Discover the Best Places To Camp In Arizona, from the towering saguaros of the Sonoran Desert to the cool pine forests of the high country. From the superb red rocks of Sedona to the awesome Grand Canyon. If you love to hiking, fishing, or just relaxing by the fire, these camping points give you unforgettable adventures. Here we’ll discuss about best time, things required, and camping type. Prepared your gear and get ready for an amazing outdoor experience in Arizona. Ready to pitch your tent in the Grand Canyon State? Book your Arizona campsite here and experience the best places to camp in Arizona—where every sunset writes a new story in the wild.
1. Grand Canyon National Park (South & North Rim)
There’s nothing more humbling than sleeping under the stars at the edge of the world. Both the South and North Rim of the Grand Canyon offer iconic spots among the top Arizona camping destinations.
- Best Season to Visit: South Rim Spring and Fall North Rim Summer (open May to October)
- Important Tools:
- Winter clothing.
- Sturdy tent and raincoat.
- Water filter.
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
- Climbing sticks for trails
- Type of Camping: Car camping, RV camping tent camping, (South Rim has full facilities)
2. Havasu Falls (Havasupai Reservation)
With turquoise waterfalls and hidden canyons, Havasupai offers a camping journey like no other. It’s undoubtedly one of the most magical places to camp in Arizona.
- Best Season to Visit: Spring and Fall (avoid summer due to extreme heat)
- Important Tools:
- Light tent, or hammock
- Water purification tablets
- Backpacking stove
- Good hiking shoes for the long trail
- Permit (required to enter)
- Ample water and electrolytes
- Type of Camping: Backpacking
3. Sedona (Oak Creek Canyon, Red Rock State Park)
Let your soul breathe where red rocks glow at sunset and crystal-clear creeks whisper serenity. Sedona’s campsites, especially in Oak Creek Canyon and Red Rock State Park, are among the best places to camp in Arizona for beauty, balance, and awe.
- Best Season to Visit: Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-November)
- Important Tools:
- Lightweight tent
- Sunblock and sun hat (can be very sunny)
- Warm layers for cool nights
- Water for hydration (limited water sources)
- Camera (for amazing red rock views)
- Type of Camping: Car camping, tent camping, dispersed camping
4. Lake Powell (Glen Canyon National Recreation Area)
Wake up to sunrise reflections on still water, surrounded by red canyons. Lake Powell is perfect for water lovers seeking the best lakeside camping in Arizona.
- Best Season to Visit: Late Spring and Fall
- Important Tools:
- Swimsuit and water shoes
- Sunshade or tarp (limited natural shade)
- Cooler for food storage
- Fishing gear (optional)
- Kayak or paddleboard for exploring
- Type of Camping: Lakeside tent camping, RV camping, houseboat camping
5. Coconino National Forest (Flagstaff, Sedona, Mogollon Rim)
If you’re under Sedona’s fiery cliffs or Flagstaff’s tall pines, Coconino offers diverse terrain for every camper. It’s among the best forest camping spots in Arizona.
- Best Season to Visit: Summer for cooler high-elevation camping
- Important Tools:
- Good sleeping bag (high altitude gets cold)
- Firewood (can be chilly in the evenings)
- Bear-proof containers (for food)
- Insect repellent
- Navigation tools (map/compass)
- Type of Camping: Dispersed camping, car camping
6. Petrified Forest – Camp with the Ghosts of Ancient Trees
Step into a surreal desert where fossilized wood glows in the sun. This is one of the most unique camping experiences in Arizona’s high desert.
- Best Season to Visit: Fall and Spring
- Important Tools:
- Lightweight tent (no shade or trees)
- GPS for navigation (no designated trails)
- Plenty of water (no water sources)
- Solar charger for electronic devices
- Sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat
- Type of Camping: Backcountry camping (only)
7. Tonto National Forest – From Lakes to Canyons, Camp It All
Tonto offers a little bit of everything—deserts, mountains, and sparkling lakes. It’s a favorite among those seeking varied and scenic camping in Arizona.
- Best Season to Visit: Spring and Fall
- Important Tools:
- Firewood and grill
- Insect repellent (especially near water)
- Warm sleeping bag (desert gets cool at night)
- Water container and purifier
- Type of Camping: Car camping, RV camping, dispersed camping.
8. Catalina State Park (Tucson)
With Saguaro silhouettes and mountain views, Catalina is a dream for campers who crave desert peace. It’s one of the most accessible and beautiful camping areas in Arizona.
- Best Season to Visit: Winter, early Spring
- Important Tools:
- Lightweight tent
- Layers for cooler nights
- Sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat
- Hiking poles for desert trails
- Type of Camping: Tent camping, car camping
9. Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument (Ajo)
Towering cacti and fiery sunsets set the stage for unforgettable nights. Saguaro Park is one of the best places to camp in southern Arizona’s desert heart.
- Best Season to Visit: Winter and early Spring
- Important Tools:
- Sunshade (very little natural shade)
- Water containers and purifier
- Lightweight but sturdy tent (strong winds possible)
- Wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
- Layers for temperature fluctuations
- Type of Camping: Tent camping, RV camping
10. Saguaro – Sleep Among the Giants of the Sonoran Desert
Towering cacti and fiery sunsets set the stage for unforgettable nights. Saguaro Park is one of the best places to camp in southern Arizona’s desert heart.
- Best Season to Visit: Winter, early Spring
- Important Tools:
- Lightweight tent
- Large water supply (no water in backcountry)
- Hiking boots
- Sun protection
- GPS and maps (for navigation)
- Type of Camping: Backcountry camping
11. Lost Dutchman – Camp with Gold Rush Legends in the Superstitions
Nestled at the base of the mysterious Superstition Mountains, this park invites adventure and awe. It’s a top-rated Arizona camping site with a wild west vibe.
- Best Season to Visit: Spring and Fall
- Important Tools:
- Strong tent stakes (due to wind)
- Hiking boots (for nearby trails)
- Ample water and sun protection
- Firewood for cool nights
- Type of Camping: Car camping, tent camping, RV camping
12. Lynx Lake – Forest Camping with Lakeside Tranquility
Escape the heat in Prescott’s cool pines and fish-filled lake. Lynx Lake is one of the best campgrounds in Arizona for peaceful weekends and nature therapy.
- Best Season to Visit: Summer and early Fall
- Important Tools:
- Fishing gear (for the lake)
- Layered clothing (cool evenings)
- Insect repellent
- Firewood (cold at night)
- Type of Camping: Car camping, RV camping, tent camping.
13. White Mountains– High-Altitude Camping in Arizona’s Alpine Wonderland
Swap saguaros for evergreens in the refreshing mountain air. The White Mountains are among the top cool-weather camping escapes in Arizona.
- Best Season to Visit: Summer (for cooler weather)
- Important Tools:
- Rain gear (summer monsoons)
- Bear canister for food
- Layers (temperatures drop significantly at night)
- Fishing gear (for mountain lakes)
- Type of Camping: Tent camping, RV camping, dispersed camping.
14. Mather Campground – Iconic Camping in Grand Canyon Village
Right at the heart of Grand Canyon’s South Rim, Mather is both convenient and epic. It’s a must-visit Arizona campground for Grand Canyon explorers.
- Best Season to Visit: Spring and Fall
- Important Tools:
- Cold-weather sleeping bag
- Firewood (cold nights)
- Map for nearby hiking trails
- Water filtration system
Type of Camping: Car camping, tent camping, RV camping.
15. Dude Ranch Campground– Rustic Vibes Near Prescott’s Pines
Looking for a frontier feel? This campground combines rugged charm with forest calm—making it a hidden gem in the best rustic camping spots Arizona offers.
- Best Season to Visit: Summer
- Important Tools:
- Firewood (cool evenings)
- Warm clothing
- Insect repellent
- Fishing gear (if near lakes)
- Type of Camping: Tent camping, RV camping
16. Alamo Lake State Park – Remote Desert Camping Beneath the Stars
Far from the crowds, this is stargazing heaven and solitude at its finest. Alamo Lake ranks high among the most remote places to camp in Arizona.
- Best Season to Visit: Winter and early Spring
- Important Tools:
- Sun protection
- Plenty of water (no nearby sources)
- Fishing gear (if fishing)
- Strong tent (can be windy)
- Type of Camping: Tent camping, RV camping
General Recommendations
- Sun Protection: Sunscreen, hats, and long-sleeved shirts are necessary for most
- Water: Always carry ample water and cleansing systems in desert areas.
- Arizona camping sites.
- Permit: Many areas, especially popular spots like Havasu Falls, require permits. Check ahead of time to ensure availability.
- Clothing: Be prepared for cool nights and hot days, especially at higher elevations or desert locations. Layering is important.
Planning your next adventure in the Southwest? Don’t miss our guide to the Best Places To Camp In Arizona for stunning red rock views and desert escapes under the stars.
