Hiking Campgrounds in Arizona

Hiking Campgrounds in Arizona

Discover the best hiking campgrounds across Arizona. Experience the best of both worlds with camping that puts you right at the heart of incredible hiking opportunities. Direct trail access and stunning mountain vistas.

20+ Campgrounds4.7★ AverageBest: Late Spring through Fall (May-October)

Hiking Campgrounds in Other States


Featured Campgrounds

Handpicked destinations that define the region


About Hiking Campgrounds in Arizona

Hiking camping Arizona offers an unparalleled diversity of landscapes, from the otherworldly rock formations of Chiricahua National Monument to the alpine forests of the Grand Canyon's North Rim. Arizona's elevation range spans from desert canyons to peaks exceeding 10,000 feet, creating distinct hiking ecosystems within a single state.

Best Time

Arizona's hiking season operates on an inverse schedule compared to most western states, with elevation dictating optimal timing. High-country campgrounds like Demotte, Shannon, and Rainbow open from late May through October, offering cool temperatures and wildflower displays peaking in July and August.

Activity Highlights

  • Direct trail access
  • Mountain and forest settings
  • Backpacking base camps
  • Scenic wilderness views


Campground Locations

Showing top 20 campgrounds near Hiking Campgrounds in Arizona

Map Key
1
Bonita Canyon Campground
2
Demotte
3
Shannon Campground
4
Rainbow (Az)
5
Rock Crossing Campground (Az)
6
Sunny Flat Campground
7
Christopher Creek
8
Bonito Campground (Az)
9
Kp Cienega Campground
10
Grayling
11
Los Burros Campground
12
Sycamore Campground
13
Eagle Ridge Group Campground
14
Crook Campground
15
Hannagan Campground
16
Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area Campground
17
Moqui Group Campground
18
Upper Twilight Group Site
19
Lewis Canyon
20
Kendrick Cabin

Plan Your Trips

Popular Activities

Day hiking on maintained trailsMulti-day backpacking expeditionsSummit hiking to mountain peaksCanyon exploration and slot canyon hikingWildlife viewing and birding along trailsPhotography of rock formations and vistas

Tips & Recommendations

  • 1Always carry more water than you think necessary—Arizona's dry climate causes rapid dehydration, and reliable water sources are scarce on most trails.
  • 2Plan for one gallon per person per day, plus extra for cooking and emergencies.
  • 3High-elevation campgrounds require cold-weather gear even in summer, as temperatures can drop below freezing at night.
  • 4A quality four-season sleeping bag rated to 20°F provides comfort at places like Shannon and Rainbow.
20 campgrounds ranked
Based on real camper reviews
Curated for Hiking Campgrounds in Arizona

Hiking Campgrounds in Arizona FAQ

We've ranked 20+ hiking campgrounds in Arizona based on trail access, hiking variety, scenery, and user reviews. Top options are near national forests, state parks, and wilderness areas.

Permit requirements vary by location in Arizona. Many wilderness areas and popular trails require day-use or backcountry permits. Check with the managing agency (National Forest, National Park, or State Park) before your trip.

Late Spring through Fall (May-October) is generally best for hiking camping in Arizona. High-elevation trails may have shorter seasons due to snow. Always check current trail conditions before heading out.

Availability Alerts

Popular Arizona Campgrounds Book Fast

The best hiking campgrounds in Arizona book up quickly, especially during peak season. Set up free alerts to catch cancellations.

Checks every 2 min
SMS, email, push
150,000+ campsites

Outdoorithm

Just now

🎉 Site opened up!

Bonita Canyon Campground
Your preferred dates

Quick! This site typically books within hours.


Outdoorithm

Find Your Perfect Arizona Campground

Create your free account to save favorites, set availability alerts, and get personalized recommendations.

  • Search 20+ hiking campgrounds in Arizona
  • Set alerts for hard-to-book sites
  • Get personalized recommendations for your trip
  • Compare campground amenities
  • Check weather forecasts

No credit card required. Every feature is free to use.