Looking for the most beautiful places to camp in Arizona? Get ready for an adventure that goes way beyond just desert landscapes. The Grand Canyon State serves up a feast of camping experiences, from red rock wonderlands and pine forests to hidden waterfalls and crystal clear lakes. Arizona’s best camping spots offer something incredible in every season.
Here are the 21 most remarkable camping destinations in Arizona that’ll give you stories to tell for years to come.
1. Grand Canyon
Nothing prepares you for your first camping trip at the Grand Canyon. Waking up near the rim of this natural wonder feels like being on top of the world, with views that stretch forever and colors that change by the minute.
Desert View and Mather Campgrounds offer the classic Grand Canyon experience, with easy access to sunrise and sunset viewing spots. You’re perfectly positioned to explore the rim trails, catch the shuttle to scenic viewpoints, or just relax and watch the light play across the canyon walls.
The South Rim stays open year round, making this one of Arizona’s best camping spots in any season. Summer brings warm days and cool nights, while winter offers solitude and the possibility of seeing the canyon dusted with snow.
2. Sedona
The red rock paradise of Sedona creates a camping backdrop that seems almost too beautiful to be real. Pine Flat and Cave Springs campgrounds nestle among towering cliffs and crystal clear streams, putting you right in the heart of red rock country.
During the day, explore hundreds of hiking and biking trails that weave between the iconic formations. Each turn reveals another postcard perfect view, with red rocks rising against brilliant blue skies.
Sunset brings the show of a lifetime as the rocks light up in brilliant oranges and reds. After dark, the stars come out in force, creating one of the most beautiful places to camp in Arizona.
3. Havasupai Falls
The turquoise waters of Havasupai Falls create the desert oasis of your dreams. This unique camping experience requires advance permits and a 10 mile hike, but the reward is absolutely worth every step.
Your campsite sits near multiple waterfalls, each more stunning than the last. The bright blue green water against red canyon walls creates scenes that look more like a tropical paradise than Arizona.
Swimming, hiking, and photography fill your days here. The remote location and effort required to reach it mean you’re sharing this slice of paradise with just a handful of other adventurers.
4. Monument Valley
Sleeping under the stars at Monument Valley transforms your camping trip into a scene from a classic Western movie. The iconic sandstone buttes create silhouettes against the desert sky that you’ll never forget.
The View Campground puts you front and center for sunrise and sunset shows that’ll make your jaw drop. Take a guided tour with a Navajo host to learn the stories behind these magnificent formations and discover hidden corners of the valley.
Spring and fall bring perfect temperatures, but summer nights under the star filled sky make this one of Arizona’s best camping spots any time of year.
5. Chiricahua National Monument
Towering rock spires rise from the desert floor at Chiricahua, creating a wonderland of balanced rocks and hidden grottos. Bonita Canyon Campground provides the perfect base for exploring this unique landscape often called the Wonderland of Rocks.
Morning light creates incredible shadows between the rock formations, making this a photographer’s paradise. Miles of hiking trails lead you through natural rock gardens and past precariously balanced boulders.
The higher elevation keeps things cooler than the surrounding desert, perfect for exploring the park’s 17 miles of trails. Wildlife watching here is incredible, with rare birds and animals making appearances throughout the day.
6. Canyon De Chelly
Step back in time at Canyon De Chelly, where ancient cliff dwellings peek out from red rock walls. Spider Rock Campground offers basic amenities but incredible views of the canyon landscape.
Taking a guided tour with a Navajo guide reveals the rich history and cultural significance of this special place. Ancient petroglyphs and ruins tell stories of the people who lived here centuries ago.
The combination of natural beauty and cultural history makes this one of Arizona’s most unique camping experiences. Visit in spring or fall for the best weather and incredible photo opportunities.
7. Lake Powell
A beach camping paradise awaits at Lake Powell, where red rock canyons meet crystal clear waters. Wahweap and Lone Rock Beach campgrounds give you front row seats to some of the most unique waterfront camping in the Southwest.
Launch your kayak or paddleboard right from your campsite to explore hidden canyons and coves. The contrast between the deep blue water and red sandstone creates scenes that seem almost surreal.
Summer brings perfect conditions for swimming and water sports, while spring and fall offer ideal temperatures for hiking the surrounding landscapes.
8. Mount Lemmon
Escape the desert heat on Mount Lemmon, where pine forests and cool mountain air create a totally different Arizona experience. Several campgrounds dot the mountainside, each offering its own unique view of the surrounding Sonoran Desert below.
The drive up the mountain takes you through several climate zones, ending in a forest wonderland that feels more like Colorado than Arizona. Hiking trails lead to hidden lakes and scenic viewpoints perfect for sunset watching.
Winter brings the chance to camp near Arizona’s southernmost ski area, while summer provides relief from the Tucson heat.
9. Mogollon Rim
The dramatic escarpment of the Mogollon Rim provides some of Arizona’s most scenic forest camping. Numerous campgrounds along the rim offer spectacular views across the Colorado Plateau.
Rock climbing, hiking, and mountain biking opportunities abound. The area transforms in fall when the maples turn bright red and aspens go golden.
Fishing enthusiasts will love the small lakes and streams scattered throughout the area. Keep your camera ready for wildlife sightings, especially at dawn and dusk.
10. Coconino National Forest
Ancient volcanoes and pine forests create an unexpected landscape in Coconino National Forest. Numerous campgrounds provide easy access to everything from desert cacti to alpine meadows.
Mountain biking and hiking trails weave through ponderosa forests and past extinct volcanic cones. The proximity to Flagstaff means you can enjoy both wilderness camping and urban amenities.
Fall brings spectacular colors to the aspens, while summer offers perfect temperatures for outdoor adventure.
11. Lost Dutchman State Park
The legendary Superstition Mountains loom over Lost Dutchman State Park like ancient guardians. The campground here puts you right at the base of some of Arizona’s most dramatic desert peaks.
Spring wildflower displays transform the desert into a garden of gold and purple. Hiking trails lead into the mysterious mountains, where legends of lost gold mines still capture imaginations.
The proximity to Phoenix makes this an easy escape, but the views make you feel worlds away from civilization.
12. Catalina State Park
Rolling foothills and magnificent mountain views define Catalina State Park. The campground sits at the base of the Santa Catalina Mountains, surrounded by giant saguaros and desert wildflowers.
Miles of trails offer everything from easy nature walks to challenging mountain climbs. Bird watchers will be in heaven here, with over 150 species regularly spotted in the park.
Spring brings incredible wildflower displays, but the park offers beautiful camping year round.
13. Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument
A forest of unique organ pipe cacti creates an otherworldly camping experience in this remote corner of Arizona. Twin Peaks Campground provides the perfect base for exploring this living desert museum.
Scenic drives and hiking trails reveal the incredible diversity of Sonoran Desert life. The remote location offers some of the darkest night skies in Arizona.
Winter and early spring bring perfect temperatures and the chance to see desert wildflowers in bloom.
14. White Mountains
Cool pine forests and mountain meadows await in Arizona’s White Mountains. Multiple campgrounds offer access to fishing streams, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
The area provides a perfect summer escape from the desert heat. Fall brings spectacular color changes, while winter offers opportunities for snow camping and cross country skiing.
Keep your eyes peeled for elk, especially in the early morning and evening hours.
15. Saguaro National Park
Camping among forests of giant saguaro cacti creates an iconic Arizona experience. While backcountry camping is the only option within the park itself, nearby Gilbert Ray Campground provides easy access.
Dawn and dusk transform the desert into a photographer’s paradise as light plays across the massive cacti. The park’s two districts offer distinct experiences, from mountain forests to pure desert landscapes.
Spring brings incredible wildflower displays, but the desert beauty shines year round.
16. Petrified Forest National Park
Ancient fossilized trees create one of Arizona’s most unique camping landscapes. While there’s no camping in the park itself, nearby Crystal Forest campground puts you minutes from the entrance.
The painted desert section of the park offers views that seem almost too colorful to be real. Early morning light brings out the brilliant colors in the petrified wood and painted hills.
Plan your visit for spring or fall for the most comfortable temperatures and best light for photography.
17. Lake Havasu State Park
Clear blue waters and sandy beaches make Lake Havasu a water lover’s camping paradise. The campground offers plenty of waterfront sites perfect for boat owners and water sports enthusiasts.
Launch your boat or rent one nearby for days filled with swimming, fishing, and exploring. The famous London Bridge provides a unique backdrop for your camping adventure.
Summer brings perfect conditions for water activities, while winter offers mild temperatures ideal for hiking and biking.
18. Patagonia Lake State Park
A hidden oasis awaits at Patagonia Lake, where desert hills surround a pristine body of water. The campground offers both waterfront and hillside sites with beautiful views of the lake.
Birding enthusiasts flock here for the chance to spot rare species. The lake provides excellent fishing and boating opportunities, while nearby hiking trails explore the surrounding hills.
This park makes a perfect winter camping destination when northern Arizona turns cold.
19. Kofa National Wildlife Refuge
Wild and remote, Kofa National Wildlife Refuge offers true desert solitude. Dispersed camping here puts you in the heart of pristine Sonoran Desert landscape.
Rugged mountains rise from the desert floor, creating dramatic backdrops and challenging hiking opportunities. Wildlife watching opportunities abound, particularly for desert bighorn sheep.
Winter and early spring bring comfortable temperatures and the chance to see desert wildflowers.
20. Alamo Lake State Park
An unexpected oasis appears at Alamo Lake, where desert hills meet blue waters. The campground provides excellent facilities for both RV and tent camping with views of the lake.
Anglers love this spot for its excellent bass fishing. Star gazing here is incredible, with some of the darkest skies in Arizona.
Spring brings wildflower displays along the shoreline, while fall offers perfect temperatures for outdoor activities.
21. Watson Lake
Granite boulders create a stunning backdrop at Watson Lake, where rock formations seem to defy gravity. The campground here puts you close to both water activities and rock climbing opportunities.
Kayakers and paddleboarders love exploring the granite maze reflected in the calm waters. Hiking trails wind through the boulder field, offering endless photography opportunities.
The location near Prescott provides easier access to amenities while still feeling like a wilderness escape.
