Camping in Arizona is a necessity. It’s an experience everyone should have at least once in order to fully appreciate the beauty of the diverse wilderness that still exists. Most people opt to stick to the forests and some venture out to the desert but did you know there are campgrounds on the beach in Arizona? You’ll have to stretch your definition of a beach to a shore but it can be done! Here are a few suggestions that we think are great options for the best camping in Arizona near water:
1. Cattail Cove
Sandy shores sit just feet from this campground and it’s a nice place that’s easily hidden away from sight. Cattail Cove is unlike any other place in Arizona, and it's just waiting to be experienced.
2. Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area
Sitting on the edges of Show Low, Fool Hollow Lake is a huge camping area with sites along the shore and just a short drive from town (in case you forgot any supplies). You’ll find plenty to do here and areas are available for RV and tent campers.
3. Hawley Lake
This campground known as Hawley Lake is located on the White Mountain Apache Reservation, about 17 miles east of McNary. It sits along the lake, just opposite rustic cabins, and it has plenty of areas for fishing, boating, and just enjoying the mountain air.
4. Lee’s Ferry
Located down in the Grand Canyon, Lee's Ferry has quite the camping history as it welcomed thousands of travelers through the decades. If you have any bucket list camping areas, this place definitely needs to be on that list.
Check out this stunning hike in Lee's Ferry on the Cathedral Wash Trail:
5. Lyman Lake State Park
Located on the highway between St. Johns and Springerville in eastern Arizona, Lyman Lake State Park sits in a mountainous area with comfortable day temperatures and cool nights in the spring and summer. While the campsites aren’t directly on the beach, it is a short walk and, if you wake up early enough in the morning, you can catch the sun rising above the mountains.
6. Patagonia Lake State Park
Southeastern Arizona often goes ignored when it comes to camping but Patagonia Lake State Park is simply gorgeous! You’ll find quite a few camping areas along the shore, meaning you can go for a quick swim within minutes of waking up in the morning. Can you think of anything more invigorating?
7. River Island State Park
Located along the Colorado River near Parker, River Island State Park is a nice retreat in the spring months before the temperatures get too hot. A quick walk down the ramp and you’re right at the north-facing beach in a cove.
Enjoy this walking and driving tour of River Island State Park in beautiful 4K:
Want to see more great camping suggestions? Where would you say has the best camping in Arizona near water?
Read about some amazing locations around Arizona in these rustic spots in Arizona that are extraordinary for camping.
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