Mountain Camping in Arizona
Discover the best mountain camping across Arizona. Rise above it all in mountain campgrounds. Crisp air, towering peaks, and endless alpine adventure.
Featured Campgrounds
Handpicked destinations that define the region
Rock Crossing Campground (Az)
Perched at 7,316 feet within Coconino National Forest, towering ponderosa pines frame sweeping views of Arizona's legendary Mogollon Rim from your campsite.
Rainbow (Az)
Perched at 9,000 feet where ponderosa pines and aspens frame sweeping White Mountains vistas, this high-elevation sanctuary delivers the crisp alpine air and expansive horizons that mountain seekers crave.
Grayling
Perched in Arizona's White Mountains, this campground surrounds you with towering ponderosa pines, Douglas firs, and shimmering aspen groves that frame stunning alpine vistas.
About Mountain Camping in Arizona
Mountain camping Arizona offers some of the Southwest's most dramatic and diverse high-elevation experiences, from the volcanic peaks near Flagstaff to the alpine meadows of the White Mountains. Arizona's mountain campgrounds span elevations from 6,000 to over 9,000 feet, providing cool summer retreats beneath towering ponderosa pines, Douglas firs, and Colorado blue spruce.
Best Time
The prime season for mountain camping in Arizona runs from late May through September, when high-elevation campgrounds are snow-free and accessible. June offers excellent conditions with wildflowers blooming in alpine meadows and streams running high from snowmelt, though some higher campgrounds may not open until mid-June.
Scenery Highlights
- Stunning mountain panoramas
- Cool alpine temperatures
- Alpine lakes and meadows
- World-class hiking trails
Explore Mountain Camping in Arizona
Browse 20 campgrounds on our interactive map. Filter by amenities, price, ratings, and more.
Plan Your Trip
Popular Activities
Tips & Recommendations
- 1Reserve popular mountain campgrounds like Rainbow, Christopher Creek, and Rock Crossing well in advance through Recreation.gov, especially for summer weekends and holidays.
- 2High-elevation camping requires preparation for cold nights even in summer—bring layers, warm sleeping bags rated to at least 30°F, and extra blankets.
- 3Afternoon thunderstorms during monsoon season can be intense, so secure your tent properly and avoid camping under dead trees or in drainage areas.
- 4The thin air at 8,000-9,000 feet affects some visitors, so arrive hydrated and take it easy your first day if coming from lower elevations.
Mountain Camping in Arizona FAQ
We've ranked 20+ mountain campgrounds in Arizona based on elevation, scenery, and access to trails. Top options offer stunning alpine views and cool summer temperatures.
Mountain camping in Arizona requires preparation for cooler temperatures and changing weather. Bring layers, be prepared for afternoon storms, and allow time for altitude acclimation at higher elevations.
Mountain camping season in Arizona typically runs June through September, though lower elevations may be accessible earlier. Snow can linger at higher elevations into July.
Popular Arizona Campgrounds Book Fast
The best mountain camping in Arizona book up quickly. Set up free alerts to catch cancellations.
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Rock Crossing Campground (Az)
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