How much does camping cost at Hilltop Campground?

Camping fees at Hilltop Campground are $18 - $36/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Hilltop Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Hilltop Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Hilltop Campground before I book?

Yes! Hilltop Campground has 18 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Hilltop Campground?

Hilltop Campground is open April 23 to September 04. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Hilltop Campground?

Hilltop Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Hilltop Campground?

Fire policies at Hilltop Campground: Fires are permitted only in Forest Service approved steel fire rings.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

Is there cell service at Hilltop Campground?

Cell phone service at Hilltop Campground is generally available. Cell service is available. Coverage may vary by carrier and exact location within the campground.

How many campsites does Hilltop Campground have?

Hilltop Campground has 37 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Hilltop Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Hilltop Campground. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Hilltop Campground?

Hilltop Campground offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

Hilltop Campground (Az)

4.31

551 reviews

344 S. CORTEZ STREET, PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST, BRADSHAW RANGER DISTRICT, Prescott, AZ, USA

BReport Card

Summer Destination

Featured in:Spring Camping Arizona

Quick Facts

5,712 ft

Price

$18 - $36/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

37 campsites

Season

Open from April 1 to...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Bradshaw Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

5,712 ft

Price

$18 - $36/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

37 campsites

Season

Open from April 1 to...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Bradshaw Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

Hilltop Campground (Az)

$18.00 - $36.00 / night

Campsite Fees

STANDARD NONELECTRIC-DOUBLE SITE: $36.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $18.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in...

No campsite fee categories listed.

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

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263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

1 (877) 444-6777www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

344 S. CORTEZ STREET, PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST, BRADSHAW RANGER DISTRICT, Prescott, AZ, USA

Hilltop Campground (Az)

344 S. CORTEZ STREET, PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST, BRADSHAW RANGER DISTRICT, Prescott, AZ, USA

Nearby places

Prescott (10 miles), Prescott Valley, Chino Valley (distances not specified).

Driving directionsFrom Phoenix, Arizona: Traveling Northbound on I-17 take Exit 262 onto Hwy 69 North to Prescott and continue on Hwy 69 for 30 miles to S Walker Rd. Turn left and proceed South on S. Walker Rd. (by Costco, Petsmart, and AM/PM gas station). Drive about 3.8 miles and then turn East (left) into Hilltop Campground. Alternate route from Flagstaff, Arizona: Traveling Southbound on I-17 take Exit 278 onto Westbound Highway 169 and continue for 15 Miles until reaching the junction of Hwy 69, turn right onto Northbound Hwy 69 and continue for 12 miles to S. Walker Rd. Turn left and proceed South on S. Walker Road (by Costco, Petsmart, and AM/PM gas station). Drive about 3.8 miles and then turn East (left) into Hilltop Campground.

Weather at Hilltop Campground (Az)

Current alerts(12)

All guests without a reservation (first-come, first-served) or a second vehicle ($5.00 fee a day single site and $5.00 3rd and 4th vehicles for double sites) must pay with exact change using the self-pay kiosk as soon as campsite is selected.
As you plan your trip, compare the campsite driveway length to your equipment length. Consider equipment length as the linear distance from the front bumper of either an RV or tow vehicle to the rear axle of the RV or towed trailer.
At least one person must occupy a campsite during the first night after camping equipment is set up. Camping equipment may not be left unattended for more than 24 hours.
Don't Move Firewood: Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood near your destination and burning it on-site. For more information visit dontmovefirewood.org

Best Time to Camp at Hilltop Campground (Az)

Best season: fall. Fall delivers the nicest combination of cool, stable weather and peak scenery — daytime highs are typically in the 60s–70s°F with crisp nights in the 30s–40s°F — ideal for long hikes, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing around Thumb Butte and Lynx Lake. Autumn colors and the red manzanita contrast beautifully with the golden ponderosa needles, and crowds thin after the summer peak so trails and lakes feel more peaceful. Fire danger is usually lower than late summer, but check local alerts and, Peak months: October, September, May, April Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Described as 'best season' with cool stable weather and peak scenery.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: April 23 to September 04. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open from April 1 to October 31 annually, with reservations available starting June 21.

About Hilltop Campground (Az)

Hilltop Campground sits in the ponderosa pine forest of Prescott National Forest, operated by the Bradshaw Ranger District. The mid-sized campground offers tent and RV sites with vault toilets, potable water, and fire rings, serving as a base for hiking Thumb Butte, fishing and boating at nearby Lynx Lake, and mountain biking forest trails. Reviewers praise the spacious sites, starry skies, and helpful hosts, though some note occasional camp host generator noise and vault toilet cleanliness issues.

Hilltop Campground caters to a variety of camping styles, including tent camping, RV camping, and double/group sites. Primitive/dispersed camping is not explicitly mentioned as available on-site.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall delivers the nicest combination of cool, stable weather and peak scenery — daytime highs are typically in the 60s–70s°F with crisp nights in the 30s–40s°F — ideal for long hikes, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing around Thumb Butte and Lynx Lake. Autumn colors and the red manzanita contrast beautifully with the golden ponderosa needles, and crowds thin after the summer peak so trails and lakes feel more peaceful. Fire danger is usually lower than late summer, but check local alerts and, Peak months: October, September, May, April Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation5712 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryTall ponderosa pines dominate the canopy, with gnarled oak and red-barked manzanita filling the understory. The forest floor is carpeted with native grasses and aromatic shrubs. The campground sits where ancient granite meets volcanic soils, creating the mix of vegetation you see throughout the loops. Lynx Lake is a short drive away, and Thumb Butte's spire rises to the west. Views through the trees open up to stars at night, especially from sites in the upper loops.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodges or indoor accommodations were mentioned for Hilltop Campground.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are mentioned.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

14 nights during a visit, maximum 14 nights total within rolling 30 days.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Single sites allow up to 5 people
double sites allow up to 10 people.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov or by calling 1 (877) 444-6777.

AccessibilityUniversally accessible campsites are available, with paved driveway surfaces and accessible vault restrooms.

Site SizeCampsites vary, including standard single sites and double sites. Double sites (e.g., #33) can accommodate up to 10 people and two camp units. Some sites (e.g., #15, #24) are described as spacious and well-separated.

PrivacyMany campsites are praised for being "spacious" and "secluded," with trees offering privacy. However, some sites are closer together.

Total Campsites37 campsites

Recommended SitesSites 15, 25, and 27 are highly recommended for their privacy and scenic views. Avoid sites 33 and parallel parking spots for RVs due to lack of shade and challenging leveling.

Best CampsitesSite 15 gets mentioned for privacy and good views. Double site 33 can fit up to 10 people and two camp units. Sites 15 and 24 are spacious and well-separated from neighbors. Loop B is quieter and better for tent camping, according to multiple reviews.

Need help booking Hilltop Campground (Az)?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

There are no RV hook-ups or dump station.

Potable water

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Things to do at Hilltop Campground (Az)

Hilltop Campground provides opportunities for a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, bird-watching, and mountain biking. Trails connect to the Prescott Basin and Lynx Lake.

Hiking4.0/5

Several trails from the campsite; access to Thumb Butte and Prescott Basin.

Fishing4.0/5

Lynx Lake ~1/4 mile; lake known for trout and fishing opportunities.

Biking4.0/5Top 9% in Arizona

Boating4.0/5

Lynx Lake offers non-motorized boating (kayak/canoe) within walking distance.

Wildlife viewing4.0/5

Frequent sightings: bald eagles, deer, skunks, raccoons; bird-watching noted.

Water Sports4.0/5

Lynx Lake supports non-motorized boating including kayaking; lake is walkable from site.

Signature experiences

Photography4.0/5Stars, forest textures, wildlife and nearby lake offer varied photo subjects.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Flush ToiletsNo flush toilets are available; the campground uses vault-style toilets.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.3

551 reviews

Recommended

Hilltop Campground (Az) is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

Hilltop Campground is highly praised for its clean facilities, peaceful atmosphere, and proximity to recreational activities like hiking and fishing. The camp hosts are often described as friendly and helpful, although some complaints about loud generators and insufficient bathroom cleaning were noted.

Review Summaries

Based on 551 reviews

What Campers Love

Users frequently appreciate the "clean and spacious campsites," the "great views of the forest and stars at night," and the "proximity to Lynx Lake." Hosts are described as "friendly and helpful."

Based on 551 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include loud and disruptive generators, especially in Loop C, insufficient bathroom cleaning during busy weekends, and occasional issues with site leveling.

Based on 551 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #15 is praised as "one of the best spots to get," while Site #33 has been described as "plenty big enough for 2 large tents and 4 hammocks." Site #24 was noted as "fantastic" and offering...

Based on 551 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Many users recommend bringing earplugs due to occasional noise issues. Sites in Loop B are often suggested for better privacy and quieter stays. Several users advise checking site descriptions...

Based on 551 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and fall are particularly praised for cool weather and high usability. Summer months bring more visitors, and bathrooms may require more frequent maintenance during this period. Winter camping...

Based on 551 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Loved the eagles except when they were circling my little dog," "We will definitely camp here again," "Bathrooms were exceptionally clean for vaulted toilets," and "Hosts were helpful and friendly."

Based on 551 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible campsites are available, with paved driveways and vault restrooms. Some users noted challenges with stairs in certain sites.

Based on 551 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are welcome but must be leashed (6 feet or less). Some users mentioned concerns about wildlife interactions with pets, such as eagles and skunks.

Based on 551 reviews

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Hilltop Campground (Az)

$18.00 - $36.00 / night

Campsite Fees

STANDARD NONELECTRIC-DOUBLE SITE: $36.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $18.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in...

No campsite fee categories listed.

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

1 (877) 444-6777www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott

Go if

You want a forested base camp near Lynx Lake with hiking, biking, and climbing access in cooler months.

Skip if

You need quiet guarantees or pristine vault toilets during busy weekends.

Nearby Campgrounds

Less Visited

4.7

(81)

Eagle Ridge Group Campground

PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST, BRADSHAW RANGER DISTRCIT, 344 S. CORTEZ ST., Prescott, AZ, 86303-4398, USA

Eagle Ridge Group Campground sits in the mid-elevation ponderosa forest of Prescott National Forest, minutes from Lynx Lake. Operated by the Bradshaw Ranger District, this small group-focused campground serves as a base for hiking, mountain biking, and lake access during the warm-weather months. Reviewers praise the spacious sites and proximity to trails, though vault toilet maintenance and limited parking can be issues.

Hilltop Campground (Az)

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

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Best Time to Camp at Hilltop Campground (Az)

Planning Tips

About Hilltop Campground (Az)

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Amenities available

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Best Time to Camp at Hilltop Campground (Az)

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Need help booking Hilltop Campground (Az)?

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Things to do at Hilltop Campground (Az)

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews