Park Campground where preserved Hopi archaeological sites are accessible via short hiking trails. "There are a lot of Hopi Indian historical sites within this State Park. They also have 'Star parties' throughout the spring/summer," notes a camper who enjoyed the cultural aspects.
View petrified wood collections: The area surrounding Crystal Forest Campground offers unique geological specimens. "Office is a gift shop and a Museum is across the street which is the entrance to the Petrified National Park. Campground is ringed with petrified sections of ancient trees," shares one visitor who appreciated the educational opportunity.
Astronomy viewing: The dark skies provide excellent stargazing opportunities, especially at more remote camping spots. "Beautiful night sky" reports a camper at Petrified Forest Campground, while another notes, "At night it is beautifully dark" at Crystal Forest Museum and Gifts.
What campers like
Level, accessible sites: Many campgrounds provide well-maintained, flat camping areas. "Sites were clean with a little space from neighbors... Shower rooms look a bit rough, but the water was hot. Good cell service," reports a camper at Homolovi State Park.
Proximity to national park: OK RV Park in Holbrook offers convenience for Petrified Forest visitors. "This was a great campground location for getting out to The Painted Desert, Petrified Forest, and anything else near Holbrook," one camper shared. Another added, "Super nice hosts, very clean facility."
Budget-friendly options: Free and low-cost camping exists throughout the area. "Free and easy spot to stay for the night when checking out the petrified forest," notes a visitor to Crystal Forest Museum and Gifts, while another mentions, "$15 for non electric spot. I thought it was worth it because of everything that comes with it. Paved roads, large parking spots, picnic tables and grills, and fire rings."
What you should know
Wind conditions: The open desert landscape experiences significant wind, particularly in spring. "It is VERY windy. Even if you were bundled up in a park, I don't see sitting out at the picnic table!" cautions a visitor to Homolovi State Park.
Road access challenges: Some dispersed camping areas require appropriate vehicles. At 5 Mile Wash BLM, one camper noted, "Meets the need for a quick off highway overnight. Forest road was closed." Another visitor to a nearby campground shared, "The unpaved dirt roads leading to the campsite stretched for about 4 miles, which came as a surprise."
Limited amenities: Many sites lack basic facilities. "The app says there is tent camping at this site. This is not allowed per the sign on the fence," reports a visitor to Petrified Forest Gift Shop, highlighting the importance of verifying campground information before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Unique accommodations: Holbrook/Petrified Forest KOA offers family-friendly options beyond standard camping. "It also has a pool, playground, small library, and a well stocked store, everyday they cook food that you can buy instead of cooking yourself," shares a visitor who appreciated the amenities.
Educational opportunities: Many campgrounds incorporate learning experiences. "The visitor center is awesome. Amazing architecture for a visitor center in the middle of nowhere," notes a camper at Homolovi State Park about the educational facilities.
Weather preparation: Temperature fluctuations require planning. "We parked in the Yellow Row in a small tent space just across from the restrooms which are handicap accessible... If there was more than a couple I could see how it would be too crowded," advises a tent camper at OK RV Park, suggesting consideration of space limitations for larger families.
Tips from RVers
Electrical needs: Petrified Forest Campground offers various hookup options for different requirements. "Host was responsive and provided great directions, location was close to the Petrified Forest and 100% boondocking," notes one RVer. Another visitor to Crystal Forest Campground shared, "$25 got us electrical and er we are in paradise now. Site is fairly level and there was a little shade."
Site positioning: Some campgrounds allow flexibility in where to park. "We positioned our trailer to block the light from the Crystal shop so we could photograph the milky way. Felt very safe," explains one RVer at Crystal Forest Campground, demonstrating how strategic parking can enhance the experience.
Seasonal planning: The best places to camp near Woodruff, Arizona vary by season. "This park is just a short drive off I-40, but far enough the traffic and train noise are distant. All roadways and spaces are paved. The hook-ups are easy to access and spaces all appear relatively level," reports a visitor to Homolovi State Park, highlighting accessibility factors important to RV travelers.
