Dispersed camping sites around Yarnell, Arizona offer options ranging from rustic stays to full-service RV resorts within a 30-mile radius. Located in the transition zone between desert and mountains at 4,780 feet elevation, Yarnell experiences milder temperatures than lower desert regions, with summer highs typically 10-15 degrees cooler than Phoenix. Cell service varies significantly with terrain, particularly in canyon areas where signal strength can drop unexpectedly.
What to do
Kayaking at Watson Lake: Point of Rocks RV Campground provides direct access to Watson Lake, just a short hike from your campsite. "Watson lake is 10 min hike. I would stay here again," notes Karen G., highlighting the convenient water access. The distinctive granite formations surrounding the lake create excellent photography opportunities.
Hiking the granite formations: The unique geological features near Point of Rocks RV Campground attract outdoor enthusiasts. "We had a premium site which was amazing - great views, high quality hookups and extremely clean showers. Really enjoyed ourselves and only a 0.5 mile hike to Watson Lake," reports Wipeout21 T.
Off-road adventures: Wayside Oasis RV Park serves as a hub for ATV and dirt bike enthusiasts. "Great place if you have side by side, quads, dirt bike or any off road vehicle," explains Melissa S. The park sits along a dirt runway with easy access to surrounding trails and routes.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Multiple RV parks near Yarnell maintain high standards for their bathrooms and showers. At Willow Lake RV Park, "Bathrooms and Laundry rooms are clean and in good working order. Awesome walking trails right from the campsite," according to Stacey T.
Spacious sites: Campers appreciate the room to spread out at certain locations. "Very spacious sites plenty of room for our 37' with slides out and our tow car! Full hook up site, great amenities and friendly staff!" notes Lindsay K. about Black Canyon Ranch RV Resort.
Direct lake access: The ability to reach water recreation directly from camp ranks high with visitors. "We had a lovely time staying at the Willow Lake RV Park on our visit to Prescott. The bathrooms were spacious and there is a trail directly behind the park that leads out to Willow Lake and a plethora of trails for the trail runner/hiker/explorer," shares Kaysha R.
What you should know
Age restrictions: Some RV parks near Yarnell have age limitations. At Pioneer RV Resort, "you have to be over 55 to camp here" as Rachelle G. explains, though she notes "staff was very friendly in helping us to dumping station. $15 to dump."
Road conditions: Access to certain campgrounds requires careful navigation. At Pleasant Harbor RV Resort, Robert G. details the options: "There are several different RV/Camping options at Pleasant Harbor Marina / RV Resort. 1) In the resort with Full Hookups 2) Out on the 'flat' with just water and power (dump station on site) 3) Out on the 'flat' with no hookups."
Fire restrictions: Regulations vary significantly between parks. "As of May 5th 2021 there is a no camp fire rule! This is every campsite," warns Maddi G. about Willow Lake RV Park. Always check current restrictions before planning campfires.
Tips for camping with families
Bring water activities: Lake Pleasant offers excellent family recreation options. "This was a wonderful place to camp with family and water toys!" shares Heather H. about Pleasant Harbor RV Resort, highlighting its appeal for families with boats or water equipment.
Consider noise levels: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby roads or facilities. Bryan S. notes at Pleasant Harbor RV Resort: "We stayed in the loop near the entrance. Quite loud with all the cars coming and going."
Look for recreation extras: 50s Diner Backseat Bar & Motel RV Park provides convenient amenities. "Location is convenient for highway access and visiting nearby Arcosanti. The 1950's style diner has good food. As a camper, I appreciated access to the clean motel bathroom and showers," explains Miquel K.
Tips from RVers
Check connectivity needs: Internet access varies widely across rv parks in Yarnell Arizona and surrounding areas. "June 2021, the park was nice and the staff was friendly, we arrived and got a site without any issues. Once setup I checked my internet service since I was working remotely that week and found that the site I was in was too far from the main building to get reliable WiFi," reports Abner H. from Willow Lake RV Park.
Prepare for self-sufficiency: Remote locations require planning. "Close to Alamo lake, not a smooth trip into this place, dirt road. We met some awesome people here that stay throughout the winter. They took us on some great rides. Bring everything with you, there isn't a store within 30 miles," advises nancy from Wayside Oasis RV Park.
Consider site specifics: Request particular locations for better experiences. "Make sure to book a spot up on cliff overlooking the water. Great sunsets. Free shuttle to haul kayak to boat ramp," recommends Margaret T. about Pleasant Harbor RV Resort.
