Camping in Phoenix, AZ, US: 12 Best Campgrounds 2025

United States
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Arizona
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Phoenix

96% (1544 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Phoenix

Available this weekend

Top camping destinations

Coronado National Forest

170 campgrounds

Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest

335 campgrounds

Tonto National Forest

376 campgrounds

Williams

116 campgrounds

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.

Coconino National Forest

375 campgrounds

Best way to wake up. Stare at the mountains and think about a hike. Trails within 10min drive. Yeehaw!

Black Canyon City

64 campgrounds

Star Hosts in Phoenix

96%

(780)

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.

Saguaro Cactus Forrest

5 sites · RVs5 acres · New River, AZ

ASK ABOUT OUR FALL PROMTIONAL DISOUNT. THANK YOU REPEAT & LONG TERM GUEST We are situated adjacent to state land that displays a majestic Saguaro forest in the mountains. It is a short walk to lots of trails and spectacular views. RV hookups with only three sites so not crowded. Water and electrical hookups 30 or 50 amp. You will love the views and the hiking. We are also not far from grocery stores, and outlet mall and restaurants. EASY ACCESS WITH LARGE TRAILERS.

98%

(152)

Cave Creek Quiet Homestead

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Cave Creek, AZ

Quiet slice of heaven under the stars on our homestead. Due to some unexpected commitments, it was necessary to reduce our camping experience for our winter 2024 season. We are very sorry, but will reopen as soon as possible. Please check back for open dates and sites Our space offers a tranquil setting with several camping options. Site # 1: Closed for 2024 season. Sorry Site #2: Closed for 2024 season. Sorry Site # 3: RV Glamping. Queen size bed with a dinette that can be used as an extra bed for the little ones. Site # 4 RV, Pop Ups or Living Quarters with horses/mules Site # 5 Boarding for Horses or Mules We offer Communal Spaces with restroom, grill, table, other seating with larger fire-pit. Feel free to visit our horses, chickens or hike our beautiful trails right from the property. Enjoy the horses, the stars at night and our neighboring coyotes sing if you are lucky. Our home is close by, the little white farmhouse on the hill. Thank you for looking!

100%

(21)

Heritage District Downtown Gilbert

1 site · RV1 acre · Gilbert, AZ

This is an RV parking spot in the Heritage District of the Town of Gilbert. The Heritage District is home to our weekly Farmer’s Market, a bike trail along the canal, splash pad, parks, restaurants, breweries, cocktail lounges, bars, and shopping. This area is known for being safe, friendly, and very walkable. The RV spot is a 0.3 mile walk to a fish taco shop, a cocktail lounge and an art gallery, 0.4 mile walk away from the Farmer’s Market, the nearest ice cream shop and a historic BBQ restaurant, 0.5 mile walk to a performing arts venue, a dog friendly brewery with a dog “spaw”, and an arcade! We love it here and think you will too.

Mountain View Retreat

8 sites · RVs10 acres · New River, AZ

Experience the ambiance of a boutique resort as you escape to our beautifully landscaped and immaculately maintained private 10 acre property in the North Valley. You will be welcomed into a peaceful, desert oasis with luxurious amenities and find yourself immersed in a tranquil, serene setting surrounded by breathtaking views. Not only will you experience warm hospitality from your hosts, but our friendly farm animals will give you a warm welcome too! Guests are welcome to interact with all of our animals during our "evening chores" 30 minutes before dusk every afternoon. In addition to your personal, spacious full-hook up RV site you are sure to enjoy all the amenities we offer, including shared access to our entire property with many seating areas, covered patios, water fountains, outdoor kitchen, horseshoe pit and hot tub. NON-SMOKING adult guests ONLY! Please review entire listing and house rules prior to booking. ………..Discounts offered for long term stays……….

12 top campgrounds near Phoenix

97%

(104)

Saguaro Cactus Forrest

5 sites · RVs5 acres · New River, AZ

ASK ABOUT OUR FALL PROMTIONAL DISOUNT. THANK YOU REPEAT & LONG TERM GUEST We are situated adjacent to state land that displays a majestic Saguaro forest in the mountains. It is a short walk to lots of trails and spectacular views. RV hookups with only three sites so not crowded. Water and electrical hookups 30 or 50 amp. You will love the views and the hiking. We are also not far from grocery stores, and outlet mall and restaurants. EASY ACCESS WITH LARGE TRAILERS.

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.

Mountain View Retreat

8 sites · RVs10 acres · New River, AZ

Experience the ambiance of a boutique resort as you escape to our beautifully landscaped and immaculately maintained private 10 acre property in the North Valley. You will be welcomed into a peaceful, desert oasis with luxurious amenities and find yourself immersed in a tranquil, serene setting surrounded by breathtaking views. Not only will you experience warm hospitality from your hosts, but our friendly farm animals will give you a warm welcome too! Guests are welcome to interact with all of our animals during our "evening chores" 30 minutes before dusk every afternoon. In addition to your personal, spacious full-hook up RV site you are sure to enjoy all the amenities we offer, including shared access to our entire property with many seating areas, covered patios, water fountains, outdoor kitchen, horseshoe pit and hot tub. NON-SMOKING adult guests ONLY! Please review entire listing and house rules prior to booking. ………..Discounts offered for long term stays……….

Geo Dome Campsite, I-17 Access

8 sites · RVs2 acres · Phoenix, AZ

Currently looking for long term summertime RV and Vanlife guests to round out our tight little community! No tents. Come visit and see what makes every one who has stayed here fall in love with this amazing little slice of heaven in the desert. My description: This is a convenient spot in the city of Phoenix, but it feels like you are camping in the country. Closest neighbors are 150 feet away. I've got 2.3 acres, 5 minutes to Walmart, movie theater, 100's of dining choices in Norterra shopping complex. You'll be behind tall fence/block wall on a full acre to spread out on. (Bring an extension cord for prime spots if applicable) There is some light highway and minimal residential noise if that matters to you. You will hear birds nesting in our cacti, see tons or dove, finches, numerous species of hummingbirds or even hear some coyotes yipping at nighttime. We are about a 4 minute drive from a nice hiking area. 3 30 amp and 2 50 amp power added September 2022. Full time campsite manager on site now. Laundry has free large capacity machines. Water pressure and quality is great. The campfire has tree shade with table and chairs. Extension cord power (when available). Water hose for water. Septic system with tap at campsite. Quiet generators are fine for summer A/C. If you need 30 or 50 amp power you'll have to park closer to the domes or have an extension. Electric hookups...contact for availability. There is an acre to choose your perfect spot, but power and water might not be exactly where you want it. Please be respectful of the property and all of our neighbors as we are surrounded by residential housing. Please drive slow inside the property and keep the gate closed when not in use as there are coyotes in the area. Please do let us know ahead of time if you are afraid of dogs or have allergies. My manager has a small pup and there are others here depending who is staying. I have perfect drinkable amazing deep-well zero particulate well water. Inside my extra geo dome I have a shower, sink, and toilet. While 40 years old and ugly, they are functional. You are welcome to camp or relax inside the 40 foot dome, BUT THERE ARE NO BEDS OR BEDDING. This Hipcamp listing is for camp and RV sites only, not a bed in a geo dome. Please message with arrival time so we can meet you at the gate.

Heritage District Downtown Gilbert

1 site · RV1 acre · Gilbert, AZ

This is an RV parking spot in the Heritage District of the Town of Gilbert. The Heritage District is home to our weekly Farmer’s Market, a bike trail along the canal, splash pad, parks, restaurants, breweries, cocktail lounges, bars, and shopping. This area is known for being safe, friendly, and very walkable. The RV spot is a 0.3 mile walk to a fish taco shop, a cocktail lounge and an art gallery, 0.4 mile walk away from the Farmer’s Market, the nearest ice cream shop and a historic BBQ restaurant, 0.5 mile walk to a performing arts venue, a dog friendly brewery with a dog “spaw”, and an arcade! We love it here and think you will too.

Back yard oasis

3 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Phoenix, AZ

Beautiful grassy backyard Oasis 7 mins from downtown. If you are looking to a place to camp still in the city limits for a great price this is the one for you. Not a lot of traffic noise 30'+ trees lining the property, kids play set, we do live on the property. If you want to be a little more secluded we have another 1/2 acre that butts up to our property we do not live on. Both properties are gated.

94%

(17)

Phoenix Mountains Treehouse

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Phoenix, AZ

A treehouse in the city of Phoenix?! Yes. Our 1 acre property just outside of the heart of Central Phoenix has two legacy pine trees, one of which holds a treehouse that was originally built as an extra space for our family and is now open for guests. Not too long ago, our neighborhood roads were dirt, and there are still several horse ranches in the neighborhood. Hiking trails start at the end of our street leading to the Phoenix Mountains and a 3 minute drive will get you to Dreamy Draw Park and Piestewa Peak, with endless miles of hiking and grand views of the city.

Cave Creek Quiet Homestead

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Cave Creek, AZ

Quiet slice of heaven under the stars on our homestead. Due to some unexpected commitments, it was necessary to reduce our camping experience for our winter 2024 season. We are very sorry, but will reopen as soon as possible. Please check back for open dates and sites Our space offers a tranquil setting with several camping options. Site # 1: Closed for 2024 season. Sorry Site #2: Closed for 2024 season. Sorry Site # 3: RV Glamping. Queen size bed with a dinette that can be used as an extra bed for the little ones. Site # 4 RV, Pop Ups or Living Quarters with horses/mules Site # 5 Boarding for Horses or Mules We offer Communal Spaces with restroom, grill, table, other seating with larger fire-pit. Feel free to visit our horses, chickens or hike our beautiful trails right from the property. Enjoy the horses, the stars at night and our neighboring coyotes sing if you are lucky. Our home is close by, the little white farmhouse on the hill. Thank you for looking!

96%

(70)

Phoenix Citi StarGazer A-Frame

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Phoenix, AZ

Runner up for best HipCamp in Arizona! Darling camping A-Frame located in NE Phoenix, just 15 minutes from the airport, perfect for a short stay in Phoenix, or if you're heading up to the Grand Canyon or Sedona. The A-Frame is super cozy and has large clear panels above the bed for nighttime stargazing. If clouds obscure the stars then simply enjoy the unique star lighting strategically placed in the Citi StarGazer. Super comfortable queen-sized bed, and wonderful bedding make for the perfect night's sleep. Linens are provided. Campers may use the onsite swimming pool. Small secondary building with portable toilet and newly built outdoor shower (not a tent anymore) with hot water. Perfect economical stay for adventurers in the Phoenix area, the fifth largest city in the US with tons of things to do! Located close to great hiking such as Camelback Mountain, Piestewa Peak and the Phoenix Mountain Preserve. The A-Frame is located in the large backyard of our Phoenix home in a nice neighborhood. We live onsite and look forward to hosting you! Happy (and economical) travels, y'all!

85%

(10)

1899 Historic Hotel & Camping

36 sites · RVs, Tents7 acres · Morristown, AZ

It's rare to find a place to camp that's AUTHENTIC, HISTORIC, WILD WEST and offers amenities. The 1899 Historic Hotel offers free hotel tours, Gold Panning onsite, Outdoor picnic tables, Parties and Events, Adventure Tours to our Gold Mines - you can see in the distance from the 1899 Historic Hotel. On site there is a BBQ area, bathrooms, showers, 30 campsites for tents and large RV's with water and septic dump area. BYOB and BYO electric. : ) The camp spots are extra large, each one has gravel and asphalt to minimize dust and dirt. We have bathrooms and showers and an outdoor cowboy shower. There are nature walks next to the property, as well as horse trails. We have community parties with music, campfires, vendors, and food. Look out for special events like a chili cook off and the Gold Miner Distillery doing a whiskey taste testing. This is the roping capital of America so you will be surrounded by bull riders, cowboys and miners - for real! Wickenburg is 10 minutes away with restaurants and everything cowboy. This Historic Hotel is a giant piece of Arizona history.

100%

(59)

Palo Verde Retreat

1 site · RV1 acres · Cave Creek, AZ

Learn more about this land: Park your RV, trailer, or camper van on our 1.5 acre property. We are located near the cities of Cave Creek, Scottsdale, and Phoenix AZ. There is close access to numerous trails for mountain biking and hiking in the beautiful Sonoran Desert! This spot is partial hookup with water and both 30 amp and 50 amp power. There is a dumping station approximately 2 miles away for your septic needs. Enjoy the beauty of the nearby desert and mountains. It is common to hear the coyotes and owls and other wildlife at night. The javelina herd often passes through as well as an occasional bobcat. Feel free to say hello to Luna, our Belgian Malinois! She hangs out in our fenced-in backyard which is separate from the RV location! Welcome!

100%

(14)

Peace Acres

1 site · RV5 acres · Scottsdale, AZ

Peace out on our 5 Acre family hosted property to bike, hike and ATV in the Tonto Forest just a half mile away. Wake up daily to the view of 4 Peaks, Weavers Needle and Toms Thumb. RV Slot has 50 amp hookup, water, septic and Wifi.

Under $50

95%

(142)

Mountain View Retreat

8 sites · RVs10 acres · New River, AZ

Experience the ambiance of a boutique resort as you escape to our beautifully landscaped and immaculately maintained private 10 acre property in the North Valley. You will be welcomed into a peaceful, desert oasis with luxurious amenities and find yourself immersed in a tranquil, serene setting surrounded by breathtaking views. Not only will you experience warm hospitality from your hosts, but our friendly farm animals will give you a warm welcome too! Guests are welcome to interact with all of our animals during our "evening chores" 30 minutes before dusk every afternoon. In addition to your personal, spacious full-hook up RV site you are sure to enjoy all the amenities we offer, including shared access to our entire property with many seating areas, covered patios, water fountains, outdoor kitchen, horseshoe pit and hot tub. NON-SMOKING adult guests ONLY! Please review entire listing and house rules prior to booking. ………..Discounts offered for long term stays……….

Saguaro Cactus Forrest

5 sites · RVs5 acres · New River, AZ

ASK ABOUT OUR FALL PROMTIONAL DISOUNT. THANK YOU REPEAT & LONG TERM GUEST We are situated adjacent to state land that displays a majestic Saguaro forest in the mountains. It is a short walk to lots of trails and spectacular views. RV hookups with only three sites so not crowded. Water and electrical hookups 30 or 50 amp. You will love the views and the hiking. We are also not far from grocery stores, and outlet mall and restaurants. EASY ACCESS WITH LARGE TRAILERS.

Geo Dome Campsite, I-17 Access

8 sites · RVs2 acres · Phoenix, AZ

Currently looking for long term summertime RV and Vanlife guests to round out our tight little community! No tents. Come visit and see what makes every one who has stayed here fall in love with this amazing little slice of heaven in the desert. My description: This is a convenient spot in the city of Phoenix, but it feels like you are camping in the country. Closest neighbors are 150 feet away. I've got 2.3 acres, 5 minutes to Walmart, movie theater, 100's of dining choices in Norterra shopping complex. You'll be behind tall fence/block wall on a full acre to spread out on. (Bring an extension cord for prime spots if applicable) There is some light highway and minimal residential noise if that matters to you. You will hear birds nesting in our cacti, see tons or dove, finches, numerous species of hummingbirds or even hear some coyotes yipping at nighttime. We are about a 4 minute drive from a nice hiking area. 3 30 amp and 2 50 amp power added September 2022. Full time campsite manager on site now. Laundry has free large capacity machines. Water pressure and quality is great. The campfire has tree shade with table and chairs. Extension cord power (when available). Water hose for water. Septic system with tap at campsite. Quiet generators are fine for summer A/C. If you need 30 or 50 amp power you'll have to park closer to the domes or have an extension. Electric hookups...contact for availability. There is an acre to choose your perfect spot, but power and water might not be exactly where you want it. Please be respectful of the property and all of our neighbors as we are surrounded by residential housing. Please drive slow inside the property and keep the gate closed when not in use as there are coyotes in the area. Please do let us know ahead of time if you are afraid of dogs or have allergies. My manager has a small pup and there are others here depending who is staying. I have perfect drinkable amazing deep-well zero particulate well water. Inside my extra geo dome I have a shower, sink, and toilet. While 40 years old and ugly, they are functional. You are welcome to camp or relax inside the 40 foot dome, BUT THERE ARE NO BEDS OR BEDDING. This Hipcamp listing is for camp and RV sites only, not a bed in a geo dome. Please message with arrival time so we can meet you at the gate.

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.

Heritage District Downtown Gilbert

1 site · RV1 acre · Gilbert, AZ

This is an RV parking spot in the Heritage District of the Town of Gilbert. The Heritage District is home to our weekly Farmer’s Market, a bike trail along the canal, splash pad, parks, restaurants, breweries, cocktail lounges, bars, and shopping. This area is known for being safe, friendly, and very walkable. The RV spot is a 0.3 mile walk to a fish taco shop, a cocktail lounge and an art gallery, 0.4 mile walk away from the Farmer’s Market, the nearest ice cream shop and a historic BBQ restaurant, 0.5 mile walk to a performing arts venue, a dog friendly brewery with a dog “spaw”, and an arcade! We love it here and think you will too.

Dog-friendly getaways

96%

(780)

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.

Saguaro Cactus Forrest

5 sites · RVs5 acres · New River, AZ

ASK ABOUT OUR FALL PROMTIONAL DISOUNT. THANK YOU REPEAT & LONG TERM GUEST We are situated adjacent to state land that displays a majestic Saguaro forest in the mountains. It is a short walk to lots of trails and spectacular views. RV hookups with only three sites so not crowded. Water and electrical hookups 30 or 50 amp. You will love the views and the hiking. We are also not far from grocery stores, and outlet mall and restaurants. EASY ACCESS WITH LARGE TRAILERS.

Heritage District Downtown Gilbert

1 site · RV1 acre · Gilbert, AZ

This is an RV parking spot in the Heritage District of the Town of Gilbert. The Heritage District is home to our weekly Farmer’s Market, a bike trail along the canal, splash pad, parks, restaurants, breweries, cocktail lounges, bars, and shopping. This area is known for being safe, friendly, and very walkable. The RV spot is a 0.3 mile walk to a fish taco shop, a cocktail lounge and an art gallery, 0.4 mile walk away from the Farmer’s Market, the nearest ice cream shop and a historic BBQ restaurant, 0.5 mile walk to a performing arts venue, a dog friendly brewery with a dog “spaw”, and an arcade! We love it here and think you will too.

Geo Dome Campsite, I-17 Access

8 sites · RVs2 acres · Phoenix, AZ

Currently looking for long term summertime RV and Vanlife guests to round out our tight little community! No tents. Come visit and see what makes every one who has stayed here fall in love with this amazing little slice of heaven in the desert. My description: This is a convenient spot in the city of Phoenix, but it feels like you are camping in the country. Closest neighbors are 150 feet away. I've got 2.3 acres, 5 minutes to Walmart, movie theater, 100's of dining choices in Norterra shopping complex. You'll be behind tall fence/block wall on a full acre to spread out on. (Bring an extension cord for prime spots if applicable) There is some light highway and minimal residential noise if that matters to you. You will hear birds nesting in our cacti, see tons or dove, finches, numerous species of hummingbirds or even hear some coyotes yipping at nighttime. We are about a 4 minute drive from a nice hiking area. 3 30 amp and 2 50 amp power added September 2022. Full time campsite manager on site now. Laundry has free large capacity machines. Water pressure and quality is great. The campfire has tree shade with table and chairs. Extension cord power (when available). Water hose for water. Septic system with tap at campsite. Quiet generators are fine for summer A/C. If you need 30 or 50 amp power you'll have to park closer to the domes or have an extension. Electric hookups...contact for availability. There is an acre to choose your perfect spot, but power and water might not be exactly where you want it. Please be respectful of the property and all of our neighbors as we are surrounded by residential housing. Please drive slow inside the property and keep the gate closed when not in use as there are coyotes in the area. Please do let us know ahead of time if you are afraid of dogs or have allergies. My manager has a small pup and there are others here depending who is staying. I have perfect drinkable amazing deep-well zero particulate well water. Inside my extra geo dome I have a shower, sink, and toilet. While 40 years old and ugly, they are functional. You are welcome to camp or relax inside the 40 foot dome, BUT THERE ARE NO BEDS OR BEDDING. This Hipcamp listing is for camp and RV sites only, not a bed in a geo dome. Please message with arrival time so we can meet you at the gate.

Mountain View Retreat

8 sites · RVs10 acres · New River, AZ

Experience the ambiance of a boutique resort as you escape to our beautifully landscaped and immaculately maintained private 10 acre property in the North Valley. You will be welcomed into a peaceful, desert oasis with luxurious amenities and find yourself immersed in a tranquil, serene setting surrounded by breathtaking views. Not only will you experience warm hospitality from your hosts, but our friendly farm animals will give you a warm welcome too! Guests are welcome to interact with all of our animals during our "evening chores" 30 minutes before dusk every afternoon. In addition to your personal, spacious full-hook up RV site you are sure to enjoy all the amenities we offer, including shared access to our entire property with many seating areas, covered patios, water fountains, outdoor kitchen, horseshoe pit and hot tub. NON-SMOKING adult guests ONLY! Please review entire listing and house rules prior to booking. ………..Discounts offered for long term stays……….

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

Superstition Ridgeline Trail. Accessible from campground.

100%

(13)

Lost Dutchman State Park

Apache Junction, Arizona

90%

(39)

Tonto National Forest

Tonto Basin, Arizona

92%

(30)

Prescott National Forest

Prescott, Arizona

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping near Phoenix guide

Overview

Pack the swimsuits, sun shades, and some serious SPF when traveling to Phoenix. With its year-round warm weather, opportunities to camp, hike, and explore the great outdoors are endless. Phoenix appeals to the inner Indiana Jones in every camper—trek through dusty deserts, climb red rock mountains, and float along winding rivers. Camping near Phoenix means getting lost in the world of tiny desert critters, walking alongside prickly plants, and gazing in awe at unobstructed starry skies. Campsites include accommodations for every Hipcamper, from glamping to RV sites.

Where to go

Lost Dutchman State Park

Journey to the Old West in this historical area 45 minutes outside Phoenix, Arizona. With stunning views of the Superstition Mountains, campers can adventure into marked trails suitable for all. For a bigger challenge, the 4-mile Siphon Draw Trail winds through a canyon reaching a 1,000-foot elevated basin that connects to the Flatiron. This trail at Lost Dutchman State Park is not maintained beyond the basin (so be aware of your surroundings), and it takes about 5-6 hours to complete. Retire for the night back at the Lost Dutchman Campground or a nearby Hipcamp.

Lake Pleasant Regional Park

Set up for some core camping memories at Lake Pleasant, where the water is glistening, the desert is sizzling, and the stars are shining. Whether tenting or RV camping, campers can hike, swim, boat, and picnic the day away. Explore canyons, rock walls, and underwater wildlife with some of the best inland scuba diving in the western United States, an epic way to cool off.

Tonto National Forest

Canyons, cacti, and creeks flow through Tonto National Forest, about one hour away from Phoenix. With surrounding mountains and the Valley of Tonto Creek at its core, this area provides acres of rugged landforms, desert vegetation, and diverse wildlife. Campers visit year-round for open-air, tent camping, RV hookups, horse camping, dispersed sites, and campgrounds. With 200 miles of Mogollon Rim and what the U.S. Department of Agriculture claims are some of the best trails in the country, be sure to grab a permit to fully enjoy this national forest.

When to go

The undeniable draw of Phoenix brings campers together to enjoy open air year-round. Whether you’re out on the lake, trekking through the desert, or snuggled by the campfire, every season provides epic camping spots. December to February or March to May are recommended for those looking to explore with a little less heat. Scorching summers reach average highs over 100°F in July and August, when you’ll want an AC unit.