Discover the best lakeside campgrounds in Arizona with fishing

United States
—
Arizona

94% (746 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Arizona

Dog-friendly getaways

Star Hosts in Arizona

98%

(41)

GoldBar Ranch Campground

11 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Wilhoit, AZ

Our campground has been operating for years, This is a NEW listing with the same management! CAMPFIRES ARE RESTRICTED! FIRE BAN IN PLACE FISHING IS CATCH AND RELEASE! BARBLESS HOOKS We do shut fires down if the county restricts them on a county wide basis but currently it’s allowed! Retreat at The Goldbar Ranch is nestled in the heart of the Wild West, offering a one-of-a-kind experience for those seeking adventure, relaxation, and connection. This beautiful campground offers endless opportunities for fun and relaxation. Take a dip in the refreshing water, cast for huge fish in the stocked pond (catch and release, Barbless hooks please!), or enjoy a peaceful evening roasting marshmallows by the campfire with friends and family. If you're feeling more adventurous, take your stand-up paddleboard out for a spin, hike to nearby ruins, or try your hand at panning for gold. For those looking for an extra thrill, you can sign up for horseback rides (coming soon), as well as adventure trails for guests with jeeps and side-by-sides. The stunning natural surroundings provide a perfect backdrop for all your outdoor activities, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all. The entire lake is also available for private parties including; business mixers, retreats, and weddings. The onsite partner vendors offer tables, chairs, and catering to make your event planning as stress-free as possible. Visit to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in nature and sunshine. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, there is something for you at Retreat at The Goldbar Ranch. Book your stay today and create memories that will last a lifetime!

Verde River Vortex

4 sites · Lodging2 acres · Clarkdale, AZ

Learn more about this land: Greetings fellow adventure lovers! Welcome to Verde River Vortex where we have Comfy Cabin Camping with access to tons of outdoor activities just out the back door. The Cabins are nestled around a patch of Bamboo and other high desert vegetation as well as a very rich cultural history with many Ruins and Other Native American Sights in the surrounding areas. The Verde River is one of Arizona's only two Wild and Scenic Rivers, yet it remains relatively undiscovered as a recreational resource is within walking distance and offers endless exploration and water fun in the Spring and Summer Months! The road to reach us is breathtaking in itself with ancient Sinaguan Ruins and strangely beautifully sculpted landscapes along the River drive. Enjoy miles of forests, rivers, lakes, swimming, hiking, mtb, all near by and all while being comfy and cozy for a nights recharge to do it all again after a hot shower or Jacuzzi or our Absolutely AWESOME wood fired Sauna with Cold water dipping pool under the stars. Each Cabin is fully equipt (hot water/appliances/kitchen/bathroom/dishes) as an Adventure base during your stay providing a comfortable, cozy and unique location for couples or small groups/families to enjoy while adventuring and creating memories in the area. We provide various suggestions on local activities for our guests to enjoy as well as helpful tips to get the most out of their stay. TWO CABINS AVAILABLE: Crystal Cabin Loft With Outdoor Jacuzzi - 1-4 ppl Great For Couples Juniper Cabin 1-4+ ppl Better for families or larger groups needing more space. More details on the spaces can be viewed in the individual cabin pictures/description. approx times to various points of interest from VRV: The Grand Canyon - 2.5hrs Cottonwood - 10-20 Sedona - 30-45 min Flagstaff - 1hr Prescott - 1hr Bryce Canyon - 6hrs Zion Nat Park - 5hrs Mexico - 6-7hrs **It should be noted that this is a Rural Area in which case you might hear Farm Animals, Dogs, Critters like Cayotes ! We are located on a Dirt Road, 4x4 is not needed unless we are having very stormy weather** Safe Adventuring to all and feel free to reach out with any questions.

Wits End Ranch

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Yucca, AZ

"Thar's gold in them thar hills" could've been coined right here. There are gold mines and evidence of miners picking quartz etc. all around us. Cairns marked off areas that are still here over a hundred years later. We are the center of the oldest examples of Arizona cattlemen starting herds right here. Round-ups and branding still go on every year. One of the prettiest areas in the state for all kinds of unique boulder and rock formations, flora and fauna. Wonderful hiking and scenic drives.

100%

(56)

Glamping In Navajoland

10 sites · Lodging40 acres · Page , AZ

We are a Native American owned large acreage working sheep ranch and off grid Glamping hotel offering guests a unique stay at our ranch on the Navajo Nation. Shash Diné is an ideal basecamp for Antelope Canyon, Lake Powell, the Colorado River, Zion, Bryce, Monument Valley, and both rims Gran Canyon

100%

(11)

MOUNTAIN DESTINY!

3 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Show Low, AZ

Site#1 has Full Hook Up - Running water, sewage RV Hookup of 30amp and 50amp electricity, for $45. Site#2 and Site#3 are side by side. They have running water and priced at $25. each. These two Sites are better for tents or a small trailer. A personal generator may be used but only during certain hours. These are lovely spots with shade trees, so pretty. There are lots of mature Juniper trees and some Pine trees that provide shade on the property. Often we experience a lovely breeze. We live a mile off of 260 on a rugged dirt road. We keep the Entrance Gate locked for safety and security. We are located on 2 acres and have a garden and a green house where we grow a large variety of vegetables. We only accept trailers and fifth wheels of 21 feet or less on site #2 and #3. There is a Chicken House and a rooster and we have plenty of farm fresh eggs that are available to purchase. 0ur home is tucked away 1 mile off the 260 Hwy. on a rugged dirt road. First you will drive pass the Linden Valley Arena before reaching our property. The Arena was designed for ropers by ropers and is open from May thru September. 10-15 minute drive away is Fool Hollow lake, Show Low City Park, Safeway Grocery Store, Post Office, Library, and a variety of restaurants. Within that distance there is Boating, Fishing, Hiking, Picnic Areas, Large Dog Park, well equipped Playground area, Basketball Courts, Baseball fields, Sand Volley Ball, Tennis Courts, Racquet Ball Court, Horseshoe Pits, Disc Golf, Outdoor Exercise Stations, Walking Trail, Pavilions, Restrooms all the while enjoying the enormous, plentiful Ponderosa Pines. Show Low City Park Aquatic Center has 6 lane 25-yard pool with an adjoining leisure pool featuring zero-depth entry, Spray Fountain, Water Slide, Indoor Spa. Show Low was named by the turn of a Card. A ranch of nearly 100,000 acres jointly owned by Marion Clark and Croydon Cooley a U.S. army scout. According to legend, sometime around 1876, the partners decided that there was not enough room for both of them and one of them should leave. They decided to settle this issue over a game of "Seven Up" (with the winner taking the ranch and the loser leaving.) After the game seemed to have no winner in sight the game reached it's climax when Clark said, "If you can show low, you win." At this point Cooley turned up the deuce of clubs, and declared "Show Low" it is! Show Low is a city in Navajo County, Arizona among the lush green ponderosa pine forestland and along Arizona's Mogollon Rim at an elevation of 6,345 feet. Show Low is now the largest city in the White Mountains of northeastern Arizona. Show Low is also the business hub and marketing center of the area. Our Favorite Breweries: Black Horse Brewery - 6 min + Buffalo Bill's Tavern & Grill - 9 min + Moose Henris Grill Cork and Taps - 20 min, + Pinetop Brewing Company - 26 min Our Favorite Restraunts: Buffalo Bill's - 9 min + Licano's - 11min + Los Corrales, 59 W Deuce of Clubs -12 min + Cafe Pinoli (Italian) - 23 min + Mr. Zeke's- 25 min , Darbi's Cafe - 26 min The Local's Market, Buffalo Bill's Tavern Grill (Local Vendors inside Restraunt Conference Room and Outside outside) April 9th through September 2022 9:00am-Noon Show Low Main Street Market - May 14th through September 2022 located behind Show Low Library Many Local Vendors. Show Low Main Street Market, 9-11th Street and Cooley, Show Low - local vendors May 14th -September 2022 9:00am-1:00pm.

12 top lakeside campgrounds in Arizona with fishing

96%

(138)

Wits End Ranch

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Yucca, AZ

"Thar's gold in them thar hills" could've been coined right here. There are gold mines and evidence of miners picking quartz etc. all around us. Cairns marked off areas that are still here over a hundred years later. We are the center of the oldest examples of Arizona cattlemen starting herds right here. Round-ups and branding still go on every year. One of the prettiest areas in the state for all kinds of unique boulder and rock formations, flora and fauna. Wonderful hiking and scenic drives.

GoldBar Ranch Campground

11 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Wilhoit, AZ

Our campground has been operating for years, This is a NEW listing with the same management! CAMPFIRES ARE RESTRICTED! FIRE BAN IN PLACE FISHING IS CATCH AND RELEASE! BARBLESS HOOKS We do shut fires down if the county restricts them on a county wide basis but currently it’s allowed! Retreat at The Goldbar Ranch is nestled in the heart of the Wild West, offering a one-of-a-kind experience for those seeking adventure, relaxation, and connection. This beautiful campground offers endless opportunities for fun and relaxation. Take a dip in the refreshing water, cast for huge fish in the stocked pond (catch and release, Barbless hooks please!), or enjoy a peaceful evening roasting marshmallows by the campfire with friends and family. If you're feeling more adventurous, take your stand-up paddleboard out for a spin, hike to nearby ruins, or try your hand at panning for gold. For those looking for an extra thrill, you can sign up for horseback rides (coming soon), as well as adventure trails for guests with jeeps and side-by-sides. The stunning natural surroundings provide a perfect backdrop for all your outdoor activities, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all. The entire lake is also available for private parties including; business mixers, retreats, and weddings. The onsite partner vendors offer tables, chairs, and catering to make your event planning as stress-free as possible. Visit to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in nature and sunshine. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, there is something for you at Retreat at The Goldbar Ranch. Book your stay today and create memories that will last a lifetime!

Desert's Edge at Lake Havasu

1 site · RV1 acre · Lake Havasu City, AZ

Located just a few minutes from nearby Lake Havasu City, Desert's Edge is set on a one-acre parcel within the Mohave County community of Crystal Beach. With construction only recently completed, the property has been graded and developed specifically with the RV campsites in mind. There is over 1/2 acre dedicated to the camping area, making Desert's Edge an excellent location for a private group gathering, or just one big campsite all to yourself. Learn more about this land: You're a couple of minutes from the Castle Rock Bay kayak launch and the beautiful backwaters of the Colorado River. You're just a few steps from the Havasu National Wildlife Refuge where you can enjoy hiking and sightseeing amongst the wild burros that call this place home. Guests will have immediate access to the Arizona Peace Trail and surrounding sand dunes for unlimited UTV and off-road fun. Relax in the country setting with horses as your closest neighbors. Wake to the sounds of roosters crowing along with a multitude of desert-dwelling birds. The night skies are perfect for stargazing as you sit beside the campfire. Desert's edge has a primary site reserved for a single RV, plus an adjacent second site that can be reserved when groups of family or friends with two RV's wish to camp side by side and share in the fun!

Desert Glamping

20 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Meadview, AZ

Meadview Arizona was founded in 1826 by Jedediah Smith on his Southwest Expedition in search for Beaver! Staying a small remote and quiet town it can feel like it would have in the Wild West. We obtained our campground from a couple that owned it for 20 years but just weren't able to do to it what they had originally planned.. So it was essentially a blank canvas for us to create!! We are the closest town to the Grand Canyon SKYWALK, which is just 40 minutes from us. Meadview, the town we are located, is the only place to obtain Free Entree to the Lake Mead Recreational Center. Our Campground just 10 miles from Lake Mead and 17 Miles from the Colorado River. We have outstanding Lookouts, Top notch Stargazing, Gold Prospecting, Bird Watching, Fishing, Off Roading etc. Some of the Best Desert Off-Roading through trails within the Joshua Tree National Forest, Please note you must bring your own OHV, horse, etc, there is currently no rentals available. We do have Kayaks to rent upon arrival. There is a hidden water fall in the Grapevine Wash that you can get to with a 4 wheel vehicle and you hike in about 15 minutes in. Stunning views and gorgeous natural spring and waterfall. We are 45 minutes off the 93 Freeway Free WIFI provided at the office!.. The town doesn't always have a powerful signal, please keep that in mind in your travels. However, if you have Verizon, it gets GREAT service! There are three restaurants in town, all just one mile from site... The Boathouse, Anchor Smokehouse and Fishermans Landing Bar. We have a Bakery called Rosemary and Thyme that serves Delicious foods & Pastries and makes great coffees. There is also a Gas n Grub that has ice, propane etc... 5 miles away is a Family Dollar store which we lovingly call the "Mall of Meadview"

Verde River Vortex

4 sites · Lodging2 acres · Clarkdale, AZ

Learn more about this land: Greetings fellow adventure lovers! Welcome to Verde River Vortex where we have Comfy Cabin Camping with access to tons of outdoor activities just out the back door. The Cabins are nestled around a patch of Bamboo and other high desert vegetation as well as a very rich cultural history with many Ruins and Other Native American Sights in the surrounding areas. The Verde River is one of Arizona's only two Wild and Scenic Rivers, yet it remains relatively undiscovered as a recreational resource is within walking distance and offers endless exploration and water fun in the Spring and Summer Months! The road to reach us is breathtaking in itself with ancient Sinaguan Ruins and strangely beautifully sculpted landscapes along the River drive. Enjoy miles of forests, rivers, lakes, swimming, hiking, mtb, all near by and all while being comfy and cozy for a nights recharge to do it all again after a hot shower or Jacuzzi or our Absolutely AWESOME wood fired Sauna with Cold water dipping pool under the stars. Each Cabin is fully equipt (hot water/appliances/kitchen/bathroom/dishes) as an Adventure base during your stay providing a comfortable, cozy and unique location for couples or small groups/families to enjoy while adventuring and creating memories in the area. We provide various suggestions on local activities for our guests to enjoy as well as helpful tips to get the most out of their stay. TWO CABINS AVAILABLE: Crystal Cabin Loft With Outdoor Jacuzzi - 1-4 ppl Great For Couples Juniper Cabin 1-4+ ppl Better for families or larger groups needing more space. More details on the spaces can be viewed in the individual cabin pictures/description. approx times to various points of interest from VRV: The Grand Canyon - 2.5hrs Cottonwood - 10-20 Sedona - 30-45 min Flagstaff - 1hr Prescott - 1hr Bryce Canyon - 6hrs Zion Nat Park - 5hrs Mexico - 6-7hrs **It should be noted that this is a Rural Area in which case you might hear Farm Animals, Dogs, Critters like Cayotes ! We are located on a Dirt Road, 4x4 is not needed unless we are having very stormy weather** Safe Adventuring to all and feel free to reach out with any questions.

97%

(119)

La Hacienda Chuparosa

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents4 acres · Tucson, AZ

When my husband and I were dating in NY we confessed our mutual desire to get back "home" to the west. It made me fall in love with him even faster. So when we married we moved to Washington DC knowing that in time we would make it west. 5 years later, when the traffic and the politics has taken its toll, we made a trip to Tucson and fell in love with this charming property that exudes all the beauty and grace of the Sonoran Desert. We looked at each other as we walked around looking at the stunning Mtn. Views and the mesquite fence and knew we were finally "home." I've always adored the SW Hummingbirds and wanted to name the property La Hacienda Chuparosa. When we moved in, for the first week, every morning a hummingbird was sipping nectar from one of our plants in the front yard. We knew it was meant to be. So we added a couple of horses to our dream, built some stalls, and now are ready to welcome you to La Hacienda Chuparosa. We know you will find the same magic here that we do.

The Sunset Nooks

4 sites · Tents1 acre · Buckeye, AZ

This property is in a one of a kind location that puts you on the lake in a two minute walk…. Or the Gila River in a 20 minute walk. Plus there’s a nook for each campsite with fire pit. They’re pretty cool with shade to relax and read books and or meditate. Each site is different and availability is first come first serve. Thanks and see y’all soon

Secluded Alamo Lake Santuary

14 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents300 acres · Alamo Lake, AZ

Step back in time and explore the rich history of this property, once a mining camp in 1910, now a ghost town. Slated for strip mining in 2015, the land found a new purpose when I purchased it, safeguarding it for the future. Our non-profit is transforming the area into a conservation area with a purpose. Today, the Sonoran Desert Sanctuary is an evolving conservation area and PRIVATE SPIRITUAL WILDERNESS RETREAT for veterans and others challenged by PTSD and trauma. Volunteer opportunities abound for those with a passion for conservation and a love for the desert. Join us in shaping the sanctuary and contributing to the preservation of this unique ecosystem. Your visit and involvement become a part of the story, helping us create a haven for the Sonoran Desert's diverse flora and fauna. The proceeds from your Hipcamp stay go directly to the Anderson-Arroyo Foundation (501c3) and are tax-deductible as a donation. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the desert landscape, participate in our growth, and leave your mark on the future Sonoran Desert Sanctuary. Visit us and explore the unique blend of history, conservation, and community that defines our special corner of the world. 3.5 hours from Phoenix, Vegas. 4 hours from Flagstaff. 2 hours from Lake Havasu or Kingman.

90%

(60)

Silver Sunsets

3 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · White Hills, AZ

Off-Grid eco friendly 2.2 acre property with 1 RV site with 12v solar charging station and 1 campsite with fire rings. Outhouse with TP on property. Firewood available as extra. Generator available as extra. Learn more about this land: Pitch your tent in the Mohave desert adjacent to the historic Silver mining district of White Hills or park your RV at our designated RV campsite. End each day with amazing sunset views. We have Joshua trees, Mesquite trees, yucca and barrel cactus on the property. Just 4 miles off of Interstate Highway 93 and the new I-11. Close to Willow Beach, Temple Bar / Lake Mead and the West Rim of the Grand Canyon.

MOUNTAIN DESTINY!

3 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Show Low, AZ

Site#1 has Full Hook Up - Running water, sewage RV Hookup of 30amp and 50amp electricity, for $45. Site#2 and Site#3 are side by side. They have running water and priced at $25. each. These two Sites are better for tents or a small trailer. A personal generator may be used but only during certain hours. These are lovely spots with shade trees, so pretty. There are lots of mature Juniper trees and some Pine trees that provide shade on the property. Often we experience a lovely breeze. We live a mile off of 260 on a rugged dirt road. We keep the Entrance Gate locked for safety and security. We are located on 2 acres and have a garden and a green house where we grow a large variety of vegetables. We only accept trailers and fifth wheels of 21 feet or less on site #2 and #3. There is a Chicken House and a rooster and we have plenty of farm fresh eggs that are available to purchase. 0ur home is tucked away 1 mile off the 260 Hwy. on a rugged dirt road. First you will drive pass the Linden Valley Arena before reaching our property. The Arena was designed for ropers by ropers and is open from May thru September. 10-15 minute drive away is Fool Hollow lake, Show Low City Park, Safeway Grocery Store, Post Office, Library, and a variety of restaurants. Within that distance there is Boating, Fishing, Hiking, Picnic Areas, Large Dog Park, well equipped Playground area, Basketball Courts, Baseball fields, Sand Volley Ball, Tennis Courts, Racquet Ball Court, Horseshoe Pits, Disc Golf, Outdoor Exercise Stations, Walking Trail, Pavilions, Restrooms all the while enjoying the enormous, plentiful Ponderosa Pines. Show Low City Park Aquatic Center has 6 lane 25-yard pool with an adjoining leisure pool featuring zero-depth entry, Spray Fountain, Water Slide, Indoor Spa. Show Low was named by the turn of a Card. A ranch of nearly 100,000 acres jointly owned by Marion Clark and Croydon Cooley a U.S. army scout. According to legend, sometime around 1876, the partners decided that there was not enough room for both of them and one of them should leave. They decided to settle this issue over a game of "Seven Up" (with the winner taking the ranch and the loser leaving.) After the game seemed to have no winner in sight the game reached it's climax when Clark said, "If you can show low, you win." At this point Cooley turned up the deuce of clubs, and declared "Show Low" it is! Show Low is a city in Navajo County, Arizona among the lush green ponderosa pine forestland and along Arizona's Mogollon Rim at an elevation of 6,345 feet. Show Low is now the largest city in the White Mountains of northeastern Arizona. Show Low is also the business hub and marketing center of the area. Our Favorite Breweries: Black Horse Brewery - 6 min + Buffalo Bill's Tavern & Grill - 9 min + Moose Henris Grill Cork and Taps - 20 min, + Pinetop Brewing Company - 26 min Our Favorite Restraunts: Buffalo Bill's - 9 min + Licano's - 11min + Los Corrales, 59 W Deuce of Clubs -12 min + Cafe Pinoli (Italian) - 23 min + Mr. Zeke's- 25 min , Darbi's Cafe - 26 min The Local's Market, Buffalo Bill's Tavern Grill (Local Vendors inside Restraunt Conference Room and Outside outside) April 9th through September 2022 9:00am-Noon Show Low Main Street Market - May 14th through September 2022 located behind Show Low Library Many Local Vendors. Show Low Main Street Market, 9-11th Street and Cooley, Show Low - local vendors May 14th -September 2022 9:00am-1:00pm.

100%

(82)

Yuma’s Own Little Campland

4 sites · RVs1 acre · Yuma, AZ

Our Little Campland has been enjoyed by many over the years. It is now pridefully owned by new owners who’s vision is to continue to provide an excellent place for long term, short term or passer-by’s can stay and now they can count on clean, well kept grounds. Offering full hook-ups, WiFi, laundry, ample parking and views of the Mountains for days. There are walking trails and plenty of Off-road trails to enjoy. We are near easy highway access and amenities. It’s the perfect stop for those wanting an overnight or winter stay. Check us out, you won’t regret it! Learn more about this land: Bring your RV and easily back in to a beautifully level spot, ready for you with full hook ups, including Water/Sewer, 50AMP Electric, complimentary WiFi, and laundry. Enjoy a concrete patio with privacy fencing to relax after long travel. Near walking trails, grocery and gas! Beautiful views! 29 miles away you have Picacho State Recreation Area. This recreation area is about as remote as it gets. Visitors must drive 20 miles down a dirt road just to get to the entrance! That's pretty awesome if you ask us. Picacho truly calls to all hardy adventurers. It was a gold mining town with 100 citizens more than a century ago. This park offers rugged desert mountains, colorful canyons, and the Colorado River. Keep an eye out for beavertail cactus, wild burros, the famous bighorn sheep and thousands of migratory birds. Hike through the mountains to see great views from above. Dip your line in the Colorado River to catch your dinner. No Pop-up campers, Campervans, or Cars Pets are allowed. Please make sure you pick up after them.

100%

(2)

Lenny’s Resort

6 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Golden Valley, AZ

Learn more about this land:Spacious Mountain View Getaway. Nothing but open land with wide field view, laid out for a beautiful night out under the stars. Local Walmart and other convenient stops nearby.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

Happiness if found while swaying in a hammock, by the warmth of a campfire, the company in the wild and the food in my belly.

97%

(56)

Coconino National Forest

Flagstaff, Arizona

97%

(29)

Kaibab National Forest

Williams, Arizona

100%

(22)

Lake Havasu State Park

Lake Havasu City, Arizona

100%

(7)

Lake Mead National Recreation Area

Meadview, Arizona

78%

(40)

Coronado National Forest

Sonoita, Arizona

86%

(42)

Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest

Heber Overgaard, Arizona

100%

(3)

Roper Lake State Park

Cactus Flats, Arizona

100%

(1)

Alamo Lake State Park

Alamo Lake, Arizona

92%

(14)

Dead Horse Ranch State Park

Clarkdale, Arizona

Lyman Lake State Park

St Johns, Arizona

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Lakeside camping in Arizona with fishing guide

Overview

Arizona is full of natural wonders, from the Grand Canyon to Saguaro National Park, with ample outdoor fun ranging from mountain biking to horseback riding. Much of the state is occupied by the Mojave, Sonoran, and Chihuahuan deserts, but start exploring and you'll quickly discover that Arizona is more than just jackrabbits and cacti—there are lakes, rivers, mountains, forests, and miles of hiking trails. It's also a great place for sleeping under the stars, and while parts of Arizona can get a bit too hot for comfort in summer, those same places offer pleasant camping weather throughout much of the year.

Where to go

Northern Arizona

While northern Arizona's best-known attraction is the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park, there’s plenty more to see and do, from visiting Lake Powell on the Colorado River to backcountry tent camping among the ponderosa pines in the Coconino National Forest, Prescott National Forest, and Kaibab National Forest. Sedona, just south of Flagstaff, also makes a great base for hiking among Arizona's Red Rocks or swimming in Oak Creek Canyon’s Slide Rock State Park.

Western Arizona

Dubbed Arizona's "West Coast," this part of the state offers all sorts of outdoor activities, much of which revolve around the Colorado River. The town of Yuma near the southern border is a popular spot, featuring an old Wild West prison and serving as a good base for visiting the Cibola National Wildlife Refuge. Attractions further north include Lake Havasu State Park, where you can swim, camp, or even check out the 19th-century London Bridge. Further north, the massive Lake Mead National Recreation Area offers year-round camping and easy access to two lakes.

Central Arizona

While it's easy to associate central Arizona with Phoenix sprawl, this region offers a lot for outdoorsy types, all within a short drive of the city. Popular spots for outdoors lovers include the Superstition Mountains in the Tonto National Forest, Lost Dutchman State Park, and the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest. If you're interested in archaeology, the Montezuma Castle National Monument is also worth a visit.

Southern Arizona

Southern Arizona is full of Wild West spirit, with a mix of historic ghost towns and scenic desert landscapes, plus plenty of forests, particularly in the Chiricahua Mountains. Must-visit parks include Saguaro National Park and Catalina State Park—both just outside Tucson. If it gets too hot, make like a local and head to Patagonia Lake State Park, a prime spot to swim and cool off from the Arizona heat.