
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.
Swimming Campgrounds in Other States
Featured Campgrounds
Handpicked destinations that define the region

Coconino National Forest Recreation
The nearby C.C. Cragin Reservoir draws swimmers to its cool, clear mountain waters, with adventurous cliff jumping spots that thrill older kids and adults alike. At 7,316 feet elevation, the refreshing alpine lake provides relief from Arizona heat while surrounded by towering ponderosa pines.

Fool Hollow Lake
Campers enjoy direct access to Fool Hollow Lake's sandy beach and designated swim area, where clear mountain waters stay refreshingly cool even during Arizona summers.

Crystal-clear backwaters create two protected swimming zones where kids splash safely within buoyed boundaries while parents relax on sandy shorelines. Desert river currents stay gentle in these alcoves, offering a refreshing alternative to crowded reservoir beaches with convenient boat...
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
Plan Your Trips
Popular Activities
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.
Swimming Campgrounds in Arizona FAQ
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.
Outdoorithm
Just now
🎉 Site opened up!
Rock Crossing Campground (Az)
Your preferred dates
Quick! This site typically books within hours.

Find Your Perfect Arizona Campground
Create your free account to save favorites, set availability alerts, and get personalized recommendations.
- Search 17+ swimming 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.




