The best camping near Dead Horse Ranch State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Dead Horse Ranch State Park adventure.

92% (14 reviews)

Discover the serene beauty of Dead Horse Ranch State Park.

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Stay at a public campground in Dead Horse Ranch State Park

92%

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Dead Horse Ranch Campground

134 sites · RVs, Tents In Dead Horse Ranch State Park

from

$55

/ night

Top-rated campgrounds near Dead Horse Ranch State Park

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Hawks Hideaway Camping, LLC

17 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents7 acres · Cottonwood, AZ

We offer various camping accommodations, as well as a teepee. See our different listings for info on each. A few choice examples of local activities to do on or very near to our campsite include: Bird watching, hiking, river rafting or tubing, kayaking, fishing, swimming, horseback riding, stargazing, and even rockhounding. This area conforms to the Arizona Dark Sky initiative, and while we are not dark-sky certified, we've had several guests compliment us on our location. When it comes to rockhounding, or amateur geology, this is a fantastic area for exploration and study. The cliff walls of the Verde River offer clear and distinct sedimentary layers, and the frequent flooding of the massive sandy riverbed reveals countless undiscovered treasures.We gladly welcome pets, including horses, as long as the guests inform us of their presence, and takes care of all their needs, including cleaning up any mess. There is a professional horse-boarding field and stables adjacent to our property, and a long pleasant trail allows horseback riders to follow the Verde Greenway into Old Town Cottonwood if they so desire. Please remember that this is a natural and secluded spot located directly adjacent to the state-maintained Verde Ripparian Greenway and the Verde River. This means you may encounter wildlife and pests associated with being in such close connection to nature. Be prepared to tuck your food away and bring ample protection from the insects.

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Sacred Springs

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents8 acres · Lake Montezuma, AZ

A Sanctuary for Nature, History, and Wildlife Welcome to Sacred Springs, a tranquil retreat perched 60 feet above the confluence of Beaver Creek. This eight-acre haven lies within a sacred riparian corridor, offering a profound connection to nature, history, and wildlife. Positioned between Montezuma Castle National Monument and Montezuma Well, Sacred Springs invites you to reconnect with yourself and the ancient beauty surrounding you. A Wildlife and Bird Sanctuary At Sacred Springs, you’re immersed in a thriving ecosystem: River otters, beavers, and endangered fish grace our pristine waters. Deer, raccoons, bobcats, and coyotes roam freely, alongside occasional elk, coatimundi, or mountain lions. Birdwatchers can marvel at Black Hawks, falcons, eagles, ravens, and countless migratory species. This is a sanctuary alive with the rhythms of nature, where life flows seamlessly between the seasons. Witness Echoes of the Past The land at Sacred Springs holds stories of prehistoric cliff-dwelling communities who farmed and thrived here. From our campsites, you’ll glimpse the highway tracing this ancient corridor’s path, a living reminder of those who once walked this ground. The Spirit of Sacred Springs Your journey begins as you enter this sacred river valley. A drive through desert vistas leads you along a primitive road to our serene oasis. From panoramic views atop the plateau to the soothing waters below, Sacred Springs offers a retreat like no other. Relax in a hammock by the creek. Wander trails that wind through ancient landscapes. Marvel at sunsets painting the sky with vivid colors. Let the sound of the creek ground you in the timeless rhythms of the earth. A Place of Reverence and Care Sacred Springs is a space for beauty, renewal, and mindfulness. Steep cliffs and rugged terrain remind visitors to tread lightly and stay on marked trails. Each step is an opportunity to honor the land and the life it sustains. A Central Gateway to Adventure Sacred Springs is perfectly located near key attractions: Sedona Wolf Sanctuary (0.2 miles), Montezuma Castle (7 miles), Sedona/Village of Oak Creek (17 miles), and the Grand Canyon (130 miles). Step into the timeless beauty of Sacred Springs—your sanctuary awaits.

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A Spark in the Dark Campground

15 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Ash Fork, AZ

The most important thing for me is that my guests leave this place with memories that will turn into nostalgia. 40 huge, PRIVATE acres in the country of northern Arizona, The Spark can host the single camper looking for a quiet and private retreat, or the sleepy traveler who simply needs a place to park and snooze in their vehicle - all the way up to your large group and event! I am only here to make sure you have a safe and private place to camp the way YOU want! Dazzling night sky with near zero light pollution! Fabulous sunset views! Warm, gorgeous sunrises! Potential for wildlife! Cool rocks! Cool plants! Cool bugs! Family friendly. Pet friendly. MJ and such friendly. Come spend the night outside!!!

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Cardinal’s Grove

1 site · RV1 acre · Cornville, AZ

This property is surrounded by Mesquite trees boasting beautiful country views located in a picturesque green belt of Arizona. The graveled site includes a paver patio, table and chairs, a chiminea for fires and roasting marshmallows, and bird feeders with many active birds 🦅. It is situated on a one acre property which includes our home. Take a stroll around the country neighborhood, explore trails, grab a hamburger at the local burger place! A 10 minute drive to gorgeous wine country of Page Springs where you can enjoy a glass of wine and take in Oak Creek. Wonderful restaurants and shopping to enjoy in nearby Cottonwood and Jerome.

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Village Camp Flagstaff Cabins & RVs

72 sites · Lodging, RVs50 acres · Flagstaff, AZ

Village Camp Flagstaff is an Outdoor Resort Community for the modern adventurer. A new model of outdoor hospitality offering adventure cabins and luxury RV sites, with amenities designed to enhance your mountain-loving lifestyle. Not to mention, a weekly lineup of on-property events & experiences! THE ACCOMMODATIONS We have multiple RV Site types to choose from, standard back-in lots, premium back-in lots, and super premium back-in lots that can accommodate RVs of all sizes. All RV sites include full hookups and feature outstanding views of nature. We also have multiple adventure cabin styles to choose from, that can sleep anywhere from 6 to 10 travelers. Cabins offer a kitchenette or full kitchen, luxe bathrooms and either 1 or 2 patios for relaxing after a day's adventures.

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Rural Ranch & Petting Farm

5 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Cornville, AZ

Harmony Acres is a small, relaxed family farm in the high desert near the red rocks of Sedona, AZ. We love to host nature and animal loving people that want a taste of country life. Our guests often become our good friends. We have the friendliest farm animals that you can meet and greet, and you can help around the farm if you want to participate or learn. Our sunsets and night star-gazing are just spectacular and we're enough off the beaten path that there's no crowds or traffic to deal with, but you are close to dining and area attractions. This is a quiet, rural neighborhood and a peaceful farm that borders the National Forest for easy hiking and few neighbors. The farm animals do cluck, crow, whinny, neigh, baa, bleat, squeal, and oink at various times, including early morning. There is one mile of a somewhat bumpy gravel road with hills to reach our neighborhood, so please make sure you are ready for that and have adequate towing power. The nearest services and dining are 5 minutes away. We are about 25-30 minutes to Sedona, the Village of Oak Creek, and the popular red rock hiking sites. There are many wineries and dining right down the road to enjoy. 1 hour to Flagstaff, 2 hours to Phoenix. Come enjoy a taste of rural Arizona!

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Glamper Cabin in the Aspens & Pines

3 sites · Lodging2 acres · Flagstaff, AZ

Learn more about this land: Darling and super cozy off-the-grid glamping cabin at 8200 feet elevation, perfect for creating special memories for you and your besties! Unbelievable views of the San Francisco Peaks, gorgeous glistening aspen groves, graceful pine trees, wildlife sightings, and good old fashioned eco-therapy will soothe your soul and ease away your tension. Close to the Grand Canyon! Just 1/2 mile off the Arizona Trail! Hike 6 miles to Snowbowl. This darling camper cabin has one bedroom with a queen sized bed (2 guests), and two pull out couches for up to four additional guests. The well stocked kitchen has all the cookware and utensils you'll need for cooking, a propane range, as well as a cooler for your use (bring ice). A gas barbecue is on site as well. The wood stove kicks out a ton of heat to keep you toasty while you sip on steamy hot chocolate that is provided for your enjoyment. Gather around the propane operated firepit in the backyard for some R&R. Bring a hammock 'cuz there are unlimited opportunities for stringing one up! Tons of activities will keep you occupied, including hiking and biking on the nearby Arizona Trail (just 1/2 mile away), or even sledding on your very own private 2 acre piece of paradise! What's even better is the property backs onto the National Forest, for unlimited enjoyment of nature. In the evening crack open a book, or start playing a game with your besties to close out a long day. The property is completely off the grid, making it very appealing to those travelers and adventurers who want to create a minimal carbon footprint on their vacation. The kitchen sink has a hand pump that draws water from under the sink from a 10 gallon water jug. You can refill the jug as needed from a hand pump located in the back yard. There is solar powered lighting and a USB phone charger station. There is no electrical power available. Cell service is available in the area depending on your carrier. The outdoor composting toilet is super clean with little or no odor. The cabin is located at 8200' in the San Francisco Peaks in the pines and aspens. Snowshoe or cross country ski, go sledding or snowmobiling, or just good old fashioned relaxation will make the time fly by. If that's not enough check this out:(a) it's just 5 miles to the Arizona Nordic Center for incredible cross country ski trails(b) it's just 18 miles to Snowbowl for chairlift rides or world class skiing(c) it's just 20 miles to the hip town of Flagstaff for fantastic restaurants, golfing, shopping, coffee shops and museums(d) it's just 60 miles to historic Williams with the Bearizona wildlife park and the popular Grand Canyon Railway(e) it's just 55 miles to the world famous Grand Canyon. (f) It's just 50 miles to gorgeous Sedona, making it a perfect day trip! (g) and last but not least, it's right next to the Kendrick Snowmobile Trails, which offers 54 miles of unbeatable snowmobile adventures! The property is located approximately 2.1 miles off the main highway down a forest service road. The road is in excellent shape during the summer months. During winter you MUST have a 4WD vehicle to access the property, particularly if there has been a significant snowfall recently. During a snowy period, access may require either cross country skiing, snowshoeing or snowmobiling to the property from the main highway (approx 2.1 miles). If you get stuck on the road it will be your own responsibility. Please check with the owner a couple days prior to your visit to check on road conditions during the winter! Pets must be well behaved and cleaned up after, including excessive animal hair. Leash laws apply to Coconino National Forest. Please do not book the Glamper Cabin if you plan to bring a pet which is known to be aggressive or unpredictable in nature, including breeds or mixed breeds such as pitbulls, rottweilers, bullmastiff and American Bulldog. We are not responsible for any interactions your pets may have with wildlife or other pets in the area.

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Glamp in a Vintage Gem! Sedona view

1 site · Lodging4 acres · Lake Montezuma, AZ

Glamping in a true vintage gem you will feel miles away up on Guardian Ridge and FLO! You will be on one of the highest points in the Verde Valley. Only 1.7 miles off I-17 you will begin to be drawn into the ancient callings of the Sinagua. The riparian area is rich with ancient history and spectacular wildlife. Brocket Ranch Rd is an old, dirt ranch rd. Leave the asphalt world behind as you follow along Beaver Creek, just take it slow and try to arrive during the daylight hours. The Sinagua's cliff dwellings line the cliffs all along the road to FLO and the Sycamores and Cottonwoods are Spectacular! The views are breathtaking with the Sedona Red Rocks to the north and the Montezuma Castle National Monument canyon to the south. FLO is a fully self-contained, refurbished 1950 Spartan Mansion Silver Bullet. Her charm includes an original turquoise shower/bathroom, full bed, a sweet kitchen and quaint living area. All of the paneling is original bent birch wood. She feels like “a big hug” when you lay in her beautifully-curved bedroom. Total privacy, with your own patio and barbecue, fire pit, solar-powered outdoor shower and a 16' x 4' salt water above ground seasonal pool, May-October. FLO is strategically located as base camp (only 1.7 miles off I-17) for visiting Jerome, Prescott, Village of Oak Creek, Sedona, Flagstaff or The Grand Canyon. Drive down south to the warmth or up north to the cool. FLO's a great jumping off spot! Not to mention all the great hiking opportunities right here in the Verde Valley. Four perennial creeks all flow into the Verde River, all with wonderful hiking opportunities — Wet Beaver Creek, Clear Creek, Fossil Creek and Oak Creek. I have posted pictures of the road and example of the 2 wheel drive cars that visit FLO .The gardens and trees have grown over the years since I first planted them and you never know what will be in-season and blooming! Gardening is my passion and I have thrived here for many years loving on this piece of land. Oh ya, your pets free and welcome! So come on up if you're so inclined — and have a little kick back in Rimrock, Arizona!

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Cherry Hill Yard-Dock

1 site · RV1 acre · Flagstaff, AZ

This is a downtown adjacent property (front yard) atop cherry hill, just a walk away from bustling bars and shopping as well as plenty of restaurants. If you have a camper/trailer or RV that is about 25' or less (similar to the one pictured) and you need a 30 amp service then look no further! Kid Friendly! We have a playground with swings and three boys under 10 but don't worry, we will make sure that they leave you alone and you have full privacy. Just let us know if you need any house services or maybe an E-bike rental for your stay! Late night bookings welcome as well as last minute pull ins. This spot is has a 30amp service, water hookup, sewer hookup, and Wifi. Spot is fully enclosed with a white picket fence to keep in your dogs with extra street parking if necessary or in our carport. *We also offer the spot with the camper pictured for an extra fee if you do not have one of your own and if it is available. (not booked out) feel free to ask us anything and we look forward to hosting you!

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Beaver Creek Oasis

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents21 acres · Rimrock, AZ

Located on Beaver Creek on 21 acres you may choose your site tucked in the mesquite bosque or among the sycamores. The 1 1/2 mile dirt road is rough but worth the effort. Close to Sedona, Page Springs wineries, hiking and relaxing. See the stars at night and let nature rejuvenate. The alpacas will be pleased to eat some grain from your palm and the rooster will wake you at dawn ready for the start the morning. Arrival before dark required for check-in unless approved by host in advance. Pitch your tent or park your van in a designated site of your choosing on 21 acres either tucked in the mesquite bosque, near the creek (hike-in) or among the sycamores (drive-in). The 1 1/2 mile dirt road is rough but worth the effort. Close to Sedona, Page Springs wineries, hiking and just relaxing. See the stars at night! Arriving before dark on your check-in day is required.

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Verde Ranch RV Resort

260 sites · Lodging, RVs45 acres · Camp Verde, AZ

Planned with relaxation in mind and built with impeccable attention to detail, Verde Ranch works hard every day to create memorable vacation experiences that our guests will cherish forever. We believe that whether at home or on vacation, beautiful surroundings contribute to a sense of happiness, well-being, and comfort. With big-rig-friendly RV sites, we are redefining what it means to be a campground. We’re conveniently located right off of the highway and near many great local attractions and businesses. Work from anywhere with our high-speed WiFi. Relax and unwind by our pool, let the kids play in the splash pad, or the dogs run in our spacious dog park! Looking for adventure? Take advantage of our river access, hike the nearby trails, kayak the river or take a day trip to Sedona, Prescott, or Cottonwood from our RV Resort, to experience everything Arizona has to offer.

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Aspen Hideout

2 sites · Lodging, RVs1 acre · Flagstaff, AZ

This is a small 30’x50’ back in space situated in the heart of downtown Flagstaff that has full power and water hookups. This space is ideal for smaller class C vehicles or vans, trailers are just harder to back in with the gate being closer to narrow street but possible. My 20’ camp trailer is what is shown in picture, I used alleyway to get a better angle to back in. Double gate measures about 11’ wide when fully open. Whole area has a tall privacy fence around and grass for any pets you may have. Just a short walk separates you from Thorpe park, fishing pond, downtown bars and breweries, the Orpheum, Lowell observatory, and so much more! This is a quiet and peaceful neighborhood that values its residents and unique culture. Please be respectful of the neighbors and observe quiet times of 10pm and dark sky requirements laid out by the city.

The best camping near Dead Horse Ranch State Park guide

Overview

About

Once you look past the name (and the slightly creepy history) Dead Horse Ranch State Park is home to unbelievable views and a mountain of activities for outdoor lovers of all ages! Hitch a horse up for Horse Trail Adventures inside the park; with the cool equestrian trails available, you and your four-hoofed-friend can explore the desert together! Talk about bonding. Hang by the Verde River for some fishing, boating, and swimming or get to the forest for quality hiking and biking. Explore the day, extend the trip by camping out; there’s no wrong way to experience this park!

Notable campgrounds

Cottonwood Campground - Shaded sites near the river, ideal for tents and RVs alike.
Quail Loop Campground - Offers a quiet retreat with easy access to park trails.
Red-Tail Hawk Campground - Perfect for families, with spacious sites and nearby playgrounds.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early, as sites fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
Consider mid-week stays for better availability and a quieter experience.
Check for cancellations regularly, as plans change and spots may open up.
Explore nearby camping options to ensure you have a backup plan.

When to go

The best time to visit Dead Horse Ranch State Park is during the spring and fall when temperatures are mild and the park's natural beauty is at its peak. Summer can be hot, and winter may bring cooler temperatures, so pack accordingly. Wildlife viewing is excellent year-round, but especially vibrant during the migratory seasons.

Know before you go

Check the park's website for any alerts or closures before your visit.
Wear appropriate footwear and clothing for hiking and exploring the trails.
Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat to stay hydrated and protected from the sun.
Be aware of local wildlife and practice safe viewing distances.
Facilities include restrooms, picnic areas, and a visitor center with informative displays.