The best lakeside camping in Arizona

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Arizona's desert landscapes may not have bountiful waterways, but that doesn't mean you have to rule out lakefront camping. In fact, taking a cool dip is a perfect treat on a hot day. Popular desert lake destinations in Arizona include Canyon Lake, Saguaro Lake, Patagonia Lake, Apache Lake, and Lee's Ferry, where Red Rock ridges line the horizon. For a completely different landscape, go up in elevation to find high-altitude waterways. Rimmed with pines, these sapphire jewels are sometimes teeming with trout. Located on the Mogollon Rim at 8,000 feet in elevation, the Rim Lakes are a scenic option. Lake camping in Arizona comes in many forms, including rustic tent and RV campsites, off-grid glamping rentals, and luxury cabins. Go stargazing from the deck of a lakefront treehouse, await the sunrise in a clear geodesic dome, or gather around a cozy fire in a log cabin.

96% (966) • 3,313 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Arizona

Sanctuary at Sonoita Creek

1. Sanctuary at Sonoita Creek

99%
(318)
Patagonia, AZ · 3 sites
Sanctuary at Sonoita Creek was created as a place to enjoy the unique treasures of Patagonia, AZ. We wanted to provide a haven for people who value the outdoors to gather and take advantage of the recreational opportunities in our area. We offer three RV full hookup RV sites. We also have two vintage trailers that are available through Airbnb. We're walking distance to the Tucson Audubon's Paton Center for Hummingbirds and the Sonoita Creek Nature Conservancy. We're also walking distance to restaurants and shopping in the Town of Patagonia. Patagonia Lake is only 8 miles away.
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Full hookups
GoldBar Ranch Campground

2. GoldBar Ranch Campground

96%
(53)
Wilhoit, AZ · 11 sites · Tents, RVs
Our campground has been operating for years, This is a NEW listing with the same management! ONLY PROPANE CAMP STOVES ALLOWED FISHING IS CATCH AND RELEASE! BARBLESS HOOKS We do shut fires down if the county restricts them on a county wide basis but currently it’s allowed! Retreat at The Goldbar Ranch is nestled in the heart of the Wild West, offering a one-of-a-kind experience for those seeking adventure, relaxation, and connection. This beautiful campground offers endless opportunities for fun and relaxation. Take a dip in the refreshing water, cast for huge fish in the stocked pond (catch and release, Barbless hooks please!), or enjoy a peaceful evening roasting marshmallows by the campfire with friends and family. If you're feeling more adventurous, take your stand-up paddleboard out for a spin, hike to nearby ruins, or try your hand at panning for gold. For those looking for an extra thrill, you can sign up for horseback rides (coming soon), as well as adventure trails for guests with jeeps and side-by-sides. The stunning natural surroundings provide a perfect backdrop for all your outdoor activities, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all. The entire lake is also available for private parties including; business mixers, retreats, and weddings. The onsite partner vendors offer tables, chairs, and catering to make your event planning as stress-free as possible. Visit to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in nature and sunshine. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, there is something for you at Retreat at The Goldbar Ranch. Book your stay today and create memories that will last a lifetime!
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Verde River Vortex

3. Verde River Vortex

98%
(254)
Clarkdale, AZ · 2 sites
Your Northern Arizona basecamp for river days, dark skies and unforgettable adventures!! Welcome to Verde River Vortex 🌵✨ STAY • STARGAZE • EXPLORE • ADVENTURE • EXPERIENCE Greetings, fellow adventure lovers! (: Welcome to Verde River Vortex — a cozy little corner of Northern Arizona created for people who want to get outside, slow down, explore, seek adventure, and make memories along the way. We’re more than just a place to stay. Think of Verde River Vortex as your Northern Arizona Adventure Basecamp — a comfortable home away from home where you can recharge between adventures, soak under the stars, and wake up ready to explore. Just minutes away is the AWESOME Verde River, offering opportunities for SUP, kayaking, swimming, floating, wildlife watching, or simply finding a quiet spot to sit back and enjoy the water. And beyond the river, you’re perfectly positioned to experience some of Northern Arizona’s most incredible destinations and outdoor adventures. 🌊 EXPLORE • ADVENTURE • EXPERIENCE From the Verde River to the red rocks of Sedona, historic Jerome, the trails and mountains of Northern Arizona, and countless hidden gems in between, there is no shortage of ways to spend your days. Whether your idea of adventure is paddling down the river, hiking a canyon, chasing waterfalls, mountain biking, exploring backroads, photographing incredible landscapes, or simply finding a beautiful place to watch the sunset — VRV is designed to be your launching point. But we believe the best trips aren't just about the places you visit. They're about the experiences you have along the way. Get out there. Try something new. Find your own adventure. Slow down long enough to notice the stars. Discover places you didn't know existed. Experience Northern Arizona. 🏕️ STAY Our cabins are simple, comfortable, cozy, and intentionally designed for adventure. Each cabin is equipped with the essentials you need for your stay, including hot water, a kitchen, bathroom, basic appliances, dishes, and the comforts that make coming back after a day outside feel pretty darn good. We currently offer two unique cabin experiences: ✨ Crystal Cabin Loft + Outdoor Jacuzzi Perfect for 1–2 guests and couples looking for a cozy escape. 🌲 Juniper Cabin Designed for 1–4+ guests and a great option for families, friends, or groups who want a little more room. Each cabin has its own personality, so be sure to check out the individual cabin descriptions and photos for all the details. 🌌 STARGAZE When the sun goes down, Verde River Vortex comes alive in a completely different way. Away from the lights and noise of the city, our rural setting offers the opportunity to slow down, build a fire, step outside, and look up at a sky filled with stars. On a clear night, you may find yourself watching the Milky Way stretch across the sky, photographing the stars, or simply sitting quietly and realizing that sometimes the best part of an adventure is doing absolutely nothing. 🧭 YOUR LOCAL ADVENTURE GUIDE Your host is an Arizona native and professional Outdoor Adventure Guide with years of experience exploring throughout the Southwest, as well as experience owning and operating his own Adventure Casita on the stunning Caribbean coast of Costa Rica. So while we’re happy to give you a comfy place to stay, we also love helping guests experience the destination. Need ideas for a river day? Looking for a great hike? Want to explore Sedona without spending the entire day in traffic? Curious about hidden gems, scenic drives, swimming holes, or places most visitors miss? Just ask. We’re happy to share local knowledge, adventure suggestions, and helpful tips to help you get the most out of your time here. 📍 YOUR NORTHERN ARIZONA BASECAMP Approximate drive times from Verde River Vortex: Cottonwood: 10–20 min Jerome: 20 min Sedona: 30–40 min Flagstaff: 1 hr Prescott: 1 hr Grand Canyon: 2.5 hrs Bryce Canyon: 6 hrs Zion National Park: 5 hrs Mexico: 6–7 hrs Come for the cabin. Stay for the stars. Explore the river. Seek the adventure. Experience the destination. Leave with memories. That’s the Verde River Vortex Experience. Safe adventuring to all, and remember to stay shining. ✨ (:
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Coronado National Forest

4. Coronado National Forest

79%
(48)
National forest in Arizona · 479 sites
If you think southern Arizona is nothing but parched desert, think again.
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Electrical hookup
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Coconino National Forest

5. Coconino National Forest

96%
(73)
National forest in Arizona · 396 sites
Discover a wide range of landscapes in this national forest.
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Electrical hookup
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Yuma’s Own Little Campland

6. Yuma’s Own Little Campland

98%
(120)
Yuma, AZ · 4 sites
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.
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Full hookups
Secluded Alamo Lake Santuary

7. Secluded Alamo Lake Santuary

99%
(34)
Alamo Lake, AZ · 14 sites · Tents, Lodging
The Sonoran Desert Sanctuary is land conservation area and PRIVATE SPIRITUAL WILDERNESS RETREAT for veterans and others challenged by PTSD and trauma. Come here on retreat or as a volunteer. Opportunities abound for those with a passion for conservation and a love for the desert. Join us in shaping the sanctuary and contributing to the preservation of this unique ecosystem. Your visit and involvement become a part of the story, helping us create a haven for the Sonoran Desert's diverse flora and fauna. The proceeds from your Hipcamp stay go directly to the Anderson-Arroyo Foundation (501c3) and are tax-deductible as a donation. All donations are pay-as-you-can. Reach out to us for more information. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the desert landscape, participate in our growth, and leave your mark on the future Sonoran Desert Sanctuary. Visit us and explore the unique blend of history, conservation, and community that defines our special corner of the world. 3.5 hours from Phoenix, Vegas. 4 hours from Flagstaff. 2 hours from Lake Havasu or Kingman.
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MOUNTAIN DESTINY!

8. MOUNTAIN DESTINY!

100%
(25)
Show Low, AZ · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Site#1 has Full Hook Up - Running water, sewage RV Hookup of 30amp and 50amp electricity, for $45. Site#2 and Site#3 are side by side. They have running water and priced at $25. each. These two Sites are better for tents or a small trailer. A personal generator may be used but only during certain hours. These are lovely spots with shade trees, so pretty. There are lots of mature Juniper trees and some Pine trees that provide shade on the property. Often we experience a lovely breeze. We live a mile off of 260 on a rugged dirt road. We keep the Entrance Gate locked for safety and security. We are located on 2 acres and have a garden and a green house where we grow a large variety of vegetables. We only accept trailers and fifth wheels of 21 feet or less on site #2 and #3. There is a Chicken House and a rooster and we have plenty of farm fresh eggs that are available to purchase. 0ur home is tucked away 1 mile off the 260 Hwy. on a rugged dirt road. First you will drive pass the Linden Valley Arena before reaching our property. The Arena was designed for ropers by ropers and is open from May thru September. 10-15 minute drive away is Fool Hollow lake, Show Low City Park, Safeway Grocery Store, Post Office, Library, and a variety of restaurants. Within that distance there is Boating, Fishing, Hiking, Picnic Areas, Large Dog Park, well equipped Playground area, Basketball Courts, Baseball fields, Sand Volley Ball, Tennis Courts, Racquet Ball Court, Horseshoe Pits, Disc Golf, Outdoor Exercise Stations, Walking Trail, Pavilions, Restrooms all the while enjoying the enormous, plentiful Ponderosa Pines. Show Low City Park Aquatic Center has 6 lane 25-yard pool with an adjoining leisure pool featuring zero-depth entry, Spray Fountain, Water Slide, Indoor Spa. Show Low was named by the turn of a Card. A ranch of nearly 100,000 acres jointly owned by Marion Clark and Croydon Cooley a U.S. army scout. According to legend, sometime around 1876, the partners decided that there was not enough room for both of them and one of them should leave. They decided to settle this issue over a game of "Seven Up" (with the winner taking the ranch and the loser leaving.) After the game seemed to have no winner in sight the game reached it's climax when Clark said, "If you can show low, you win." At this point Cooley turned up the deuce of clubs, and declared "Show Low" it is! Show Low is a city in Navajo County, Arizona among the lush green ponderosa pine forestland and along Arizona's Mogollon Rim at an elevation of 6,345 feet. Show Low is now the largest city in the White Mountains of northeastern Arizona. Show Low is also the business hub and marketing center of the area. Our Favorite Breweries: Black Horse Brewery - 6 min + Buffalo Bill's Tavern & Grill - 9 min + Moose Henris Grill Cork and Taps - 20 min, + Pinetop Brewing Company - 26 min Our Favorite Restraunts: Buffalo Bill's - 9 min + Licano's - 11min + Los Corrales, 59 W Deuce of Clubs -12 min + Cafe Pinoli (Italian) - 23 min + Mr. Zeke's- 25 min , Darbi's Cafe - 26 min The Local's Market, Buffalo Bill's Tavern Grill (Local Vendors inside Restraunt Conference Room and Outside outside) April 9th through September 2022 9:00am-Noon Show Low Main Street Market - May 14th through September 2022 located behind Show Low Library Many Local Vendors. Show Low Main Street Market, 9-11th Street and Cooley, Show Low - local vendors May 14th -September 2022 9:00am-1:00pm.
Pets
Potable water
Full hookups
The Sunset Nooks

9. The Sunset Nooks

95%
(38)
Buckeye, AZ · 1 site
This property is in a one of a kind location that puts you on the lake in a two minute walk…. Or you can hike the Gila River in a 5 minute walk. The Sunset Nooks provides a fishing pole with a cooler and easy up tent as well and tables chairs bbq utensils charcoal and sometimes wood for the fire pit. It’s a pretty cool spot to chill with shade to relax and read books and or meditate. Call me anytime and see y’all soon
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Kaibab National Forest

10. Kaibab National Forest

95%
(32)
National forest in Arizona · 291 sites
It’s time to get wild in the wild west! Head into the red rocks, pines, deserts, and canyons and sink your soul into some vast and untrammelled land that is beyond amazing. Kaibab National Forest has got what you need for a Northern Arizona getaway no matter what you are looking for. With three distinct areas: Williams, Tusayan, and North Kaibab, this diverse place will leave you with a perma-smile and a wild streak you didn’t know you had. Also, wait for it...this forest borders both the north and south side of Grand Canyon National Park! For all the epicness that the Grand Canyon offers (some of the trails actually follow the rim of the canyon!) without the tourists and crowds, come here and feel like you hit the jackpot. There’s really no other way to say it. You just gotta see it for yourself!
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Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

11. Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

96%
(35)
National park in Utah · 55 sites
This million-acre sprawl of desert and lake offers hiking, sightseeing and swimming opportunities.
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Lake Havasu State Park

12. Lake Havasu State Park

100%
(22)
State park in Arizona · 47 sites
Cool off lakeside and check out the original London Bridge.
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Electrical hookup
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Lake Mead National Recreation Area

13. Lake Mead National Recreation Area

100%
(8)
National park in Arizona · 306 sites
Cool off in Lake Mead and Lake Mohave at the country's oldest recreation area.
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Potable water
Willow Lake Boatyard

14. Willow Lake Boatyard

Prescott, AZ · 1 site · Tent, RV
OMG, just 20 minutes from downtown Prescott, but feeling like you're camping in an old boatyard? Cool. Book it now! Sorry, I just got excited thinking about it. Okay, here's the description. You drive through an older residential neighborhood, and when you arrive on-site—yay!—you're greeted by views of the Prescott Dells. Pull on your boots and hike across the meadow to the lake. From there, keep exploring, knowing you have a cozy campsite to return to. Feel free to hang out under the boatyard awning and check out the old wooden rowboat and vintage tools. We're in the process of building a treehouse and expanding your options, but for now, just relax and enjoy. The back door to the tiny house is open for you to use the toilet and/or shower. We wanted to offer bathroom access, but please keep in mind that it's not quite finished aesthetically. It works, though—and there's hot water too!
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La Hacienda Chuparosa

15. La Hacienda Chuparosa

95%
(139)
Tucson, AZ · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
When my husband and I were dating in NY we confessed our mutual desire to get back "home" to the west. It made me fall in love with him even faster. So when we married we moved to Washington DC knowing that in time we would make it west. 5 years later, when the traffic and the politics has taken its toll, we made a trip to Tucson and fell in love with this charming property that exudes all the beauty and grace of the Sonoran Desert. We looked at each other as we walked around looking at the stunning Mtn. Views and the mesquite fence and knew we were finally "home." I've always adored the SW Hummingbirds and wanted to name the property La Hacienda Chuparosa. When we moved in, for the first week, every morning a hummingbird was sipping nectar from one of our plants in the front yard. We knew it was meant to be. So we added a couple of horses to our dream, built some stalls, and now are ready to welcome you to La Hacienda Chuparosa. We know you will find the same magic here that we do.
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Full hookups
Glamping on Navajo

16. Glamping on Navajo

99%
(60)
Page , AZ · 8 sites
We are a Native American-owned large-acreage working sheep ranch and off-grid Glamping hotel offering guests a unique stay at our ranch on the Navajo Nation. Shash Diné is an ideal basecamp for Antelope Canyon, Lake Powell, the Colorado River, Zion, Bryce, Monument Valley, and both rims of the Grand Canyon. Our ranch's views and night sky are breathtaking, dazzling, and quite humbling. We offer comfort while immersed in nature, True outstanding natural beauty.
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Magic in the Mojave

17. Magic in the Mojave

100%
(85)
Yucca, AZ · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This is a peaceful campsite in the middle of North Americas largest Joshua Tree forest. The camp is nestled in the mojave desert in Mohave county, Arizona. Here you'll find an abundance of desert wildlife and mountain views in every direction. There's 3 options to choose from: Ramblin' Rabbits Den (camp 1) - huge site with playground, elevated mound with panoramic mountain views, shaded dining area, and 2 private trails. Ravens Rockaway (camp 2) smaller and more basic site, but still has great views and 1 private trail. Rabbit & Raven (both sites + entire 40 acres). Come and explore this huge property and immerse yourself in nature!
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22 Vikings Camp and Cabin

18. 22 Vikings Camp and Cabin

67%
(3)
Dolan Springs, AZ · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
For the weary traveler needing a spot to sleep, to the curious explorerers seeking adventure in nature, and families/couples looking for a quick getaway, this spot is for you!!! Open air car/tent and RV camper spaces available March 2022, or this summer stay in your own cozy tiny cabin or savanna tent. Your choice!!!  Situated in the rustic town of Dolan Springs AZ, just off iconic Route 66!!! There is so much to see and do at nearby Lake Mead and Joshua Tree National Parks, Colorado River, Grand Canyon West, Hoover Dam, and of course the 24 hour town that is Las Vegas !!!
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Willow Whisper

19. Willow Whisper

100%
(8)
Hereford, AZ · 1 site
11 Acres in rural Cochise County at the end of the road. We back up to the San Pedro Riparian Area, and the San Pedro River, offering hiking, birding, wildlife watching, and other recreational activities. The roads leading to the property from Hereford Road are dirt that are regularly maintained, but you may experience some washboard along the way depending on the season. Cochise County is dark sky country. After viewing those amazing Arizona sunsets, cast your eyes on the night sky, and see stars and the Milky Way like you've never experienced before! Experience the abundant wildlife that comes through the property. Birds, Javelina, deer, listen to the coyotes howl. It simply is magical! Bird watching: Experience hundreds of different species of birds in Cochise County (485 at last count). Lots of different hummingbirds (we're the hummingbird capital of the United States), hawks, sparrows, roadrunners, cactus wren, quail, and the list goes on. Be sure to hike down the San Pedro River, or to Ramsey Canyon to see even more! Hiking: With an abundance of canyons in the area, there's hiking opportunities all around us! A short 10 minute drive lands you at the foot of the Huachuca Mountains with Ramsey Canyon, Miller Canyon, Carr Canyon, and many more! But above all, we have a private gate leading to the BLM land situated right next to the RV pad! Feel free to use it to go and explore, maybe even hike down to the river. Don't be surprised if you see people on horseback, as this is a very popular equestrian area. There are tons of sightseeing opportunities around us, such as Bisbee (be sure to check out Old Bisbee, and the Bisbee Breakfast Club for some amazing food), Tombstone (OK Corral puts on a very entertaining show), Cartchner Caverns State Park, Coronado National Memorial. All within a short drive from here. If you'd like to visit Mexico, you can cross at Naco (about 15 minute drive) or at Douglas (about 45 minutes) Lots of restaurants in Sierra Vista, but we recommend trying Mimosa Pizzeria, or La Sierra Steakhouse, both just a 10 minute drive down the road, along with Dollar General for your immediate needs. The RV site offers full hookups, 30/50 Amp service. Your pets are welcome to roam around off leash, as long as they're people and dog friendly.
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Lenny’s Resort

20. Lenny’s Resort

100%
(1)
Walnut Creek, AZ · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:Spacious Mountain View Getaway. Nothing but open land with wide field view, laid out for a beautiful night out under the stars. Local Walmart and other convenient stops nearby.
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