Swimming Campgrounds in Arizona

Swimming Campgrounds in Arizona

Discover the best swimming campgrounds across Arizona. Beat the heat at campgrounds with pristine swimming spots. Lakes, rivers, beaches, and swimming holes just steps from your campsite.

17+ Campgrounds4.5★ AverageBest: Summer (June-September)

Swimming Campgrounds in Other States


Featured Campgrounds

Handpicked destinations that define the region


About Swimming Campgrounds in Arizona

Swimming camping Arizona offers an extraordinary blend of desert oases, mountain lakes, and refreshing rivers that transform the state's arid landscape into a water lover's paradise. From the pine-forested shores of northern Arizona's high country to the dramatic desert reservoirs along the Colorado River, Arizona's swimming campgrounds provide essential relief from the desert heat while offering world-class camping experiences.

Best Time

The best time for swimming camping in Arizona splits dramatically by elevation and geography. High country destinations like Rock Crossing and Redhead Campground shine from late May through September when mountain lakes warm to comfortable swimming temperatures (65-75°F) and pine forests provide cooling shade during hot afternoons.

Activity Highlights

  • Lake and river swimming access
  • Natural swimming holes
  • Beach and waterfront sites
  • Family-friendly swimming areas


Campground Locations

Showing top 14 campgrounds near Swimming Campgrounds in Arizona

Map Key
1
Rock Crossing Campground (Az)
2
Redhead Campground
3
T.K. Jones Campground At Xanyō Xamshré
4
Mesquite (Az)
5
Christopher Creek
6
Burnt Corral Campground
7
Chavez Crossing
8
T.K. Jones Campground And Boat Launch
9
Overflow Campground
10
Crescent Moon Ranch Cabin
11
Lakeview Campground
12
Frazier Group Campground
13
Main Campground
14
Childs Dispersed Camping Area

Plan Your Trips

Popular Activities

Swimming in mountain lakes and desert reservoirsCliff jumping at designated areasBeach lounging and sunbathingKayaking and paddleboardingFishing from shore and boatsBoating and water skiing

Tips & Recommendations

  • 1Reserve lakeside and beach-access sites 6 months in advance for summer weekends at popular destinations like Rock Crossing and Main Campground—these premium spots book within hours of becoming available.
  • 2Bring reef shoes or water sandals for rocky lake entries, especially at mountain reservoirs where sharp rocks and zebra mussels can cut bare feet.
  • 3Pack extra shade structures for desert lake camping, as natural shade is limited and afternoon sun can be brutal even near water.
  • 4Life jackets are essential for children and recommended for all swimmers, particularly at deeper lake campgrounds where drop-offs can be sudden.
14 campgrounds ranked
Based on real camper reviews
Curated for Swimming Campgrounds in Arizona

Swimming Campgrounds in Arizona FAQ

We've ranked 17+ swimming campgrounds in Arizona based on water access, swimming areas, safety, and user reviews. Top options include campgrounds on lakes, rivers, and beaches with designated swimming areas.

Swimming safety varies by location. Many campgrounds have designated swimming areas with lifeguards during peak season. Always check for posted warnings, water conditions, and currents before swimming. Never swim alone.

Summer (June-September) is the best time for swimming camping in Arizona. Water temperatures are warmest and swimming areas are typically staffed. Some mountain lakes may be too cold for swimming even in summer.

Availability Alerts

Popular Arizona Campgrounds Book Fast

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

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Rock Crossing Campground (Az)
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