The best luxury RV campgrounds near Payson, Arizona

Payson is just 90 miles and a world away from Phoenix. Set in the Tonto National Forest, this tiny town is a hub for Arizona adventures. Hike the Mogollon Rim, canoe on quiet lakes, and camp in the ponderosa pines. As a home base, book a local RV park or campground. Cool off in the swimming holes at Christopher Creek Campground. Steps from your creekside site, ride horses or mountain bikes through the hills. Closer to town, Houston Mesa Campground has tent and horse sites with picnic tables. Choose from tent and RV sites at Sharp Creek Campground, which is ideal for fishing and boating. From April to October, sleep under the pines at Ponderosa Campground. For great fishing in Willow Springs Lake, head to Sinkhole Campground. Bringing a group to Rim Country? The Woods Canyon Lake camping area can host up to 100 people. Near Payson’s downtown, camp in luxury at an RV resort. Clean up at the laundry, and take advantage of the dump stations. Many parks sit in walking distance to local restaurants and pubs.

97% (652)

Top-rated campgrounds

Payson is just 90 miles and a world away from Phoenix. Set in the Tonto National Forest, this tiny town is a hub for Arizona adventures. Hike the Mogollon Rim, canoe on quiet lakes, and camp in the ponderosa pines. As a home base, book a local RV park or campground. Cool off in the swimming holes at Christopher Creek Campground. Steps from your creekside site, ride horses or mountain bikes through the hills. Closer to town, Houston Mesa Campground has tent and horse sites with picnic tables. Choose from tent and RV sites at Sharp Creek Campground, which is ideal for fishing and boating. From April to October, sleep under the pines at Ponderosa Campground. For great fishing in Willow Springs Lake, head to Sinkhole Campground. Bringing a group to Rim Country? The Woods Canyon Lake camping area can host up to 100 people. Near Payson’s downtown, camp in luxury at an RV resort. Clean up at the laundry, and take advantage of the dump stations. Many parks sit in walking distance to local restaurants and pubs.

97% (652)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Beaver Creek Oasis

99%

(471)

39mi from Payson · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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!

2. Marguerita Ranch

98%

(69)

45mi from Payson · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Cave Creek, AZ

Pitch your tent or park your camper among towering Saguaros with stunning mountain views in every direction. Bring your camera or your horses! This is the perfect spot for relaxing, stargazing, and soaking in those famous Arizona sunsets. You’ll have a spacious, private campsite all to yourself—I only allow one booking at a time to ensure a peaceful and personal experience. Please note: This is a working horse ranch, which means you'll see fencing, trailers, and occasional activity from people helping keep the ranch running. While your campsite is private, our property is just over two acres—so you'll also see neighboring homes. If you're looking for complete solitude with no sights, sounds, or smells of ranch life, I recommend dispersed camping elsewhere. My 2.2-acre private horse ranch is home to: • 8 rescue horses • 2 donkeys • 8 mini pigs and a few chickens! …all ready to meet and greet! Trail access? Absolutely. Hiking and horseback riding trails lead directly from the property into Spur Cross Conservation Area—or take a short 10-minute drive to a main trailhead. Black Mountain Hiking Trail is also nearby and offers panoramic views of the valley. You can even ride your horse into town and tie up at the local cowboy bars! ⸻ A few things to note: • The landscape varies with the season—there won’t be green grass in the summer • Please keep pets away from cactus—they bite! • We’re located in a desert neighborhood, so please respect the nearby homes. My house and neighbors house will be in view from your campsite. • A horse corral (50 ft round pen) is available to rent—message me if interested! ⸻ Looking for more adventure? Lake Pleasant, Bartlett Lake, Tonto National Forest, Seven Springs, and other scenic destinations are a short drive away. Need supplies? Walmart, Lowe’s, Tractor Supply, and more are just 10 minutes down the road. Want to explore a truly unique cowboy town? Cave Creek is full of Old West charm, with saloons, quirky shops, live music, and horses sharing the road with motorcycles. Follow and tag us on Instagram: @margueritaranch

3. 30 Min to Sedona, Verde Ranch RV

94%

(35)

40mi from Payson · 260 sites · RVs, Lodging · 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.

4. Red Rock Roping, LLC

100%

(36)

43mi from Payson · 6 sites · RVs, Lodging · Cave Creek, AZ

Welcome to Red Rock Roping! Where you will be a close 3 mile drive to old town Cave Creek restaurants, bars, and shopping strip. But far enough to enjoy a quiet and peaceful scenery of mountains, sunsets and sunrises. Don’t forget to kick your feet up, and end your night to enjoy a wide open view of the stars! Also, keep your eyes open for desert critters such as rattlesnakes, tarantulas, scorpions, deer, road runners, bob cats, and coyotes. We ask please do not pet, catch, feed or leave any food out that will attract them. Enjoy them from a picture away :) Our 2 accessible acres will give you 360 view of mountains, our Red Rock Roping arena, and a Saloon to gather under to enjoy cool refreshments, and a meal with your friends/family. Right outside our entrance going North on 80th Street you can hike over to the Grapevine Wash which is a short walk away from the Cave Creek Town Trail System for hiking and horseback riding, and if you’re adventurous you can hike up 2 miles of a 800’ climb on a gravel road/trails to “Mexican Hat” for an even more incredible view! We are a 30 amp full hook up (sewer, water & electrical) for 33’ RV’s and living quarters horse trailers. You will also have access to our community laundry area, with a large garbage can to dump a bag if needed. Some suggestions for town; Grab some quick delicous breakfast and coffee at Janey’s. Or American cuisine lunch at The Horny Toad, a Mexican cuisine dinner while watching the turtles in the pond at El Encanto! Ofrenda, right at the end of the road, also has great authentic Mexican cuisine. Many restaurants to choose from all within a short drive. Bashas, Safeway, Target, and Walmart and Sprouts are all within a 3-6 mile drive too! We have two turnout pens for horses. That are located right behind where you will park your trailer. They both have a cover that provides some shade, as well as running water. We do not provide any feed, so please make sure you bring some! We ask that you please do not feed any horses that do not belong to you. Or go into any pen that your horse is not in. For safety and respect :) Thank you in advance. (Horse turnouts are an extra $25 each/per night)

5. Mountain View Retreat

96%

(158)

50mi from Payson · 8 sites · RVs · New River, AZ

Experience the ambiance of a boutique resort as you escape to our beautifully landscaped and immaculately maintained private 10 acre property in the North Valley. We have several primitive campsites that can accommodate campervans and tents as well as several full hook-up sites (30 amp electric, water and sewer). You will be welcomed into a peaceful, desert oasis with luxurious amenities and find yourself immersed in a tranquil, serene setting surrounded by breathtaking views. Not only will you experience warm hospitality from your hosts, but our friendly farm animals will give you a warm welcome too! Guests are welcome to interact with all of our animals during our afternoon chores. In addition to your personal, spacious campsite you are sure to enjoy all the amenities we offer, including shared access to our entire property with many seating areas, hammocks, covered patios, water fountains, outdoor kitchen, horseshoe pit, games and hot tub. NON-SMOKING adult guests ONLY! Please review entire listing and house rules prior to booking. ……..Discounts offered for long term stays……….

6. KAL Ranch

100%

(5)

17mi from Payson · 3 sites · RVs · Strawberry, AZ

Located in Tonto National Forest only 1.5 miles to the famous Fossil Creek (Bob Bear) trail head, and a short distance to the Tonto Natural Bridge. Surrounded by national forest, big open skies and great weather. Plenty of trail hiking, outdoor activities, local bars and restaurants. 3 RV spaces Hot shower and bathroom access Full Gym access (WoodStove Gym @ KAL Ranch)

Stories from the community

M

Mandi

3 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at Beaver Creek Oasis

Throughly enjoyed camping here. Laura is an exceptional host and grounds were great for with plenty of accommodations. Enjoyed meeting her animals animals and the history behind this happy lil farm.

A

Ava

3 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Beaver Creek Oasis

Laura was super sweet! There were very clear instructions on how to get in! The bathroom was super clean it had a flushing toilet and running water. She also had farm animals that were so friendly. Her dogs are the absolute cutest and super friendly! The campsite was so nice and very spacious. It had a table and fire pit with logs to sit on! The walk to the creek was super pretty and well maintained! We really enjoyed staying here!

J

Jennifer

3 weeks ago

15 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Beaver Creek Oasis

Beautiful property near the creek. Clean with a nice little bathroom set up. Laura was incredibly helpful and nice. Got a peek at the alpacas and goats in the morning. Some freeway noise from busy I-17, but other than that perfect place.

J

Julia

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Beaver Creek Oasis

The shower was lovely, the critters were friendly, and the stars were amazing. Beautiful, out-of-the-way place. So thankful for such a clean, well-stocked site after days of primitive camping.

Dawn

3 weeks ago

18 ft campervan

2 nights at Marguerita Ranch

Great stop and a great location! The animals are all so friendly and the spot is perfect, quiet but still near town and lots of activities. Make sure you order some eggs!!

M

Matthew

3 weeks ago

20 ft pop-up camper

With pets

2 nights at Beaver Creek Oasis

We loved our time here! It was very peaceful and the large trees made it very private. Laura was a wonderful host, making sure we had everything we needed. There’s a nice walk to the creek and the alpacas and goats were fun to see. We would stay here again!

John

November 2025

18 ft campervan

1 night at Beaver Creek Oasis

Very welcoming, like staying with a friend. Nice big area and fire pit.

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gillian

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Beaver Creek Oasis

Laura is the best host! We had a great time meeting her animals and exploring the creek.

C

Cindy

October 2025

15 ft travel trailer

3 nights at KAL Ranch

I loved parking my little trailer on Kevin's property in Strawberry, AZ. The views around his ranch are beautiful. It's very quiet as well. Kevin was very responsive, and the place was easy to find. It was so nice to have access to a bathroom/toilet/shower on his property, as well as a little fridge. His fee was very reasonable. Access to his gym/weights/machines was an added bonus. What a great find! I highly recommend!

S

Sydney

October 2025

37 ft travel trailer

With kids

6 nights at 30 Min to Sedona, Verde Ranch RV

We had a great time at this campground! Cute little playground for the kiddos with several pickleball courts. Laundry was close by, large and super clean!

J

Josette

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Beaver Creek Oasis

Lovely property. Some nice big trees. The creek is a short walk and the alpacas make everything worthwhile!

k

kathleen

October 2025

18 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to KAL Ranch

Very beautiful and peaceful campsite. Kevin was very responsive, courteous, and respectable. We will definitely be coming back to this place. It’s absolutely beautiful.

R

Rebecca

October 2025

22 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to KAL Ranch

Great site with a friendly and accommodating host. Would definitely recommend!

A

Alain

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Beaver Creek Oasis

Great host ! Laura communicated proactively about road to take to get us to the campsite. Perfect spot with access to very clean toilets, campfire and a 6 foot foldable table.

Kim

September 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Beaver Creek Oasis

This was our second time camping at Beaver Creek Oasis. Laura ensured our stay was fabulous, letting us purchase some things we forgot. She's a very thoughtful and sweet host. We spent a few hours cooling off by the creek. The site was a great size for all us to spread out and even provided shade. The morning of our trip was a big storm. Laura checked in on us to make sure we were ok and ensured the dirt roads near her home were passable before we set out to head home.

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Nia

September 2025

1 night at Beaver Creek Oasis

Laura is a such a sweet host, very accommodating and generous. Her campsites were spacious and well kept, my partner and I had a lovely time. 10/10 recommend to anyone :)

J

Julie

September 2025

16 ft car

1 night at Beaver Creek Oasis

Laura was very accommodating, even with my late arrival, she gave step by step instructions. It was quiet and peaceful, and Laura even brought me some homegrown tomatoes (which were delicious!). The farm animals didn’t bother me one bit.

J

Judith

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Beaver Creek Oasis

Perfect camping spot for our needs. Laura was very welcoming and helpful. We had a nice level spot for our tent, and we loved the shade trees. It’s also nice having access to a bathroom.

Daniel

August 2025

16 ft car

1 night at Beaver Creek Oasis

This location has great amenities including bathroom with sink, as well as a hot shower. Unfortunately we didn’t get to use them as we were in a hurry to move on and the power was out when we arrived..obviously not the host’s fault. I advise arriving in daylight as the road is a bit of an adventure (washboard and rough) with a narrow bridge and a shallow ford to cross. Most any car could do this, however. Our host advised there is a different approach that avoids these features. There is no reliable cell service so be sure to right down the gate code and have your mapping route downloaded before you strike out on your journey.

Andrew

August 2025

30 ft travel trailer

2 nights at 30 Min to Sedona, Verde Ranch RV

Quiet during my 2 night visit. Beautiful property with many different options. Would recommend it. Only issue is they don’t have an rv age restriction here while the part doesn’t allow older than 20 yrs