Camping in Sedona is a unique experience because of the red rocks and breathtaking surroundings, but it’s essential to prepare ahead to discover what you’re looking for and reserve a space. Three Forest Service campgrounds in Arizona are located along Oak Creek Canyon, there are a few RV parks in or around Sedona, and there are scattered campsites in predetermined areas just outside the city.
Both tent-only campsites and RV-only campgrounds are available at the Oak Creek campgrounds. In addition to Slide Rock State Park, this region is home to a number of noteworthy walks. In order to reserve a campsite at a Forest Service campground, you must do so at least three days before your arrival and up to six months in advance on a rolling date basis.
There are no amenities included with dispersed camping, so you must be completely independent. See our ranking of the top campgrounds in Sedona, Arizona for a detailed look at what is offered.
#1. Cave Springs
The large Cave Springs Campground, next to Oak Creek Canyon, has 84 campsites and is one of the best campgrounds in Sedona. It is calmer and more likely to have a spot than the smaller campgrounds up the road. As a matter of fact, it includes space for trailers and RVs up to 36 feet long and is available from early April to the end of October. It has little-operated showers but only vault toilets, and radios and other noisy equipment are not allowed. Sites are first-come, first-served at the beginning of April for a few weeks; after that, they can be reserved on a six-month rolling basis until the end of October.
#2. Pine Flat Campground
Among all the campgrounds in Oak Creek Canyon, Pine Flat Camping has the most picturesque views. Tents and RVs are welcome at the 59 available sites. The position next to Highway 89A, where traffic noise is undoubtedly an issue, is a downside. There is a natural spring with a tap at one end of the campsite where campers can get their water. The token-operated showers at Cave Springs are open to campers staying at Pine Flat.
The driving time might change based on traffic because this is the furthest place from Sedona. Up to the end of October, all sites are bookable on a six-month rolling basis.
#3. Manzanita Campground
In Oak Creek Canyon, next to Highway 89A, is a tiny campsite called Manzanita. It is always open and exclusively accepts tents. The river that runs behind contributes to the tranquil ambiance while tall deciduous trees give shade. The maximum stay is seven days, and there are 19 sites available, each of which can house up to eight people. Furthermore, the sites are available for reservations one year in advance in the middle of July every year, with a seven-day limit. A weekend reservation necessitates two nights (three nights for long weekends).
#4. Rancho Sedona RV Park
A campsite for RVs exclusively, Rancho Sedona RV Park is situated just beneath Uptown Sedona. One can reach uptown Sedona on foot in 20 minutes, while Tlaquepaque Arts can as well reach Crafts Village in 10 or less. Red rock scenery, cottonwood trees, Oak Creek, and other attractions surround it. There is permission for Dogs. The majority make of the sites are of gravel, while some can have grassy portions. This building resembles a botanical garden in the spring when the trees leaf out. Finally, keep in mind that propane-fueled campfires of any type are not allowed.
#5. Verde Valley RV Resort and Campground
A 30- to 35-minute drive between Cottonwood and Sedona, the 300-acre Verde Valley RV Park is located on the banks of the Verde River. Meanwhile, it has numerous trees that offer shade, roomy sites with full hookups, bathrooms with flushing toilets and showers, an outdoor pool, a mini golf course, a jacuzzi, horseshoe pits, an entertainment area with a pool table and ping pong tables, and a dog park.
The easiest mountain biking routes in Sedona are also more accessible by this. The resort also offers villas you can rent if you’d prefer not to go camping. This campsite has just undergone considerable refurbishment.
#6. Dispersed Camping Around Sedona
West of Sedona, in the region off Highway 89A, there are areas of the Coconino National Forest where camping is permitted practically everywhere. Off FS525, which is also the road leading to the Palatki ruins, is the primary location for sporadic camping. The Schnebly Road’s camping area east of Sedona is rough and steep, making it unsuitable for any kind of trailer. Although it is far from town and not too handy to the main attractions, camping is still an option south of Sedona.
#7. Chevez Crossing Group Campsite, Sedona
If you’ve planned a large gathering and want to set up camp close to Sedona, think about using the Chavez Crossing Group Campsite. This campground features a rural/creekside atmosphere and is located in the Coconino National Forest as well. Also, this campground accommodates modest RVs and trailers, and Sedona is nearby. Here, the surrounding comprises a forest of sycamore as well as cypress trees, and there are access roads that will take you there.
The three different group venues can be on reserve individually or collectively for extremely big groups. Additionally, vault toilets are available at this campground, which is open all year.
Read Also: BEST PLACES TO STAY IN SEDONA: Top Places in Sedona
#8. Camp Avalon
One of the best Sedona campgrounds in Arizona is this. Make a reservation at Camp Avalon if you want to camp in Sedona and experience the healing and spiritual aspects of the area. Besides, this is a holy location for your individual journey and a natural retreat on Oak Creek. It also provides prayer, meditation, seminars, yoga, tai chi, ceremonies, festivals, and youth programs in addition to camping.
Families, individuals, and organizations are all welcome to camp here in tents or campers. RVs need to be no longer than 30 feet, and all RV stays are considered “dry camping” without connections. Although there aren’t any showers here, you can use the porta toilets.
#9. Distant Drums RV Resort, Camp Verde
The Distant Drums RV Park in adjacent Camp Verde is located just a little bit outside of Sedona. As a matter of fact, this exclusive campsite has a heated swimming pool, jacuzzi, enclosed dog park, full hookup 30/50 amp sites, and complimentary shuttle service to Cliff Castle Casino. There are also private showers, a fitness center, a country shop on-site, a free escort to your location, and a library. Finally, this campground accepts phone bookings and is conveniently close to I-17.
#10. Lo Lo Mai Springs Outdoor Resort, Cornville
The Lo Lo Mai Springs Outdoor Resort, which is near Sedona, offers RV, tent, and cottage rentals. It is one of the best Sedona campgrounds in Arizona. There are shades in RV parking spaces there and near a creek and cottonwood trees. The sites can accommodate RVs up to 40 feet long and trailers and fifth wheels up to 36 feet long.
There are tent camping spaces and both large and small cottages with heating, air conditioning, and kitchens here along a 3/4-mile stretch of Oak Creek. Furthermore, the amenities at this campground include a laundry room, a pool, a spa, a clubhouse, a convenience store, and showers and restrooms.
How to Reserve Camping Sites in Sedona?
Visit Recreation.gov online or dial 1-877-444-6777 (International 518-885-3639, TDD 877-833-6777). For information on cancellations, refunds, and other specifics, visit Recreation.gov’s Camping and Day Use Reservation Rules.
Is it Legal to Sleep in Your Car in Sedona?
Pickles said standard parking laws apply but it is not prohibited when individuals leave their cars parked at Posse Grounds Park and sleep inside them.