Discover the best lakeside campgrounds in Arizona with campfires

United States
—
Arizona

83% (693 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Arizona

Dog-friendly getaways

Available this weekend

91%

(94)

Desert River Camp

8 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Fredonia, AZ

Located 5 minutes from the Kanab, Utah border in Fredonia, Arizona just 1 block off Hwy 89A. This RV site is located on a small ranch near a few friendly horses in a corral. This is a great spot because it's centrally located to all the national parks including Zion National Park, the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, and lots of amazing places to explore and hike. Includes water tap with great drinking water, porta potty, picnic table and trash bin provided. NO SHOWER UNTIL JUNE 2023 DUE TO FREEZING LINES IN THE HOT WATER HEATER. Sorry, no fires due to the dry timber in the area.

Secluded Alamo Lake Santuary

18 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents300 acres · Alamo Lake, AZ

Step back in time and explore the rich history of this property, once a mining camp in 1910, now a ghost town. Slated for strip mining in 2015, the land found a new purpose when I purchased it, safeguarding it for the future. Our non-profit is transforming the area into a conservation area with a purpose. Today, the Sonoran Desert Sanctuary is an evolving conservation area and private wilderness retreat for veterans and others challenged by PTSD. As we embark on this journey, we invite you to come and witness the transformation as we grow and evolve. Volunteer opportunities abound for those with a passion for conservation and a love for the desert. Join us in shaping the sanctuary and contributing to the preservation of this unique ecosystem. Your visit and involvement become a part of the story, helping us create a haven for the Sonoran Desert's diverse flora and fauna. The proceeds from your Hipcamp stay go directly to the Anderson-Arroyo Foundation (501c3) and are tax-deductible as a donation. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the desert landscape, participate in our growth, and leave your mark on the future Sonoran Desert Sanctuary. Visit us and explore the unique blend of history, conservation, and community that defines our special corner of the world. Tours of the ghost town and surrounding canyons are available. You can fish the lake, rent kayaks, go birding, hike, meditate, or bring your telescope for the Class 2 Dark Night skies! 3.5 hours from Phoenix, Vegas. 4 hours from Flagstaff. 2 hours from Lake Havasu or Kingman.

Wits End Ranch

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Yucca, AZ

"Thar's gold in them thar hills" could've been coined right here. There are gold mines and evidence of miners picking quartz etc. all around us. Cairns marked off areas that are still here over a hundred years later. We are the center of the oldest examples of Arizona cattlemen starting herds right here. Round-ups and branding still go on every year. One of the prettiest areas in the state for all kinds of unique boulder and rock formations, flora and fauna. Wonderful hiking and scenic drives.

Desert Glamping

20 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Meadview, AZ

Meadview Arizona was founded in 1826 by Jedediah Smith on his Southwest Expedition in search for Beaver! Staying a small remote and quiet town it can feel like it would have in the Wild West. We obtained our campground from a couple that owned it for 20 years but just weren't able to do to it what they had originally planned.. So it was essentially a blank canvas for us to create!! We are the closest town to the Grand Canyon SKYWALK, which is just 40 minutes from us. Meadview, the town we are located, is the only place to obtain Free Entree to the Lake Mead Recreational Center. Our Campground just 10 miles from Lake Mead and 17 Miles from the Colorado River. We have outstanding Lookouts, Top notch Stargazing, Gold Prospecting, Bird Watching, Fishing, Off Roading etc. Some of the Best Desert Off-Roading through trails within the Joshua Tree National Forest, Please note you must bring your own OHV, horse, etc, there is currently no rentals available. We do have Kayaks to rent upon arrival. There is a hidden water fall in the Grapevine Wash that you can get to with a 4 wheel vehicle and you hike in about 15 minutes in. Stunning views and gorgeous natural spring and waterfall. We are 45 minutes off the 93 Freeway Free WIFI provided at the office!.. The town doesn't always have a powerful signal, please keep that in mind in your travels. However, if you have Verizon, it gets GREAT service! There are three restaurants in town, all just one mile from site... The Boathouse, Anchor Smokehouse and Fishermans Landing Bar. We have a Bakery called Rosemary and Thyme that serves Delicious foods & Pastries and makes great coffees. There is also a Gas n Grub that has ice, propane etc... 5 miles away is a Family Dollar store which we lovingly call the "Mall of Meadview"

Sanctuary at Sonoita Creek

4 sites · RVs1 acre · Patagonia, AZ

Sanctuary at Sonoita Creek was created as a place to enjoy the unique treasures of Patagonia, AZ. We wanted to provide a haven for people who value the outdoors to gather and take advantage of the recreational aspects of the area and also be walking distance to town. Our property was once a trailer court. We've done a huge renovation to provide RV spaces, a vintage trailer rental and tent camping.

12 top lakeside campgrounds in Arizona with campfires

93%

(144)

Desert Glamping

20 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Meadview, AZ

Meadview Arizona was founded in 1826 by Jedediah Smith on his Southwest Expedition in search for Beaver! Staying a small remote and quiet town it can feel like it would have in the Wild West. We obtained our campground from a couple that owned it for 20 years but just weren't able to do to it what they had originally planned.. So it was essentially a blank canvas for us to create!! We are the closest town to the Grand Canyon SKYWALK, which is just 40 minutes from us. Meadview, the town we are located, is the only place to obtain Free Entree to the Lake Mead Recreational Center. Our Campground just 10 miles from Lake Mead and 17 Miles from the Colorado River. We have outstanding Lookouts, Top notch Stargazing, Gold Prospecting, Bird Watching, Fishing, Off Roading etc. Some of the Best Desert Off-Roading through trails within the Joshua Tree National Forest, Please note you must bring your own OHV, horse, etc, there is currently no rentals available. We do have Kayaks to rent upon arrival. There is a hidden water fall in the Grapevine Wash that you can get to with a 4 wheel vehicle and you hike in about 15 minutes in. Stunning views and gorgeous natural spring and waterfall. We are 45 minutes off the 93 Freeway Free WIFI provided at the office!.. The town doesn't always have a powerful signal, please keep that in mind in your travels. However, if you have Verizon, it gets GREAT service! There are three restaurants in town, all just one mile from site... The Boathouse, Anchor Smokehouse and Fishermans Landing Bar. We have a Bakery called Rosemary and Thyme that serves Delicious foods & Pastries and makes great coffees. There is also a Gas n Grub that has ice, propane etc... 5 miles away is a Family Dollar store which we lovingly call the "Mall of Meadview"

Wits End Ranch

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Yucca, AZ

"Thar's gold in them thar hills" could've been coined right here. There are gold mines and evidence of miners picking quartz etc. all around us. Cairns marked off areas that are still here over a hundred years later. We are the center of the oldest examples of Arizona cattlemen starting herds right here. Round-ups and branding still go on every year. One of the prettiest areas in the state for all kinds of unique boulder and rock formations, flora and fauna. Wonderful hiking and scenic drives.

Sanctuary at Sonoita Creek

4 sites · RVs1 acre · Patagonia, AZ

Sanctuary at Sonoita Creek was created as a place to enjoy the unique treasures of Patagonia, AZ. We wanted to provide a haven for people who value the outdoors to gather and take advantage of the recreational aspects of the area and also be walking distance to town. Our property was once a trailer court. We've done a huge renovation to provide RV spaces, a vintage trailer rental and tent camping.

Secluded Alamo Lake Santuary

18 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents300 acres · Alamo Lake, AZ

Step back in time and explore the rich history of this property, once a mining camp in 1910, now a ghost town. Slated for strip mining in 2015, the land found a new purpose when I purchased it, safeguarding it for the future. Our non-profit is transforming the area into a conservation area with a purpose. Today, the Sonoran Desert Sanctuary is an evolving conservation area and private wilderness retreat for veterans and others challenged by PTSD. As we embark on this journey, we invite you to come and witness the transformation as we grow and evolve. Volunteer opportunities abound for those with a passion for conservation and a love for the desert. Join us in shaping the sanctuary and contributing to the preservation of this unique ecosystem. Your visit and involvement become a part of the story, helping us create a haven for the Sonoran Desert's diverse flora and fauna. The proceeds from your Hipcamp stay go directly to the Anderson-Arroyo Foundation (501c3) and are tax-deductible as a donation. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the desert landscape, participate in our growth, and leave your mark on the future Sonoran Desert Sanctuary. Visit us and explore the unique blend of history, conservation, and community that defines our special corner of the world. Tours of the ghost town and surrounding canyons are available. You can fish the lake, rent kayaks, go birding, hike, meditate, or bring your telescope for the Class 2 Dark Night skies! 3.5 hours from Phoenix, Vegas. 4 hours from Flagstaff. 2 hours from Lake Havasu or Kingman.

Desert River Camp

8 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Fredonia, AZ

Located 5 minutes from the Kanab, Utah border in Fredonia, Arizona just 1 block off Hwy 89A. This RV site is located on a small ranch near a few friendly horses in a corral. This is a great spot because it's centrally located to all the national parks including Zion National Park, the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, and lots of amazing places to explore and hike. Includes water tap with great drinking water, porta potty, picnic table and trash bin provided. NO SHOWER UNTIL JUNE 2023 DUE TO FREEZING LINES IN THE HOT WATER HEATER. Sorry, no fires due to the dry timber in the area.

100%

(54)

Magic in the Mohave

1 site · RV, Tent40 acres · Yucca, AZ

This is a peaceful campsite in the middle of North Americas largest Joshua Tree forest. There are saguaro cactus covered mountains nearby and an abundance of desert wildlife all around. Mountain views in every direction. Come explore this huge property and immerse yourself in nature.

100%

(53)

Glamping In Navajoland

10 sites · Lodging40 acres · Page , AZ

We are a Native American owned large acreage working sheep ranch and off grid Glamping hotel offering guests a unique stay at our ranch on the Navajo Nation. Shash Diné is an ideal basecamp for Antelope Canyon, Lake Powell, the Colorado River, Zion, Bryce, Monument Valley, and both rims Gran Canyon

80%

(5)

22 Vikings Camp and Cabin

4 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Dolan Springs, AZ

For the weary traveler needing a spot to sleep, to the curious explorerers seeking adventure in nature, and families/couples looking for a quick getaway, this spot is for you!!! Open air car/tent and RV camper spaces available March 2022, or this summer stay in your own cozy tiny cabin or savanna tent. Your choice!!! Situated in the rustic town of Dolan Springs AZ, just off iconic Route 66!!! There is so much to see and do at nearby Lake Mead and Joshua Tree National Parks, Colorado River, Grand Canyon West, Hoover Dam, and of course the 24 hour town that is Las Vegas !!!

97%

(119)

La Hacienda Chuparosa

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents4 acres · Tucson, AZ

When my husband and I were dating in NY we confessed our mutual desire to get back "home" to the west. It made me fall in love with him even faster. So when we married we moved to Washington DC knowing that in time we would make it west. 5 years later, when the traffic and the politics has taken its toll, we made a trip to Tucson and fell in love with this charming property that exudes all the beauty and grace of the Sonoran Desert. We looked at each other as we walked around looking at the stunning Mtn. Views and the mesquite fence and knew we were finally "home." I've always adored the SW Hummingbirds and wanted to name the property La Hacienda Chuparosa. When we moved in, for the first week, every morning a hummingbird was sipping nectar from one of our plants in the front yard. We knew it was meant to be. So we added a couple of horses to our dream, built some stalls, and now are ready to welcome you to La Hacienda Chuparosa. We know you will find the same magic here that we do.

100%

(4)

Stars and silence

2 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · AZ

Do you feel closest to God in Nature? Experience the best of Arizona on a mountain top overlooking all of Phoenix. A birds eye view of all the surrounding mountains, watch from a distance as the coliseum lights up for games and as the hot air balloons rise in the morning sun. Enjoy the wild donkeys and cows as they wonder around and visit you. The silence is unforgettable, only interrupted by the Nature around you. Enjoy near by walks along Cow Creek and all the boating, swimming and exploring or the lake you crave! Watch the world and relax as God intended.

90%

(60)

Silver Sunsets

3 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · White Hills, AZ

Off-Grid eco friendly 2.2 acre property with 1 RV site with 12v solar charging station and 1 campsite with fire rings. Outhouse with TP on property. Firewood available as extra. Generator available as extra. Learn more about this land: Pitch your tent in the Mohave desert adjacent to the historic Silver mining district of White Hills or park your RV at our designated RV campsite. End each day with amazing sunset views. We have Joshua trees, Mesquite trees, yucca and barrel cactus on the property. Just 4 miles off of Interstate Highway 93 and the new I-11. Close to Willow Beach, Temple Bar / Lake Mead and the West Rim of the Grand Canyon.

100%

(35)

Desert's Edge at Lake Havasu

1 site · RV1 acre · Lake Havasu City, AZ

Located just a few minutes from nearby Lake Havasu City, Desert's Edge is set on a one-acre parcel within the Mohave County community of Crystal Beach. With construction only recently completed, the property has been graded and developed specifically with the RV campsites in mind. There is over 1/2 acre dedicated to the camping area, making Desert's Edge an excellent location for a private group gathering, or just one big campsite all to yourself. Learn more about this land: You're a couple of minutes from the Castle Rock Bay kayak launch and the beautiful backwaters of the Colorado River. You're just a few steps from the Havasu National Wildlife Refuge where you can enjoy hiking and sightseeing amongst the wild burros that call this place home. Guests will have immediate access to the Arizona Peace Trail and surrounding sand dunes for unlimited UTV and off-road fun. Relax in the country setting with horses as your closest neighbors. Wake to the sounds of roosters crowing along with a multitude of desert-dwelling birds. The night skies are perfect for stargazing as you sit beside the campfire. Desert's edge has a primary site reserved for a single RV, plus an adjacent second site that can be reserved when groups of family or friends with two RV's wish to camp side by side and share in the fun!

Star Hosts in Arizona

100%

(53)

Glamping In Navajoland

10 sites · Lodging40 acres · Page , AZ

We are a Native American owned large acreage working sheep ranch and off grid Glamping hotel offering guests a unique stay at our ranch on the Navajo Nation. Shash Diné is an ideal basecamp for Antelope Canyon, Lake Powell, the Colorado River, Zion, Bryce, Monument Valley, and both rims Gran Canyon

Wits End Ranch

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Yucca, AZ

"Thar's gold in them thar hills" could've been coined right here. There are gold mines and evidence of miners picking quartz etc. all around us. Cairns marked off areas that are still here over a hundred years later. We are the center of the oldest examples of Arizona cattlemen starting herds right here. Round-ups and branding still go on every year. One of the prettiest areas in the state for all kinds of unique boulder and rock formations, flora and fauna. Wonderful hiking and scenic drives.

Secluded Alamo Lake Santuary

18 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents300 acres · Alamo Lake, AZ

Step back in time and explore the rich history of this property, once a mining camp in 1910, now a ghost town. Slated for strip mining in 2015, the land found a new purpose when I purchased it, safeguarding it for the future. Our non-profit is transforming the area into a conservation area with a purpose. Today, the Sonoran Desert Sanctuary is an evolving conservation area and private wilderness retreat for veterans and others challenged by PTSD. As we embark on this journey, we invite you to come and witness the transformation as we grow and evolve. Volunteer opportunities abound for those with a passion for conservation and a love for the desert. Join us in shaping the sanctuary and contributing to the preservation of this unique ecosystem. Your visit and involvement become a part of the story, helping us create a haven for the Sonoran Desert's diverse flora and fauna. The proceeds from your Hipcamp stay go directly to the Anderson-Arroyo Foundation (501c3) and are tax-deductible as a donation. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the desert landscape, participate in our growth, and leave your mark on the future Sonoran Desert Sanctuary. Visit us and explore the unique blend of history, conservation, and community that defines our special corner of the world. Tours of the ghost town and surrounding canyons are available. You can fish the lake, rent kayaks, go birding, hike, meditate, or bring your telescope for the Class 2 Dark Night skies! 3.5 hours from Phoenix, Vegas. 4 hours from Flagstaff. 2 hours from Lake Havasu or Kingman.

Sanctuary at Sonoita Creek

4 sites · RVs1 acre · Patagonia, AZ

Sanctuary at Sonoita Creek was created as a place to enjoy the unique treasures of Patagonia, AZ. We wanted to provide a haven for people who value the outdoors to gather and take advantage of the recreational aspects of the area and also be walking distance to town. Our property was once a trailer court. We've done a huge renovation to provide RV spaces, a vintage trailer rental and tent camping.

Magic in the Mohave

1 site · RV, Tent40 acres · Yucca, AZ

This is a peaceful campsite in the middle of North Americas largest Joshua Tree forest. There are saguaro cactus covered mountains nearby and an abundance of desert wildlife all around. Mountain views in every direction. Come explore this huge property and immerse yourself in nature.

Under $50

97%

(130)

Wits End Ranch

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Yucca, AZ

"Thar's gold in them thar hills" could've been coined right here. There are gold mines and evidence of miners picking quartz etc. all around us. Cairns marked off areas that are still here over a hundred years later. We are the center of the oldest examples of Arizona cattlemen starting herds right here. Round-ups and branding still go on every year. One of the prettiest areas in the state for all kinds of unique boulder and rock formations, flora and fauna. Wonderful hiking and scenic drives.

Desert River Camp

8 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Fredonia, AZ

Located 5 minutes from the Kanab, Utah border in Fredonia, Arizona just 1 block off Hwy 89A. This RV site is located on a small ranch near a few friendly horses in a corral. This is a great spot because it's centrally located to all the national parks including Zion National Park, the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, and lots of amazing places to explore and hike. Includes water tap with great drinking water, porta potty, picnic table and trash bin provided. NO SHOWER UNTIL JUNE 2023 DUE TO FREEZING LINES IN THE HOT WATER HEATER. Sorry, no fires due to the dry timber in the area.

Desert Glamping

20 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Meadview, AZ

Meadview Arizona was founded in 1826 by Jedediah Smith on his Southwest Expedition in search for Beaver! Staying a small remote and quiet town it can feel like it would have in the Wild West. We obtained our campground from a couple that owned it for 20 years but just weren't able to do to it what they had originally planned.. So it was essentially a blank canvas for us to create!! We are the closest town to the Grand Canyon SKYWALK, which is just 40 minutes from us. Meadview, the town we are located, is the only place to obtain Free Entree to the Lake Mead Recreational Center. Our Campground just 10 miles from Lake Mead and 17 Miles from the Colorado River. We have outstanding Lookouts, Top notch Stargazing, Gold Prospecting, Bird Watching, Fishing, Off Roading etc. Some of the Best Desert Off-Roading through trails within the Joshua Tree National Forest, Please note you must bring your own OHV, horse, etc, there is currently no rentals available. We do have Kayaks to rent upon arrival. There is a hidden water fall in the Grapevine Wash that you can get to with a 4 wheel vehicle and you hike in about 15 minutes in. Stunning views and gorgeous natural spring and waterfall. We are 45 minutes off the 93 Freeway Free WIFI provided at the office!.. The town doesn't always have a powerful signal, please keep that in mind in your travels. However, if you have Verizon, it gets GREAT service! There are three restaurants in town, all just one mile from site... The Boathouse, Anchor Smokehouse and Fishermans Landing Bar. We have a Bakery called Rosemary and Thyme that serves Delicious foods & Pastries and makes great coffees. There is also a Gas n Grub that has ice, propane etc... 5 miles away is a Family Dollar store which we lovingly call the "Mall of Meadview"

Secluded Alamo Lake Santuary

18 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents300 acres · Alamo Lake, AZ

Step back in time and explore the rich history of this property, once a mining camp in 1910, now a ghost town. Slated for strip mining in 2015, the land found a new purpose when I purchased it, safeguarding it for the future. Our non-profit is transforming the area into a conservation area with a purpose. Today, the Sonoran Desert Sanctuary is an evolving conservation area and private wilderness retreat for veterans and others challenged by PTSD. As we embark on this journey, we invite you to come and witness the transformation as we grow and evolve. Volunteer opportunities abound for those with a passion for conservation and a love for the desert. Join us in shaping the sanctuary and contributing to the preservation of this unique ecosystem. Your visit and involvement become a part of the story, helping us create a haven for the Sonoran Desert's diverse flora and fauna. The proceeds from your Hipcamp stay go directly to the Anderson-Arroyo Foundation (501c3) and are tax-deductible as a donation. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the desert landscape, participate in our growth, and leave your mark on the future Sonoran Desert Sanctuary. Visit us and explore the unique blend of history, conservation, and community that defines our special corner of the world. Tours of the ghost town and surrounding canyons are available. You can fish the lake, rent kayaks, go birding, hike, meditate, or bring your telescope for the Class 2 Dark Night skies! 3.5 hours from Phoenix, Vegas. 4 hours from Flagstaff. 2 hours from Lake Havasu or Kingman.

Sanctuary at Sonoita Creek

4 sites · RVs1 acre · Patagonia, AZ

Sanctuary at Sonoita Creek was created as a place to enjoy the unique treasures of Patagonia, AZ. We wanted to provide a haven for people who value the outdoors to gather and take advantage of the recreational aspects of the area and also be walking distance to town. Our property was once a trailer court. We've done a huge renovation to provide RV spaces, a vintage trailer rental and tent camping.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

Happiness if found while swaying in a hammock, by the warmth of a campfire, the company in the wild and the food in my belly.

97%

(56)

Coconino National Forest

Flagstaff, Arizona

97%

(29)

Kaibab National Forest

Williams, Arizona

100%

(22)

Lake Havasu State Park

Lake Havasu City, Arizona

100%

(7)

Lake Mead National Recreation Area

Meadview, Arizona

78%

(40)

Coronado National Forest

Sonoita, Arizona

86%

(42)

Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest

Heber Overgaard, Arizona

100%

(3)

Roper Lake State Park

Cactus Flats, Arizona

100%

(1)

Alamo Lake State Park

Alamo Lake, Arizona

92%

(14)

Dead Horse Ranch State Park

Clarkdale, Arizona

Lyman Lake State Park

St Johns, Arizona

Lakeside camping in Arizona with campfires guide

Overview

Arizona is full of natural wonders, from the Grand Canyon to Saguaro National Park, with ample outdoor fun ranging from mountain biking to horseback riding. Much of the state is occupied by the Mojave, Sonoran, and Chihuahuan deserts, but start exploring and you'll quickly discover that Arizona is more than just jackrabbits and cacti—there are lakes, rivers, mountains, forests, and miles of hiking trails. It's also a great place for sleeping under the stars, and while parts of Arizona can get a bit too hot for comfort in summer, those same places offer pleasant camping weather throughout much of the year.

Where to go

Northern Arizona

While northern Arizona's best-known attraction is the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park, there’s plenty more to see and do, from visiting Lake Powell on the Colorado River to backcountry tent camping among the ponderosa pines in the Coconino National Forest, Prescott National Forest, and Kaibab National Forest. Sedona, just south of Flagstaff, also makes a great base for hiking among Arizona's Red Rocks or swimming in Oak Creek Canyon’s Slide Rock State Park.

Western Arizona

Dubbed Arizona's "West Coast," this part of the state offers all sorts of outdoor activities, much of which revolve around the Colorado River. The town of Yuma near the southern border is a popular spot, featuring an old Wild West prison and serving as a good base for visiting the Cibola National Wildlife Refuge. Attractions further north include Lake Havasu State Park, where you can swim, camp, or even check out the 19th-century London Bridge. Further north, the massive Lake Mead National Recreation Area offers year-round camping and easy access to two lakes.

Central Arizona

While it's easy to associate central Arizona with Phoenix sprawl, this region offers a lot for outdoorsy types, all within a short drive of the city. Popular spots for outdoors lovers include the Superstition Mountains in the Tonto National Forest, Lost Dutchman State Park, and the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest. If you're interested in archaeology, the Montezuma Castle National Monument is also worth a visit.

Southern Arizona

Southern Arizona is full of Wild West spirit, with a mix of historic ghost towns and scenic desert landscapes, plus plenty of forests, particularly in the Chiricahua Mountains. Must-visit parks include Saguaro National Park and Catalina State Park—both just outside Tucson. If it gets too hot, make like a local and head to Patagonia Lake State Park, a prime spot to swim and cool off from the Arizona heat.