The best river, stream, or creek campgrounds near Cave Creek, Arizona

Looking to go camping near Cave Creek, Arizona? Hipcamp has over 139 options available that cater to your specific accommodation and activity preferences. Whether you're into tent camping, RV sites, or cabins, you'll find the perfect spot. With an average price per night of $40 and options as low as $15, there's something for every budget. Check out the top campsites like Hawks Hideaway Camping, LLC (204 reviews), Mountain View Retreat (80 reviews), and Cactus Rose Ranch RV Sites (48 reviews). Enjoy popular amenities like potable water, pet-friendly areas, and trash services. And if you're into wildlife watching, surfing, or snow sports, you'll have plenty of exciting activities to choose from. Happy camping!

93% (345)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking to go camping near Cave Creek, Arizona? Hipcamp has over 139 options available that cater to your specific accommodation and activity preferences. Whether you're into tent camping, RV sites, or cabins, you'll find the perfect spot. With an average price per night of $40 and options as low as $15, there's something for every budget. Check out the top campsites like Hawks Hideaway Camping, LLC (204 reviews), Mountain View Retreat (80 reviews), and Cactus Rose Ranch RV Sites (48 reviews). Enjoy popular amenities like potable water, pet-friendly areas, and trash services. And if you're into wildlife watching, surfing, or snow sports, you'll have plenty of exciting activities to choose from. Happy camping!

93% (345)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Cave Creek Quiet Homestead

98%

(163)

1.5mi from Cave Creek · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Cave Creek, AZ

Quiet slice of heaven under the stars on our homestead. We continue to have reduced our camping experience for our winter 2025 season to keep our site secluded and private. Please check back for open dates and sites Our space offers a tranquil setting with several camping options. Site # 1: Glamping Tent is Closed for 2025 season. We are offering tent campers at this site on a limited availability. Site #2: Saguaro Camp site. Bring your 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 RV, Pop Ups or Living Quarters with horses/mules Site # 5 Boarding for Horses or Mules We offer 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. Thank you for looking!

2. The Sunset Nooks

94%

(25)

48mi from Cave Creek · 4 sites · Tents · Buckeye, AZ

This property is in a one of a kind location that puts you on the lake in a two minute walk…. Or the Gila River in a 20 minute walk. Plus there’s a nook for each campsite with fire pit. They’re pretty cool with shade to relax and read books and or meditate. Each site is different and availability is first come first serve. Thanks and see y’all soon

3. Richard Wizardy's Cynosure Project

85%

(157)

46mi from Cave Creek · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Camp Verde, AZ

Looking for a one-of-a-kind camping experience that combines art, nature, and outdoor adventure? Look no further than Richard Wizardry's Hipcamp listing! Tucked away in a picturesque mesquite Bosque on the banks of the year-round Verde River, this enchanting retreat offers guests the perfect home base for exploring the stunning natural beauty of the surrounding area. But what really sets Richard Wizardry's Hipcamp site apart is the incredible art that awaits you here. From flame effect robots that light up the night sky to stunning sculptures inspired by sacred geometry and whimsical creations made from recycled materials, there's something here for every art lover. And the best part? You'll have a chance to interact with the art and even create your own pieces during your stay! When you're ready to venture beyond the campsite, the year-round Verde River offers endless opportunities for hiking, fishing, and exploring the stunning natural beauty of the surrounding area. Kayak down Clear Creek to Beasley Flats or hike to explore cliff dwellings across the river from Beasley Flats. And when you're ready to unwind and recharge, Richard Wizardry's Hipcamp site offers the perfect oasis. While there's no kitchen on-site, you'll find a cozy fire ring where you can cook up delicious meals over an open flame and enjoy the company of friends and family under the stars. And if you're lucky enough to be here on the right day, you can even learn the art of cheese-making from Richard himself! So if you're looking for a truly unforgettable camping experience that combines natural beauty, artistic creativity, and a touch of whimsy, book your stay at Richard Wizardry's Hipcamp site today and get ready to explore the magic of the high desert!

4. 1/2 Glamp - 1/2 Camp - 100% Relax.

100%

(1)

48mi from Cave Creek · 1 site · Tent, RV · Pine, AZ

Located on Saguaro Lake in the Tonto National Forest, just a hop, skip and a jump from the Fully Built and Operational Casino and restaurants (12 miles) and a stones throw from a trout stocked man made lake you just may find your next quick camping trip. No setup or breakdown required. It’s already done for you. Just 30 miles from The Phoenix Airport, Saguaro Lake AZ, and 11 miles from the We Ko Pa full scale casino, this 1/2 Camp 1/2 Glamp getaway will offer you privacy in dispersed camping, Fishing, boating, water or skiing, lounging in a hammock, roasting hotdogs or snacking on S’mores in the 246 square foot nd 2000 plus cubic feet of space, this secluded getaway cozies up to the East Verde River. Sunrises, sunsets, and panoramic views are filled with pine trees and towering ponderosas. The gentle river, when flowing, is only 6 inches to a foot deep in most places—perfect for setting up a camping chair with a cold beverage while your dog relaxes right beside you without fighting a current. It’s quiet and private, yet just a mile from the main road and another mile into town. There, you’ll find a family-owned grocery store connected to a restaurant and tavern, plus charming local shops selling honey, beef jerky, and collectibles. The local firehouse is right down the street, and the friendly residents will make you feel like a local, too. This campsite has no close neighbors—you’ll be secluded, but still close to civilization if needed. Amenities include a charging station for your electronic devices and lighting. The huge 256-square-foot dome tent (over 2,000 cubic feet) is larger than the average hotel room. It features a queen-sized bed with fresh linens and pillowcases for a restful night’s sleep. The tent also has heating and space for up to 4 more adults on the floor—bring sleeping bags and share the experience with family and friends. The “Domed Taj Mahal” tent boasts 8 windows for stargazing and 2 doors for easy entry and exit. Relax in the netted adult hammock or the child-sized hammock for an afternoon siesta. We’ve even rounded up firewood for you—plenty of “cowboy cable”

5. The Otterlimits

94%

(79)

45mi from Cave Creek · 1 site · Tent, RV · Camp Verde, AZ

Notice: Beasley Flat Rec. Area is open again as of 4/20/23 The area is part of the National Wild and Scenic preserve on the Verde River. The river is one of the only few free flowing rivers in Arizona. Otters, Beaver, Blue Heron and a vast amount of migratory birds call it home. Once an inland water way to the Sea of Cortez, the river was part of the trade route during ancient times. Many Indian Ruins and archeological sites to visit in the area. Scenic boating, hiking and ATV trails right from your campsite. Learn more about this land: Pitch a tent or a small camp trailer in a 1/2 acre Mesquite grove. Five minute stroll to the Verde River. Horse Back Tours and Boat rentals available locally within walking distance. National Forest recreation area (Beasley Flat) close by. Many Indian ruins, entertainment, wineries and mountain trail to explore in the area. Great wildlife viewing in the scenic Verde Valley of Arizona.

6. Tent Camp at Tuck & Bird Ranch

90%

(5)

45mi from Cave Creek · 2 sites · Tents · Payson, AZ

This is an invitation to an unforgettable camping trip near Payson, Arizona! You'll wake up to fresh air and stunning scenery. Spend your days exploring Payson's hiking trails, fishing spots, and wildlife. Relax at the ranch with our friendly pot-bellied pig and a good book. Top it all off with classic campfire s'mores under a star-filled sky! Two tents available for you: - Large cabin tent allowing up to 8 guests - Bell tent allowing up to 2 guests

Public campgrounds near Cave Creek

Childs Dispersed Camping Area

39mi from Cave Creek · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Coconino National Forest

100%

(4)

Fossil Creek Campground

44mi from Cave Creek · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Coconino National Forest

100%

(4)

Clear Creek Group Campground

49mi from Cave Creek · 21 sites · Tents, RVs · in Coconino National Forest

Stories from the community

J

James

3 weeks ago

26 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Cave Creek Quiet Homestead

This most recent stay was our 4th time at Shantel’s. Convenient to local restaurants and hiking parks. After a full day, returning to our site really allows us to unwind. We can’t wait to go back

C

Connor

3 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Sunset Nooks

Directions clear, found the site after dark without issue. Cory is responsive and provides a welcoming site. Site has two well placed trees to provide natural shade for the tent. Site is fenced in, with a swing close gate - provides peace of mind for those with kids. Plenty of space, we fit a 10 person and a canopy with space for likely 1-2 more tents. We biked to the lake, very tucked location, not public access, so had it to ourselves. Great view of the distant mountains. Fish may be smarter than us as we only managed a small tilapia, but the lake is lively with plenty of fish jumping out along the shore line. Portable bathroom was pristinely clean, one of the best we’ve seen. Site is well kept, we look forward to returning and seeing what else Cory can do with the place! Most importantly - Cory is a phenomenal host - welcoming, helpful, and laid back. Especially welcoming and willing to help with anything we needed - he went above and beyond to make our weekend trip great. Absolutely recommend this site!

J

Janet

3 weeks ago

15 ft travel trailer

With pets

1 night at The Otterlimits

The Otterlimits was the perfect spot for us to regroup on our road trip. The mesquite grove lends to the peaceful atmosphere. The property itself, butts up to the National Forest, and is a short walk to the Verde River, and a floaters take out. On down the road is an amazing view of the river and rock formations, with a view of cliff dwellings and picnic tables. We thoroughly enjoyed our time here!

J

Janet

November 2025

15 ft travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at The Otterlimits

This is a special site nestled in a mesquite grove, and within walking distance of the Verde River. It butts up to National Forest lands, and has a scenic view down the road of cliff dwellings. It is truly a space to relax and unwind with a sense of timelessness.

Morning view from tent of beautiful Sonoran desert

K

Katherine

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Cave Creek Quiet Homestead

We arrived at night, so everything was even more pretty in the morning. The toilet was clean, the spot was so cute and quiet. We loved everything!

M

M.

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at The Otterlimits

Very close to Verde Adventures Kayaker Pick-Up spot for Kayakers (walking distance), and not too far from Beasley Flats, (a few of minutes by car.) Love the private property access to the river for OTTERLIMITS users only. (walking distance). Would recommend a 4WD if not walking to this part, it was rutty and muddy. You don't want to get stuck! OTTERLIMITS had a big fire pit, big opening in the trees for Astronomy viewing, took my spotting scope, it was nice. Also used for birding, saw many gaggles of geese in formation flying south for the winter. There was plenty of kindling around to start a fire. Gene was a gracious host, offered some fire wood if we needed it. Loved the distant sounds of cows and coyotes in the background, and fall leaves in some areas. I highly recommend this spot. But don't go so late in the season like we did (Late October), unless properly prepared. We did okay, but kept an eye on the forecast the entire month before leaving. We prepared for 47 degree weather as the low, but it got down to 34 degrees. Much lower than predicted. Think it had to do with being so close to the water, as opposed to the town of CAMP VERDE, and the fact that the recent monsoons still left many areas (especially by the river) extremely wet and muddy. We couldn't even get close to the river without walking thru about 30 feet of mud. Almost slipped about a dozen times. Would highly recommend going before the monsoons or weeks after to let it dry out. Thanks Again GENE!

K

Kim

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The Sunset Nooks

Very quiet! Beautiful night skies! Clean parking and camping area. Fire pit and table. Responsive Host

R

Rohith

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Richard Wizardy's Cynosure Project

I lived camping in Richard’s place. Place is very well maintained , Richard was a very good host , helped us till we start the fire. Definitely the best place to camp!

B

Barb

October 2025

19 ft pop-up camper

1 night at The Otterlimits

Quite a ways off the beaten path, but road was good & the spot private & quiet.

D

Dave

October 2025

Tent

With pets

3 nights at The Sunset Nooks

Cory was an incredible host at an incredible pace! We weren't convinced before we got there, but even with terrible weather, we had a great time.

A

Aaron

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Richard Wizardy's Cynosure Project

Our time at Richards land was a great experience. The art around the property was really cool to look at, the tent sites were all flat and spaced out well, and we even got to use his fire pit to have a bonfire. There were ducks, a turkey, the friendly yard dog, and even goats so it felt like a little farm experience. The host was very accommodating with everything we needed and I felt comfortable bringing my two children there. As we left, he even showed us around his greenhouse and sent us in our way with peppers, basil, green onion, and carrots. We really enjoyed our one night here.

Michael

October 2025

Tent

1 night at The Sunset Nooks

Very nice vibe and atmosphere the goat Farmers cool and the lake is beautiful to watch the Sun go down highly recommend this campsite for only $33 what a great deal

Margaret Cookie

September 2025

Tent

With pets

6 nights at The Sunset Nooks

5 stars Having the lake close-by seals it for me. Bird-lovers: Wilson’s warbler Verdin Blue-gray gnatcatcher Gila woodpecker Rubythroated hummingbird Roadrunner Gambells Quail Phainopepla Bewicks wren Abert’s Towhee Eurasian Collared Dove Indigo Bunting W Grebe Neotropical Cormorant White-faced Ibis Snowy egret Great egret GB Heron Osprey Northern Harrier Kestrel Falcon

S

Stephanie

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to 1/2 Glamp - 1/2 Camp - 100% Relax.

We had such a wonderful stay! The host was incredibly friendly and responded quickly to any questions, which made everything great. The campsite itself was absolutely beautiful! peaceful and surrounded by nature. Lots of trinkets and tools for use. A lot of wildlife in the area. Many coyotes at night but did not bother us or come that close. The site feels secluded but also conveniently close to town, so we had the best of both worlds. We also really appreciated the generous amount of firewood provided, which made our evenings around the fire even better! The road to the campsite is a little rough but could be cause of the rain. I highly recommend this spot. Lots of good hiking around the area like Tonto national park. Thanks Paul!

T

Trent

June 2025

16 ft car

Group trip

1 night at Richard Wizardy's Cynosure Project

Very interesting place to camp! It’s on a farm with lots of animals and art. We got to feed the goats! The host was cool and sat and talked with us for a bit and even offered some duck eggs for breakfast. The site itself was very chill and pretty private. It’s down next to the river so it was a good 5-10 degrees cooler and it was all very shaded. We had some trees to set up hammocks. Bring bug spray! I would definitely recommend this spot!

C

Courtney

June 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Otterlimits

We had an amazing time! Great spot if you are paddling the river.

V

Vicente

June 2025

Tent

1 night at The Otterlimits

I enjoyed this trip. It was great for the family. I'd return to enjoy more.

J

Jose

June 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The Otterlimits

The campsite was very spacious. Our group loved how close it was to the river. We will definitely be staying here again!

n

natasha

June 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Richard Wizardy's Cynosure Project

Great campsite with goats and a friendly dog. The host walked us to the river for a swim and was very responsive and made us feel welcome. Would stay again!