Arizona is known for the Grand Canyon, but there are many gorgeous locales to hike in the coming year. Go off the beaten path, marvel at the bright foliage and challenge yourself to a hike near any of these amazing campgrounds. These are some of the best recommendations you might not have considered. As you explore them, remember to practice the Leave No Trace principles to help preserve these beautiful spaces for generations to come.
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1. Kampgrounds of America
One of the most well-known names in campgrounds is Kampgrounds of America (KOA), and there are several KOA locations throughout Arizona. Several are within 100 miles of Phoenix, including Mesa / Apache Junction KOA Journey and Picacho / Tucson NW KOA Journey. You can also camp at Salome KOA Journey near Yuma.
KOA sites provide more amenities than the average campground, with many locations including extras like pools, Wi-Fi and entertainment for children and families. These are wonderful resources for those looking for a comfortable and welcoming experience where they can relax and enjoy their time away when not out in the wilderness.
2. Lynx Campground
Lynx Lake is in Prescott National Park, and an inexpensive camping site is within a short walk of it. If you’re lucky, you’ll see bald eagles, as the park closes briefly every year to let them nest.
The lake is understated but stunning, so it’s perfect for the camper who likes water accessibility without the chill blowing on their tent throughout the night. The area is close enough for Phoenix residents that you could easily justify a weekend trip.
Nearby, you’ll find the Thumb Butte Trail #33, which is a straightforward hike for most moderate hikers. There are plenty of bathrooms and water stations around, so it’s one less thing to worry about. The region also looks stunning in the fall for embracing autumnal aesthetics.
3. Catalina State Park
In the Catalina Mountains lies Catalina State Park and its lovely campground. It offers plenty of elbow room, and most campers head straight for the park’s famous trailheads anyway. The most iconic trail is the Romero Canyon Trail, which leads to the Romero Pools.
Some of the trails at Catalina State Park are not dog-friendly because of the local sheep populations. Be careful when choosing this campground if you plan to spend most of the day out and about — you might not be able to take your furry friend with you.
4. Lost Dutchman State Park
Who needs greenery when you can go to one of the most legendary desert campsites in the state? Lost Dutchman State Park’s campgrounds are full of curious tourists even in cooler months. There are more than 100 sites and plenty of running water for drinking and showers.
Pack snacks because you have Flat Iron and Praying Hands to tackle! It’s possible to do it all straight from the campsite, though it’ll be a long day.
5. Dead Horse Ranch State Park
Tucked away in the Verde Valley is the Dead Horse Ranch State Park. It’s incredibly close to Cottonwood if you need any luxuries from town, but you’ll likely want to spend your days floating down the Verde River close to your campsite instead. There are some amazing lagoons if you need the perfect place to escape reality for a while.
6. Cholla Campground
Cholla Recreation Site is in Tonto National Forest around Arizona’s biggest lake. The Theodore Roosevelt Lake’s proximity to the campground means there are tons of water sports to enjoy with peak convenience.
Instead of being surrounded by trees like other lakes, you could have the Sierra Ancha as your camping backdrop. This area has hundreds of campsites for RV families and tent campers alike. You can also bring your own boat because there is an accessible launch for those waiting to brave the water. It manages to maintain reasonable temperatures all year, even in winter.
7. Fool Hollow Lake Campground
Not into tents or hotels near the state park? Try going to Fool Hollow if you have an RV and want to go glamping. There are also regular tent spots with a classic fire ring and table, but it has well-developed infrastructure to facilitate hook-ups. People camp here because the site is like a miniature resort.
There’s a massive lake, playgrounds for the kids, top-tier trails and programming. Feel free to hike or bike — there’s much to do here. For your convenience, you will also find hot water, fish cleaning zones and dump stations. While these benefits sound lovely on their own, you’ll also get a dog-friendly brewery and boat rentals for a chill evening.
