The best camping near Petrified Forest National Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Petrified Forest National Park adventure.

Take in views of petrified logs and colorful expanses at this northern Arizona park.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Petrified Forest National Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Petrified Forest National Park

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Petrified National Boondock

151 sites · RVs, Tents12 acres · Sun Valley, AZ

🏕️RAW LAND🏕️ Vast open fields for all of your Boondocking/Dispersed/dry camping needs. 🌙 You may glamp,car camp,tent camp,RV/motorhome or camp under the stars ✨ ⛺️ Find a spot and set up,please be respectful of other campers. 🌞 We are located 10 minutes from the Petrified National Forest. There is a shop on the corner of Adamana and the Highway with bathrooms etc. as well as a shop that sells souvenirs. We advise to check local weather conditions as well as arrive before nightfall. 🌑✨🌙 Please be aware of any wildlife,this is the desert and we are not liable for any injury,due to wildlife,cacti or weather related incidents. There are no utilities or any accommodations since it is just a vast desert to set up however you see fit. 🏜️ 4WD is recommended. *Pictures featured are of the local attractions as well as the campground itself* 😊🙏❤️⛺️☮️🏜️✨

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Painted Desert Ranger Cabin

1 site · Lodging40 acres · Holbrook, AZ

ATTENTION: If you do not have a lifted, high-clearance, 4-wheel drive vehicle with locking differentials, and prepared for self-rescue with a winch, shovel, and rigging DO NOT BOOK THIS CABIN. The cabin sits at the end of an unmaintained, unimproved, dirt road that becomes impassible during winter snow events and summer monsoon rains! The Painted Desert Ranger Cabin is a backcountry, off grid cabin acquired by Ranger Ross in 2011. Ranger Ross lived in the cabin while he worked as a resource protection ranger at the Petrified Forest National Park. The ranger cabin is a rustic off grid cabin that offers no amenities. There is no concierge, room service, or continental breakfast. There is no linen service or fancy little bottles of shampoo. It does however, offer beautiful views of the Painted Dessert wilderness, quiet serenity, and amazing star gazing opportunities. All from the comfort of a cozy one room cabin with a queen size bed and a flush toilet. The ranger cabin sits on the border of the north wilderness area of the Petrified Forest National Park. There are great hiking and exploration opportunities right out the back door of the cabin.

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Show Low AZ GreatSky CampRanch

38 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Show Low, AZ

Learn more about this land: At 6000ft elevation the air is much cleaner and the weather is much cooler, especially in the summer time! We have plenty of space. A well house to fill up your water. There are also outdoor bathrooms, no shower yet, but working on that! We're just a short seven minute drive to the dump station at a local gas station down the road on the Deuce of Clubs and Penrod. We are 14 minutes from a large hospital, 10 minutes from major grocery stores, shopping and restaurants, and many other fun activities. Our location is in a perfect spot to enjoy the blue sky and great weather. Sunrise Ski area is a quick drive too! Pinetop Lakeside are within 10 minutes, Taylor and Snowflake are within 15 to 25 minutes. We hope you visit and continue to keep our environment clean and a chill spot to visit. We are home to a family-friendly honky-tonk, and microbrewery, now open Thu-Sat 4pm-9pm. Cheers! We also offer a few extras at check-out... We have our 4S free range, nest run eggs for $6.44/dozen. Start your trip off right with a bundle of our premium firewood. Mostly juniper, nicely dried and bagged. Just remind us at check-in with your receipt. This is not the cheap wood they sell at the gas station. Please always check for our fire bans that are regulated by the county and state. Always have a bucket of water next to your campfire and make sure it's completely out before you leave it. Please do not bring outside firewood. Please do not take the firewood on our property.

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Tickled Pink Flamingos Retreat

10 sites · RVs, Tents41 acres · Sun Valley, AZ

Experience the Painted Desert Ranch – Your Ultimate Boondocking Adventure! Location: Nestled between breathtaking red mesas and just a short drive from the Southwest's iconic landmarks, Painted Desert Ranch is the perfect base for your adventure. Near Petrified Forest: Only ten miles away from the Petrified Forest National Park, you can explore ancient, colorful petrified wood and stunning landscapes. Convenient Day Trips: Our prime location is ideal for day trips to Canyon de Chelly, the Meteor Crater, and the Petrified Forest, each offering unique geological wonders and cultural insights. Outdoor Experience: Boondocking at its best with no services except nearby water and dump stations. Enjoy clear cell reception across our 40 acres. Experience starry skies that descend to the horizon and soak in gorgeous sunrises and sunsets. Perfect for stargazing and sipping morning coffee while watching the sun rise over the red mesas. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway, a solo adventure, or a unique glamping experience with friends, our rustic boondocking spots in the heart of the Southwest promise an unforgettable escape. Book your stay today and immerse yourself in the beauty and serenity of this incredible landscape.

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Beall's Bed & Bud's

2 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Winslow, AZ

Learn more about this land: Sleep Under the Stars at Beall's Bed and Bud. Whether you're an avid adventurer or just looking for a unique experience, there's something special about spending a night under the stars. Embrace the beauty of nature and find peace as you gaze up at the mesmerizing night sky. At Beall's Bed and Bud, we offer a perfect place to make your starlit dreams come true. How to join? It's simple! set up camp at one of our two sites where you'll find the perfect balance of comfort and nature. Pitch your tent, lay your sleeping bags out under the stars or bring your van/RV. Cuddling under blankets watching the stars where you can see forever. We've got the ideal spots for you to turn your gaze upward and immerse yourself in the splendor of the celestial word. Just to update a little bit. My property is off grid and rustic just so there is no confusion. Thanks On August 8th we had the Global Sleep Under the Stars Night. Founded in 2020 Global Sleep Under the Stars Night is not only a celebration of the wonders of nature but also a tribute to the 100 Year Anniversary of Eddie Bauer, an iconic outdoor brand inspiring adventure since 1920. At Beall's Bed and Bud, we wholeheartedly embraced this spirit and invite you to join us in celebrating this extraordinary experience. So, start marking your calendars and come out to experience the ultimate outdoor escape with us at Beall's Bed and Bud in Winslow. Sleep under the stars tonight and throughout the year, creating memories and connecting with nature in a way you've never experienced before!

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Front Row Seat! Petrified Forest!

2 sites · RVs10 acres · Sun Valley, AZ

Learn more about this land:This raw land property, right at the edge of the Petrified Forest National Park, gives you amazing views of and walking access into the park (with an already purchased entrance pass) to the ancient Puerco Pueblo and the stunning views of Newspaper Rock. Cell reception in the area is decent. I had access to TMobile data from the property the last time I was there though not all areas of the park have the same luxury. City folk (like it seems I have sadly become these days) often forget what a beautiful starry night sky can look like. One clear night here and you'll see a sky full of stars, the milky way, planets and maybe a shooting star. As a International Dark Sky Park, the parks nightscape falls on the Bortel scale of 3 (1 being darkest and 9 being brightest). For more info go to www.nps.gov/pefo/learn/nature/darkskies Outside of the Petrified Forest National Park in Holbrook, we recommend visiting Jim Gray's Petrified Wood Co. and the Navajo County Historical Society Museum. Nearest gas can be found at the Painted Desert Visitor Center or west down I-40 toward Holbrook at the Hopi Travel Plaza. In Holbrook, groceries can be found at Safeway and local restaurants include Camaleon Cafe, Butterfield Stage Co. Steak House and Mandarin Beauty and host of other Mexican and American restaurants. Trucks do come down Adamana Rd to the storage facility during the week though you probably won't hear or see them much. The train can be a bit loud and obnoxious for some (or a something exciting for the kids) depending on how frequently it passes through so ear plugs at night may be advised. I'm usually pretty accessible and close to my phone so feel free to message me with any questions you may have, before during or after your trip! ***Please read all rules and descriptions in the listing thoroughly before booking to make sure this listing is a good fit!*** We look forward to having you!

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Shiloh Ranch Guesthouse

2 sites · Lodging40 acres · Arizona 85924, AZ

This is part of the remote sacred land of NE AZ. It is surrounded by several different Indian Reservations, has been relatively untouched for many centuries. This is where Giants walked about and before that .the dinosaurs It's located close to the stunning Painted Desert, is only 20 miles south of the amazing Petrified Forest, on the way to the Grand Canyon. This area is the gateway to many world class sites.yet is completely secluded and secure. It's easy to locate on a highway with no traffic.This Ancient land is loaded with petrified wood, occasional arrowheads, incredible pollution-free blue skies, no traffic, QUIET, the Milky Way & countless galaxies and a rare opportunity to step out of time in comfort & security. Use it as a base to explore all the surrounding sites, an intimate getaway, or stay secluded and write that book you've always longed to !Learn more about this land:The cozy Guest House is relatively self contained.....but you can explore or wander the rest of the 40 acres. Lots of DVDs if you want to relax inside. You'll find a Bar-b-Que to use on your porch., and a fire pit for campfire songs, and toasting marshmallows! There's a deep well, with delicious, pure, refreshing, cold on-site water. Enjoy the telescope for night viewing.The sunrises, sunsets, and brilliant pollution-free blue skies invite you to see at least 30 miles with clarity.

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Sun Country campground

1 site · RV, Tent2 acres · Holbrook, AZ

Explore the Painted Desert wonderland to play around in and stargaze. The campsite is shared with Wild Horses, Pronghorns, Owls and Bovine that wander around the area. Look out to the south and a view of Petrified Forest National Park is right there. And when you're in the park, using binoculars, you can see the campsite from Pintado Point. Just search left from the towers. A fantastic campsite built by independent outdoor company @hetchyoutdoors This is a remote, private campground with a canopy, picnic bench and fire pit that relieves you from the crowds of hotels and RV campgrounds in the area. There are no predators or threats to worry about at night, just the the most stars in the sky you've probably ever seen. Views of the National Park to the south and only a 15 minute drive to the North Gate.

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Petrified Forest

3 sites · Lodging1 acre · Holbrook, AZ

Explore nearby Petrified Forest National Park, Painted Desert, Meteor Crater, and Indian Ruins. Amenities include a ready to use 4 M canvas bell tent with full size mattress, two pillows, and bed sheets. There are two folding chairs and a small folding table inside. Also features a cozy hammock and a port-john (outhouse toilet). Bring your own water and food. You are also welcome to bring your own RV, Camper, Truck, and camping gear. Generators are allowed. This site has a total of three tents on it, spaced several hundred feet apart for privacy. Guests love it here: "What a great base camp for visiting the Petrified Forest and Painted Desert! The bed was very comfortable and we really appreciated the solar-powered light for nighttime reading. The stars - and Milky Way - were as advertised. Over all, an A-plus experience."

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Beautiful Desert Skies

2 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Sun Valley, AZ

Experience the magic of camping under the stars near the awe-inspiring Petrified Forest! Just a quick 15-minute drive from our campsite will lead you to this natural wonder, where you can marvel at ancient petrified wood and explore the unique landscapes of the area. If you're up for more adventure, head over to the Painted Desert Inn, a mere 5 miles away, to witness the stunning beauty of the painted desert landscape. But the excitement doesn't stop there! On the other side of Petrified Forest Road, you'll find a plethora of activities and attractions to explore. Start your journey with a visit to Puerco Pueblo, an ancient Native American archaeological site that offers a glimpse into the region's rich cultural history. Next, make your way to the Newspaper Rock State Historic Monument, where you can admire ancient petroglyphs etched into the rocks. Continue your exploration with a stop at the Tepees, unique rock formations that dot the landscape, followed by a hike along one of the immaculate hiking trails in the area. Don't miss the iconic Agate Bridge, a petrified log spanning a natural gorge, which is sure to leave you in awe of nature's wonders. As you travel down the road, be sure to visit Jasper Forest, named for its abundance of petrified wood. This ancient forest, dating back 216 million years, is a testament to the enduring power of nature and offers a glimpse into the prehistoric past. With so much to see and do in the area, camping near the Petrified Forest promises an unforgettable outdoor adventure. Come discover the beauty and wonder of this unique landscape for yourself!

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The Campsites at Paraíso Dorado

10 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Sun Valley, AZ

Welcome to a 5 acre camp at an angle. Enjoy a piece of the Northern Arizona desert. The high elevation desert allows you to enjoy colder weather with desert snow. Perfect flat site with quick access to a desert getaway from the city as well as freeway access. Close by you can enjoy the sites of painted desert as well as the Petrified forest, holbrook, Motel from cars the movie. A little further you can find your self at sites like Meteor Creator, The Grand Canyon, Hopi reservation, Navajo Nation

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ReciproCity

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents35 acres · White Mountain Lake, AZ

This property is entirely off grid, takes a 4 wheel drive vehicle, which may get very dirty and/or scratched. Three separate gates enter into a private, entirely fenced, 3.5 acres that back up to 600 plus acres of peaceful, uninhabited, state land, for which you can pitch a tent (or borrow one of ours) for a $20 fee to AZ wildlife fund. This property is magnificent. We have traveled (three years in our motorhome and all over the US), so I know what is good. If you want to, you can find it here. We are powered by solar, limited propane and emergency diesel. There is a motorhome that is in great condition, but if you have skills and can help us remodel (reciprocity), you may stay in it for free and it is fully equipped. There is a small cabin that currently only has one battery for very limited power, but uses propane for heating and cooking. It is fully equipped (kitchen, bedroom, private bathroom, loft, middle living room and small closet). It has a porch swing and an incredible view. There are potential spaces that can also be considered, but this property is spiritual and also my family homestead. Please bring only your peace and reciprocity, no alcohol or drugs (other than the green kind). The property is behind three, separate, locked gates and access requires a key, because our dogs roam free unless we are notified. Put simply, this is a place for your soul to rest. If you need some peace, you can find it here, and if you need someone to talk to, depending upon what it is, you may find a person here for that as well.

The best camping near Petrified Forest National Park guide

Overview

About

Set amid the vast desert landscapes of northern Arizona, Petrified Forest National Park is a unique journey through time, known for its fossils and petroglyphs. What was once a sub-tropical forest over 200 million years ago now is home to the remains of fallen trees, which seem to have turned to stone. Take in views of the wide-open Painted Desert and then get an up-close view of the petrified conifers. Once a stop on Route 66, this park now straddles I-40, providing an easy drive-through loop for road trips. Though there are no NPS campgrounds in the park, private RV parks and glamping rentals can be found in the region. The park also allows backpacking camping with a wilderness permit—prepare to camp at least half a mile from your vehicle.

Notable campgrounds

Best for state park camping: Homolovi State Park is 55 miles west of the Petrified Forest and offers campsites with partial hookups.
Best nearly free campsites: McHood Park Campground, a city park, is located near Winslow. It offers dry camping for a day-use fee.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Homolovi State Park’s campground has a mixture of electric and non-electric campsites for both tents and RVs. Most sites have water hookups.
Most sites at Homolovi State Park have 30-amp hookups but some have 50 amp.
Arizona State Park sites may be booked 365 days in advance online or by phone.
McHood Park Campground does not have any hookups or dump stations onsite. It does have an onsite bathroom with flush toilets and non-potable water.
McHood Park does not offer reservations.
Dispersed camping is allowed in Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest.

When to go

Prepare for sunny skies and dry heat much of the year. Think sunscreen, wide-brim hats, and sunglasses. While summer temperatures average highs in the 90s, the evenings cool quickly, so take a jacket. Spring and fall are quite pleasant, though freezing temperatures are possible overnight. Late summer and early fall bring monsoon season, with the possibility of occasional thunderstorms, especially in the late afternoon. With highs in the 50s, winter provides comfortable weather for outdoor adventures during the day, while lows drop into the 20s.

Know before you go

Petrified Forest National Park is pet friendly and offers a “Bark Ranger” program. Dogs are allowed on trails.
The park’s elevation tops 5,000 feet, so you may feel the effects of the altitude.
The park offers several hiking trails and scenic overlooks.
Be sure to bring adequate water, especially if hiking.