Arizona is a land of amazing views and various types of nature, so it’s perfect for nature lovers and campers. You can enjoy the Grand Canyon or the beautiful deserts filled with tall saguaro cacti.

In fact, Arizona’s unique and special nature is why many campers set their camps there. If you’re one of them, this guide is for you!

We’ll make your journey through Arizona easier and more enjoyable with our adventure suggestions and expert tips.

21 Memorable Arizona Camping Expeditions

Arizona’s landscapes offer more than just lovely sights; they’re like a big playground for fun outside activities.Without any further ado, let’s discover unique places you can visit and exciting things you can do in Arizona.

1. Hiking Adventures

Arizona is a great place for hiking. The best part? There’s a wide range of trails for all levels of hikers.

You can take easy walks or try harder hikes, leading to waterfalls, secret canyons, and panoramic views. Check out the West Fork Trail in Oak Creek Canyon, or try the tough trails of the Superstition Mountains.

Pro Tip: Choose trails that match your fitness level. Don’t forget sturdy footwear and a hat for sun protection.

2. Rock Climbing and Bouldering

If you like excitement, Arizona is great for rock climbing and bouldering. For example, you can go to Joshua Tree Boulders in Prescott, where climbers of all levels can climb.

The Cochise Stronghold in the Dragoon Mountains is another cool place for people who want to try climbing up high rocks.

Pro Tip: Start with easier climbs and boulders, and gradually challenge yourself as you gain confidence.

3. Watching Birds Adventure

Arizona has diverse ecosystems with lots of different places for watching birds.

The San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area is good for observing migratory birds. And in the Patagonia-Sonoita Creek Preserve, you can see rare species of birds like the elegant trogon.

Pro Tip: Bring binoculars and a field guide for identifying different bird species. Stay quiet and patient to observe them.

4. Mountain Biking

If you have a mountain bike, you can ride it on the many trails in Arizona’s outdoors. The Sedona Red Rock Trail System has many different trails for people who like biking. And you’ll see pretty red rocks around you while you ride.

Pro Tip: Carry spare parts and tools for your bike. And don’t forget your helmet!

5. Water Adventures

Arizona also has lakes and rivers where you can have fun with water activities, like kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing in places like Lake Havasu. You can even try wakeboarding there!

Pro Tip: Wear a life jacket, especially if you’re not a strong swimmer.

6. Off-Roading and ATV Trails

If you want more adventure, Arizona has off-roading and ATV trails where you will have unforgettable experiences.

There’s something called the Arizona Peace Trail, a bunch of trails that go a long way. It goes through the desert and historic sites.

Pro Tip: Check trail conditions and rules before you go. Respect nature and follow trail etiquette.

7. Horse Riding

Feel like you’re in the Old West by riding a horse in Arizona’s pretty landscapes. You can join guided horse rides in many areas. It’s like going back and exploring the land like the people did long ago.

Pro Tip: Listen to your guide and follow their instructions while riding. Wear appropriate clothing and footwear.

8. Hot Air Ballooning

If you want to see something special, consider going on a hot air balloon ride over Arizona. You can see the Sonoran Desert and the Grand Canyon from up high.

Pro Tip: Dress in layers, as temperatures can change high up. And don’t forget your camera for breathtaking views.

9. Culinary Delights in the Outdoors

Camping in Arizona is not just about the views – it’s also a chance to make and eat yummy food outside. You can cook over a campfire or bring small stoves and grills.

Make sure you make and taste the southwestern-inspired dishes, and cook chili peppers on the campfire or grill meats with a special taste from mesquite wood.

Pro Tip: Plan your meals and pack the right cooking equipment. Keep food safe from animals.

10. Meeting Different Cultures

Try to learn about Arizona’s interesting past and culture when camping. You can go to a place called Homolovi State Park and see old buildings from a group of people called Puebloans.

You can also learn about the Native Americans living there for a long time by visiting museums and heritage sites that tell their stories.

Pro Tip: Engage with locals to learn about their history. Moreover, be respectful when visiting heritage sites.

11. Stargazing

In Arizona, you can see many stars in the sky because it’s not cloudy. Whether in a far-away camping spot or a stargazing site, you’ll be amazed by the Milky Way and all the constellations.

Pro Tip: Bring a telescope or binoculars for a closer look. Check moonrise and moonset times for optimal stargazing.

12. Seeing the Grand Canyon National Park

No camping in Arizona is complete without visiting the famous Grand Canyon. It’s a stunning place with breathtaking views. You can set your camp on backcountry sites or established campgrounds along the South and North Rims.

Every morning, you will wake to panoramic views of the beautiful and peaceful nature. You can also enjoy hiking the rim trails and witness the magic of sunrise and sunset casting dramatic shadows over the canyon walls.

Pro Tip: Book your camping spot early, as they fill up fast. Carry plenty of water during hikes.

13. Sedona’s Red Rock Country

Sedona has stunning red rocks and a peaceful feeling, so camping there is different and special. You can sleep under the stars and see the bright red rocks when you wake up.

Walk on the paths that go through the stunning landscape, and see Cathedral Rock and Bell Rock for breathtaking views.

Pro Tip: Capture the sunrise and sunset for the most dramatic photos—respect trail markers to preserve the environment.

14. Exploring the Saguaro National Park

Go deep into the Sonoran Desert’s beauty at Saguaro National Park. It’s a special place with tall saguaro cacti. You can even camp right near these big cacti.

There’s a road called Cactus Forest Loop Drive that you can drive on to see many cacti. You can also walk on hiking trails and explore the desert’s special ecosystem.

Pro Tip: Watch out for cacti while setting up your tent. Also, bring enough water and sun protection.

15. Time Travel in the Petrified Forest National Park

Travel back in time to Petrified Forest National Park, where you can see old trees that turn into rocks. The landscape has these special rocks all around.

Although you can’t camp inside the park, you can still find cool camping spots nearby. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the stunning Painted Desert.

Pro Tip: Don’t take any petrified wood from the park and stay on designated trails to protect the fragile landscape.

16. Visiting the Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument

If you want to know how the wild desert feels, go to Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument. You can set up camp under the starry sky and be around many types of cacti.

Look up at the stars at night, go for a nice drive on Ajo Mountain Drive, and enjoy the peacefulness of the desert.

Pro Tip: Check for road closures and safety updates before your trip. Embrace the tranquility of the desert.

17. Kicking Rocks at the Chiricahua National Monument

In the southeast part of Arizona, there’s a place called Chiricahua National Monument. It has cool rock formations and many different animals.

You can put up your camping gear at Bonita Canyon Campground, and when you wake up, you’ll see big, tall rock spires all around. Walk on the Echo Canyon Trail, and you’ll find balanced rocks and breathtaking views.

Pro Tip: Carry enough water and wear comfortable shoes for hiking. Moreover, respect wildlife and their habitat.

18. Catch a Breeze in the Mogollon Rim

You can escape the desert heat and go to the Mogollon Rim. It’s a place with lots of pine trees, and it’s cooler there.

You can camp near the edge and see the big Tonto National Forest. Hike the Rim Lakes Vista Trail, and you’ll reach places where you can see beautiful views and calm lakes.

Pro Tip: Prepare for cooler temperatures at night and avoid disturbing wildlife by keeping a safe distance.

19. Waterside Camping

Lake Powell is a great place if you like to camp near water. You can stay in a special boat house or set up your camping stuff on the sandy beaches or cliffs around the lake.

You can have fun boating, fishing, and swimming in the lake, and you’ll see amazing red rocks around you.

Pro Tip: Follow Leave No Trace principles around the lake. Pack out all your trash to keep the environment clean.

20. Exploring the Kartchner Caverns State Park

Go underground at Kartchner Caverns State Park. You can camp above the ground and go inside the caves to see how they’re made. You can explore these caves alone or pay for a guided cave tour.

Pro Tip: Book cave tours in advance, as they have limited spots and respect the fragile cave formations.

21. Immersing in the Beauty of the Havasu Falls

If you want something magical, you can hike to Havasu Falls in a special place called Havasupai Indian Reservation.

You can camp next to the very pretty blue-green waterfall and enjoy the area that feels like a hidden paradise.

The hike might be a bit hard, but when you see the waterfall, you’ll be really happy you did it.

Pro Tip: Make sure to obtain the necessary permits and reservations. Also, bring plenty of water and sturdy hiking shoes for the challenging trail.

Tips for Planning Your Adventure and Staying Safe

Before you start your camping adventure in Arizona, consider the following tips:

• Some camping places need you to book in advance, so plan early.
• See if you need special permission for certain areas or things to do.
• Get ready for changes in temperature, rain, and wind.
• Keep important phone numbers and have a charged phone.
• Ensure your group isn’t too big to minimize environmental impact.
• Learn the special rules for camping in each place.
• Get a strong tent suitable for the weather where you’ll be camping.
• Stay warm at night with a good, quality sleeping bag and a comfortable pad to sleep on.
• Arizona’s weather is hot, so you must bring lots of water. You can use a reusable water bottle and a hydration pack.
• For hot days, bring light clothes that don’t get wet easily. Also, have warm clothes for cold nights.
• Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide hat to keep safe from the strong sun.
• Bring a small stove, pots, and tools to cook your food.
• Have a first aid kit ready for small cuts or sickness.
• Bring a map, a compass, and a GPS device, just in case.
• Drink lots of water so you don’t get dehydrated, especially since Arizona has a dry climate.
• Learn about where you’re going to camp. Know the weather, the animals there, and the rules you need to follow.
• Be kind to nature by taking all your trash and not hurting the environment.
• Stay far from animals and keep your food safe so they don’t come close to you.
• Prepare for weather that can suddenly get hotter or colder, strong winds, and rain.
• Tell a friend or family member where you’re going to camp so they know where and when you’ll be back.

Have Fun!

Arizona has many amazing places you can visit and boost your camping game. From the amazing Grand Canyon to the hidden treasures of Chiricahua National Monument, you have a lot of things to do.

Whether exploring ancient ruins, stargazing, or enjoying the local food, camping in Arizona will give you memories you’ll remember forever.

Exploring and being kind to nature will give you a cool adventure in the American Southwest.