Beach Camping in Arizona

Beach Camping in Arizona

Discover the best beach camping across Arizona. Camp where the land meets the water. Ocean breezes, sandy shores, and stunning sunsets await.

20+ Campgrounds4.7★ AverageBest: May - September
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Featured Campgrounds

Handpicked destinations that define the region

1
Mallard Campground
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Star
4.7
(230)
Mallard Campground
Fool Hollow Lake

Pine-shaded campsites sit steps from Fool Hollow Lake's shoreline, where calm waters invite swimming, fishing, and kayaking beneath the White Mountains' stunning backdrop.

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RVs
2
Redhead Campground
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Star
4.7
(126)
Redhead Campground
Show Low, AZ
Fool Hollow Lake

Sites nestle beneath towering ponderosa pines with direct access to Fool Hollow Lake's shoreline, where you can launch kayaks steps from your morning campfire.

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RVs
3
Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area Campground
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Star
4.7
(126)
Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area Campground
Show Low
Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest

Ponderosa pines frame a 150-acre mountain lake where anglers cast lines from sandy shores and boaters explore calm waters beneath cloud-swept skies. Canada geese glide past waterfront campsites while deer emerge at dusk to drink at the lake's edge, creating an intimate wildlife theater...

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RVs

About Beach Camping in Arizona

Beach camping Arizona offers a surprising desert oasis experience where mountain lakes and reservoirs create pristine waterfront camping opportunities across the state's diverse elevations. While Arizona may be known for its arid landscapes, the White Mountains, Coconino Plateau, and scattered desert lakes provide exceptional lakeside camping with sandy shores, clear waters, and comprehensive beach recreation.

Best Time

The best time for beach camping in Arizona depends heavily on elevation and geographic location, creating year-round opportunities across the state. White Mountains and Coconino Plateau lakes like Fool Hollow, Big Lake, and the Lake Mary complex shine from late May through September when high-elevation temperatures range from 70-85°F during the day, perfect for swimming, boating, and beach activities.

Scenery Highlights

  • Oceanfront and lakeside sites
  • Sandy beaches and swimming
  • Stunning sunrise and sunset views
  • Water sports and fishing

Campground Locations

Showing top 20 campgrounds near Beach Camping in Arizona

Map of campgrounds near Beach Camping in Arizona
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Map Key
1
Mallard Campground
2
Redhead Campground
3
Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area Campground
4
Pinegrove
5
Rainbow (Az)
6
C Campground
7
Grayling
8
Rock Crossing Campground (Az)
9
Christopher Creek
10
Bald Eagle Campground
11
Eagle Ridge Group Campground
12
Red-Tailed Hawk Campground
13
Moqui Group Campground
14
Elks Group Campground
15
Showers Point Group Site
16
Bonito Campground (Az)
17
Lewis Canyon
18
Long Valley Group Campground
19
Sunset View Campground
20
Sunny Flat Campground
View all 20 campgrounds on interactive map

Plan Your Trips

Popular Activities

Swimming and beach recreation at sandy lakeshoresFishing for trout, bass, and catfish from shore or boatKayaking and canoeing in calm morning watersMotorized boating and water skiing on larger lakesWildlife viewing including elk, deer, and waterfowlHiking lakeside trails and interpretive nature walks

Tips & Recommendations

  • 1Reserve lakeside sites well in advance through Recreation.gov for popular White Mountains and Coconino Plateau campgrounds, as waterfront spots at Fool Hollow Lake and Lake Mary fill quickly during summer months.
  • 2Bring sun protection essentials including high-SPF sunscreen, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-protective clothing, as Arizona's high elevation and intense sunshine create rapid sunburn conditions even on cooler days.
  • 3Pack layered clothing for mountain lake camping where temperatures can drop 30-40 degrees from afternoon to evening, especially at 8,000+ foot elevations around Big Lake and Rainbow Campground.
  • 4Arizona requires fishing licenses for anyone 10 years and older, available online or at local sporting goods stores, with special regulations for certain lakes regarding bag limits and allowed tackle.
20 campgrounds ranked
Based on real camper reviews
Curated for Beach Camping in Arizona

Beach Camping in Arizona FAQ

We've ranked 20+ beach campgrounds in Arizona based on water access, amenities, and user reviews. Top options include oceanfront and lakeside sites with sandy beaches and swimming access.
Beach camping in Arizona is generally best from May through September when water temperatures are warmest. Shoulder seasons offer fewer crowds and milder weather.
For beach camping in Arizona, bring sun protection, beach chairs, water toys, and sand-friendly gear. Wind stakes for your tent are essential, and consider a shade structure for daytime comfort.
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