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Arizona is an RVers paradise. It’s known as a snowbird destination in the winter, since the climate differences and elevation changes between the northern and southern portion of the state mean you can camp in Arizona year-round. Plus, it’s the state with the most sunshine per year. From the famous saguaros and Sonoran Desert to national forests, snowy mountain peaks, and the waters of Lake Powell and Lake Havasu, Arizona is an outdoor wonderland.
In a state with 24 National Park Service units, including Petrified Forest, Saguaro, and Grand Canyon national parks, it’s easy for Arizona’s state parks to get overshadowed. But with 17 big-rig-friendly, developed campgrounds, the state park system provides great value and opportunity to enjoy diverse natural wonders and hidden gems well beyond the Grand Canyon.
Reservations
Reservations are available one year in advance and can be made online at azstateparks.com and by phone at 877-MY-PARKS (877-697-2757). Two nights minimum are required during peak season weekends.
Campsite sizes
All Arizona state campgrounds have sites that can accommodate larger RVs, however, the number of big rig sites per campground varies. The reservations system allows you to search for sites by minimum RV length, as well as by pull-through or back-in.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not readily available through the reservations system. Call the central reservations line or the individual park for more information.
Hookups
Sites with electric hookups are available at all campgrounds and are searchable in the reservations system. Most campsites also have water, but only a few offer full hookups.
Connectivity
In general, connectivity is limited. A few parks have rolled out high-speed internet available from all campsites, for a fee. If connectivity is a priority, call the campground to ask about WiFi and cell service.
Maximum stay
Maximum stay is 14 nights but can be extended at the discretion of the park ranger.
Additional facilities
Arizona state park campgrounds have restrooms and centralized dump stations. All campsites have a picnic table and fire ring or grill. Many campgrounds have visitor centers, stores, and additional amenities. Details can be found under “Facility Information” on each campground’s website.
Arizona state parks offer a Junior Ranger program. Don’t forget to ask for books for the kids at the visitor center or check-in booth.
Cost
Prices range from $15 to $50 per night, depending on the campground and season. Pricing is displayed per site and per date on the reservations website.
Additional Fees:
Nonrefundable reservation fee: $5
Cancellations within 24 hours of arrival forfeit the first night’s fee.
All campgrounds charge a $15 extra vehicle fee. Extra vehicle parking may be limited; check with the specific park for availability.
Pet policies
Pets are allowed as long as they are kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet. And of course, campers should always pick up after their pet.
Additional regulations
- Maximum occupancy per site: 10 individuals, with a maximum of 6 adults.
- Check-in time: 2 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Check-out time: 12 p.m.
- Quiet hours: 9 p.m. to 8 a.m.
- Alcoholic beverages: No specific restrictions.
- Generator use: Check with each campground as rules vary.
- Campfires: Allowed only in provided campfire pit or ring at site, following local restrictions.
- Drone use: Recreational drone use is prohibited.
Featured Campgrounds
Lost Dutchman State Park
6109 North Apache Trail, Apache Junction, AZ 85119
Less than 50 miles east of the Phoenix metropolitan area, Lost Dutchman State Park is located at the foot of the dramatic Superstition Mountains. This park is popular for hiking, from easily accessible nature trails to challenging hikes up into the mountains with sweeping views. Stay for the night and enjoy the magic of the park after the day-trippers leave, with spectacular sunsets, wildlife, and stargazing. The campground has 138 sites, most with electric and water hookups, and no RV size restrictions. For the most part, the sites are spread out and private, and the campground is known for being well run and meticulously clean despite its popularity.
Dead Horse Ranch State Park
675 Dead Horse Ranch Road, Cottonwood, AZ 86326
This park is a convenient base for visiting the surrounding area of central Arizona, including Sedona and historic Prescott. Dead Horse Ranch is located in the Verde River Greenway State Natural Area, near the town of Cottonwood. The campground offers more than 100 spacious, paved sites, most with electric and water hookups. With shady trees, a lake, miles of hiking and biking trails, and wildlife viewing including the adorable river otter, you may want to extend your stay in this peaceful natural setting.
Catalina State Park
11570 North Oracle Road, Tucson, AZ 85737
Arizona is frequently associated with the saguaro, and Catalina State Park provides the unforgettable experience of camping among these iconic cacti. This state park is located northeast of Tucson and Saguaro National Park and easily accessible to both. Miles of hiking trails offer a variety of experiences and challenges. Its peaceful location at the base of the Santa Catalina Mountains affords sweeping, dramatic views in every direction and incredible wildlife viewing. Enjoy an overnight stay in this beautiful park’s developed, well-kept campground. There are 120 paved sites with water and electric hookups, plus modern restrooms and a dump station. Sites are well spaced with lots of privacy between them to enjoy the natural surroundings.
Arizona state park campgrounds that accommodate RV camping
Alamo Lake State Park
Buckskin Mountain State Park
Catalina State Park
Cattail Cove State Park
Dead Horse Ranch State Park
Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area
Havasu Riviera State Park
Homolovi State Park
Kartchner Caverns State Park
Lake Havasu State Park
Lost Dutchman State Park
Lyman Lake State Park
Patagonia Lake State Park
Picacho Peak State Park
River Island State Park
Rockin’ River Ranch State Park
Roper Lake State Park
For more information on Arizona state park campgrounds, visit azstateparks.com.
