Arizona is a land of contrasts. From the deserts to mountain meadows, there are so many places in this state where you can camp and enjoy nature. Each one has its own unique charm and will give you a true Southwest experience.
Whether you choose the stunning red desert landscape of Monument Valley or you choose to set up camp along the North Fork White River, you and your crew won’t be disappointed by the amazing natural beauty of the Grand Canyon State. Pack your camping gear, take the scenic route, and head out to some of the most beautiful spots in Arizona.
10 Upper Log Campground
Sitting a short drive outside the town of McNary, the Upper Log Campground is a primitive campsite in a convenient location which is a huge plus for families or those with small children in their group. Vehicles of almost every make and model will enjoy easy in-and-out access via a dirt road that is well-maintained by the White Mountain Apache Tribe Game and Fish Bureau. The grounds have miles of trails for hiking and are close to the gently flowing waters of the North Fork White River.
- Fees: $9.00 per night
- Where: Slide Creek Rd, McNary, AZ 85930
9 Lockett Meadow Campground
If you're looking for a camping spot that's close to all the action but still offers plenty of peace and quiet, Lockett Meadow Campground in Arizona is the perfect place for you. Just minutes from Flagstaff, this campground offers stunning views of the San Francisco Peaks and easy access to hiking and biking trails. This is a first-come, first-served campground, so you’ll want to get there early because it’s extremely popular and fills up fast.
- Fees: $18 per night
- Where: Lockett, Meadow Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
8 Lo Lo Mai Springs Outdoor Retreat
Lo Lo Mai Springs Outdoor Retreat is for those who don’t necessarily want a more primitive camping experience. The retreat offers cabins and tent campsites and accommodates RVs giving you a choice of how you want to spend your time outdoors. Here guests will have access to bathroom and shower facilities, a swimming pool and spa, laundry facilities, and more. Lo Lo Mai Springs is just a short drive from Sedona, making it a perfect spot for a quick weekend getaway.
- Fees: Varies by camping choice
- Where: Forest Service Rd 105, Payson, AZ 85541
7 Picacho Peak State Park
Picacho Peak State Park has a total of 85 campsites that are perfect for tent or RV camping. It’s also home to a number of hiking trails that wind through the desert landscape, giving way to mesmerizing scenery that you won’t find anywhere else in the American Southwest. The park also provides guests with access to a visitor center which has a number of exhibits, a park store, a playground for little ones, and historical markers. Picacho Peak State Park deserves a place high on your list for Arizona desert camping.
- Fees: $30 per night
- Where: 15520 Picacho Peak Rd, Picacho, AZ 85141
6 Patagonia Lake State Park
Outdoor recreationists absolutely love Patagonia Lake State Park for its spectacular lakeside camping experience and gorgeous vistas. There are over 100 campsites to choose from, and prices vary depending on the location and amenities you desire for your stay. The highlight is the 265-acre Patagonia Lake, where you can fish for Largemouth Bass, catfish, and rainbow trout all day or set out on the boat for some relaxation on the waves. Take part in offered guided bird tours and boat tours to get an intimate look at Patagonia Lake State Park.
- Fees: From $15, Park Entrance Fee
- Where: 400 Patagonia Lake Rd, Nogales, AZ 85621
5 Jacob Lake Campground
Jacob Lake Campground is the gateway to the North Rim of The Grand Canyon. Located 30 miles southeast of Fredonia, this campground has over 50 campsites to choose from and offers terrific opportunities to interact with the outdoors without ever leaving the area. It sits inside the North Kaibab National Forest and is only open from May to October before closing for the year. The grounds also offer public restrooms and shaded areas on a number of their campsites.
- Fees: $5 per vehicle per day
- Where: Forest Rd 579, Fredonia, AZ 86022
4 Monument Valley
Camping in Monument Valley is a truly remarkable experience. Nestled between the red rocks and the stars, camping here feels like being in another world. There are plenty of camping spots to choose from, whether you’re looking for primitive or RV options, so you can find one that suits your needs. This is one spot you’ll want to make sure you bring your camera to and don’t forget to pick up a permit before heading out. One night in Monument Valley, and you’ll understand why it’s so highly rated.
- Fees: $8.00 entry fee plus $15 per night
- Where: Indn, Route 42, Oljato-Monument Valley, AZ 84536
3 Hawley Lake
The campground is situated in a beautiful location, and it offers plenty of amenities for camping enthusiasts. Guests will absolutely love picking a spot out next to the lake and get plenty of use from the amenities, such as grills and fire rings. Sunsets are exquisite at Hawley Lake, so you’ll want to be sure to bring your camera to capture those “golden” moments in this beautiful campground that is sure to leave you with an enjoyable camping experience.
- Fees: $9.00 per night
- Where: McNary, AZ 85930
2 Desert View Campground (Grand Canyon National Park)
Located at the East Entrance to Grand Canyon National Park, Desert View Campground has 49 campsites for your crew to choose from, whether you’re wanting a few nights of primitive camping or enjoying a weekend in a small RV or camper (under 30 feet). There is a camp store, flush toilets, ice for sale, firewood, and more, all within the season. It’s peaceful and serene, and you’re within walking distance of the iconic Desert View Watchtower and other beautiful trails within Grand Canyon National Park.
- Fees: $18 per night
- Where: Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023
1 Havasupai Campground
The Havasupai Campground may be the most stunning camp experience in all of Arizona. If you factor in that only a small number of permits are handed out each year, you can see why it remains so desirable to outdoor enthusiasts everywhere. Miles of hiking trails include such iconic spots as Mooney Falls, Tigabo Supai, and the famed Havasu Falls. The Havasupai Tribe has suspended tourism to the area for 2022, which means coveted 2023 reservations are filling up at a lightning pace.
- Fees: $35 entrance fee plus $17 per night and $5 environmental fee
- Where: Havasu Creek, Supai, AZ 86435