Discover the best mountainous campgrounds in Arizona

United States
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Arizona

92% (4145 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Arizona

Under $50

97%

(106)

Star Hosts in Arizona

100%

(47)

Sacred Springs

5 sites · Lodging, Tents8 acres · Lake Montezuma, AZ

A Spark in the Dark Campground

15 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Ash Fork, AZ

The most important thing for me is that my guests leave this place with memories that will turn into nostalgia. 40 huge, PRIVATE acres in the country of northern Arizona, The Spark can host the single camper looking for a quiet and private retreat, or the sleepy traveler who simply needs a place to park and snooze in their vehicle - all the way up to your large group and event! I am only here to make sure you have a safe and private place to camp the way YOU want! Dazzling night sky with near zero light pollution! Fabulous sunset views! Warm, gorgeous sunrises! Potential for wildlife! Cool rocks! Cool plants! Cool bugs! Family friendly. Pet friendly. MJ and such friendly. Come spend the night outside!!!

GoldBar Ranch Campground

11 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Wilhoit, AZ

Our campground has been operating for years, This is a NEW listing with the same management! CAMPFIRES ARE RESTRICTED! FIRE BAN IN PLACE FISHING IS CATCH AND RELEASE! BARBLESS HOOKS We do shut fires down if the county restricts them on a county wide basis but currently it’s allowed! Retreat at The Goldbar Ranch is nestled in the heart of the Wild West, offering a one-of-a-kind experience for those seeking adventure, relaxation, and connection. This beautiful campground offers endless opportunities for fun and relaxation. Take a dip in the refreshing water, cast for huge fish in the stocked pond (catch and release, Barbless hooks please!), or enjoy a peaceful evening roasting marshmallows by the campfire with friends and family. If you're feeling more adventurous, take your stand-up paddleboard out for a spin, hike to nearby ruins, or try your hand at panning for gold. For those looking for an extra thrill, you can sign up for horseback rides (coming soon), as well as adventure trails for guests with jeeps and side-by-sides. The stunning natural surroundings provide a perfect backdrop for all your outdoor activities, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all. The entire lake is also available for private parties including; business mixers, retreats, and weddings. The onsite partner vendors offer tables, chairs, and catering to make your event planning as stress-free as possible. Visit to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in nature and sunshine. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, there is something for you at Retreat at The Goldbar Ranch. Book your stay today and create memories that will last a lifetime!

Gateway to the Grand Canyon

9 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Williams, AZ

Quiet and off grid. No light pollution and amazing mountain views and night sky.

Pinnacle Farms South

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents7 acres · Laveen, AZ

Pinnacle Farms is a diverse orchard with over 1200 fruit trees on 7 acres nestled at the base of South Mountain in Phoenix's old agriculturally diverse Laveen area. A well kept secret, Laveen is only about 10 minutes by car to downtown restaurants and events, while having a rural feel, and the mountain preserves are within walking or biking distance.

12 top mountainous campgrounds in Arizona

100%

(47)

Sacred Springs

5 sites · Lodging, Tents8 acres · Lake Montezuma, AZ

GoldBar Ranch Campground

11 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Wilhoit, AZ

Our campground has been operating for years, This is a NEW listing with the same management! CAMPFIRES ARE RESTRICTED! FIRE BAN IN PLACE FISHING IS CATCH AND RELEASE! BARBLESS HOOKS We do shut fires down if the county restricts them on a county wide basis but currently it’s allowed! Retreat at The Goldbar Ranch is nestled in the heart of the Wild West, offering a one-of-a-kind experience for those seeking adventure, relaxation, and connection. This beautiful campground offers endless opportunities for fun and relaxation. Take a dip in the refreshing water, cast for huge fish in the stocked pond (catch and release, Barbless hooks please!), or enjoy a peaceful evening roasting marshmallows by the campfire with friends and family. If you're feeling more adventurous, take your stand-up paddleboard out for a spin, hike to nearby ruins, or try your hand at panning for gold. For those looking for an extra thrill, you can sign up for horseback rides (coming soon), as well as adventure trails for guests with jeeps and side-by-sides. The stunning natural surroundings provide a perfect backdrop for all your outdoor activities, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all. The entire lake is also available for private parties including; business mixers, retreats, and weddings. The onsite partner vendors offer tables, chairs, and catering to make your event planning as stress-free as possible. Visit to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in nature and sunshine. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, there is something for you at Retreat at The Goldbar Ranch. Book your stay today and create memories that will last a lifetime!

A Spark in the Dark Campground

15 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Ash Fork, AZ

The most important thing for me is that my guests leave this place with memories that will turn into nostalgia. 40 huge, PRIVATE acres in the country of northern Arizona, The Spark can host the single camper looking for a quiet and private retreat, or the sleepy traveler who simply needs a place to park and snooze in their vehicle - all the way up to your large group and event! I am only here to make sure you have a safe and private place to camp the way YOU want! Dazzling night sky with near zero light pollution! Fabulous sunset views! Warm, gorgeous sunrises! Potential for wildlife! Cool rocks! Cool plants! Cool bugs! Family friendly. Pet friendly. MJ and such friendly. Come spend the night outside!!!

Pinnacle Farms South

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents7 acres · Laveen, AZ

Pinnacle Farms is a diverse orchard with over 1200 fruit trees on 7 acres nestled at the base of South Mountain in Phoenix's old agriculturally diverse Laveen area. A well kept secret, Laveen is only about 10 minutes by car to downtown restaurants and events, while having a rural feel, and the mountain preserves are within walking or biking distance.

Gateway to the Grand Canyon

9 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Williams, AZ

Quiet and off grid. No light pollution and amazing mountain views and night sky.

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.

88%

(95)

Show Low AZ GreatSky CampRanch

38 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Show Low, AZ

Learn more about this land: At 6000ft elevation the air is much cleaner and the weather is much cooler, especially in the summer time! We have plenty of space. A well house to fill up your water. There are also outdoor bathrooms, no shower yet, but working on that! We're just a short seven minute drive to the dump station at a local gas station down the road on the Deuce of Clubs and Penrod. We are 14 minutes from a large hospital, 10 minutes from major grocery stores, shopping and restaurants, and many other fun activities. Our location is in a perfect spot to enjoy the blue sky and great weather. Sunrise Ski area is a quick drive too! Pinetop Lakeside are within 10 minutes, Taylor and Snowflake are within 15 to 25 minutes. We hope you visit and continue to keep our environment clean and a chill spot to visit. We are home to a family-friendly honky-tonk, and microbrewery, now open Thu-Sat 4pm-9pm. Cheers! We also offer a few extras at check-out... We have our 4S free range, nest run eggs for $6.44/dozen. Start your trip off right with a bundle of our premium firewood. Mostly juniper, nicely dried and bagged. Just remind us at check-in with your receipt. This is not the cheap wood they sell at the gas station. Please always check for our fire bans that are regulated by the county and state. Always have a bucket of water next to your campfire and make sure it's completely out before you leave it. Please do not bring outside firewood. Please do not take the firewood on our property.

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Hummingbird Homestead

2 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Parks, AZ

Our 20 acre historic homestead is nestled in the forests of northern Arizona on the edge of the Coconino and Kaibab national forests. We currently offer one camping site with a private fire pit (fires allowed when permitted by the County). We have a community bathroom house, outdoor water station for dish & hand washing, a disc golf course, cornhole boards, community fire pit, BBQ, 1/2 mile trail loop and a meditation path all onsite. Our property is the perfect spot for stargazing as we are far away from light pollution. We have plenty of outdoor space to enjoy all while immersed in the peace and quiet of nature. We also have hummingbird feeders near the community area so you can watch the majestic and beautiful birds. We live onsite as well but on the other side of the property. We look forward to hosting you! : )

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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 opportunities in our area. We offer three RV full hookup RV sites. We also have two vintage trailers that are available through Airbnb. We're walking distance to the Tucson Audubon's Paton Center for Hummingbirds and the Sonoita Creek Nature Conservancy. We're also walking distance to restaurants and shopping in the Town of Patagonia. Patagonia Lake is only 8 miles away.

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GLAMP CAMP STAY at INFINITY RANCH

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents300 acres · Tucson, AZ

🌵 Escape to a 300 acre Private Nature Preserve: Exclusive Private Camping in Tucson, Arizona 🌄 Embark on an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Sonoran Desert with our exclusive Private Nature Camping Sites at Infinity Ranch. Rediscovered after 34 years this gated wonderland stood untouched for 3 decades now open for you to enjoy. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Sierrta Mountain Chain, where rugged landscapes meet starlit skies, and the serenity of nature becomes your personal sanctuary. 🏕️ Secluded Oasis Hidden Yet Close To City Life Discover the magic of our carefully curated private camping sites, nestled behind 7000 acres of Arizona State Trust Land in the outskirts of Tucson . Yet, just 30 to 50 minutes from major tourist venues like: Old Tucson Studios, Pima Air and Space Museum, Arizona Sonoran Desert Museum, Casino Del Sol, Kitt Peak National Observatory, and many others. This hidden gem offers an intimate escape for those seeking solace in nature's embrace without trekking to far from access to modern amenities. Settle into your campsite surrounded by the enchanting saguaros and mesquite trees that paint the landscape. 🌅 Sunrise Serenity, Sunset Spectacle Awaken to the gentle hues of the sunrise as the desert comes alive with a symphony of colors. Your private camping experience allows you to savor the tranquility of the morning, sipping a steaming cup of coffee or tea while the desert flora welcomes a new day. As the sun begins its descent, witness the breathtaking transformation of the horizon and create in harmony your own personal exclusive sunset ceremony, painting the sky in hues of pink, orange, and gold. Get your camera ready for that Insta Pic. Oh and no worries High Speed Data Cellular Service is available from your preferred carrier.... YEP IN THE MIDDLE OF A SECLUDED PRIVATE NATURE PRESERVE YOUR PHONE WORKS! 🔥 Campfire Tales and Stargazing Delight As the evening unfolds, gather around a your crackling campfire to share stories under the vast desert sky, lose yourself in a mesmerizing stargazing experience. With minimal light pollution, Infinity Ranch's night sky becomes a canvas of celestial wonders, inviting you to marvel at the cosmos like never before. Rated between a Class 2 Truly Dark Sky and a Class 3 Rual Dark Sky on the Bortle Scale 🚀 Tailored Adventures and Guided Exploration Customize your camping adventure with a range of outdoor activities, from hiking through saguaro-studded trails, challenging mountain biking, small off-road ATVs allowed, birdwatching, desert survival skills, history and mining tours, nature photography and STAR GAZING. Our experienced guides are on hand to ensure you make the most of your desert expedition, providing insights into the unique flora, fauna, geological and massive mineral diversity (Fluorite, 3 Types Of Quartz and more) that call Infinity Ranch home. 🌟 Unplug and Reconnect Escape the demands of modern life and embrace the simplicity of nature. Our private camping sites at Infinity Ranch provide you a unique private opportunity to unplug, unwind, and reconnect with yourself and your loved ones. Immerse yourself in the rhythm of the desert, where each moment is a precious gift waiting to be discovered. 🌿 Book Your Private Nature Camping Experience Today Launch on your adventure with our exclusive private camping sites in Tucson, Arizona at Infinity Ranch. Limited 4 slots available for Tent, Primative or Self Contained Camper/RV (Up To 24 Ft) Power can be provided for an extra fee of $ 25.00 per day. Potable Water Can Be Provided for a $10 fee. Reserve your spot now and create memories that will last a lifetime. Nature is calling – will you answer?

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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.

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Verde River Vortex

4 sites · Lodging2 acres · Clarkdale, AZ

Learn more about this land: Greetings fellow adventure lovers! Welcome to Verde River Vortex where we have Comfy Cabin Camping with access to tons of outdoor activities just out the back door. The Cabins are nestled around a patch of Bamboo and other high desert vegetation as well as a very rich cultural history with many Ruins and Other Native American Sights in the surrounding areas. The Verde River is one of Arizona's only two Wild and Scenic Rivers, yet it remains relatively undiscovered as a recreational resource is within walking distance and offers endless exploration and water fun in the Spring and Summer Months! The road to reach us is breathtaking in itself with ancient Sinaguan Ruins and strangely beautifully sculpted landscapes along the River drive. Enjoy miles of forests, rivers, lakes, swimming, hiking, mtb, all near by and all while being comfy and cozy for a nights recharge to do it all again after a hot shower or Jacuzzi or our Absolutely AWESOME wood fired Sauna with Cold water dipping pool under the stars. Each Cabin is fully equipt (hot water/appliances/kitchen/bathroom/dishes) as an Adventure base during your stay providing a comfortable, cozy and unique location for couples or small groups/families to enjoy while adventuring and creating memories in the area. We provide various suggestions on local activities for our guests to enjoy as well as helpful tips to get the most out of their stay. TWO CABINS AVAILABLE: Crystal Cabin Loft With Outdoor Jacuzzi - 1-4 ppl Great For Couples Juniper Cabin 1-4+ ppl Better for families or larger groups needing more space. More details on the spaces can be viewed in the individual cabin pictures/description. approx times to various points of interest from VRV: The Grand Canyon - 2.5hrs Cottonwood - 10-20 Sedona - 30-45 min Flagstaff - 1hr Prescott - 1hr Bryce Canyon - 6hrs Zion Nat Park - 5hrs Mexico - 6-7hrs **It should be noted that this is a Rural Area in which case you might hear Farm Animals, Dogs, Critters like Cayotes ! We are located on a Dirt Road, 4x4 is not needed unless we are having very stormy weather** Safe Adventuring to all and feel free to reach out with any questions.

Mountainous camping in Arizona 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.