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A Spark in the Dark Campground

100%
·
469 reviews
· Ash Fork, Yavapai, Arizona
40 acres hosted by Clifford A.
7 RV/tent sites · 2 RV sites · 6 tent sites
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Amazing views
Hipcampers say this spot has amazing views.
Family-friendly
Recent Hipcampers say this Hipcamp is great for families and kids.
Best in Arizona: Finalist
Named one of the best Hipcamps to visit in 2024.
Staff verified
Accuracy verified by Hipcamp's on-the-ground team.
The most important thing for me is that my guests leave this place with memories that will turn into nostalgia. 40 huge, PRIVATE acres in the country of northern Arizona, The Spark can host the single camper looking for a quiet and private retreat, or the sleepy traveler who simply needs a place to park and snooze in their vehicle - all the way up to your large group and event! I am only here to make sure you have a safe and private place to camp the way YOU want! Dazzling night sky with near zero light pollution! Fabulous sunset views! Warm, gorgeous sunrises! Potential for wildlife! Cool rocks! Cool plants! Cool bugs! Family friendly. Pet friendly. MJ and such friendly. Come spend the night outside!!!
Activities
Biking
Hiking
Horseback riding
Wildlife watching
Natural features
Desert
Mountainous
Field
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"Park & Snooze" for Sleepy Drivers
100% (86)
Vehicle site · Sleeps 6 · Vehicles under 16 ft
Are you traveling on the road and you just need a quiet place to get off the road, watch the sunset, and catch some Zzz's in your vehicle? You've found it right here at The Spark! This listing is NOT A CAMPSITE. Please Note: If you're driving an RV or oversized vehicle or if you're looking for a spot to camp and spread out, you will need to book a campsite. You're vehicle must fit into a single, regular sized parking space for this listing. Otherwise please see my other listing for "Drive-Up Dispersed Camping." :) We've all been there during long road trips. Maybe you just need a safe and comfortable place to pull over and sleep in your vehicle for the night. The Spark offers a peaceful and scenic area you can unwind in. You'll have access to the clean Porta-Potty (nicer than you'd expect!) and all the common areas including a commons fire pit located near your Sleepy Traveler Lot and a nature trail to explore! CHECK-IN AND CHECK-OUT! Times are not strict. Come in as late as you need to, there is NO face-to-face check-in with this listing. You will receive a welcome message on check-in day with CRITICAL info on how to get here so that if you're coming in late you won't get lost. The "Park and Snooze" lot requires no face-to-face check in. After you drive through the main gate, you will drive down the driveway a very short distance and park in one of the small field areas to your left left in front of the fence with the ribbon pieces. You will also see the Porta Potty nearby for your use. RESTROOM! Your Sleepy Traveler Lot is conveniently located near the restroom. It's a Porta Potty style restroom. Bring some reliable lighting with you at night! WEATHER! Always check the weather at zip code 86320 before coming. We are open all year during any weather (excepting emergencies) so you are responsible for making sure the weather forecast is compatible with your expectations. When rain or snow is in the forecast it can get VERY tricky out here very fast with a high likelihood of getting stuck depending on your vehicle. These roads are not plowed for snow in the winter. So if you see that rain or snow is a possibility, be prepared for that. :) HOST! I live on the property and I'm here for YOU. If you forget something important that isn't available in the camp market I might have something from my personal stash you can borrow. Anything you might need I'll do what I can to accommodate. :) By the way, I'm also an officially ordained Dudeist Priest. So I can perform simple, legal wedding ceremonies. :) STARS! The deep, dark night sky is filled with shooting stars, The Milky Way, satellites, and maybe even a random UFO! There is nearly zero light pollution here and the night sky unfolds above us like a dazzling 3D light show! WILDLIFE! Most of the usual northern Arizona wildlife is possible, and sometimes very likely here! From pronghorn antelope and the occasional elk and mule deer all the way down to jackrabbits, prairie dogs, and packrats... and sometimes rattlesnakes! You're almost guaranteed to see neat animals sharing the property along with you! PACK IN/PACK OUT! There is NO TRASH PICKUP at this time at The Spark so be prepared to pack-out what you bring in. :) Any dumpsters you may see on your way in are privately owned by other people and are NOT for our use. :) Also The Spark is a private homestead - there are no hookups for RVs. This is a boondocking, dry camping experience. :) However! There are full services only 4 miles east on the I-40 where you can dump your trash, empty waste tanks, and refill your water and fuel! THE PLAYGROUND! Explore through the opening in the fence near the Porta Potty and enjoy a hike on nearly 25 extra acres of property I call The Playground. :) a 3/4 mile long nature trail and lots of interesting areas and cool scenery - use this area however you like! MOONLIGHT MARKET! This is a self-serve collection of stuff you might want or need! Gallons of water for sale, firewood, some loaner items like emergency pet food, bug spray, sunscreen, maybe a few souvenirs... and a changing selection of various items are available with a wide variety of ways to pay. Self-service 24 hours day and night! "THANK YOU" from the bottom of my heart for your interest in A Spark in the Dark private campground -- my passion. :) I will send you a welcome message on the day of your check-in with notes on directions to get here, current weather and the like. And I look forward to sharing this special place with you! NEARBY: Essentials like grocery, gas, post office, souvenirs, service station, full RV services, and a couple of small town restaurants - only 5 miles away in local Ash Fork. Emergency services also available nearby. RULES: ~ Cannabis/MJ friendly. Enjoy openly - you're fine! ~ pet and child friendly (under supervision, of course!) Pets can roam off-leash as long as they are fully under your control. :) We love pets here! ~ please observe the included camp rules and quiet hours (10pm-8am) ~ emergency services available nearby
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
No electrical hookup
No water hookup
from
$14
/ night
for 4 guests
2 dispersed sites
RV/tent sites 2 sites
High demandInstant book
DRIVE to your site! Scenic camping!
99% (308)
RV/tent site · Sleeps 8 · Vehicles under 30 ft
"Drifting along like a tumbleweed, you're right where you're supposed to be!" :) ENJOY! 40 acres of beautiful mountain / desert / prairie views on this private homestead. Tents, vans, RVs, travel trailers and whatever else you might arrive in... Whatever you're looking for, this "Primitive Plus" (with extras!) campground is sure to be a unique experience for making some great memories! There are only a handful of available sites to ensure you have a very large area to yourself - wherever you choose to set up in this diverse environment. Great for large group retreats or the single camper needing a meditative experience in nature. Also great for very large events (hit me up for planning)! The focus here is private, raw, beautiful nature. :) Oh, and just as important - your camping will be HASSLE-FREE! Spend your time at your camp the way YOU want - the host won't bother you. (I'm pretty sure I can speak for the host, as I am he. Lol) LAYOUT! The Spark is divided into two very large areas. Almost half the property is dedicated to drive-up campsites which are placed along a peaceful, meandering service road. Another huge portion is dedicated to the nature trail and areas you can explore. Take pics out there, search for cool rocks, plants, and wildlife, or set up an area to create as a second "satellite camp!" An old road, dry pond, meditation spots... anywhere you find yourself day or night you are welcome to be! STARS! The deep, dark night sky is filled with shooting stars, The Milky Way, satellites, and maybe even a random UFO! There is nearly zero light pollution here and the night sky unfolds above us like a dazzling 3D light show! WILDLIFE! Most of the usual northern Arizona wildlife is possible, and sometimes very likely here! From pronghorn antelope and the occasional elk and mule deer all the way down to jackrabbits, prairie dogs, and packrats... sometimes rattlesnakes! You're almost guaranteed to see neat animals sharing the property along with you! RESTROOM! Bring a flashlight for those nighttime trips to the restroom. It's a Porta Potty style restroom and it's nicer than you'd expect. :) It also has the official Guest Book where you can share your experience in the area with other campers and music to give you something nice to listen to! Since this is a Porta Potty, there can sometimes be a smell inside but I keep the surfaces clean and anti-bacterialized! WEATHER! Please check the weather at zip code 86320 before coming. We are open all year during any weather (excepting emergencies) so you are responsible for making sure the weather forecast is compatible with your camping expectations! Weather considerations: during windy days prepare to pay special attention to using extra long stakes for anchoring things like tents, tables, and shade canopies. When rain is in the forecast it can get VERY muddy out here very fast. So if you see that rain is a possibility, be prepared for that. :) FUN AND GAMES! The Spark includes a modest "community fairgrounds" style area separate from the camping sites which includes a Horseshoe Pit and Cornhole Toss! Stay tuned for future outdoor weekend movie nights! (coming soon) HOST! I live on the property and will check you in when you arrive unless we've made other arrangements ahead of time. And I'm here for YOU. Forget something important that isn't available in the camp market? I might have something from my personal stash you can borrow. Anything you might need I'll do what I can to accommodate. :) Also I'm a legally ordained Dudeist Priest, so if you're looking to get hitched I'm your guy! ;) PACK IN/PACK OUT! There is NO TRASH PICKUP at this time at The Spark so be prepared to pack-out what you bring in. :) Any dumpsters you may see on your way in are privately owned by other people and are NOT for our use. :) Also The Spark is a private homestead - there are no hookups for RVs. This is a boondocking, dry camping experience. :) However! There are full services only 4 miles east on the I-40 where you can dump your trash, empty waste tanks, and refill your water and fuel! MOONLIGHT MARKET! This is a self-serve collection of stuff you might want or need! Gallons of water for sale, firewood, some loaner items like ground stakes, emergency pet food, bug spray, sunscreen, maybe a few souvenirs... and a changing selection of various items are available with a wide variety of ways to pay. Self-service 24 hours day and night! FREEDOM OF CHOICE! After checking in, the host will point out a few things you'll want to know such as the restroom, wandering area, and camping sites. From there you will simply enjoy a search of the property to find your perfect spot and enjoy the sun and the stars! CHECK-IN AND CHECK-OUT! Check-in time is after 12 noon and check-out is 11am. YOUR SCHEDULE IS MY SCHEDULE - so if you're coming in after dark please let me know in advance as I have a separate check-in process to make things easier in the dark. If you need to come earlier, just message me first and we'll work something out! "THANK YOU!" from the bottom of my heart for your interest in A Spark in the Dark private camping - my passion. :) I will send you a welcome message on the day of your check-in with critical notes on directions to get here, current weather and the like. And I look forward to sharing my property with you! NEARBY: Essentials like grocery, gas, post office, souvenirs, service station, full RV services, and a couple of small town restaurants - only 5 miles away in local Ash Fork. Emergency services also available nearby. RULES: ~ Cannabis/MJ friendly. Enjoy openly - you're fine! ~ pet and child friendly (under supervision, of course!) Pets can roam off-leash as long as they are fully under your control. :) We love pets here! ~ please observe the included camp rules and quiet hours (10pm-8am) ~ emergency services available nearby
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
No electrical hookup
No showers
from
$18
/ night
for 4 guests
6 dispersed sites
Instant book
Famous Easy Breezy Desert Shelter!
99% (62)
RV/tent site · Sleeps 20 · Vehicles under 30 ft
"Drifting along like a tumbleweed, you're right where you're supposed to be!" :) The "Easy Breezy Desert Shelter" can be anything you need it to be! The entire property rests on 40 acres of beautiful mountain / desert / prairie maintained by a private homestead. The area specific to the Easy Breezy features lots of parking, three campfire rings, and LOTS of area for multiple tents and lots of guests, etc. Situated high on the property in a very scenic location, this 8'x8' desert shelter has a warm and welcoming view of the sunrise and an absolute dazzling view of the stunning sunsets that this part of Arizona is renowned for. And the night sky? The night is magnificent in a way that touches the soul. The Milky Way, shooting stars, bright planets and gorgeous, twinkling stars... watch satellites drift lazily across the sky or be blown away by the latest meteor shower. It's all right here.... Or more precisely: it's all up there. The Easy Breezy is a 8'x8' structure built with the inspiration of a typical desert shelter but "beefed up" a bit. A typical shelter has three walls and a roof, just enough to get a person out of the weather... but I added a floor and some windows as well as a bug screen to close over the open wall when necessary. HUGE SITE for everyone you're with to spread out - or for a single person to enjoy all to themselves! HEADS UP - this listing will not be ideal for some people during rain storms for most people due to mud. Please check the weather on your check-in date to help ensure your expectations are met. Also included is a small set of drawers in the tent (which contains the Guest Book and privacy walls!) as well as a 6 foot utility table outside and two chairs. Your restroom is just a short walk down the service road to the Porta Potty which is cleaned daily and has a solar charged light as well as a bit of music to help you pass, umm, the time. :) Also for your enjoyment is a very large area of the property (about 20 acres) I call The Playground. It's fully fenced and has loads of interesting areas and space for hiking and exploring and whatever you like! Even pitch a tent out there as a second "satellite camp" if you like... there is also a horseshoe pit to enjoy in the Commons Area! WILDLIFE! Most of the usual northern Arizona wildlife is possible, and sometimes very likely here! From pronghorn antelope and the occasional elk and mule deer all the way down to jackrabbits, prairie dogs, and packrats... sometimes rattlesnakes! You're almost guaranteed to see neat animals sharing the property along with you! WEATHER! Please check the weather at zip code 86320 before coming. We are open all year during any weather (excepting emergencies) so you are responsible for making sure the weather forecast is compatible with your camping expectations! Weather considerations: during windy days prepare to pay special attention to using extra long stakes for anchoring things like tents, tables, and shade canopies. When rain is in the forecast it can get VERY muddy out here very fast. So if you see that rain is a possibility, be prepared for that. :) MOONLIGHT MARKET! This is a self-serve collection of stuff you might want or need! Gallons of water for sale, firewood, some loaner items like ground stakes, emergency pet food, bug spray, sunscreen, maybe a few souvenirs... and a changing selection of various items are available with a wide variety of ways to pay. Self-service 24 hours day and night! FUN AND GAMES! The Spark includes a modest "community fairgrounds" style area separate from the camping sites which includes a Horseshoe Pit and Cornhole Toss! Stay tuned for future outdoor weekend movie nights! (coming soon) STARS! The deep, dark night sky is filled with shooting stars, The Milky Way, satellites, and maybe even a random UFO! There is nearly zero light pollution here and the night sky unfolds above us like a dazzling 3D light show! HOST! I live on the property and will check you in when you arrive unless we've made other arrangements ahead of time. And I'm here for YOU. Forget something important that isn't available in the camp market? I might have something from my personal stash you can borrow. Anything you might need I'll do what I can to accommodate. :) Also I'm a legally ordained Dudeist Priest, so if you're looking to get hitched I'm your guy. ;) PACK IN/PACK OUT! There is NO TRASH PICKUP at this time at The Spark so be prepared to pack-out what you bring in. :) Any dumpsters you may see on your way in are privately owned by other people and are NOT for our use. :) Also The Spark is a private homestead - there are no hookups for RVs. This is a boondocking, dry camping experience. :) However! There are full services only 4 miles east on the I-40 where you can dump your trash, empty waste tanks, and refill your water and fuel! CHECK-IN AND CHECK-OUT! Check-in any time after 12pm noon, and check-out time is 11:00am. If you need to check-in after dark just message me ahead of time for easy instructions! "THANK YOU!" from the bottom of my heart for your interest in A Spark in the Dark private campground - my passion. :) I will send you a welcome message on the day of your check-in with critical notes on directions to get here, current weather and the like. And I look forward to sharing my property with you! NEARBY: Essentials like grocery, gas, post office, souvenirs, service station, full RV services, and a couple of small town restaurants - only 5 miles away in local Ash Fork. Emergency services also available nearby. RULES: ~ Cannabis/MJ friendly. Enjoy openly - you're fine! ~ pet and child friendly (under supervision, of course!) Pets can roam off-leash as long as they are fully under your control. :) We love pets here! ~ please observe the included camp rules and quiet hours (10pm-8am) ~ emergency services available nearby
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
No electrical hookup
No water hookup
from
$30
/ night
for 4 guests
Tent sites 1 site
Instant book
HIKE to your site! Scenic! Private!
100% (111)
Tent site · Sleeps 10
"Drifting along like a tumbleweed, you're right where you're supposed to be!" :) ENJOY! 40 acres of beautiful mountain / desert / prairie views on this private homestead. You'll be parking near the entrance to a huge fenced area of the property (The Playground) containing a rough nature trail and all the space you could want to hike around and choose any place you like to set up your camp. Private areas tucked away between junipers, or large open spots with scenic area views... Great for large group retreats or the single camper needing a meditative experience in nature. The focus here is private, raw, beautiful nature. Your camping location is limited only by your imagination! Notice!! If you need a site that you can drive your vehicle to, please see my listing for "Drive to Your Site" camping. :) CHECK-IN AND CHECK-OUT! Check-in time is after 12 noon and check-out is 11am. YOUR SCHEDULE IS MY SCHEDULE - so if you're coming in after dark please let me know in advance as I have a separate check-in process to make things easier in the dark. If you need to come earlier, just message me first and we'll work something out! RESTROOM! Bring a flashlight for those nighttime trips to the restroom. It's a Porta Potty style restroom and it's nicer than you'd expect. :) It also has the official Guest Book where you can share your experience in the area with other campers and music to give you something nice to listen to! Since this is a Porta Potty, there can sometimes be a smell inside but I keep the surfaces clean and anti-bacterialized! WEATHER! Please check the weather at zip code 86320 before coming. We are open all year during any weather (excepting emergencies) so you are responsible for making sure the weather forecast is compatible with your camping expectations! Weather considerations: during windy days prepare to pay special attention to using extra long stakes for anchoring things like tents, tables, and shade canopies. When rain is in the forecast it can get VERY muddy out here very fast. So if you see that rain is a possibility, be prepared for that. :) HOST! I live on the property and will check you in when you arrive unless we've made other arrangements ahead of time. And I'm here for YOU. Forget something important that isn't available in the camp market? I might have something from my personal stash you can borrow. Anything you might need I'll do what I can to accommodate. :) I'm also a legally ordained Dudeist Priest. So if you want to get hitched, I'm your guy. ;) PACK IN/PACK OUT! Please be aware that there is NO TRASH PICKUP currently at this time for the campground so be prepared to pack out what you bring in. :) Any dumpsters you may see on your way in are privately owned by other people and are NOT for our use. :) GEAR AND STUFF AT THE MOONLIGHT MARKET! This is a self-serve collection of stuff you might want or need! Gallons of water for sale, firewood, some loaner items like ground stakes, emergency pet food, bug spray, sunscreen, maybe a few souvenirs... and a changing selection of various items are available with a wide variety of ways to pay. Self-service 24 hours day and night! STARS! The deep, dark night sky is filled with shooting stars, The Milky Way, satellites, and maybe even a random UFO! There is nearly zero light pollution here and the night sky unfolds above us like a dazzling 3D light show! WILDLIFE! Most of the usual northern Arizona wildlife is possible, and sometimes very likely here! From pronghorn antelope and the occasional elk and mule deer all the way down to jackrabbits, prairie dogs, and packrats... sometimes rattlesnakes! You're almost guaranteed to see neat animals sharing the property along with you! FREEDOM OF CHOICE! After checking in, the host will point out a few things you'll want to know such as the restroom, Moonlight Market, etc. From there you will simply enjoy a search of The Playground to find your perfect spot and enjoy the sun and the stars! No matter where you choose to camp, please keep in mind that the ENTIRE PROPERTY is yours to explore or take photos or test gear or hike or meditate or whatever you like! Think of The Spark as a "Choose Your Own Adventure" experience. And wherever you find yourself, day or night, you are welcome to be. :) "THANK YOU!" from the bottom of my heart for your interest in A Spark in the Dark private camping - my passion. :) I will send you a welcome message on the day of your check-in with critical notes on directions to get here, current weather and the like. And I look forward to sharing my property with you! NEARBY: Essentials like grocery, gas, post office, souvenirs, service station, full RV services, and a couple of small town restaurants - only 5 miles away in local Ash Fork. Emergency services also available nearby. RULES: ~ Cannabis/MJ friendly. Enjoy openly - you're fine! ~ pet and child friendly (under supervision, of course!) Pets can roam off-leash as long as they are fully under your control. :) We love pets here! ~ please observe the included camp rules and quiet hours (10pm-8am) ~ emergency services available nearby
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
No showers
No picnic table
from
$18
/ night
for 4 guests
6 dispersed sites
1,000 ft
Reviews
100% Recommend568 ratings · 469 reviews
Nestled in a quiet, secluded area, this campground offers a serene escape with its expansive and well-organized property. Clifford, the friendly and attentive host, ensures guests are comfortable and well-informed, adding to the welcoming atmosphere. The campground's charm is enhanced by its scenic views, especially the stunning sunsets, and the opportunities for stargazing. From spacious sites to engaging amenities like hiking trails and a market store, campers can expect a restful and enjoyable stay.
Summary AI-generated from real reviews
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Kaden B.
7 months on Hipcamp
This was such a great spot for a relaxing night. So much space and he’s got the property organized very nicely. The walking/hiking trail was great for an evening and morning walk with the dogs. Would love to camp here again!
J
Jasmine T.
5 reviews
Recommends
· May 2025
Directions were perfect to bring you straight to the gate. Property was awesome with all the little extras everywhere. Was lucky enough to have the place to myself and pick of campsites. Chose the top of the hill to watch the most amazing sunset! Enjoyed chatting with Cliff and would absolutely recommend to anyone in the area!
Avatar
Benjamin K.
15 reviews
Recommends
· May 2025
My kind of camp!
16 ft car · With pets ·
"Park & Snooze" for Sleepy Drivers
We had a great overnight camp here before going to the Grand Canyon for sunrise. After a 14+ hour long drive it was nice to be welcomed by Cliff when we arrived and get the rundown of the land. We were free to explore the land, there was a fun cornhole and horseshoe setup in the center of the camp as well as seating areas and fun "easter eggs" you can explore around the land. There was a good amount of trees which is pretty rare in the desert so you won't have to worry about shade. My dog was so happy to jump out of car and run around off leash when we arrived! We chose the Park & Snooze option since we had to leave before sunrise. The Park & Snooze option is closest to the porta-potty, the main gate to get into camp and across from the common area, as a result it's not very private. However, Cliff offered us a scenic camp spot which was more private as there were a few spots open and I regret not taking his offer! Overall, we enjoyed our time here and I recommend for those traveling through the area or want a fun camping experience with friends and dogs close to Ash Fork.
W
Wendy W.
3 reviews
Recommends
· May 2025
Will Not Disappoint!
I thought when looking through the pictures, that this place would be a good choice while traveling through the area. But wow!! I was even more impressed in person! Only complaint is the mud, but who cares after seeing the rest of the place! Every camp site was massive and felt like there was a ton of space for privacy. The host, Clifford was so easy going that he helped cater to my weird needs/requests without hesitation. He truly shows how much he cares about the place and cares about each and every visiting camper. And let’s not forget to mention the sun set!! WOW!! Then the clear wide open skies to do the amazing star gazing!! I am truly impressed with this place and the cheap price per night should be a heck of a lot more because of how amazing this place is! I can’t wait to book another stay the next time I am passing through.
G
Geoff T.
2 reviews
Recommends
· May 2025
Place of restoration of the spirit
Clifford was very inviting, even cautioning me about being stuck as it had rained for days. (The road is not for the faint of heart, just take it slow). He came out to greet me in the rain, and made sure I was welcomed and taken care of. In the morning the rain had mostly passed if you go you must take a walk and meditate in the garden. I saw a mule deer and later 3 pronghorns on the way out. It was exactly the wilding I needed
A
Autumn Shay B.
3 reviews
Recommends
· May 2025
Perfect for sleeping!
Excellent spot, especially for last minute stays! Quiet and convenient. Clifford was super responsive and helpful, directions were clear and concise, property was well indicated. Highly recommend!
Location
Ash Fork, Yavapai, Arizona, United StatesTo respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking
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Hosted by Clifford A.

Joined in October 2016
Hipcamp is created with ❤️ and hope for our future.