Camping in Arizona: Desert Adventures and Starry Nights

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From Arizona’s vast deserts to its dark and starry night skies, the natural landscape here lends itself to some of the most amazing camping experiences in the country. But it’s important to choose the best location—so, below, we’re spotlighting the top 10 camping destinations to make your trip incredible.

Plan your next camping adventure at any of these national or state parks, recreation areas, and campgrounds, and see what Arizona has to offer.

Top 10 Camping Destinations in Arizona

Mather Campground (Grand Canyon National Park)

Mather Campground is situated on the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park, providing the perfect spot to take in the awe-inspiring beauty of this natural wonder. This campsite is ideal if you want to explore nearby hiking trails and breathtaking overlooks into the canyon.

Nearby, you’ll find a visitor center and other park facilities for your convenience, but they’re far enough that you won’t feel deprived of a natural camping experience. Cozy up among the ponderosa pines, spot wild elk or deer, and join the millions of visitors who travel far and wide to experience the Grand Canyon in all its splendor.

Features: Camping within one of the seven Natural Wonders of the World.
Facilities: Tent and RV campsites (no hookups), picnic tables, fire rings, restrooms, dump station, laundry, and clean drinking water.
Things to Know: Open year-round, but temperatures vary drastically between seasons.

Lost Dutchman State Park

If a mountain landscape is more your speed, you’ll love the stunning vistas of the Superstition Mountains found in Lost Dutchman State Park. It’s ideal for hiking and nature watching, with the potential to see vibrant desert plants like cacti against impressive rock formations.

It’s not only rich in natural beauty; there’s also plenty of history in these parts. Gaining its name from the fabled gold mine, this spot attracts treasure hunters searching for something incredible. You may want to make a reservation during the cooler months, as it can get busy.

Features: Named after the Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine, a rugged mix of desert beauty and hiking expeditions.
Facilities: Tent and RV sites (hookups available), cabins, dump stations, showers, restrooms, visitor center, gift shop, grills, and picnic areas.
Things to Know: Best during spring and fall, as summer temperatures easily exceed 100.

Lynx Lake Campground

Take the serene route with a camping stay at Lynx Lake Campground, nestled into the Prescott National Forest and its towering pine trees. If you’re camping solo or prefer a quieter experience, this spot’s tranquil surroundings make for the perfect relaxing retreat. Fill your days with nature activities like fishing, hiking, and kayaking. If you get lucky, you might even spot a deer or a bald eagle in flight.

Features: One of the most popular recreation areas in central Arizona. Trout fishing is readily available thanks to stocking.
Facilities: RV and tent sites (no hookups), drinking water, picnic tables, steel fire ring, lantern hanger, and restrooms.
Things to Know: Open April-October, subject to change based on weather.

Patagonia Lake State Park

In the southern part of the state you’ll find Patagonia Lake State Park, with the lake itself being the main activity. It’s a water lover’s dream, from swimming to boating and fishing. The 265-acre lake is vast enough that you won’t feel crowded and can enjoy the area’s natural beauty, from flocking birds like herons and hummingbirds to the lush vegetation. It’s an oasis in the desert.

Features: Highly regarded for birdwatching, with 300+ species of birds spotted annually, including rare species.
Facilities: Tent and RV sites (hookups available), bathhouses, boat-in camping sites, cabins, dump station, picnic tables, beach area, visitor center/store/marina.
Things to Know: Open year-round, with warm summers and mild winters. The lake has designated swimming areas.

Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area

Another mountain option is Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area, located near Show Low in Arizona’s White Mountains. This elevated camping option has cooler summers for those trying to beat the heat. Modern facilities provide added comfort for groups or families, plus abundant outdoor activity options in the forested setting. The scenic lake is great for kayaking or fishing if you prefer water sports.

Features: Campground elevation is 6,300 feet, keeping it cool during the summer.
Facilities: RV and tent sites (some with hookups), bathhouses, boat ramp, drinking water, and picnic areas.
Things to Know: Some campsites have full RV power and water hookups. Reservations are recommended in the summer.

White Horse Lake Campground

Anglers, this one’s for you. If your primary draw to camping is catching fish, you’ve likely already heard of white Horse Lake Campground’s ample bass, crappie, and bluegill. In addition to the tranquil lake, there’s also the lush green scenery of the Kaibab National Forest. Visitors often spot birds, even bald eagles, so don’t forget your binoculars. This remote location provides plenty of outdoor activities away from the hustle and bustle.

Features: Popular fishing spot for catfish, trout, bass, crappie, and bluegill. It also attracts ospreys and bald eagles.
Facilities: Tent and RV or van sites, picnic tables, fire rings, restrooms, and access to drinking water.
Things to Know: Open seasonally from May to September but may change based on weather. No RV hookups are available.

Bonito Campground

Are the volcanos of Arizona beckoning you? In the Coconino National Forest, near Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, you’ll find Bonito Campground, where lava once oozed hundreds of years ago. The volcanic artifacts make this place feel otherworldly, offering a unique camping experience you won’t find elsewhere.

Explore the geological features left behind by molten lava, like cinder cones, lava caves, and petrified rock bubbles. Don’t worry—this landscape became inactive over 100 years ago, but you can still enjoy the remnants left behind.

Features: Unique access to volcanic landscapes formed by eruptions over 1,000 years old.
Facilities: Tent and RV camping, picnic tables, fire rings, restrooms, boat ramp, tent panda, trash bins, and drinking water.
Things to Know: No hookups or showers available. Camping is first come, first served; remember to bring an from the EcoFlow RIVER 3 Series portable generator to keep your campsite powered.

Catalina State Park

At the foothills of the majestic Santa Catalina Mountains lies Catalina State Park, home to almost 5,000 saguaro cacti among 5,500 acres of canyons, streams, and desert landscape. Go horseback riding, bird watching, picnicking, or simply enjoy the stunning natural views.

You can easily access miles of trails that wind through the Coronado National Forest, with elevations up to 3,000 feet. This area offers a mild climate, making it a popular destination year-round, even when other places are too hot to enjoy.

Features: More than 5,500 acres of land with over 150 species of birds and access to Romero Ruins archaeological site.
Facilities: Tent and RV campsites, visitor center/park store, exhibits, group areas, dump station, picnic areas, restrooms, and showers.
Things to Know: Open year-round, with a seasonal wildflower bloom in the spring. Reservations are recommended during peak season.

Pine Grove Campground

In Coconino National Forest, near Flagstaff, Arizona, the Pine Grove Campground can be your cool camping retreat during the sweltering desert summer. The pines offer ample shade from the brutal sun, and the nearby lakes are perfect for cooling off. Hiking and biking on nearby trails can lead you to Upper Lake Mary, where fishing and boating enthusiasts flock.

Families enjoy the summer’s Roving Ranger programs, which provide educational insight into the area’s natural landscape, history, and culture. If you’re a bird-watcher, know this forested campground is a popular stopover for migrating waterfowl, including the rare bald eagle!

Features: Popular spot for fishing, boating, and windsurfing.
Facilities: Tent and RV sites, restrooms, coin-operated showers, picnic area, campfire rings, grills, drinking water, boat ramps, and accessible fishing.
Things to Know: Open seasonally during the summer, and reservations are recommended. No hookups are available.

Burnt Corral Campground

If you have a reliable 4×4 and feel called to the signature fauna of the desert, trek over to the Burnt Corral Campground located along Apache Lake in Superstition Wilderness and the Tonto National Forest. You’ll find saguaros, palo verdes, and mesquites abounding, with ample opportunity to hike, boat, swim, fish, and relax in a peaceful setting. It’s also highly accessible, with slopes under 5% and compacted gravel or concrete grounds, making it perfect for the entire family.

Features: Stunning views of the desert along the canyon walls of Apache Lake.
Facilities: Tent and RV sites, toilets, potable water hydrant, shade ramadas, and a courtesy dock.
Things to Know: There are no electric hookups, making it ideal for those seeking a rustic experience. The park is open year-round, and reservations are not required but are available on a six-month rolling basis.

What To Pack for an Arizona Camping Trip

Water Supply: Pack clean drinking water, plus extra for cleaning, cooking, pets, and hygiene. Keep in mind that water sources in desert areas can be scarce.
Sun Protection: SPF 30+, UPF clothing, and wide-brim hats can protect your skin from the intense sun and heat index.
Power Sources: Bring the EcoFlow RIVER 3 Plus or EcoFlow RIVER 3 Solar Generator (PV45W) to keep essential electronic devices and appliances charged throughout the trip.
Layered Clothing: Although the daytime temperatures can be excessively high, the desert nights get cold. Layered clothes allow you to add or remove items to adjust to the changing weather.
First Aid Kit: Pack the essentials, such as bandages, tweezers, allergy medications, insect bite ointment, and antiseptic. Bring any essential medications.
Tent: A tent with a rainfly will protect you from any camping rainstorms, and an extra tarp can provide insulation from the ground.
Portable AC or Fan: Arizona is hot most of the year, so prioritize your comfort and safety with the EcoFlow WAVE 2 Portable Air Conditioner for scorching days and warm nights.
Food: Bring prepared meals, dried foods, or nonperishable snacks.
Cooking Supplies: You may want an electric stove, pots and pans, utensils, and dishes.
Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes and other bugs come out at night, especially near wooded areas and lakes. Bring repellant spray, candles, or wipes.
Cooler and Food Storage: A cooler or portable refrigerator will preserve fresh food.
Lighting: Battery- or solar-powered lights ensure visibility and safety once the sun goes down.
Make sure to bring an EcoFlow RAPID Power Bank to keep smaller devices, such as mobile phones, powered throughout your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where Do People Go Camping in Arizona?

People go camping at campgrounds, national parks, and national forests throughout Arizona. Some of the most popular camping spots are Mother Campground at the Grand Canyon, Prescott National Forest’s Lynx Lake, and the Lost Dutchman State Park. Other lake retreats include Catalina State Park, Patagonia Lake, and Fool Hollow Lake.

When’s the Best Time To Go Camping in Arizona?

Different parts of Arizona are better for camping at various times of the year. Spring and summer are more comfortable in most areas with milder temperatures. Winter is ideal for desert camping, while summer is preferred for high-elevation destinations.

Final Thoughts

Arizona provides a unique backdrop for camping adventures, from the stunning wide-open views of Grand Canyon National Park to the White Mountains of Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area.

Whether you’re planning a rugged and primitive experience or prefer an elevated and comfortable stay, there’s something for everyone in Arizona. Don’t forget to pack an EcoFlow River 3 Series Portable Power Station to stay powered up from anywhere in the desert.