Sedona’s 7 Must-Visit Camping Sites for an Epic Outdoor Adventure

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From Phoenix to Flagstaff and everywhere in between, the so-called Grand Canyon State is definitely worth visiting, yet one city often stands out above the rest — Sedona, Arizona. If you’re planning a trip here (which you should) and want to get into the thick of it as a nature lover, then campsites are ideal.

Whether you’re looking for tent sites or RV parks with electric hookups, these Sedona camping options are perfect. They’ve got everything you could ever need, from hiking trails to iconic red rock views, not to mention on-site amenities and breathtaking scenery.

If any of that sounds like it’s up your alley, then keep reading. It’s time to dive into the seven best camping sites and campgrounds.

Read next: Want to learn even more about this locale before your trip? Here are some quick, fun facts about Arizona to keep you intrigued.

Can You Camp in Sedona for Free?

If you don’t want to fork out extra cash to pay for a campsite, there are plenty of options in and near Sedona for free camping. In West Sedona, Arizona, you’ll find eight designated dispersed camping areas, summing up to 200 campsites. These sites are entirely free to use for both tenting and RV camping.

Remember that these dispersed camping areas allow up to 14 days of camping and run on a first-come-first-serve basis with no reservations required, so it’s best to plan ahead. Plus, camping outside these areas, not in another official campground, is prohibited.

Some other sites near Sedona include Schnebly Hill, Forest, Loy Butte Roads, and Edge of the World (East Pocket) toward Flagstaff.

7 Top Campsites in Sedona

Whether you want to enjoy classic tent camping along the scenic Oak Creek Canyon or marvel at the droves of ponderosa pines, there is a campground to suit anyone’s needs.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your backpack and camping essentials, and take a look at these seven superb sites.

1. Cave Springs Campground

First up is the Cave Springs Campground, located in the Coconino National Forest in Oak Creek Canyon. It’s one of the most popular campgrounds in the area, and there’s no doubt why.

It houses a total of 84 campsites, only one of which is tent-only, but RVs, campers, and motor homes (up to 36 feet) are all accommodated at a standard rate of $26.

In terms of amenities, you can find anything you need, including fire rings and pits, access to drinking water, grills, picnic tables, toilets, and token-operated showers. Seriously, this is one of the best places to camp in Sedona.

You can also get into a myriad of incredible outdoor activities, including hiking, swimming, fishing, and wildlife watching. It’s also in an ideal spot near local attractions, the most notable being Slide Rock State Park.

However, this campground, and others along Oak Creek, can get very crowded, particularly during summer months, so be sure to make your reservations beforehand. Stays are also limited to seven days.

2. Pine Flat Campground

The beauty of this next spot is in the name, surrounded by luscious droves of pine trees that serve as the perfect spot for birding and taking a hike around the campsites. 

Pine Flat Campground offers 59 camping spots within Coconino National Forest, each costing $26 daily. Don’t miss admiring the forest road drive to get there, as it’s part of the allure of this camp site.

There are no hookups or showers available, but there is plenty to make up for it. Many campsites are situated right along Oak Creek and designated swimming areas, so you can take a refreshing dip on scorching days. Access to the creek means you can catch some wildlife hanging about or even go fishing.

Apart from that, picnic tables, vault toilets, firepits, fresh water, and hiking trails are all available. And don’t feel too bad about being disconnected from the outside world, as this campsite has good cell service.

Of the camp sites mentioned here, this one is the closest to the Pumphouse Wash trail. Make sure you don’t miss it.

3. Manzanita Campground

Contrary to the first two locations, Manzanita Campground is a much smaller campground with only four available tent-only sites, charged at $26. But what it lacks in size, it makes up for with its incredible scenery and charm. It’s located just a short drive away from Slide Rock State Park in Oak Creek Canyon.

Because it’s so small, it can’t accommodate anything more than a small car, so it’s best to look elsewhere if you have an RV or motorhome.

That said, nothing quite beats a calming retreat alongside the creek where you can try your hand at fishing, swimming, or hiking — you name it. This is the perfect place to feel like you’re secluded and fully in nature.

Manzanita Campground offers access to fire pits, picnic tables, and pit toilets. It’s also pet-friendly if you want to bring your fluffy friends along. Keep in mind that the site can be occupied for a maximum of seven days, and a confirmation letter is required before you enter.

4. Chavez Crossing Group Campground 

Chavez Crossing Group Campground is an ideal spot for larger groups of campers, having three group grounds that house 110 people. This is a stunning spot, with some of Sedona’s best attractions, including Bell Rock and Cathedral Rock, located nearby.

Apart from the gorgeous views of the red rock landscapes surrounding it, this campsite is great for photography, fishing, and hiking. While none of the trails are on the site, they’re only a short drive away. The same goes for swimming spots.

You can expect the usual amenities, like campfire rings, grills, tables, and water spigots. There aren’t any bathroom facilities, though, apart from a pit toilet, so keep that in mind if it’s a deal breaker.

Remember that this campground, like most others, is reservation only, so you’ll need to book beforehand. Prices per night are either $95 or $120, depending on the time of year.

5. Rancho Sedona RV Park

This next spot is an RV camper’s paradise and definitely worth checking out if you want to stay in the middle of Sedona town. It’s a pretty large RV site (with spacious sites) that is open all year round and can accommodate rigs up to 45 feet.

When you want to explore a little more of the regular modern life, there are art galleries, restaurants, and stores just a short walk away.

Rancho Sedona RV Park truly has everything you could ever need, from full hookups to recreational areas that accommodate all sorts of activities. If you like hiking, fishing, volleyball, horseshoe throwing, or tetherball, this place has it all.

If that wasn’t enough, each site is very spacious and has access to laundry facilities, fully operational restrooms with hot showers, electricity, and even good and reliable Wi-Fi.

Bookings can be made nightly (between $56 and $124), weekly ($424 and $544), or on a monthly basis ($850). These rates exclude electricity charges and taxes. Dogs and extra family members cost an extra charge per night.

6. Camp Avalon Spiritual Nature Retreat

Ready to embrace the beauty of mother nature and explore deeper spiritual connections? Then perhaps the Camp Avalon Spiritual Nature Retreat is just what you need.

Located at the banks of Oak Creek, this campsite is surrounded by thickets of lush trees and the calming sounds of Oak Creek, which makes it the perfect setting and a great place for relaxation.

The campgrounds accommodate RVs, trailers, and motorhomes up to 20 feet and have additional tent camping options. That said, there aren’t any hookups available for your vehicles, and only limited sites provide electricity, so it’s best to check beforehand for availability.

The location is ideal for day trips to iconic spots like Cathedral Rock (one of the most jaw-dropping red rock formations just south of Sedona), Red Rock State Park with its unmistakable red rock vistas and breathtaking views, or the Honanki Heritage Site, just to name a few.

It’s close enough to popular trailheads for hikes and offers spiritual-related activities to partake in, including yoga and meditation sessions. You’ll also have access to fully functional restrooms with running water and hot showers.

7. Oak Creek Mobilodge

Last on your list of these fabulous camping retreats, you should consider spending a few nights at the Oak Creek Mobilodge. Located only a mile away from the town center, right beside the creek, this RV park offers a tranquil escape like no other, yet still offers easy access from the main road.

Supporting RVs up to 36 feet, the park offers full hookups, laundry facilities, fishing and swimming spots, fire pits, and BBQ areas. That’s not even mentioning the trails for mountain biking and trekking through the scenery. Reservation prices start at $65 per night.

You can take a quick drive to nearby state parks or golf courses. Then, when you feel like enjoying a night on the town, there are plenty of locales nearby to take advantage of, including restaurants, casinos, and theaters. Now, doesn’t that sound inviting?

Also, should you not want to drive, the bus stop is within walking distance. Easy trip to Sedona!

Wrapping Up the 7 Best Campsites in Sedona

If one thing is for sure, it’s that Sedona is a camper’s paradise, offering campgrounds all across the city to suit any of your needs and interests. From stunning red rock views to the soothing sounds of the waters in Oak Creek, there is just so much natural wonder to explore. It’s no surprise why it is a popular choice among adventurous travelers.

As long as you plan your trip well in advance and make the necessary reservations, you’ll be able to avoid the hustle and bustle of the busier camping areas. And now that you know the top campsites to try, you can get started.

Next up: Thinking about your next trip? Why not combine this camping experience with a 4-day road trip from Phenix to Sedona? Or perhaps, you’ve decided on good old San Fran, so why not try camping near San Francisco for your next adventure? And if you’re doing an RV trip, check out the best RV campgrounds in Northern California.