Camping in Arizona

Enjoy year-round camping from the Grand Canyon and Saguaro National Park to Lake Powell and Havasu Falls in this Southwest state.

92% (10028 reviews)
  1. Arizona
92% (10028 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Arizona

Top-rated campgrounds

Beaver Creek Oasis

2. Beaver Creek Oasis

99%
(448)
4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents · Rimrock, AZ
Located on Beaver Creek on 21 acres you may choose your site tucked in the mesquite bosque or among the sycamores. The 1 1/2 mile dirt road is rough but worth the effort. Close to Sedona, Page Springs wineries, hiking and relaxing. See the stars at night and let nature rejuvenate. The alpacas will be pleased to eat some grain from your palm and the rooster will wake you at dawn ready for the start the morning. Arrival before dark required for check-in unless approved by host in advance. Pitch your tent or park your van in a designated site of your choosing on 21 acres either tucked in the mesquite bosque, near the creek (hike-in) or among the sycamores (drive-in). The 1 1/2 mile dirt road is rough but worth the effort. Close to Sedona, Page Springs wineries, hiking and just relaxing. See the stars at night! 
Pets
Potable water
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from 
$35
 / night
Show Low AZ GreatSky CampRanch

4. Show Low AZ GreatSky CampRanch

89%
(149)
38 sites · RVs, Tents · Show Low, AZ
Enjoy the Junipers and see the stars fall over the Cedars! At 6000ft elevation the air is much cleaner and the weather is much cooler, especially in the summer time! We have plenty of space. A well house to fill up your water. There are also outdoor bathrooms, no shower yet, but working on that! We're just a short seven minute drive to the dump station at a local gas station down the road on the Deuce of Clubs and Penrod. We are 14 minutes from a large hospital, 10 minutes from major grocery stores, shopping and restaurants, and many other fun activities. Our location is in a perfect spot to enjoy the blue sky and great weather. Sunrise Ski area is a quick drive too! Pinetop Lakeside are within 10 minutes, Taylor and Snowflake are within 15 to 25 minutes. We hope you visit and continue to keep our environment clean and a chill spot to visit. We are home to a family-friendly honky-tonk, and microbrewery, now open Wed-Sat 2pm-9pm. Please check our Instagram or Facebook @the4sbarn and @greatskycampranch_showlowaz for updates. Seasonal business may change our days/hours of operation. Cheers! We also offer a few extras at check-out... 4S nest run eggs, bags of ice, and more! Please do not bring outside firewood. Please do not take the firewood on our property. There is a level 2 fire-ban in our county. No smoking outside of your vehicle. No campfires. No charcoal grills. Gas grills and gas firepits are approved. Thank you for your support!
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$32.44
 / night
Sacred Springs

5. Sacred Springs

99%
(159)
6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents · Lake Montezuma, AZ
ADULTS ONLY 18+ A Sanctuary for Nature, History, and Wildlife Welcome to Sacred Springs, a tranquil retreat perched 60 feet above the confluence of Beaver Creek. This eight-acre haven lies within a sacred riparian corridor, offering a profound connection to nature, history, and wildlife. Positioned between Montezuma Castle National Monument and Montezuma Well, Sacred Springs invites you to reconnect with yourself and the ancient beauty surrounding you. A Wildlife and Bird Sanctuary At Sacred Springs, you’re immersed in a thriving ecosystem: River otters, beavers, and endangered fish grace our pristine waters. Deer, raccoons, bobcats, and coyotes roam freely, alongside occasional elk, coatimundi, or mountain lions. Birdwatchers can marvel at Black Hawks, falcons, eagles, ravens, and countless migratory species. This is a sanctuary alive with the rhythms of nature, where life flows seamlessly between the seasons. Witness Echoes of the Past The land at Sacred Springs holds stories of prehistoric cliff-dwelling communities who farmed and thrived here. From our campsites, you’ll see and hear the highway which traces this ancient corridor’s path, a living reminder of those who once traversed this historical route. The Spirit of Sacred Springs Your journey begins as you enter this sacred river valley. A drive through desert vistas leads you along a primitive road to our serene oasis. From panoramic views atop the plateau to the soothing waters below, Sacred Springs offers a retreat like no other. Relax in a hammock by the creek. Wander trails that wind through ancient landscapes. Marvel at sunsets painting the sky with vivid colors. Let the sound of the creek ground you in the timeless rhythms of the earth. A Place of Reverence and Care Sacred Springs is a space for beauty, renewal, and mindfulness. Steep cliffs and rugged terrain remind visitors to tread lightly and stay on marked trails. Each step is an opportunity to honor the land and the life it sustains. A Central Gateway to Adventure Sacred Springs is perfectly located near key attractions: Sedona Wolf Sanctuary (0.2 miles), Montezuma Castle (7 miles), Sedona/Village of Oak Creek (17 miles), and the Grand Canyon (130 miles). Step into the timeless beauty of Sacred Springs—your sanctuary awaits.
Pets
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from 
$80
 / night
Pull up small RV and vanlife spots.

6. Camp Land Beyond Zion

99%
(413)
32 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents · Cane Beds, AZ
Welcome to Camp Land Beyond Zion, a boutique glampground like no other. Nestled in Cane Beds, Arizona near Zion National Park. We are located just 45 minutes from Zion (secret dirt backroad!), 20 minutes from Coral Pink Sand Dunes, and within easy driving distance to Bryce Canyon and the Grand Canyon’s North Rim. Whether you're here for adventure or relaxation, our camp provides a safe & inclusive space for everyone. You are welcome here! Voted #2 Best Campground in Arizona by Hipcamp! At Camp Land Beyond Zion, we’re proud to offer a camping experience that combines rustic charm with modern comforts. Choose from unique accommodations designed to suit every type of traveler: The Tiny Home “Nest”: Cozy and fully equipped for a romantic getaway or solo retreat. The Writer’s Nook: An inspiring haven for creativity with comfortable amenities. Luxurious Glamp Tent: Stylish and spacious with all the comforts of home. Campsites: From Mountain View Deck Sites with power to secluded Desert Campsites, we have spots for tents, small trailers, vans, or rooftop tents. Camp Amenities We’ve thoughtfully designed our camp to ensure a convenient and enjoyable stay: Outdoor Kitchens: Two fully equipped kitchens with propane BBQ, stove, cookware, dishes, and utensils. Flushing toilets, hot showers and two stocked kitchens. Hot Tub: Soak under the stars for $5 per person per use, or $12 per person for unlimited hot tub (and a towel) and BBQ access during your stay. Dog-Friendly: Bring your furry friend along for just $10 per stay. We are an inclusive and welcoming community for all! At Camp Land Beyond Zion, everyone belongs. We are proud to be a LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and women-friendly space, fostering a welcoming environment for solo adventurers, families, and groups alike. Kids love exploring our safe, playful spaces, and adults appreciate the communal BBQ areas, fire pit and peaceful desert vibe. Discover the best of the Southwest with these must-see destinations: We have trails all around our property or you can head to the parks! Zion National Park: Just 45 minutes away (we’ll share our secret shortcut to Springdale) Coral Pink Sand Dunes: Only 20 minutes away Bryce: 2 hours Grand Canyon: 2 hours Snow Canyon: 1 hour
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from 
$35
 / night
A hot soak after a long day adventuring. YES PLEASE. (:

7. Verde River Vortex

99%
(299)
4 sites · Lodging · Clarkdale, AZ
Learn more about this land: Greetings fellow adventure lovers! Welcome to Verde River Vortex where we have simple yet Comfy Cabin Camping with access to tons of outdoor activities in close proximity to Camp. The Cabins are nestled around a patch of Bamboo and other high desert vegetation as well as a very rich cultural history with many Ruins and Other Native American Sights in the surrounding areas. The Verde River is one of Arizona's only two Wild and Scenic Rivers, yet it remains relatively undiscovered as a recreational resource offering endless exploration and water fun in the Spring and Summer Months! The road to reach us is breathtaking in itself with ancient Sinaguan Ruins and strangely beautifully sculpted landscapes along the River drive. Enjoy miles of forests, rivers, lakes, swimming, hiking, mtb, all near by and all while being comfy and cozy for a nights recharge to do it all again after a hot shower or Jacuzzi. Each Cabin is fully equipped (hot water/basic appliances/kitchen/bathroom/dishes) as an Adventure base during your stay providing a comfortable, cozy and unique location for couples or small groups to enjoy while adventuring and creating memories in the area. We provide various suggestions on local activities for our guests to enjoy as well as helpful tips to get the most out of their stay. Your Host is a professional Outdoor Adventure guide with years of experience all over the Southwest and Costa Rica and always happy to help with adventure shine! TWO CABINS AVAILABLE: Crystal Cabin Loft With Outdoor Jacuzzi - 1-4 ppl Great For Couples Juniper Cabin 1-4+ ppl Better for families or larger groups needing more space. More details on the spaces can be viewed in the individual cabin pictures/description. approx times to various points of interest from VRV: The Grand Canyon - 2.5hrs Cottonwood - 10-20 Sedona - 30-45 min Flagstaff - 1hr Prescott - 1hr Bryce Canyon - 6hrs Zion Nat Park - 5hrs Mexico - 6-7hrs **It should be noted that this is a Rural Area in which case you might hear Farm Animals, Dogs, Critters like Cayotes ! We are located on a Dirt Road, 4x4 is not needed unless we are having very stormy weather** Safe Adventuring to all and feel free to reach out with any questions.
Pets
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from 
$125
 / night
Naked Skull Campgrounds 21+ Only

8. Naked Skull Campgrounds 21+ Only

98%
(47)
23 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents · Flagstaff, AZ
PLEASE READ!! Our Hip Camp is Adults Only 21+ NO KIDS!! *Clothing Optional… We are located 11 miles from Cameron. 52 miles from Flagstaff Arizona. We are Totally Off grid.. We do have 2 outhouses. *No Power, Water or Septic Hook ups.. Only a few of our sites our shaded. We have 60 acres for off grid camping, hiking, walking, biking, rockhounding, exploring, photography, stargazing, meditation, grounding and relaxing in the sun. Our property can be windy and dusty. Wildlife may be present on the property during your stay. You may also see Naked People walking around. We have amazing views of San Francisco peaks and The Little Colorado Basin. We are located 7.2 miles off of HWY. 89 This property is not on Reservation Land. Pets are always welcome on leash. Follow us at: Nakedskullrv on IG naked.skull.rv on TikTok Naked Skull Rv Campground on Facebook We also have Special Event Availability. We are about 2 miles to the Little Colorado River. *40 miles to the Grand Canyon South Rim. *9 miles to Gray Mountain. No shower facilities are available.
Pets
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from 
$10
 / night
Saguaro Forrest @ Dragonfly Ranch

11. Saguaro Forrest @ Dragonfly Ranch

97%
(156)
5 sites · RVs · New River, AZ
*EASY ACCESS WITH LARGE TRAILERS* *INQUIRE FOR SUMMERTIME DISCOUNTS (stays from June 1 through August 31st)* We invite you to come enjoy our sliver of the Sonoran Desert here in New River. We are situated adjacent to state land that displays a majestic Saguaro forest in the mountains (where our small rural community meets the wilderness). Enjoy easy access to endless mountain trails flittered with spectacular views (and even historic artifacts) via short walk or off-road drive glittered with spectacular views. The local wildlife entails a variety of beautiful creatures, including mule deer. Enjoy the abundance of quail and rabbit throughout! All three Saguaro sites provide full RV services (water, electrical, and 30/50 amp hookups) with plenty of space between for enjoyment of the views. Boondocker sites are great for easy in-out dry camping, making for an early start for your trip out of town or into Phoenix. Loose gravel throughout all sites. Boondocker 2 is by currently closed for renovations. We are just 10 minutes from the I-17 (Lake Pleasant is a just 45 minute drive). Phoenix is a close commute, where you will find many more amenities. Rent an off-road vehicle, boat for the lake (or bring yours!), or plan a tour and ENJOY YOUR STAY! We are more than happy to help facilitate an exquisite time here so do let us know how we can best meet your needs while here. Feel free to reach out with any questions and thank you for considering us for your stay. Also, a HUGE thank you to Dave and Loretta for the amazing work they did to create this space for everyone to enjoy. As we transition to new ownership, we are grateful to have the honor to step into this role. More to come...! Shawn & Roxy
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$38
 / night
Spring On The Mountain

12. Epic Private 300 Acre Saguaro Park

99%
(147)
6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents · Tucson, AZ
🌵 Escape to a 300 acre Private Nature Preserve: Exclusive Private Camping in Tucson, Arizona 🌄 Embark on an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Sonoran Desert with our exclusive Private Nature Camping Sites at Infinity Ranch. Rediscovered after 34 years this gated wonderland stood untouched for 3 decades now open for you to enjoy. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Sierrta Mountain Chain, where rugged landscapes meet starlit skies, and the serenity of nature becomes your personal sanctuary. 🏕️ Secluded Oasis Hidden Yet Close To City Life Discover the magic of our carefully curated private camping sites, nestled behind 7000 acres of Arizona State Trust Land in the outskirts of Tucson . Yet, just 30 to 50 minutes from major tourist venues like: Old Tucson Studios, Pima Air and Space Museum, Arizona Sonoran Desert Museum, Casino Del Sol, Kitt Peak National Observatory, and many others. This hidden gem offers an intimate escape for those seeking solace in nature's embrace without trekking to far from access to modern amenities. Settle into your campsite surrounded by the enchanting saguaros and mesquite trees that paint the landscape. 🌅 Sunrise Serenity, Sunset Spectacle Awaken to the gentle hues of the sunrise as the desert comes alive with a symphony of colors. Your private camping experience allows you to savor the tranquility of the morning, sipping a steaming cup of coffee or tea while the desert flora welcomes a new day. As the sun begins its descent, witness the breathtaking transformation of the horizon and create in harmony your own personal exclusive sunset ceremony, painting the sky in hues of pink, orange, and gold. Get your camera ready for that Insta Pic. Oh and no worries High Speed Data Cellular Service is available from your preferred carrier.... YEP IN THE MIDDLE OF A SECLUDED PRIVATE NATURE PRESERVE YOUR PHONE WORKS! 🔥 Campfire Tales and Stargazing Delight As the evening unfolds, gather around a your crackling campfire to share stories under the vast desert sky, lose yourself in a mesmerizing stargazing experience. With minimal light pollution, Infinity Ranch's night sky becomes a canvas of celestial wonders, inviting you to marvel at the cosmos like never before. Rated between a Class 2 Truly Dark Sky and a Class 3 Rual Dark Sky on the Bortle Scale 🚀 Tailored Adventures and Guided Exploration Customize your camping adventure with a range of outdoor activities, from hiking through saguaro-studded trails, challenging mountain biking, small off-road ATVs allowed, birdwatching, desert survival skills, history and mining tours, nature photography and STAR GAZING. Our experienced guides are on hand to ensure you make the most of your desert expedition, providing insights into the unique flora, fauna, geological and massive mineral diversity (Fluorite, 3 Types Of Quartz and more) that call Infinity Ranch home. 🌟 Unplug and Reconnect Escape the demands of modern life and embrace the simplicity of nature. Our private camping sites at Infinity Ranch provide you a unique private opportunity to unplug, unwind, and reconnect with yourself and your loved ones. Immerse yourself in the rhythm of the desert, where each moment is a precious gift waiting to be discovered. 🌿 Book Your Private Nature Camping Experience Today Launch on your adventure with our exclusive private camping sites in Tucson, Arizona at Infinity Ranch. Limited 4 slots available for Tent, Primative or Self Contained Camper/RV (Up To 24 Ft) Power can be provided for an extra fee of $ 25.00 per day. Potable Water Can Be Provided for a $10 fee. Reserve your spot now and create memories that will last a lifetime. Nature is calling – will you answer?
Pets
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from 
$40
 / night
Spectacular Milky Way photo by guest, Michael N.

15. Petrified Forest

97%
(98)
3 sites · Lodging · Holbrook, AZ
Explore nearby Petrified Forest National Park, Painted Desert, Meteor Crater, and Indian Ruins. Amenities include a ready to use 4 M canvas bell tent with full size mattress, two pillows, and bed sheets. There are two folding chairs and a small folding table inside. Also features a cozy hammock and a port-john (outhouse toilet). Bring your own water and food. You are also welcome to bring your own RV, Camper, Truck, and camping gear. Generators are allowed. This site has a total of three tents on it, spaced several hundred feet apart for privacy. Guests love it here: "What a great base camp for visiting the Petrified Forest and Painted Desert! The bed was very comfortable and we really appreciated the solar-powered light for nighttime reading. The stars - and Milky Way - were as advertised. Over all, an A-plus experience."
Pets
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from 
$57.60
 / night
30 Min to Sedona, Verde Ranch RV

16. 30 Min to Sedona, Verde Ranch RV

93%
(28)
260 sites · Lodging, RVs · Camp Verde, AZ
Planned with relaxation in mind and built with impeccable attention to detail, Verde Ranch works hard every day to create memorable vacation experiences that our guests will cherish forever. We believe that whether at home or on vacation, beautiful surroundings contribute to a sense of happiness, well-being, and comfort. With big-rig-friendly RV sites, we are redefining what it means to be a campground. We’re conveniently located right off of the highway and near many great local attractions and businesses. Work from anywhere with our high-speed WiFi. Relax and unwind by our pool, let the kids play in the splash pad, or the dogs run in our spacious dog park! Looking for adventure? Take advantage of our river access, hike the nearby trails, kayak the river or take a day trip to Sedona, Prescott, or Cottonwood from our RV Resort, to experience everything Arizona has to offer.
Pets
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from 
$60
 / night
Yuma’s Own Little Campland

17. Yuma’s Own Little Campland

99%
(112)
4 sites · RVs · Yuma, AZ
Our Little Campland has been enjoyed by many over the years. It is now pridefully owned by new owners who’s vision is to continue to provide an excellent place for long term, short term or passer-by’s can stay and now they can count on clean, well kept grounds. Offering full hook-ups, WiFi, laundry, ample parking and views of the Mountains for days. There are walking trails and plenty of Off-road trails to enjoy. We are near easy highway access and amenities. It’s the perfect stop for those wanting an overnight or winter stay. Check us out, you won’t regret it! Learn more about this land: Bring your RV and easily back in to a beautifully level spot, ready for you with full hook ups, including Water/Sewer, 50AMP Electric, complimentary WiFi, and laundry. Enjoy a concrete patio with privacy fencing to relax after long travel. Near walking trails, grocery and gas! Beautiful views! 29 miles away you have Picacho State Recreation Area.  This recreation area is about as remote as it gets. Visitors must drive 20 miles down a dirt road just to get to the entrance! That's pretty awesome if you ask us. Picacho truly calls to all hardy adventurers. It was a gold mining town with 100 citizens more than a century ago. This park offers rugged desert mountains, colorful canyons, and the Colorado River. Keep an eye out for beavertail cactus, wild burros, the famous bighorn sheep and thousands of migratory birds. Hike through the mountains to see great views from above. Dip your line in the Colorado River to catch your dinner. No Pop-up campers, Campervans, or Cars Pets are allowed. Please make sure you pick up after them.
Pets
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from 
$25
 / night
Weary Traveler Haven

19. Weary Traveler Haven

98%
(47)
4 sites · RVs, Tents · Marana, AZ
All weary travelers welcome to our quiet desert haven! With 360 degrees of beautiful views! Our tent site includes a deck platform with securement hooks to assemble your tent on and stay safely elevated off the ground. RVs welcome! We can currently accommodate up to a 36ft travel trailer or horse trailer with living quarters. This is a dry camp area. There is a portable toilet with sink for campers to utilize. We also have an Inverter as a rental option to provide power for an RVer if so desired. We can also fill Fresh Water Tanks for use while camping. We are currently working on a dump station. Also to ensure that we keep our little slice of heaven beautiful, please pack out what you pack in. Please do not leave trash or food at the campsites or leave food unsecured this will attract wildlife which will surely make your camping trip interesting. Our property is surrounded with views of Mount Lemmon, the Tortolita Mountain Park, Black Mountain, Newman Peak, and Picacho Peak. Come enjoy the prolific wildflowers of the desert bloom this spring! Campers can enjoy a warm beautiful sunset and star gazing in the evening, with views of the hazy band of the Milky Way and shooting stars next to the fire pit provided at each site. This is a safe place to get off the road for a bit, or to take a break from the busy/noisy city life, to relax and unwind in nature! Dogs are welcome, but please pick up after your pet! There is also a Round Pen provided for travelers with up to 2 horses with a fill station for water. Feed will be intermittently available to purchase for those in need. Nearby attractions: -Catalina State Park. -Tucson Mountain Park -Saguaro National Park -Oracle State Park -Picacho Peak State Park -Restaurants and groceries within a 25 min radius: -Cadillac Chaparral -The Patio Cafe -River Bottom Grill -Ore House -Lupes -Bub's Grub -Access to state land 1 mile from property for endless desert fun with Miles and Miles of ATV/UTV, Dirt Bike, and Mountain Bike trails! -And Much more......
Pets
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from 
$20
 / night
Karla's Hummingbird Guest Ranch

20. Karla's Hummingbird Guest Ranch

99%
(292)
12 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents · Huachuca City, AZ
Welcome to Karla's Hummingbird Guest Ranch! All guests must be over the age of 18. My private horse property is located in the Sky Islands area of South Eastern Arizona. I have 2 horses and lots of local birds hang out here. I offer 2 full hook-up spaces, one space is covered. Power is 50 AMPS! An RV must be under 12' to fit under the cover. I offer 4 dry camping options. You can book the Tent Cabana-The Shady Rest- listing or you can dry camp by booking through my Tent and Vehicle Camping listing. There are no exact designated spaces for tent/vehicle camping. You can choose where you prefer to camp. I also have the Pool House, an indoor option with a power outlet, and it's close to the pool and restroom area. There is a restroom/breakfast room off the pool area. This is my private property, you and your gear are safe and secure. You can leave your campsite and go exploring, no one will bother your stuff. I have WiFi and great cell service here. You must arrive by dark. My gates will be closed at dark. I am located just over an hour away from Tucson and 25 minutes off the 10. My place is 10 minutes from Coronado National Forest. The property is tranquil, peaceful, and quiet. You will see a lot of quail and other birds on the property. There are 2 varieties of quail who visit daily. Dry campers- Off the pool area there is a clean restroom in my back garage and a sink with hot water. There is a clean refrigerator, microwave and coffee maker available for your use. Each tent, and/or a place where people sleep is a campsite....in other words you can't book 1 tent camping site and then add your friends who come in their vehicle and set up a campsite. That is 2 campsites. NOTE- The only bad review I have is from someone who booked one campsite then had her friends come during the night and take another site. I had the nerve to ask them to pay for that extra site. (they refused). My photos-At the end of my gallery are photos of "PROJECTS", things I've made. This is for the "PROJECTS" extra I offer because I can't add those photos there.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night

Camper favorites in Arizona

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Public campgrounds in Arizona

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Under $50

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping in Arizona guide

Overview

Arizona is full of natural wonders, from the Grand Canyon to Saguaro National Park, with ample outdoor fun ranging from mountain biking to horseback riding. Much of the state is occupied by the Mojave, Sonoran, and Chihuahuan deserts, but start exploring and you'll quickly discover that Arizona is more than just jackrabbits and cacti—there are lakes, rivers, mountains, forests, and miles of hiking trails. It's also a great place for sleeping under the stars, and while parts of Arizona can get a bit too hot for comfort in summer, those same places offer pleasant camping weather throughout much of the year.

Where to go

​Northern Arizona

While northern Arizona's best-known attraction is the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park, there’s plenty more to see and do, from visiting Lake Powell on the Colorado River to backcountry tent camping among the ponderosa pines in the Coconino National Forest, Prescott National Forest, and Kaibab National Forest. Sedona, just south of Flagstaff, also makes a great base for hiking among Arizona's Red Rocks or swimming in Oak Creek Canyon’s Slide Rock State Park.

Western Arizona

Dubbed Arizona's "West Coast," this part of the state offers all sorts of outdoor activities, much of which revolve around the Colorado River. The town of Yuma near the southern border is a popular spot, featuring an old Wild West prison and serving as a good base for visiting the Cibola National Wildlife Refuge. Attractions further north include Lake Havasu State Park, where you can swim, camp, or even check out the 19th-century London Bridge. Further north, the massive Lake Mead National Recreation Area offers year-round camping and easy access to two lakes.

Central Arizona

While it's easy to associate central Arizona with Phoenix sprawl, this region offers a lot for outdoorsy types, all within a short drive of the city. Popular spots for outdoors lovers include the Superstition Mountains in the Tonto National Forest, Lost Dutchman State Park, and the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest. If you're interested in archaeology, the Montezuma Castle National Monument is also worth a visit.

Southern Arizona

Southern Arizona is full of Wild West spirit, with a mix of historic ghost towns and scenic desert landscapes, plus plenty of forests, particularly in the Chiricahua Mountains. Must-visit parks include Saguaro National Park and Catalina State Park—both just outside Tucson. If it gets too hot, make like a local and head to Patagonia Lake State Park, a prime spot to swim and cool off from the Arizona heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can camp along the Salt River in Arizona. There are several developed campgrounds and day-use sites managed by the Tonto National Forest. While Coon Bluff, Phon D Sutton, and Granite Reef recreation sites are popular day-use options, there are other campgrounds available for overnight stays. Additionally, you can find private campgrounds along the Salt River, such as the San Tan Valley Hipcamp. Keep in mind that some sites may require a fee, and it's important to follow any posted rules and regulations while camping in these areas.

Boondocking, or dispersed camping, is not illegal in Arizona as long as you follow the rules and regulations set by the managing agency of the land on which you're camping. Arizona has a variety of public lands, including National Forests, Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands, and state trust lands, where boondocking is allowed. However, it's essential to check the specific rules for each area, as some locations may have restrictions or require permits. Additionally, you can find boondocking sites on Hipcamp that are privately owned and managed, ensuring a legal and enjoyable boondocking experience in Arizona.

It is not accurate to say that camping is illegal anywhere in Arizona. However, there are specific rules and regulations regarding where you can camp. Camping is generally permitted in designated campgrounds, state parks, national forests, and on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land, as well as some private lands. Always check local regulations and obtain necessary permits before camping to ensure you are following the law and respecting the environment.

For a list of campgrounds in Arizona, you can visit Hipcamp's Arizona camping page.

Arizona offers several options for free camping, primarily on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and National Forest lands. Some popular free camping areas in Arizona include:

Remember to follow Leave No Trace principles and check local regulations before setting up camp. Note that amenities are limited or nonexistent at these free campsites, so come prepared with your own water, waste disposal, and other necessities.

The best season to camp in Arizona is during the fall and spring months, specifically from October to April. During these months, temperatures are milder and more comfortable for outdoor activities and camping. In particular, the desert areas of Arizona, such as Phoenix and Tucson, offer pleasant daytime temperatures and cool nights. The summer months, from May to September, can be extremely hot and are not recommended for camping, especially in the desert regions.