33 Best Campsites To Visit in Arizona USA
Arizona has some of the most varied camping areas in the country since no matter where you are in the Grand Canyon state, a short drive will get you to a different setting.
Arizona allows for year-round camping:
It’s ideal to visit high-country lakes and creeks in the summer and fall, while desert winter camping is unbeatable.
1. Coconino National Forest.
ADDRESS: Coconino National Forest, Arizona 86017, USA
One of Arizona’s top camping spots is the Coconino National Forest. There are a wide variety of campgrounds to select from in various environments. There are several wonderful locations for vehicle camping and scattered camping in addition to campsites.
As it is frequently cooler here during Arizona’s hot summer days, Coconino National Forest is a fantastic location for summer camping. Finding a fantastic campground should be rather simple since there are so many excellent ones, including RV parks.
Along with sharing boundaries with four other national forests, Coconino National Forest is also bordered by other well-liked outdoor leisure sites. Particularly, Tonto National Forest, Kaibab National Forest, Prescott National Forest, and Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest are all located in the southern hemisphere. Kaibab National Forest is located in the northwest.
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2. Patagonia Lake State Park
ADDRESS: 400 Patagonia Lake Rd, Nogales, AZ 85621, United States
Families and individuals looking for lakefront camping in campsites with a few extra amenities will love Patagonia State Park. There are 105 constructed campsites dispersed among many campgrounds in the park, all of which may be requested in advance. There is a charge, and it varies depending on the specific campground you book.
If you want to be close to a lake, go fishing, want a more established campsite, or enjoy meeting new people and having neighbors while camping, this is a terrific area to set up tent.
3. Grand Canyon
ADDRESS: Grand Canyon National Park Arizona, United State
One of Arizona’s most picturesque camping locations is the Grand Canyon. Along with wildlife to observe, there are many beautiful sights and landscapes to appreciate. The Grand Canyon has a number of campsites that are suitable for tent and RV camping.
Families will love camping here since it is so amazing. There are a ton of locations huge explore and learn about. While there are still many pines and other trees, much of the camping in The Grand Canyon has a desert feel to it. The Grand Canyon is the place for you if you want to camp in a setting where you can create lifelong memories.
4. North Rim Campground
ADDRESS:
North Rim Campground North Rim, AZ 86052, United States
You can camp in the Grand Canyon and in the pines simultaneously by using the North Rim Campground. In comparison to campsites on the South Rim, this one gives you easy access to the Grand Canyon and is frequently less congested.
This is a terrific place for families and anyone who wish to camp while visiting the Grand Canyon. Between May 15 and October 31 is the only time the campsite is open. There are 90 campsites in all, and a basic store and other amenities are close by. The Grand Canyon, camping among the pines, and escaping the Arizona heat are all things you can do at this campsite.
5. Jacob Lake Campground
ADDRESS:
Forest Rd 579, Fredonia, AZ 86022, United States
A wonderful campsite with easy access to the Grand Canyon away from the tourists is Jacob Lake. Additionally, there are many possibilities to see animals at this campground, as well as close access to hiking and bike trails. The campsite is surrounded by large ponderosa pines and frequently has summertime temperatures that are tolerable.
Only 30 miles separate the campground’s location near Jacob Lake, Arizona, and the Grand Canyon’s South Rim. If a family wanted to visit the Grand Canyon for a day trip but also wanted access to other attractions outside of the Grand Canyon, this would be a perfect site for them to stay.
6. Upper Log campsite
Upper Log Campground
Slide Creek Rd, McNary, AZ 85930, United States
On the Fort Apache Indian Reservation in the White Mountains of Arizona, Upper Log campsite is a fantastic camping. Families will enjoy this place very much. Kids can eplore the environment their ebikes .The North Fork of the White River runs alongside the campsite. Due to the fact that it stays cooler during the summer, this region of Arizona is a fantastic location for summer camping.
The park provides a large number of campsites, riverside fishing, quick access to Hawley Lake, and several opportunities for animal encounters. An accessible gravel road provides easy access to this campsite. The campsite will be accessible to the majority of automobiles. If you want to set up camp next to a river and amid the tall pines of the White Mountains, this is a terrific place to do it.
7. Big Lake Recreation Area
ADDRESS: Big Lake Arizona 85927, USA
One of the nicest spots to camp in Arizona is Big Lake Recreation Area. Around Big Lake, there are 9 different campsites to choose from. Aspen trees and ponderosa pines coexist in the area’s forest. Winters might be chilly, but summers often offer beautiful weather.
There are many opportunities to see animals in this leisure area, as well as convenient access to hiking and bike paths, a lake, and Black River trout fishing. Families and outdoor enthusiasts may camp here with ease. There is a cost for camping and reservations are necessary, however there are also parks specifically for tent and RV campers.
8. Cascade Campground
A wildlife photographer’s best camping spot is Cascade Campground. Workman Creek runs around the campground’s perimeter. This region is a terrific place to escape city life and experience camping in the wild outdoors. Numerous animals live in this region, including bears, mountain lions, elk, turkeys, and others.
Accessing this campground is not the simplest, thus 4-wheel drive vehicles are advised. The campsite does not charge admission or need reservations, although the maximum stay is one day. Additionally, as it could be challenging to access to the campground, trailers are not advised. If you want to camp in a more secluded spot where there are chances to view wildlife and take in the scenery, this is a perfect choice for hunters during since they can explore the area with their hunting ebikes.
9. Indian Point Campground
Indian Point Campground in central Arizona features 54 sites that are appropriate for tent, vehicle, and RV camping. It is close to Roosevelt Lake. All of the roads leading to the campground are paved, making access quite simple. If you want to go boating, this campground is fantastic because there is a boat ramp close by.
The campsite is located in a clear desert landscape. There is vegetation, although there aren’t many big trees or a lot of underbrush. For people who wish to go boating or fishing on Theodore Roosevelt Lake, this is a fantastic campsite. This campsite does not need reservations in advance, but a Tonto Pass is necessary to stay there.
10. Riverside Campground
The Verde River and Bartlett Dam are both well seen from Riverside Campground, which is located there. The Verde River and Bartlett Reservoir are both easily accessible from this campsite, giving guests rapid access to both. Although motorized boats are not allowed, it is a fantastic location for canoeing and kayaking.
For those who want easy access to the Verde River for some fishing or boating, this campsite is fantastic. There is a cost to stay at the campground; bookings are not accepted here because it is first-come, first-served.
11. Lost Dutchman State Park
Address: 6109 N Apache Trail, Apache Junction, AZ 85119, United States
With roughly 140 campsites, half of which have electric and water hookups, the park is busy yet well-kept. Picnic tables, fire pits, and grill grates are all present on the well-kept sites. There are three loops available at the campsite; the southern circle offers the best views of the Supers, while the northern loop puts you closest to the Siphon Draw Trailhead.
Even though it’s open all year, the campsite is best in the winter. If you’re visiting during the warmer months, there are also five air-conditioned camper cottages available.
12. Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area
Address: 1500 Fools Hollow Rd, Show Low, AZ 85901, United States
Open 24 hours
Just over 120 campsites, 92 of which have RV hookups, are present in the park. All 31 of the remaining primitive campsites are solely available to tent campers.
The campsite is separated into seven loops and three zones, and a short peek at the map reveals which loops provide the greatest lake views.
Fishing, boating, and swimming are all permitted at Fool Hollow Lake, completing the recreational trifecta. The 150-acre lake features stocked rainbow trout, bass, and walleye, and there are fishing platforms all around the lake to assist you locate your fortunate place. You may hire a kayak at J&T’s Wild-Life Outdoors during the summer.
13. Christopher Creek Campground
Address: AZ-260, Payson, AZ 85541, United States
The 43 campsites at the campground are mostly along the stream, but even those don’t offer great views or much room to spread out. In the summer, this family-friendly campsite quickly fills up, but there are a few first-come, first-served spots still available.
The campsite is a summertime favorite of both residents and visitors since it is open from April to October and has swimming holes along the creek.
14. Aspen Campground
Address: Payson, AZ 85541, United States
Going during the week is advised because the weekend is more crowded. It was wonderful to see elk outside the trailer window as you woke up.
Since there are both bookable and walk-up sites available, you may either schedule your vacation in advance or wing it during the week with a walk-up site. This busy and family-friendly campsite is one of the few in Arizona, making it an excellent spot to introduce kids to camping.
Alternatives: If you’re searching for peaceful camping, try visiting any of the lakes farther north on the Rim, such Knoll Lake or Bear Canyon Lake. There is no such thing as a lazy weekend in Aspen.
Spillway Campground or Mogollon Campground are two alternative campgrounds close to Woods Canyon Lake.
15. Mather Campground
Address: 1 Mather Campground Rd, Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023, United States
Dealing with late-night arrivals and constant crowds is usually considered a little price to pay for camping so close to the Rim. You may easily access the trails and viewpoints around from Mather’s position in the Village, or you can ride the shuttle’s Village Route to destinations like Bright Angel Trail and El Tovar.
From March to November, you may reserve campsites online. From December to February, every campground is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
The 327 campsites at Mather Campground are about one mile from the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. The campground is built to accommodate the millions of people who come here each year, yet it isn’t as crowded and noisy as you might anticipate.
16. Lockett Meadow Campground
Address: Lockett, Meadow Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86001, United States
After you’ve made camp, head to the southwest corner of the campsite to access the Inner Basin Trail. You’ll travel more than three miles through a striking pine and aspen forest, which features some of Arizona’s greatest fall foliage.
Planning and packing should take into account the lack of water and other amenities other than a vault toilet. Although it is possible to tow a trailer in, it is not advised due to the road’s difficulty, narrowness, and steepness.
The campsite in Lockett Meadow is the closest to the San Francisco Peaks. There are just 17 sites in this little, undeveloped campsite, but you won’t need much to take in the view.
17. Twin Peaks Campground
Address: Ajo, AZ 85321, United States
Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, a park on the U.S.-Mexico border protecting a 500-square-mile region of the Sonoran Desert, has two permitted camping spots, the bigger of which is Twin Peaks Campground.
And the desert is the actual star of the show here; the region’s flora, fauna, and human history are all meticulously preserved and on display, from the park’s eponymous cactus to signs of long-ago human settlement.
The more than 200 sites at the campsite are set up like an RV neighborhood, with the final few rows of spots solely available for tents. During the park’s peak season, which runs from January to March, reservations are required. Solar showers are available at the campground, however there are no RV connections (how warm they get depends on the season).
18. Picacho Peak State Park
Picacho Peak State Park is a state park near Picacho, Arizona that surrounds Picacho Peak. The park lies in Pinal County, between Casa Grande and Tucson, along Interstate 10. Its central tower may be seen from downtown Tucson, 45 miles away. The peak is 3,374 feet above mean sea level.
Picacho Peak State Park has 85 campsites available for tent and RV campers. This state park is ideal for families looking to camp in a desert setting at a more established campsite. You’ll be able to experience the splendor of the Sonoran Desert in a convenient campsite with excellent facilities.
This state park is ideal for families since it offers convenient access to hiking trails, historical markers, playgrounds, and other enjoyable activities. This campsite requires previous bookings and a cost. Finally, this is a fantastic desert campground that allows families and individuals to experience the desert without having to go off-road.
19. Pinal & Upper Pinal Campground
Address: Globe, AZ 85501, United States
The Pinal and Upper Pinal Campgrounds are ideal for camping in a more isolated and scenic part of central Arizona. The campsites are located 13 miles south of Globe, AZ, and access to the campgrounds is by dirt roads. Upper Pinal campground has just three campsites, whereas Pinal campground has thirteen.
Hiking enthusiasts would like these campsites. There are several paths within a mile of the campsites. The treks allow campers to explore and view some of Arizona’s natural marvels and beauties. These campsites have no fees or passes and are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
20. Rose Canyon Campground
Address: Catalina Hwy, Mt Lemmon, AZ 85619, United States
Approximately half of Rose Canyon’s 73 campsites are available for reservation from April to October, while the area is open for day-use hiking and fishing in the off-season.
The sites on the campground’s southern end are closest to the water, and there’s a one-mile walk around the lake for extra exploration.
Rose Canyon Lake does not allow swimming or watercraft, although it is stocked with trout and the adjoining campground store sells fishing supplies from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
21. Bear Canyon Lake and Camping Area
Address: Heber, AZ 85928, United States
Bear Canyon Lake and Camping Area is a great area to camp for individuals who wish to go fishing as well as hike and bike paths. The park is a partially built campground nestled among pine, oak, and aspen trees. Because there is no garbage service, the campsite is a pack it in – pack it out environment.
This campsite is great for families who wish to go away and spend time in a more isolated and less developed location. There is no camping charge here, however the road to the campsite is not always available. The route will be blocked from time to time for forest restoration work as well as weather circumstances.
22. Sycamore Campground
Address: Coronado National Forest, E Turkey Creek Rd, Pearce, AZ 85625, United States
Sycamore Campground is set in a beautiful wooded location on the west side of the Chiricahuas Mountains. Turkey Creek runs along the campground’s perimeter, adding to the area’s natural appeal. This is not a constructed campground; rather, it is a collection of scattered campsites.
A short distance from the campground, there are several paths to explore and enjoy. There is no price to stay in this campsite, and it is available all year. This is a nice area to camp in Southern Arizona beside a creek with access to several hiking routes.
23. Petrified Forest National Wilderness Area
Address: Petrified Forest National Park, AZ 86028, United States
Open 24 hours
Petrified Forest National Park is an excellent location for camping in Arizona. You can experience the natural splendor and beauty of this beautiful national park from here. You can find petrified trees, fish, leaves, seeds, and other items in the park. You may also visit and enjoy the splendor of the Painted Desert.
The national park has no campsites, however scattered or backcountry camping is permitted. Permits are necessary, although they are free, and there is no need to make reservations. People who want to enjoy the grandeur of this national forest in an arid desert setting should camp here.
24. Lynx Lake Campground
The Lynx Lake Campground is one of the smallest campgrounds to visit in Arizona. It’s a hidden gem, but that doesn’t mean you have to be one of the ones who miss out on it.
Visitors may participate in a variety of activities in a natural, beautiful environment 5,600 feet above sea level. Campers enjoy a variety of activities, including boating, wildlife viewing, bicycling, and boating.
Each campsite has a picnic table and a steel fire ring, however there are no RV sites or hookups at the park. However, you are welcome to bring Fido with you because dogs are permitted at the campsite.
25. Lake Havasu State Park
Address: 699 London Bridge Rd, Lake Havasu City, AZ 86403, United States
Lake Havasu State Park is a state park in Mohave County, Arizona, located on Lake Havasu. Camping, boating, and fishing are among the outdoor activities available at the park. The Arroyo-Camino Interpretive Garden features desert plants from the area.
RV guests will enjoy camping at Lake Havasu State Park. There are 50 total campsites, each with 50-amp connections and potable water.
Because the park is directly on Lake Havasu, it is a favorite destination for RV campers. Everyone now has easy access to the lake for swimming, fishing, and boating.
This is the campground for you if you want a well-maintained and established spot, to camp directly on the lake, and to be close to other activities.
26. Freidlein Prairie Dispersed Camping
Address: Flagstaff, AZ 86001, United States
At Freidlein Prairie, there are fourteen authorized campsites along the Freidlein Prairie Road. Each location is free to guests and includes a parking area, a tenting area, and a fire ring. The campground is available all year, however the ideal time to enjoy the gorgeous surroundings is during the summer.
Before visiting Freidlein Prairie Dispersed Campground, keep in mind that most sites cannot accommodate an RV and typically have accommodation for no more than two automobiles. It’s also worth noting that camping at Desert View is limited to two weeks in any given month.
27. Manzanita Campground
Address: 5900 N State Rte 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336, United States
Open 24 hours
Manzanita Campground is a remote location on Oak Creek that is available all year.
The remote area only allows tent camping and is an excellent weekend getaway spot. Visitors may go wading, swimming, fishing, hiking, and bird viewing while there.
The campsite has paved parking and is conveniently accessible. Each site features a picnic table, a campfire ring, and a grill; firewood is available for purchase on-site.
Exploring the 1.8 million-acre Coconino National Forest or swimming in some wonderful areas at Slide Rock State Park are two nearby activities that campers should not miss.
28. Whitewater Draw Wildlife Area
Address: 8469 N Coffman Rd, McNeal, AZ 85617, United States
Open 24 hours
While in Arizona, go tent or RV camping in the Whitewater Draw Wildlife Area. Seasonally, birds of diverse species come to the place, making it an ornithologist’s paradise.
The overnight camping location is located directly beside the Whitewater Draw hiking and viewing route, so guests may enjoy it as well as a spectacular sunset while they are there.
The camping areas are well-equipped, with parking, picnic tables, and a central pit toilet and rubbish disposal. Free overnight camping is permitted up to three days each week, and guests will appreciate the remote and tranquil setting, especially if they have pets.
29. Granville Campground
Address: Clifton, AZ 85533, United States
Granville Campground, which is well-kept and inviting, is a popular among families wishing to spend a night camping beneath the Arizona stars.
The campsite is first come, first served, and features facilities such as picnic tables, barbecues, bathrooms, and drinking water for tent or trailer camping.
There are plenty shady spaces to select from, with Arizona cypress and Gambel oak trees being popular. There is no price to camp in Granville, and common activities include hiking, exploring the local flora and animals, and taking magnificent nature photography.
30. Gilbert Ray Campground
Address: 8451 W McCain Loop, Tucson, AZ 85735, United States
Gilbert Ray Campground in Tucson is quite popular for good reason. While camping at this campsite gives you the impression that you are in the middle of nowhere, you are just 15 minutes from Tuscon’s dazzling lights and city streets.
Among the 130 campsites, there are several saguaros and prickly pear cactus. Each site is big and equipped with power and running water.
The breathtaking environment within the property offers several photo opportunities. Make a hiking expedition out of it to explore the entire campsite.
31. Bonita Canyon Campground
Address: 12856, E Rhyolite Creek Rd, Willcox, AZ 85643, United States
The Chiricahua National Monument, located just minutes from the Mexican border, is the highlight of your stay at Bonita Canyon Campground. Spend as much time as you can examining the monument’s beauty and charm.
Great weather all year assures that you may visit the region whenever you choose and have a wonderful event that you’ll never forget. The little island is lovely, charming, and peaceful, but it also has fantastic energy and beauty that will ignite imagination and enjoyment throughout any camping trip.
The hiking paths that travel up and down the slope draw the most visitors to this campground, but there are many more benefits to staying here.
32. Lake Mead National Recreation Area
Address: 10 Lakeshore Rd, Boulder City, NV 89005, United States
For many years, the Lake Mead National Recreation Area has offered camping. There are several campgrounds along the beaches of Lake Mead and elsewhere that can accommodate tents, RVs, or both. Depending on the campground, other amenities such as RV hookups, showers, and WiFi are also provided. You will be able to get up up and personal with gorgeous flora and animals, some of which are local to the area, while there. Camping in Lake Mead National Recreation Area costs around $20 per night and has a maximum capacity of eight persons per site.
33. Spillway Campground
Address: Forest Service Rd 105, Payson, AZ 85541, United States
If you enjoy fishing, this is a great place to visit in the summer because the lake is stocked with trout. The waters are chilly, clean, and deep, making them perfect for swimming, canoeing, and small boats. The majority of campsites are a short walk from the lake, while a handful are lakefront.
Between the well-spaced plots, tall Ponderosa pines and other smaller trees give shade and seclusion. Spillway Campground has only 25 campsites and fills up quickly. If you can’t get in here, there are two more campsites nearby: Aspen and Rim.
Because of the height, this region is chilly or even frigid depending on the season. Campgrounds open in the late spring. If you’re looking for something a little lower down but still in the same general area,
What are the best campsites to visit in Arizona USA?
The best campgrounds to visit are;
- North Rim Campground
- Grand Canyon
- Lake Havasu State Park
- Lynx Lake Campground
- Petrified Forest National Wilderness Area
- Sycamore Campground
- Bear Canyon Lake and Camping Area
- Rose Canyon Campground
- Pinal & Upper Pinal Campground
- Picacho Peak State Park
- Twin Peaks Campground
- Lockett Meadow Campground
- Mather Campground
- Aspen Campground
- Christopher Creek Campground
- Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area
Frequently Asked Questions
Why camp in Arizona?
Arizona is rich of various landscapes, great fauna, and vistas, like as the Grand Canyon and Hoover Dam, and the best way to appreciate them is from under the stars.
As you can see, it provides a variety of camping options. From rustic camping and RV sites to cottages and luxury.
There are other activities for all types of visitors, such as hiking, bicycling, fishing, birding, and boating. Arizona should be on every traveler’s bucket list.
Is camping permitted in Arizona?
Yes, camping is permitted practically everywhere in Arizona.
Is it possible to camp anyplace in Arizona?
For a maximum of 14 consecutive days, you can camp practically anyplace on public property in Arizona. There are both FREE and paid campsites in Arizona where you may pitch your tent.
