Camping options near Woodruff, Arizona range from primitive spots to developed campgrounds across the region's pine forests and high desert terrain. Located at approximately 6,000 feet elevation, the area experiences significant temperature variations with summer days reaching 90°F and winter nights often dropping below freezing. Most campgrounds in the Woodruff vicinity remain open year-round but winter access may require snow-capable vehicles during storm periods.
What to do
Explore ancient petroglyphs: At Lyman Lake State Park Campground, visitors can access several short trails featuring prehistoric rock art. One camper noted, "There is a rock squeeze in the trail too" while another mentioned the "wonderful views of the lake and surrounding area, and there are petroglyphs to explore."
Fish for catfish: Lyman Lake offers productive fishing despite variable conditions. "The fishing was decent for catfish but you have to compete with the strong winds," reports one visitor who spent three nights at the park. Another camper shared: "Decent fishing, although the lake was flooded and murky while we were there."
Visit Route 66 attractions: Take It Easy RV Park in Winslow provides convenient access to iconic Route 66 landmarks. "Close to Walmart, Flying J, Standing on a Corner. Close to town and restaurants within 2 mile diameter," explains one reviewer. The park sits minutes from the famous corner immortalized in the Eagles song.
What campers like
Private bathrooms: Take It Easy RV Park offers individual bathroom facilities. "Private bathrooms with showers and wifi," mentions one reviewer who appreciated these amenities despite highway noise. Another camper specifically highlighted the "hot shower room" as a welcome feature, especially during winter stays.
Stargazing opportunities: JoeStar Ranch Under Milky Way emphasizes night sky viewing in a natural setting. The owner describes it as "centrally located and under the Milky Way" with "1.25 acres for camping and exploring." This primitive site provides wide-open skies away from light pollution.
Clean facilities: Holbrook/Petrified Forest KOA maintains well-kept grounds and bathrooms. A reviewer mentioned that "the facilities are clean, at least they got that right," while another noted the campground offers "hot showers, coin laundry, wifi, all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast" for travelers seeking conveniences.
What you should know
Highway noise impacts: Many campgrounds in the area sit near major highways. At Holbrook KOA, "the tent campsites are right next to the I-40, you will hear truckers and other cars drive by while you're sleeping at night which made it difficult to fall asleep." Similarly, one Take It Easy RV Park guest noted "hella noise from the freeway."
Weather considerations: High desert conditions mean significant temperature swings and wind. A visitor to Lyman Lake observed, "It gets a little windy in the afternoon and evening but dies down to have a little camp fire." At JoeStar Ranch, heavy rain created challenging conditions: "We arrived just in time for a huge amount of rain, hence the mudfest. Got bogged down and had a little difficulty getting out."
Site spacing varies: Campground density differs significantly across the area. At Holbrook KOA, "All of the tent campsites are right next to each other, so you will get to know your neighbors pretty well." Meanwhile, Mountain Retreat in Heber offers more room with only five sites total.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Holbrook/Petrified Forest KOA offers swimming facilities for children. "Pool is nice, lots for kids to do, camp sites are close together not much shade, but very nice park with lots to see and do in area," writes one family camper. The KOA also features playgrounds and recreational activities.
Consider cabins for convenience: Several area campgrounds offer cabin accommodations as alternatives to tent camping for families. Lyman Lake State Park received this feedback: "Stayed at Elk Cabin for 2 nights. Cabins are very nice and clean. Campground is very well maintained and the staff is very friendly."
Yurt camping options: Yurt accommodations provide a middle ground between tent camping and cabins near Woodruff, Arizona. Pinetop Lakeside Valhalla features yurt rentals in a mountain setting, offering a unique alternative to traditional camping with more protection from weather variations.
Tips from RVers
Monthly rates available: Mountain Retreat in Heber offers extended-stay options. "Best monthly rate and no restrictions! This place is great for the whole family and there is no trailer year restriction. You definitely can't beat the price and it's nice that the rate includes water, electric and sewage," reports one long-term visitor.
Site leveling: RV sites at Take It Easy RV Park feature level pads. "Our site had FHUs with a level, rock pad in full sun," noted one camper, though they added that "sites were very close to each other with no fire ring or picnic table." Another reviewer confirmed the practical setup: "Level sites and hook ups. We even got a site with a dump, though they did not promise us this."
Passport America discounts: Some area campgrounds participate in discount programs. One RVer at Take It Easy RV Park shared, "This campground was brought to us by Passport America for $40 for 3 nights." While emphasizing the no-frills nature of the park, the discount made it an economical stopover option.
