Fall Camping in Arizona

Fall Camping in Arizona

Discover the best fall camping across Arizona. Embrace the magic of autumn camping. Vibrant foliage, crisp air, and campfire nights under the stars.

20+ Campgrounds4.8★ AverageBest: September through November
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Featured Campgrounds

Handpicked destinations that define the region

1
Rainbow (Az)
Star
4.7
(402)
Rainbow (Az)
Springerville
Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest

Nestled at 9,000 feet, this high-altitude retreat transforms into an autumn wonderland where golden aspens shimmer against evergreen forests and crisp mountain air invigorates every hike.

Tents
RVs
2
Rock Crossing Campground (Az)
Star
4.8
(256)
Rock Crossing Campground (Az)
Happy Jack
Coconino National Forest Recreation

The ponderosa pines and ancient oaks blaze with autumn color at 7,316 feet, where crisp mountain air and emptier trails replace summer's heat and crowds.

Tents
RVs
3
Christopher Creek
Star
4.7
(372)
Christopher Creek
PAYSON
Tonto National Forest

Brilliant gold aspens frame this spring-fed creek each autumn, while cooler mountain air and thinning summer crowds transform the Mogollon Rim into a peaceful escape.

Tents
RVs

About Fall Camping in Arizona

Fall camping Arizona offers some of the most spectacular outdoor experiences in the Southwest, as cooler temperatures transform the state's diverse landscapes into ideal camping destinations. From the golden aspens of the White Mountains to the crimson maples along Mogollon Rim, Arizona's autumn season provides relief from summer heat while showcasing nature's vibrant color palette.

Best Time

The prime fall camping season in Arizona runs from mid-September through early November, with peak autumn colors typically appearing between late September and mid-October depending on elevation. High-country destinations like Rainbow and Grayling campgrounds in the White Mountains showcase brilliant aspen gold from late September through early October, while mid-elevation sites along Mogollon Rim display their best colors in mid-October.

Season Highlights

  • Stunning fall foliage
  • Cooler, comfortable temperatures
  • Fewer crowds and quiet sites
  • Perfect campfire weather

Campground Locations

Showing top 20 campgrounds near Fall Camping in Arizona

Map of campgrounds near Fall Camping in Arizona
Explore Interactive Map →
Map Key
1
Rainbow (Az)
2
Rock Crossing Campground (Az)
3
Christopher Creek
4
Grayling
5
Sunny Flat Campground
6
Eagle Ridge Group Campground
7
Mallard Campground
8
Moqui Group Campground
9
Shannon Campground
10
Los Burros Campground
11
Sycamore Campground
12
Red-Tailed Hawk Campground
13
Kp Cienega Campground
14
Upper Twilight Group Site
15
Kendrick Cabin
16
Hannagan Campground
17
Caldwell Cabin
18
Idlewilde Campground
19
Bonito Campground (Az)
20
Lewis Canyon
View all 20 campgrounds on interactive map

Plan Your Trips

Popular Activities

Hiking through fall foliage on mountain trailsTrout fishing in stocked lakes and streamsWildlife viewing including elk, deer, and black bearsPhotography of autumn colors and landscapesMountain biking on forest service roadsBirding in southeastern Arizona sky islands

Tips & Recommendations

  • 1Reserve popular fall camping destinations like Rock Crossing and Christopher Creek at least two months in advance for October weekends, as these prime locations fill quickly during peak color season.
  • 2Bring layered clothing capable of handling temperature swings of 40 degrees or more between day and night, including warm sleeping bags rated to at least 20 degrees Fahrenheit for high-elevation camping.
  • 3Pack extra firewood or purchase it locally, as gathering is often restricted in national forests, and evening campfires become essential as temperatures drop after sunset.
  • 4Check current road conditions and campground status before departure, particularly for high-elevation sites that may close early due to snow, and always carry tire chains if visiting after mid-October.
20 campgrounds ranked
Based on real camper reviews
Curated for Fall Camping in Arizona

Fall Camping in Arizona FAQ

We've ranked 20+ fall campgrounds in Arizona based on foliage, weather, and reviews. Top options feature stunning autumn colors and comfortable temperatures.
Fall foliage in Arizona typically peaks during September through November, though timing varies by elevation and latitude. Check local foliage reports for optimal timing.
Arizona offers excellent fall camping with colorful foliage, mild temperatures, and fewer crowds than summer. Many campgrounds have special fall activities and harvest-season events.
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