Camping in Arizona with wildlife watching

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

90% (5074 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Arizona

Under $50

Star Hosts in Arizona

12 top campgrounds in Arizona with wildlife watching

93%
(50)

Geo Dome Campsite, I-17 Access

8 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Phoenix, Maricopa
Currently looking for long term winter RV and Vanlife guests to round out our tight little community! Come visit and see what makes every one who has stayed here fall in love with this amazing little slice of heaven in the desert. My description: This is a convenient spot in the city of Phoenix, but it feels like you are camping in the country. Closest neighbors are 150 feet away. I've got 2.3 acres, 5 minutes to Walmart, movie theater, 100's of dining choices in Norterra shopping complex. You'll be behind tall fence/block wall on a full acre to spread out on. (Bring an extension cord for prime spots if applicable) There is some light highway and minimal residential noise if that matters to you. You will hear birds nesting in our cacti, see tons or dove, finches, numerous species of hummingbirds or even hear some coyotes yipping at nighttime. We are about a 4 minute drive from a nice hiking area. 3 30 amp and 2 50 amp power added September 2022. Full time campsite manager on site now. Laundry has free large capacity machines. Water pressure and quality is great. The campfire has tree shade with table and chairs. Extension cord power (when available). Water hose for water. Septic system with tap at campsite. Quiet generators are fine for summer A/C. If you need 30 or 50 amp power you'll have to park closer to the domes or have an extension. Electric hookups...contact for availability. There is an acre to choose your perfect spot, but power and water might not be exactly where you want it. Please be respectful of the property and all of our neighbors as we are surrounded by residential housing. Please drive slow inside the property and keep the gate closed when not in use as there are coyotes in the area. Please do let us know ahead of time if you are afraid of dogs or have allergies. My manager has a small pup and there are others here depending who is staying. I have perfect drinkable amazing deep-well zero particulate well water. Inside my extra geo dome I have a shower, sink, and toilet. While 40 years old and ugly, they are functional. You are welcome to camp or relax inside the 40 foot dome, BUT THERE ARE NO BEDS OR BEDDING. This Hipcamp listing is for camp and RV sites only, not a bed in a geo dome. Please message with arrival time so we can meet you at the gate.
from 
$30
 / night
99%
(187)

Sun & Moon Retreat

2 sites · Lodging2 acres · Dewey, Yavapai
It seems like nearly everyone who comes here says this is a peaceful place!  It's like being out in the country whilst still being close enough to so many things, halfway between Sedona and Prescott, in a neighborhood with dirt roads and farm animals in which horses have the right away. The mountains are hypnotic. The air is clean. The stars are breathtaking. You can see the Milky Way on a clear night. The sunsets and sunrises are gorgeous and we see a lot of double rainbows here. The dome is fully furnished for 3 adults or if you have two small children, we can count 2 kids as 1 adult (just let me know). Inside there's a queen bed, futon, clean linens, table w/chairs, portable a/c, electric & propane heaters, lamps, kitchenette, one USB and one two prong outlet for small devices (light electrical usage only), and WIFI is available. Plus a yoga mat and books. Outside there's a picnic table, propane grill, propane firepit with comfortable seating surrounding. The outhouse building is equipped with a camping toilet, handwashing sink, and a camping shower (now heated!). There's also a separate dishwashing station. One towel per guest, grill utensils, cups, and plate ware provided. Bring disposables if you do not want to wash your own dishes. Most of the time guests are able to park next to the dome but sometimes, weather depending, it will be necessary to park and walk in about a hundred feet away from the dome. Also on the property you'll find a walking path carved out through the trees behind the dome with a medicine wheel and labyrinth. The property is located in a rural neighborhood so there are other houses around, but at a far distance, with still plenty of privacy.  There are lots of animals like cardinals, hawks, owls, blue jays, roadrunners, hummingbirds, jackrabbits, cottontails, coyotes, and mule deer.  Farm animals like donkeys make sounds in the distance which is pretty comical at times. There are occasional sightings of beer, wolves, and mountain lions. The location is central to so many incredible places to explore. Within an hour each direction, there is distinctly different natural terrain to discover. Our local Mortimer Farm is 7 miles away and has a bakery (breakfast/sandwiches/treats), seasonal activities including pick your own food, farm dancing, and monthly farm to table dinners. We also have a local winery, golf course, café, pizzeria, subway and BBQ restaurant.  Here are some of the sight seeing possibilities you could use this location to launch from, just to get your mind percolating: Grand Canyon (2.5 hours)Devil’s Bridge (Sedona) Cathedral rock (Sedona) Bell Rock (Sedona) Oak Creek Canyon (Sedona) Bumblebee Giant Saguaros (North Phoenix) Watson’s Lake (Prescott) Granite Dels (Prescott) Ghost Town Tour (Jerome) Lowell Observatory (Flagstaff) Wupatki National Monument (Flagstaff) Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument (Flagstaff) Arizona Snowbowl (Flagstaff) Antelope Canyon (Page) Lake Powell (Page) Horseshoe Bend (Page) Petrified Forest National Park (2.75 hours) Meteor Crater National Landmark (2 hours) Walnut Canyon National Monument (Flagstaff) Montezuma Castle National Monument and Well (Camp Verde) Out of Africa Wildlife Park (Camp Verde) Desert Botanical Gardens (Phoenix) Wine Tasting (Page Springs) It's my intention that anyone who stays here, leaves more nourished in spirit, more firmly planted in their true selves and more deeply in alignment with nature's rhythm. Looking forward to your visit!
from 
$111
 / night
100%
(233)

Verde River Vortex

4 sites · Lodging2 acres · Clarkdale, Yavapai
Learn more about this land: Greetings fellow adventure lovers! Welcome to Verde River Vortex where we have Comfy Cabin Camping with access to tons of outdoor activities just out the back door. 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 is within walking distance and offers 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 or our Absolutely AWESOME wood fired Sauna with Cold water dipping pool under the stars. Each Cabin is fully equipt (hot water/appliances/kitchen/bathroom/dishes) as an Adventure base during your stay providing a comfortable, cozy and unique location for couples or small groups/families 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. 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.
from 
$132
 / night
100%
(15)

Camp Saguaro

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents7 acres · Tucson, Pima
Camp Saguaro is nestled in a unique and rural area on the west side of Tucson, Arizona. With the Saguaro National Park Visitor Center, Tucson Mountain Park, and Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum all within four miles, there is plenty of opportunity to explore the outdoors. Tucson Mountain Park and Saguaro National Park boast hundreds of miles of hiking trails, and non-motorized mountain bikes are permitted on the trails in Tucson Mountain Park. Let us be your base camp for desert exploration whether it's hiking, riding, birdwatching, and learning. Come to Camp Saguaro and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the desert. What to expect: We are in a rural neighborhood where most parcels are 1-3 acres, we have seven acres. It's quiet around here but along with the natural sounds of the desert like yipping coyotes, and woodpeckers pecking, you may hear a horse, dog, or chicken. While we are on the outskirts of Tucson, we are not completely remote. Camp Saguaro is tobacco-free. Local attractions: Saguaro National Park- 2.3 miles or 2.6 miles to an entrance, 3.7 miles to the visitor center Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum-3.9 miles Tucson Mountain Park-2.5 miles Old Tucson Studios (over 400 movies have been filmed here)-7.1 miles International Wildlife Museum-11 miles King's Canyon Trailhead-3.8 miles Necessities: Gasoline-Speedway 5.7 miles Propane-Wagon Wheel 5.8 miles, West Ajo Feeds 12 miles Hardware-Picture Rocks Hardware 5.6 miles Groceries-Fry's Cortaro Road 14 miles
from 
$25
 / night
100%
(13)

Crown Jewel Cabin

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Crown King, Yavapai
Come see the best mountain views in the state from your private deck in Crown King, Arizona. This cabin offers all the modern luxuries of a vacation home within the seclusion and beauty of the forest. This is the perfect place to escape the summer heat with temperatures about 25 degrees cooler than Phoenix! Whether you’re looking for a relaxing afternoon of reading on the deck or an adventure-packed weekend of hiking and exploring, this is the cabin for you. Bring your motorized toys and enjoy miles of dirt roads, streams, and lakes. Crown King is a destination spot for ATV enthusiasts. The town of Crown King features a historic saloon, family-friendly diner, and general market. The cabin offers 3 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms. Two bedrooms feature queen beds and beautiful views, while the spacious master houses a king-size bed and wrap-around private deck. The main level includes a fully equipped kitchen, wood-burning stove, and large projector perfect for movie nights. The lower wrap-around deck has ample seating and includes a propane BBQ grill. You can play ladder ball, enjoy a game of cornhole, or listen to music on the bluetooth speakers while you watch the sunset. Come relax, escape the city, and reconnect with nature in this one-of-a-kind glamping experience. ***Please Note*** The cabin is located on a maintained, but at times bumpy unpaved road. Getting to the cabin will include about 25 miles of unpaved dirt road that traverses the mountain. High clearance vehicle (SUV/truck, etc) and/or 4WD/AWD is highly encouraged for most roads in Crown King and is required to get all the way up the switch-back driveway at the property. When snow/ice or inclement weather is present, you will need 4-wheel drive and are required to carry snow chains. Refunds cannot be given for disregarding if you are unable to make it to the cabin. Please come prepared for the mountains in an appropriate vehicle.
from 
$150
 / night
97%
(569)

Hawks Hideaway Camping, LLC

17 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents7 acres · Cottonwood, Yavapai
We offer various camping accommodations, as well as a teepee. See our different listings for info on each. A few choice examples of local activities to do on or very near to our campsite include: Bird watching, hiking, river rafting or tubing, kayaking, fishing, swimming, horseback riding, stargazing, and even rockhounding. This area conforms to the Arizona Dark Sky initiative, and while we are not dark-sky certified, we've had several guests compliment us on our location. When it comes to rockhounding, or amateur geology, this is a fantastic area for exploration and study.  The cliff walls of the Verde River offer clear and distinct sedimentary layers, and the frequent flooding of the massive sandy riverbed reveals countless undiscovered treasures.We gladly welcome pets, including horses, as long as the guests inform us of their presence, and takes care of all their needs, including cleaning up any mess. There is a professional horse-boarding field and stables adjacent to our property, and a long pleasant trail allows horseback riders to follow the Verde Greenway into Old Town Cottonwood if they so desire. Please remember that this is a natural and secluded spot located directly adjacent to the state-maintained Verde Ripparian Greenway and the Verde River. This means you may encounter wildlife and pests associated with being in such close connection to nature. Be prepared to tuck your food away and bring ample protection from the insects.
from 
$35
 / night
99%
(270)

Epic Van-RV-Tent Camp 40 mins Zion

20 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents3 acres · Mohave
Did you know there's a secret new cut through road to Zion National Park from our area which makes us 40 mins away!? We offer one of the coolest, safest, cleanest and most popular boutique campgrounds in the region. Zion is the 3rd most visited park in the US, so when we had an opportunity to purchase property in a rural area outside of the park, we jumped on it. Our space is 3 stunning acres just off the paved road surrounded by hundreds of acres in all directions that are empty cattle fields and BLM land. You can literally hike into the hills from our property. We have 3 water and power hook ups that are ideal for vans or small trailer/RVs. WE DO NOT HAVE A SEPTIC DUMP on site but one close by that is free. We have shade structures, a BBQ area, a propane firepit (no wood fires in summer please! too dry). Propane is a $5 per use additional fee daily via Venmo if you want to use the firepit or the BBQ. We purchased the property from a family down the road and they have helped us develop out the piece we have. Currently we park a trailer on it that we rent out, plus we have 1 glamp tent, 1 little cabin, 1 camping platform and a few areas for tents and vanlifers to pull up! We have a group site with it's own kitchen/BBQ area. There's a bath house with 2 flushing toilets an outhouse and an outdoor heated shower. We also have a great outdoor kitchen with everything you need to cook a great meal! Stove, pots and pans, dishes, etc! Our property is 40 minutes to Springdale with a secret locals cut through. We are 20 minutes away from Coral Pink Sand Dunes state park (you can rent sand boards there) 25 minutes to Hurricane. We are 5 minutes away from a great grocery store (Bee's Market) with EVERYTHING! Just past that is a great microbrewery and pizza place called Edge of the World. Basically you get the quiet and dark skies at night, which are perfect for camping, but creature comforts of a bathroom, outdoor shower, Wifi, firepits and BBQ. We have cool art, horseshoe put, an outdoor kitchen with stove and all the cooking utensils and pots and accessories you need! Hot water is really hot! We have 2 kitchens!! Land Beyond Zion is available for group rentals and great if you are trying to plan a camp out with numerous people, but struggling to find a campground that will accommodate. We are kid friendly, dog friendly, BIPOC, LGBTQ and senior friendly. We are not an RV park but can accommodate some smaller rigs, so reach out to us if you are interested in staying. We have room for a skoolie if it's the right size! Up to 24-26 feet vans and skoolies. Inquire if your rig is bigger. DOGS IMPORTANT!!! If you have a dog we ask that you please keep it near you at all times. If there are other dogs on the property you will need to leash up dogs. Also, please walk the property and pick up poop!!! We ask for a $10 fee for dogs. Please pay to our venmo (@shantihodges) Please respect that we increase prices for more people in your group as this has impact on our space. We only have so many showers, bathrooms and space for all and we like to not get super crowded. Children are the exception, but please let us know how many folks are in your group when you reserve. If. Thank you!
from 
$34
 / night
98%
(122)

Cave Creek Quiet Homestead

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Cave Creek, Maricopa
Quiet slice of heaven under the stars on our homestead. Our space offers a tranquil setting with several camping options. Site # 1: Glamping Tent with Queen sized mattress all set to relax! Site #2: Cozy Saguaro camp site. Bring your own tent or rent one of ours. Site # 3: RV Glamping. Queen size bed with a dinette that can be used as an extra bed for the little ones. Site # 4 LQ or Tent Space for Horse Campers/Boarders Site # 5 Boarding for Horses or Mules Sites 1-3 have their own personal space with seating area, small fire-pit ring and two chairs. Communal spaces with restroom, grill, table, other seating with larger fire-pit. Feel free to visit our horses, chickens or hike our beautiful trails right from the property. Enjoy the horses, the stars at night and our neighboring coyotes sing if you are lucky. Our home is close by, the little white farmhouse on the hill. Please let us know if we can help you enjoy your time here! Check out our extras like firewood, eggs or rent a horse stall during your stay. :) Thank you for looking!
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$22
 / night
Booked 6 times

Santan Mountain Views

1 site · RV, Tent3 acres · Queen Creek, Pinal
Beautiful views of the Santan Mountains. Flat, private area behind main residence with a large cover. Water, electric, septic available. Room to set up temporary horse panels. Horse stalls on site available to rent. Walking distance to Santan regional park for miles of hiking, biking or horseback riding. 2 miles from Horseshoe park. Less than a mile to Santan flats. Quiet, rural feel but 5 minutes to major amenities. 1 dozen farm fresh eggs included with booking.
from 
$45
 / night
97%
(15)

Cardinal’s Grove

1 site · RV1 acre · Cornville, Yavapai
This property is surrounded by Mesquite trees boasting beautiful country views located in a picturesque green belt of Arizona. The graveled site includes a paver patio, table and chairs, a chiminea for fires and roasting marshmallows, and bird feeders with many active birds 🦅. It is situated on a one acre property which includes our home. Take a stroll around the country neighborhood, explore trails, grab a hamburger at the local burger place! A 10 minute drive to gorgeous wine country of Page Springs where you can enjoy a glass of wine and take in Oak Creek. Wonderful restaurants and shopping to enjoy in nearby Cottonwood and Jerome.
from 
$45
 / night
98%
(24)

Saguaro Cactus Forrest

5 sites · RVs5 acres · New River, Maricopa
We are situated catty corner to stateland that displays a majestic Saguaro forest on the mountains. Short walk to lots of trails and spectacular views. RV hookups with only three sites so not crowded. Water and electrical hookups 30 or 50 amp. You will love the views and the hiking. We are also not far from grocery stores, and outlet mall and restaurants. EASY ACCESS WITH LARGE TRAILERS.
from 
$40
 / night
81%
(57)

Cactus Rose Ranch RV Sites

9 sites · RVs11 acres · Scottsdale, Maricopa
Cactus Rose Ranch is 11 acres in the north Scottsdale/ Rio Verde area of Arizona. This special area is surrounded by the Tonto National forest on the north & east, the McDowell Mountain park on the south, Fraisfield Preserve on the west. Several mountain trails nearby, of varied challenge. It is home to 360' awesome mountain views (sometimes purple, golden, or pink too), scenic desert vistas, and the best sunrises, sunsets, and starry nights in the world! Plenty of places nearby to hike, horseback ride, mountain bike, and explore Enjoy staying on our desert ranch located in rural North Scottsdale/ Rio Verde AZ! Several restaurants near, and 30-45 minutes into Scottsdale and all they have to offer! (NO on site BATHROOM FACILITIES...NO TENT CAMPERS unless you are self contained) The perfect retreat for those that like to see Arizona off the beaten path. Check out stellar mountain views, spectacular desert sunrises, sunsets, and star studded night skies! Wildlife and beautiful friendly birds. Listen to the quietness...and perhaps a night time coyote unique serenade. Located near some of the best hiking, biking, and horseback riding, in the state. Please note that we are down about 1/2 mile of dirt road which sometimes might be a bit challenging for XL 40 ft 5th wheels and other very low riding RVs. Most RVs have no issues. (Sometimes, the road might be too narrow for 2 vehicles... so someone will need to pull over in the plentiful wider areas... pls give the other vehicle a desert rural ranch friendly thank you "wave".) ENJOY!
from 
$65
 / night

Dog-friendly getaways

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Camping in Arizona with wildlife watching guide

Looking to immerse yourself in the wild beauty of Arizona while getting up close and personal with the local wildlife? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 2400 options for camping in Arizona, specifically tailored for wildlife watching, Hipcamp is your go-to resource for finding the perfect spot. From the stunning Pinnacle Farms South (468 reviews) to the cozy A Spark in the Dark Campground (271 reviews) and the tranquil Hawks Hideaway Camping, LLC (204 reviews), you'll have plenty of highly-rated campsites to choose from. Plus, with prices as low as $5 per night and an average price of $30 per night, you can enjoy your wildlife adventure without breaking the bank. Popular amenities like pets, toilets, and trash facilities are available, and you can also partake in activities such as horseback riding, paddling, and swimming. So get ready to pitch your tent and embark on the ultimate wildlife watching experience in Arizona!

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