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10 Of Arizona's Best Campsites

Spend a night under the high desert sky.

By: Kevin Kaminski + Save to a List

Home to campsites with epic vistas, access to endless hiking and biking trails, and lakes waiting to be paddled, Arizona has something for every camper. Some of these campsites are less than an hour from the nearest city and don't require a whole lot of thinking ahead and planning. Perfect for the last minute escape into the wild that we all need once in a while. Check out this list of 10 of Arizona’s best campsites, pack up the car, and get ready for a night under the stars.

1. Camp at Lost Dutchman State Park

Photo: Kevin Kaminski

This dog-friendly camping spot is a great base camp for exploring the Superstition Mountains. Bring your hiking or biking gear and hit the trail after spending a night at these well established campsites. Learn more.

2. Car Camp the Mogollon Rim

Photo: Ethan Fichtner

Just a few hours from Phoenix, the Mogollon Rim is one of Arizona’s best-kept secrets. You’ll have amazing, expansive views of the Coconino National Forest. Learn more.

3. Camp at Patagonia Lake State Park

Photo: Kevin Kaminski

Patagonia Lake State Park is home to 250 acres filled with great outdoor adventures! In the park, you can camp, canoe or kayak, and walk along the shoreline of the lake. Learn more.

4. Camp at Pine Grove Campground

Photo: Kathleen Buenviaje

With luxurious amenities (showers, tables, drinking water, etc.) and many lakes to explore nearby, this is a great campsite if you’re bringing the whole family. Learn more.

5. Camp at Burnt Corral Campground on Apache Lake

Photo: Kevin Kaminski

Located in the Superstition Wilderness about 65 miles northeast of Phoenix, AZ, Apache Lake is one of the most popular recreational lakes in Arizona because it has something for everyone: hiking, boating, fishing, water skiing, camping, and more! Learn more.

6. Hike and Camp at Red Rock

Photo: Moe Lauchert

Less than half an hour from Flagstaff, this spot makes for a great last-minute weekend adventure if you need to get out of the city. Not to mention, the views are beautiful. Learn more.

7. Camp at Marshall Lake

Photo: Kevin Kaminski

Marshall Lake offers great campsites near the lake with plenty of trails nearby to get out and stretch your legs. Learn more.

8. Hike and Camp at Arizona’s A1 Mountain

Photo: Moe Lauchert

This is another spot just a quick drive from Flagstaff. Hike or run the trails around the campsite and take in epic views of the San Francisco Mountains. Learn more.

9. Camp on Roosevelt Lake Overlook

Photo: Colton Marshall

This is a very primitive and secluded campground but what it lacks in amenities, it more than makes up for with sprawling views. Learn more.

10. Camp at The View Campground in Monument Valley

Photo: Kevin Kaminski

You’ve seen this iconic landscape in the movies. Now, here’s your chance to wake up to that view! Learn more.

Cover photo: Kevin Kaminski

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