We research, evaluate and select travel destinations based on a number of factors, including our writers’ experience, user reviews and more. We may earn a commission when you book or purchase through our links. See our editorial policy to learn more.
When it comes to outdoor activities, Sedona is easily one of the most diverse places in the Southwest.
With everything from epic mountain biking to exploring art galleries, it can accommodate the interests of all members of your group. Plus, with verdant trees rising out of the deep red rocks, it’s easy on the eyes too.
Best Camping Spots in Sedona
Though Sedona is often known for swanky hotels and upscale Airbnbs, its essence is about returning to nature. Whether you come for a weekend or stay for the week, Sedona and the surrounding area boast some great camping opportunities. If you decide to explore more around Arizona make sure to check also these camp sites.
Related Read: 9 Rad Camping Spots Near Saguaro National Park, Arizona
1. Manzanita Campground
Why you should camp here: A beautiful, creekside campground in Oak Creek Canyon.
- Reservations accepted: Yes
- Best season: Spring through fall, but open in winter
- Campsite Type: Tent only
- RV Hookups: No
Just six miles north of downtown Sedona, Manzanita Campground is a fantastic spot to base out of during your stay. Located right on Oak Creek, you’ll get to enjoy waterside camping, fishing holes, and excellent birding opportunities.
On top of that, you are right across the highway from the Sterling Pass Trail and a stone’s throw from Slide Rock State Park, making this an excellent spot to camp with the family.
The one thing to keep in mind is that only tents and small sleep-in vehicles, such as vans or truck campers, are allowed as the campground is too small to accommodate trailers or RVs. Seven of the campsites are first-come first-serve, while the rest are available by advance reservation.
Related Read: 7 Spectacular Places to See Arizona’s Fall Colors
2. Cave Springs Campground
Why you should camp here: A popular and large Oak Creek Canyon campground that accommodates larger campers.
- Reservations accepted: Yes
- Best season: Spring through fall
- Campsite Type: RV, Trailer, Tents
- RV hookups: No
The Cave Springs Campground is popular and for a good reason. Only 11.5 miles north of town, this campground is in easy reach of everything Sedona has to offer.
Plus, unlike the Manzanita Campground, it accommodates much larger camping options such as RVs and trailers up to 36-feet. On top of that, there are coin-operated showers on the premises.
Caves Springs Campground is right across the highway from the Harding Spring Trail, which makes a great little hike in the afternoon. Set on Oak Creek, there are great opportunities to get out and enjoy the campground and the swimming and fishing opportunities right at home. This campground is popular, so be sure to make reservations ahead of your trip.
Related Read: The 7 Best Caves in Arizona for Subterranean Exploration
3. Rancho Sedona RV Park
Why you should camp here: An easy and convenient stay, right in town along the creek.
- Reservations accepted: Yes
- Best season: Year-round
- Campsite Type: RV, Trailer, No Tents
- RV hookups: Yes
If you want some luxury and want to be right in town, the Rancho Sedona RV Park is the place to be. With both full and partial hookups, including WIFI, this spot is quite homey.
Set right on Oak Creek, but just a hop over to the main drag. From here, you have easy access to some of the best hiking and mountain biking that Sedona has to offer. Plus, you could practically walk to dinner in the evening. If you are looking for a bit more of an experience, book a jeep tour or head out golfing for a day.
If you want to explore the area by air, you actually have options! Grab a helicopter tour or book a hot air balloon ride to witness this stunning red rock landscape from a birdseye view. If you need a bit of relaxation, there are numerous spas in town that will treat you to a soothing treatment.
Related Read: Red Rock Hiking: 16 of the Best Sedona Hikes
4. Chavez Crossing Group Campground
Why you should camp here: Perfect for larger group events and convenient for all the adventures.
- Reservations accepted: Yes
- Best season: Year-round
- Campsite Type: RV, Trailer, Tents
- RV hookups: No
If you’re looking for a remote ambiance but want to be close to town, Chavez Crossing is a lovely spot. Tucked in between golf courses and large homes south of the heart of downtown, it’s a quiet area that is great for those looking to accommodate 10+ people.
The campground is split into three sites: Sycamore Group Site (10-30 people), Ponderosa Group Site (10-30 people), and Cypress Group Site (10-50 people). Or you can reserve all three sites together, accommodating up to 110 people!
This spot is in a prime location along Oak Creek — with a fantastic swimming hole — plus to access some of the local trails. Check out the Raven Caves Trail nearby, or make the short drive to the Broken Arrow Trail or Cathedral Rock Trail.
5. Dead Horse Ranch State Park
Why you should camp here: A huge campground with reservable sites, cabins, and its own set of trails
- Reservations accepted: Yes
- Best season: Year-round
- Campsite Type: RV, Trailer, Tents, Cabins
- RV hookups: Yes
A bit south of Sedona in the town of Cottonwood is the family-friendly Dead Horse Ranch State Park. With hundreds of sites available, including several ADA-accessible sites, this is a great place to post up for your week in the southwest.
If you’d rather not rough it in a tent, the campground has several cabins for rent. The rentals are small, single-room units but can accommodate four people and are heated for those cooler nights!
With over 20 miles of shared-use (non-motorized) trails in the park, you will have plenty to explore right outside your campsite. Of course, if you are looking to head up into Sedona, it’s only 20 miles down the road. The ancient pueblos at Tuzigoot National Monument are also close by.
6. Verde Valley RV Camping Resort
Why you should camp here: A large resort with all the necessary amenities and more.
- Reservations accepted: Yes
- Best season: Year-round
- Campsite Type: RV, Trailer, Tents, Cabins
- RV hookups: Yes
A little south of Cottonwood is the Verde Valley RV and Camping Resort set on the gorgeous Verde River. Tucked down away from the road, this 200-acre property is well-designed to keep you comfortable after a long day of exploring the desert.
With hot tubs, a swimming pool, and shower facilities, you have everything you need to unwind after a long day out. Of course, if you’d rather stay local, check out the Alcantara Vineyards and Winery, a sustainably run vineyard next door to the resort.
This is an excellent spot for the whole family with game rooms, outdoor games like horseshoes and mini-golf, biking and hiking trails, and even a playground. If you don’t have your own setup, you can also book one of the onsite cabins that sleep up to six people.
Related Read: 15 Best Things to Do in Prescott, Arizona
7. Camp Avalon
Why you should camp here: A spiritual nature retreat in the heart of red rocks.
- Reservations accepted: Yes
- Best season: Year-round
- Campsite Type: Small RV and Trailer (less than 30 feet), Tents, Vans
- RV hookups: No
Sedona is known for its spiritual experiences and healing vortices. If you’re looking for a non-denominational spiritual experience, Camp Avalon can help guide your journey as it welcomes all individuals, families, or groups to come and enjoy their property and find growth.
One thing to note is that all guests are required to dry camp, and there are no showers on the premises; however, a new facility is currently under construction and will be available soon! The camp doesn’t designate how you experience the space but offers opportunities to worship, meditate, practice yoga, sacred ceremonies, and workshop and study opportunities. A donation of $35 per night you camp is suggested.
Related Read: The 12 Best Camping Spots Near Flagstaff, Arizona
8. Oak Creek Mobilodge
Why you should camp here: A homey experience right in the heart of Sedona.
- Reservations accepted: Yes
- Best season: Year-round
- Campsite Type: RV
- RV hookups: Yes
- Cost: $55/night
Part RV park, part permanent residents, the Oak Creek Mobilodge is set up to make you feel like you’re at home. With abundant shade trees and set right on the edge of the creek, this spot stays nice and cool, even in the summer warmth. Cobbled walkways lead you down to the refreshing waters of Oak Creek, where you can spend some afternoons swimming or fishing.
Want to get out and explore? Since you’re right in town, you have easy access to all of the hiking and biking trails, as well as spas, galleries, and restaurants. After a day soaking in the stunning views of the iconic red rocks, head back to your retreat for a bbq and drink by the fireplace.
Related Read: 9 Easy Hikes in Sedona That’ll Take Your Breath Away
9. Pine Flat Campground
Why you should camp here: Creekside camping in one of Arizona’s most scenic canyons.
- Reservations accepted: Yes
- Best season: Spring, summer, fall
- Campsite type: Tents, RVs
- RV hookups: No
We’ve camped at Pine Flat Campground more times than we can count, and for good reason. It’s Oak Creek Canyon’s northernmost campground and the perfect basecamp to explore the area.
Head south for hikes in Sedona before returning back to cooler canyon weather, or take 89A north to some of the best hiking in Flagstaff. If you’re staying around camp, Cookstove Trail is a great way to warm up in the mornings.
The best of Pine Flat’s 56 campsites are creekside, and about a third of the sites can be reserved in advance. If you’re banking on a walk-up site, get there on a weekday if possible. The campground’s season is April to October, and while you’re there, stock up on fresh spring water at the north end of the campground.
10. Dispersed Camping
Why you should camp here: A rugged and self-contained experience away from the bustle of town.
- Reservations accepted: No
- Best season: Year-round
- Campsite Type: RV, Trailer, Tent, Van
- RV hookups: No
If you’re more into keeping yourself contained in your own place and want to rest up somewhere more remote, the various dispersed camping options are a good bet. That said, the dispersed camping areas in Sedona has become quite overrun in recent years, so there’s always a risk the good sites will be taken.
You’ll want to head out mid-week if you hope to get a primo spot away from others! Most of the dispersed options are out back by the bike and hike trails making it an excellent choice for those looking to get out exploring.
A few places to check out for dispersed camping include Loy Butte Road (FR 525), Schnebly Hill Road (FR 153), and the Pumphouse Wash Dispersed Camping Area (FR 237).
Discover More Arizona Adventures
Get epic travel ideas delivered to your inbox with Weekend Wanderer, our newsletter inspiring more than 10,000 readers every week.
