Recommended Camping Places
"We Provide What You Need: Lets Go Camping"
Partial Image from U.S. Geological Survey, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Here are our recommended seasonal camping locations with AZ Places. Each site is accessible by a standard vehicle and located within 1 to 3 hours of Phoenix, Arizona.
Starting this year, AZ Places operates under permit on the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest. Explore our favorite locations and start planning your next camping adventure today!
Note: Some locations have a entrance or use fee. Locations beyond 150 miles require an additional travel fee by AZ Places.
Our goal is to make going outdoors easy by providing a platform for you to create an enjoyable and memorable camping experience.
Wet Summer
July, August, September
The wet summer, or monsoon season, brings the year’s heaviest rains, transforming the arid landscape with sudden, dramatic thunderstorms. These storms can quickly produce heavy rainfall, leading to flooded roads, washes, and dangerous flash floods. The much-needed moisture brings cooler temperatures and lush greenery to deserts and mountain ranges.
+ Time & Distance from Downtown
Arizona
Coconino County
Bear Canyon Lake, AZ 85541
34°24'13.1"N 111°00'35.0"W
2 hours 30 minutes
134 miles
Bear Canyon Lake is one place we go most often. There are plenty of places to setup camp and lots to explore. We have never had a issue finding a spot to camp, at times can barely hear anyone around. We pass all the nearest sites near the lake and go past the powerlines where there are plenty of sites spread out. From there it is a bit of a hike to the lake, or short drive. Depending upon the season you can hear elk and coyotes in the area.
Bear Canyon Lake
Arizona
Navajo County
8HV6+VMJ Heber-Overgaard, Arizona
34°20'43.5"N 110°26'15.6"W
2 hours 45 minutes
153 miles
Discover the beauty of Arizona along Forest Road 124 in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest. This scenic destination features rugged forest terrain, towering ponderosa pines, and open meadows dotted with vibrant wild mushrooms. Visitors can also witness burn scars from the historic Rodeo-Chediski Fire, now blending with vibrant new growth—a powerful testament to nature's resilience. Wildlife you may encounter include wild horses, jackrabbits, deer, foxes, and squirrels.
Heber-Overgaard FR 124
Arizona
Pinal County
15520 Picacho Peak Rd, Picacho, AZ 85141
32°38'45.427"N 111°24'4.15"W
1 hour
58 miles
Picacho Peak State Park, located along Arizona's I-10 corridor, is a stunning desert destination known for its striking peak, hiking trails, and rich history. A favorite for outdoor enthusiasts, the park offers camping, wildlife watching, and breathtaking desert views.
Picacho Peak State Park
AZ Places provides everything you need for a seamless camping experience, including delicious meals, leisure supplies, essential base camp equipment such as chairs, tables, lighting, and a fully stocked kitchen. We also provide sleeping gear, including tents, sleeping bags, and blankets, as well as bathroom facilities and wash station. A dedicated camp host is included at your chosen location to assist and ensure your trip goes smoothly. Visit our equipment, food, and activities pages for a full list of what's included.