You’re just a road trip away from the best camping spots in Arizona. In this article, we give you a detailed guide of the top-rated campgrounds in the Grand Canyon State.
Why Arizona?
First of all, why should Arizona be in your camping destination list? That’s easy to answer. There are a number of things you can do and see in this sunny state, ranging from educational to recreational activities. Additionally, there are extreme adventures you can partake in, if you’re a thrill-seeker.
Recreation
Perhaps one of the most famous places to visit is the Grand Canyon. This natural wonder is awe-inspiring, especially when cliff walls and deep ravines are touched by the rays of the sun. That being said, you need to experience it yourself. You can do so through several lookout areas situated in the Canyon’s edges. If you want more up-close experience, you can take a hike or helicopter ride.
History
Have a fondness for the spooky? Why don’t you head to Jerome, Arizona? Before it was a veritable tourist attraction / ghost town, it used to be an old mining town. There are many historical sites you can visit to learn more about life back then. Should you want to have a taste of the Wild West bereft of eerie elements, another option is Trombone, where you can find people in period costumes. It’s also rife with history, as monumental pieces have been preserved.
Adventure
If you’re looking for a rush, you can visit the Flagstaff Extreme Adventure and Zipline Course. Alternatively, you can also go skydiving, spelunking, or river rafting.
Best Camping Spots in Arizona
As you’ll see from examples above, there is no shortage of things to do in Arizona. Without a doubt, you will not be bored. The next question to address is where you can stay in Arizona. Below, we give you a rundown of the best camping spots in Arizona.
Patagonia Lake State Park
First on the list is Patagonia State Park. We’d say this campground is a smidge underrated. If you just want to relax, with the picturesque landscape of Arizona in the background, this is the perfect place to camp. Hidden in the southeastern part of the state, you can go bird-watching, boating, fishing, and hiking. Truthfully, the campground has an average rating of 4 stars on TripAdvisor.
It has over 100 campsites that can cater to two vehicles. Amenities include a picnic table, fire ring/grill, and some have a ramada. Moreover, its sites offer 20-, 30-, or 50-amps so it can accommodate various RVs. Furthermore, they are spacious enough to be occupied by 22-feet to 55-feet long vehicles.
Campground prices vary, but nightly costs ranges from $25 to $30. You can choose from pull-through, back-in, or boat-in campsites. Also note that if you have a secondary vehicle, additional fees may apply.
Dead Horse Ranch State Park
Next on the list is Dead Horse Ranch State Park. Don’t let the name discourage you. We assure you that you won’t be seeing any equine carcasses. Instead, you’ll be able to thoroughly enjoy the wonders of Verde Valley.
You can customize your experience by choosing whether or not you want to explore the vegetation and wildlife near the river or venture out into the dessert for an amazing view of the valley. The amazing experience can be attested by previous visitors. As a matter of fact, this campground has an average rating of 4.5 stars on TripAdvisor.
They offer three camping options: RV, tent, and cabin, of which, you can reserve online. They have more than 100 sites up for your choosing. According to their website, their pull through sites have enough space for RVs up to 40-feet in length, and truck and trailers with lengths up to 65-feet. They have both 30- or 50-amp hookups so you can choose depending on your motorhome’s requirement. Also, you’ll have access to potable water, picnic tables, restrooms, and showers. However, you should know that generators are not allowed in this park.
In terms of the cost, it depends on whether or not you’ll need electricity. Sites with electricity have a nightly rate of $30-$35 while sites that don’t provide electricity will cost $20 per night. You can only park a maximum of 2 vehicles in each campsite and only one of these must be a motorhome. Even so, your second vehicle will have a separate rate of $15 a night.
Bonita Canyon Campground
Finally, last on this list is Bonita Canyon Campground. Located in the Chiricahua National Monument, a.k.a. the Wonderland of Rocks, the views in this campground are simply stunning. It offers less sites – about 26, but that’s not to say it should be overlooked. In fact, it has a 5-star rating on Campendium.
Hiking is one of the main activities you can engage in, as the Wonderland of Rocks has 17 miles of trails. If you’re interested in bird watching, that’s great because you’ll find diverse species residing or passing through the area. This campground is a popular choice for photographers because it provides a unique perspective on surrounding valleys. Similarly, if you’re a casual camper just looking to take great photos, you’ll find many opportunities to do so.
What amenities will you have access to? Although there are no utility hookups and dump stations, potable water, flush toilets, food storage lockers, picnic tables, grills, and tent pads are available. Note that Bonita Canyon Campground has narrow campsites. When you make a reservation online, make sure you inquire about the compatibility with your motorhome.
One of the main reasons people flock to this campground is its amazing price point. The nightly is $20, plus $3 per person. For the experiences you’ll get, as well as its proximity to attractions, we’d say that’s a steal.
Summary of the Best Camping Spots in Arizona
There you have it! 3 of the best camping spots in Arizona. The campgrounds mentioned are rated highly due to their proximity to places of interest, well-maintained facilities, and overall scenic offerings. No matter where you choose to go, you’ll have a plethora of attractions to explore and experience.
Are you ready to take a trip to the Grand Canyon State? Let us know which of the best camping spots in Arizona that we mentioned you plan to go.
