The Best Campgrounds in Arizona, According to These Camping Experts

It’s no secret that Arizona is a pretty popular camping destination. Over 2 million snowbirds flock to the state each winter, and many of them arrive in RVs. So plan on making campground reservations far in advance, especially if visiting during peak season—November through April. Also plan on double checking restrictions at some of the RV resorts as more than you may suspect have a "55 years old and up" policy. 

Arizona is a magical place for camping and road-tripping, filled with natural wonders from one corner of the state to the other. The Grand Canyon is obviously the main attraction—but the state has so much more to offer when it comes to amazing camping accommodations. Some of Arizona’s state parks have the look and feel of some of our nation’s greatest national parks—just on a somewhat smaller and much less crowded scale. The state is also filled with dozens of excellent National Forest Service campgrounds that are popular with locals—but fly somewhat under the radar with campers from out of state. 

If you're planning your first trip to Arizona, we certainly think that you should hit the Grand Canyon first—but we also think you should tack on a stop to one of the state or national forest campgrounds and experience some of the breathtaking places that are waiting to welcome you with open arms.

Stephanie and Jeremy's Campground Picks in Arizona

Jeremy and Stephanie Puglisi are the hosts of The RV Atlas podcast, which has been downloaded more than 12 million times by RV and camping enthusiasts. They are also the authors of the popular "Where Should We Camp Next?" book series, including "Where Should We Camp Next?", "Where Should We Camp Next? National Parks", "Where Should We Camp Next? Budget Camping", and "Where Should We Camp Next? Camping 101". As bestselling authors and longtime RV travelers, they share expert campground recommendations, road trip inspiration, and practical advice for families and adventurers who love the great outdoors.

Here are their picks for family-friendly, budget-friendly, and public campgrounds in Arizona:

Family-Friendly: Tucson/Lazydays KOA Resort, Tucson

Site types: RV, tent, and deluxe cabins

The Tucson/Lazydays KOA Resort is a desert oasis packed with family-friendly amenities that make it a top pick for travelers exploring southern Arizona. This well-manicured campground is dotted with lush fruit trees, offering a surprising touch of greenery in the arid landscape. Spacious RV sites—many with deluxe patios and fireplaces—make it easy to settle in and enjoy the warm Arizona sunshine.

Kids and adults alike love the new activity court, which features pickleball, basketball, and a nine-hole chip-and-putt golf course that’s perfect for some casual fun. The two resort-style heated pools and hot tubs provide the perfect spot to cool off or unwind after a day of hiking in nearby Saguaro National Park. A fully stocked KampK9 dog park ensures that furry family members have just as much fun as their humans.

For those interested in RV shopping or dreaming about their next rig, the Lazydays RV dealership is located right next door. Take a stroll through the lot and check out the gleaming Airstreams and luxury motorhomes shining in the Tucson sun. And if you're looking for a little extra shade, some RV sites here are covered by a solar panel structure, making this feel like a campground built for the future.

Budget-Friendly: Lost Dutchman State Park, Apache Junction

Site types: RV, tent, and cabins

Lost Dutchman State Park is a terrific option for camping and outdoor recreation for those who live in the greater Phoenix area. This magnificent park is named after a lost gold mine and sits near the bottom of Superstition Mountain which lurks in the background in a dramatic fashion, so make sure you tell some spooky ghost stories about long lost miners if you come here.

The campsites here have some privacy provided by ground shrubbery, but also sweeping views of the mountains and the surrounding Sonoran desert. The campground has 135 sites and about half of them have water and electric—the other half offer no hookups. Cabins are also available, and though they are not exactly Instagram worthy, they do have spectacular views on all sides. There are trails that lead directly from the state park into the Superstition Mountain Wilderness. Be prepared if you go for a hike–anything can happen here, especially if you're superstitious. 

National Park Gateway: Grand Canyon Railway RV Park (and Hotel), Williams

Site types: RV and hotel rooms

The Grand Canyon Railway RV Park is part of the refurbished and luxurious Grand Canyon Railway and Hotel, and guests at the RV park have access to all the hotel amenities. They also have access to the Grand Canyon train, which has been transporting visitors into the national park since 1901.

This neat and tidy RV park is located only two blocks from downtown Williams and historic Route 66, and there's pretty much nothing not to love about it. Williams has long been called “The Gateway to the Grand Canyon” but it's a fantastic stop in its own right with great food and drink and lots of funky “out west” shopping.

Explore More Campgrounds in Arizona

Arizona’s diverse landscapes and rich history make it a dream destination for campers, from the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon to the rugged beauty of Superstition Mountain. Whether you prefer luxury RV resorts, budget-friendly state parks, or scenic national forest campgrounds, there’s something for everyone—from snowbirds escaping winter to families looking for an outdoor adventure. 

Where Should We Camp Next?

If you're looking to discover even more spectacular places to camp in Arizona, the "Where Should We Camp Next?" series features dozens of additional campground recommendations throughout Arizona and beyond—helping you plan unforgettable camping trips in the Southwest and across the country.

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