RV enthusiasts love the Arizona Rim Country where the mountainous countryside is peppered with fishing lakes and rustic campgrounds to park an RV. Explore the best RV campgrounds, parks, and resorts around Payson, Arizona with our guide! Whether you're seeking family-friendly parks or upscale resorts with luxurious amenities, we've done the research for you. Our list compiles all the top-rated options, making it easy for you to find and book the perfect campground for your next Payson RV rental.
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Most Payson campgrounds are not right in the middle of town, but this RV resort is within walking distance of downtown stores and restaurants. The convenience does not mar the park’s tranquility. Payson Campground & RV Resort is filled with ponderosa pine trees that give you privacy and relaxation.
The silence inside the Payson Campground & RV Resort is occasiolly interrupted by local bands and karaoke singers because the weekends bring forth some fantastic entertainment. During the week, you can swim in the heated pool or push your kids on the swings. If you’d rather stay in your RV and watch TV, then ask for a satellite-friendly site.
“Great place to stay. Close to everything you need including amazing trails to hike. It’s right off the highway but no noise at all. Feels like you are camped in the woods. Everyone who works here is as nice and helpful as it gets. The spots have plenty of room, all of them have big trees.” – Don, Yelp Review
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In the northern part of the Tonto tiol Forest, just a mile from Payson is a relatively primitive campground with equestrian sites. You’ll have an awesome experience if you want to see the area from horseback. The campsites with corrals are in a separate area from the tent sites and basic RV pads.
With hiking and horseback riding trails surrounding your RV, you won’t be able to resist the temptation to explore the terrain. You’ll pass by all sorts of trees and shrubs and perhaps spot a skunk along the way. When you get back to camp, you can buy some firewood and make s’mores.
“The campground is in a fantastic location with Shoofly ruins and the crossing parks just down the road. The sites were good sized and very wooded, so we had a lot of shade. Each site has a nice picnic table and fire ring.” – Connie, Trip Advisor Review
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For great trout fishing and swimming, try this Payson, Arizo campground just below the Mogollon Rim. Christopher Creek Campground is run by the U.S. Forest Service and is open each year from April through October. Between late spring and early summer is the best time for successful fishing in the creek.
With three separate swimming holes, spring-fed Christopher Creek can keep you cool even on the hottest summer days. You can also ride a horse or a mountain bike on the terrain. The small town for which the park is med is very close by so you can drive to a store for supplies if needed.
“The creek is shallow and there is a swimming hole within a close distance from the campground. The sites are kid-friendly and there were plenty of families camping this past weekend. At night, it became quiet after 9 and there were no disruptive neighbors.” – Beebee, Trip Advisor Review
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Travelers who are age 55 and older can find a comfortable place at Lamplighter RV Resort in Star Valley. Although the city is nearby, it doesn’t interfere with this park’s country atmosphere. The location is distant enough from the highway to be peaceful and quiet yet close enough for easy access.
If you have multiple vehicles or large ATVs, you can pay a little extra to keep them in one of this park’s storage yards. Your pets will have a good time in the fenced, double-gated dog area. For your own entertainment, Lamplighter RV Resort has a game room, a clubhouse and a separate space for billiards.
“A mixed blend of permanent and temporary people but all 55+ age. For Senior shuttle call senior center for free rides on Wednesday. Free shuttle to Mazatzal casino located on south side of Payson.” – Renee, Campendium Review
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Many campers bring their ATVs with them on vacation only to find that they have nowhere to ride. At Oxbow Estates RV Park, you’ll have plenty of space for riding ATVs as well as hiking and picnicking. This trailer park in Payson, Arizona is situated right by the Tonto National Forest.
You don’t have to stay in this RV park when you get restless because you can easily go shopping in town and stop by your favorite restaurant on your way back. If you want to organize a reunion or event, you can reserve the on-site Ramada. You can also just spend a relaxing evening at your campsite and cook out on the grill.
“We picked this place because of the ATV trails nearby. The trails were great; we had several kids with us and they had a blast.” – Mike, Passport America Review
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This campground in Payson, Arizona is popular among fisherman, and nearby Willow Springs Lake has bass, brown trout, and sometimes rainbow trout. You can use the ramp to enter the lake with your fishing boat. Among the campgrounds in this area, Sinkhole is perhaps the most rustic in atmosphere.
The roads and RV campsites at this park are paved for easy maneuverability, but the setting is still very primitive. The Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest is packed with ponderosa pines and features a wildlife area for non-motorized tranquility. You’ll see elk and other creatures living in their natural habitat.
“Great thing about Sinkhole is that it is pretty quiet. This is the spot where retirees and folks who enjoy fishing come to take a break from the insanity of city life. And even the kids were so chill.” – Monica, Yelp Review
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If you’re a serious nature lover, then you may want to drive a few miles south from Payson to Coon Bluff Campground. Bird watchers often prefer this area as do hikers and horseback riders. Coon Bluff is overseen by the U.S. Forest Service and is open to camping on weekends except during the summer months.
This park offers some of the best RV camping near Payson, Arizona for travelers who like a primitive setting. The number of campsites is limited, so you’ll have plenty of space for your self-contained vehicle. Since Coon Bluff Campground sits right by the Salt River, it’s a good place for tubers to enter the water.
“This is an amazing spot for any outdoor activities. I’ve been birding out here and we always see tons of species including many migratory birds. The water is beautiful and the campground, despite having many tent sites, seems spread out and looks like there is plenty of room for everyone.” – Sabeve, Yelp Review
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With 320 acres of desert plants and canyon trails, this state RV park near Payson is a hiker’s dream. If you’re experienced in mountain hiking, then you may be able to reach the Flatiron by following the Siphon Draw Trail. Be sure to wear appropriate hiking shoes and take plenty of water.
You don’t have to be a professional mountaineer to enjoy the hiking trails at Lost Dutchman State Park. You can even take your children on Jacob’s Crosscut Trail and marvel at the scenery along the base of the Superstition Mountains. RV campgrounds near Payson, Arizona are known for their hiking and horseback riding trails.
“Our rig is over 60’ making it hard to stay anywhere on downtime outside of truck stops and rest areas. We were excited to find out the rig would fit at Lost Dutchman. They did tell us we had the biggest vehicle to stay here. Which leads me to the staff, very professional and courteous. Sites are clean with plenty of room. The scenery and wildlife was the icing on the cake.” – Wes, Facebook Review
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Patrons of Happy Jack Lodge & RV miss the cool temperatures of the high country when they are away. This campground draws a crowd even during the winter months with its snow play area. Since the park is on 100 acres of wilderness, it has plenty of wide-open space for ATV riding.
Named for the town in which it is located, Happy Jack is about 50 miles north of Payson. In this rural area, a full-service RV park is a necessity. Happy Jack Lodge & RV has a camping supplies store and Jack’s Place Steakhouse & Bar, which serves delicious entrees.
“It’s so quiet and peaceful out here. The kids loved the area, exploring the very clean grounds! They loved the inside of the historic building! The staff were very nice and accommodating. We had NO problems whatsoever! If you are looking for a great spot to camp this is it.” – Charlie, Trip Advisor Review
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Overview Cholla Campground at Roosevelt Lake, is one of several campgrounds on the shores of the largest lake/reservoir located entirely in the State of Arizona. It is situated within a lush sonoran desert landscape at an elevation of 2168'. Cholla Campground is also the largest solar powered campground in the United States. Each of its 206 campsites have shade ramadas, firepits, grills, and picnic tables. Playgrounds, showers and toilet facilites are scattered throughout the campground. The area around Cholla Campground is often alive with abundant wildlife such as mule deer, coyotes, geese, fox, javalina, and the occasional bald eagle. Recreation Recreation opportunities abound at Cholla Campground. Launch your bass boat, ski boat, or pontoon boat from the developed boat ramps within the recreation site and play on the water all day long. If motorsports aren't your thing, there's an abundance of places to explore from your kayak, canoe, or paddleboard. While you're visiting, you can also hike a portion of the Arizona Trail, visit the Tonto National Monument cliff dwellings, explore endless miles of jeep trails or drive a portion of the Apache Trail or Spines to Pines Highway. If if you're looking for a day in town, consider the easy 45 minute drive Globe or Payson where you can shop for antiques, buy ice cream and learn about Arizona's rich mining and timber history. Roosevelt Lake is a landscape photograhers dream so don't forget your camera (and sunscreen). Facilities Recreation opportunities abound at Cholla Campground. Launch your bass boat, ski boat, or pontoon boat from the developed boat ramps within the recreation site and play on the water all day long. If motorsports aren't your thing, there's an abundance of places to explore from your kayak, canoe, or paddleboard. While you're visiting, you can also hike a portion of the Arizona Trail, visit the Tonto National Monument cliff dwellings, explore endless miles of jeep trails or drive a portion of the Apache Trail or Spines to Pines Highway. If if you're looking for a day in town, consider the easy 45 minute drive Globe or Payson where you can shop for antiques, buy ice cream and learn about Arizona's rich mining and timber history. Roosevelt Lake is a landscape photograhers dream so don't forget your camera (and sunscreen). Natural Features Roosevelt Lake was dedicated by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1911 and boasts 112 miles of shoreline and peaceful coves. When full, the lake provides 21,500 acres of surface water for your recreating pleasure. Cholla Campground is situated within a Sonoran Desert Landscape along the lakes shorelines. Views of the blue water and sunsets against the Sierra Ancha, Salome, and Superstition Wilderness' are a sight that keep many visitors coming back year after year. Nearby Attractions Two National Scenic Byways (AZ Hwy 88 Apache Trail and AZ Hwy 288 Spines to Pines Highway). Roosevelt Dam, Tonto National Monument, the Arizona Trail, endless miles of jeep trails, Towns of Payson and Globe, Superstition, Sierra Ancha, and Four Peaks Wilderness'. Don't forget to stop by the Tonto Basin Environmental Center learn about the history of the area.
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This RV park is operated by the USFS. It’s one of the smallest RV parks in the area. A creek runs through the grounds
This RV park is a great place to get closer to nature. It’s located pretty far outside of town, which means the stars are incredibly bright at night. Creek access makes this RV park a summer favorite.
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Zane Grey RV Village is a great place to live or hang out year round. It’s close to everything you want to be around when you’re traveling to Sedona, and because it’s surrounded by mountains, you’ll have shelter from summer rains. This is a beautiful place to stop and stay a while.
While some RV parks in Sedona don’t have many on-site amenities, the staff at Zane Grey RV Village makes sure you have everything needed for fun right in the park. Sometimes you want to stay close by and enjoy your immediate surroundings. They offer gaming options and birding adventures so that you don’t have to leave the park to have a good experience out in nature.
“The park is immaculate and well kept up. We arrived late due to some difficulty with our trailer, and they were very accommodating. I would definitely recommend it to fellow travelers.” – Steven & Patricia, Google Review
Overview Civilian Conservation Corps Campground offers spread out camp sites with large sycamore trees providing shade. Picnic tables and firepits with cooking grates are available for families to enjoy while passing the time away together. Cave Creek Trailhead is nearby where you can follow along the Cave Creek Riparian Ecosystem. This spot is popular for bird watching! This location is available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Visitors are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a site. Once on-site, you may be able to pay for your campsite(s) by scanning a QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app, and the Scan and Pay feature. If this option is available, you will need to first download the free Recreation.gov mobile app https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app prior to your arrival as some remote areas have limited or no cellular service. Camping passes can also be purchased at a Tonto Fee Machine Pass. $16 per site, per night. Nearest fee machine location is at the Cave Creek Ranger Station. Recreation Camping Hiking Creek Access OHV Routes Bird Watching Facilities Camping Hiking Creek Access OHV Routes Bird Watching Natural Features Large sycamore trees provide plenty of shade and the Cave Creek Riparian Ecosystem is just steps away from your campsite. Nearby Attractions Towns of Carefree and Cave Creek contact_info For facility specific information, please call (480) 595-3300.
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Overview Located on central Arizona's largest lake, Windy Hill offers great water recreation opportunities to the public. Because of its close proximity to the Lake, Windy Hill allows fishing, non-motorized and motorized boating, along with hiking trails. There are plenty of developed campsites available at Windy Hill, which allows for an easy, quick escape during any time of the year for families and individuals. Recreation Fishing is popular activity where anglers can expect to catch a variety of fish species, such as Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass; Crappie; Sunfish; Channel and Flathead Catfish. This campground is also situated right on the shore of Roosevelt Lake which is open to boating, kayaking, and other water-related activites. A fully accessible boat ramp and fishing dock are available for easy lake access, and maps and other important site details can be found at the kiosks at the entrance to the campground. Facilities Fishing is popular activity where anglers can expect to catch a variety of fish species, such as Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass; Crappie; Sunfish; Channel and Flathead Catfish. This campground is also situated right on the shore of Roosevelt Lake which is open to boating, kayaking, and other water-related activites. A fully accessible boat ramp and fishing dock are available for easy lake access, and maps and other important site details can be found at the kiosks at the entrance to the campground. Nearby Attractions Two National Scenic Byways (AZ Hwy 88 Apache Trail and AZ Hwy 288 Spines to Pines Highway). Roosevelt Dam, Tonto National Monument, the Arizona Trail, endless miles of jeep trails, Towns of Payson and Globe, Superstition, Sierra Ancha, and Four Peaks Wilderness'. Don't forget to stop by the Tonto Basin Environmental Center learn about the history of the area.
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This RV park is surrounded by mature shade trees. It’s located near downtown Camp Verde and is somewhat smaller than other parks in the area.
If you’re a senior citizen, Krazy K RV Park is the place to be. This RV park offers a rate discount of 50 percent to seniors. This is also one of the closest parks to Montezuma tiol Monument.
“Beautiful and well maged. Owners and staff go out of the way to make you feel welcome. This is an adult only RV Park. Was only passing through for one night and I am planning to stay until spring!” – Cheryl, Google Review
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Distant Drums RV Resort is a medium-sized RV park located just outside of town. It’s close to Sedo and Montezuma tiol Monument. This RV park consists of an open space with many RV pads.
This RV park features many modern amenities. Since there aren’t many shade trees, this is a great place to soak up the winter sun. It’s easy to get to popular sightseeing destitions from Distant Drums RV Resort.
“Enjoyed three days here exploring the Sedo area. Park was very reasoble with a nearby casino for great food. Our back in site met our needs fine. Showers were clean and hot. Nice library, fitness center, laundry facility. Office staff was very friendly and helpful. Will definitely stop back here in the area again. Thanks.” – Sue, Google Review
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If you are looking for a luxury place, then look no further! Verde Ranch RV Resort was voted #6 Best RV Resort by USA TODAY 10Best, as well as received recognition on other travel platforms. Its great location allows day trips to Sedona, Cottonwood, Montezuma's Castle, Flagstaff, and the southern rim of the Grand Canyon.
Guests will love the endless opportunities to have some fun while staying here. Relax in either one of the two hot tubs, take a dive in the heated swimming pool, or run around the Splash Pad. Move around on the Pickleball courts or try your hand at Bocce Ball and Horsehoe. The Verde Ranch RV Resort will make you want to keep coming back year after year.
“Camp Verde RV resort was wonderful! The staff inside the office and store were very friendly, genuine, and happy to help in any way. We love the cleanliness of the entire ranch- including the RV pads, the roads, the playground, clubhouse, pool, showers, and laundry facilities! It was an exceptional place and the price was lower than we expected to pay- which made it even more enjoyable!! We will definitely visit this resort again soon and many more times to come!” – Carrie M, Google review
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This RV park provides leveled gravel sites with lots of room to accommodate slideouts. It is located to the south of Cottonwood. Verde River RV Resort and Cottages is a medium-sized RV park.
Since this RV park is on the Verde River, the surrounding area is filled with trees. Every RV pad is shaded. Even during peak season, there is usually a spot open.
“Nice clean restrooms and laundry room. The entire facility was under construction during the 7 weeks we were there but the construction didn’t interfere with any of our activities. Easy Access to river for fishing or Kayaking. Large, level, gravel spots. Friendly, helpful staff. I have a feeling this place is really going to be something when the remodel and updates are finished.” – Scott, Google Review
Whether you visit the Arizona Rim Country for the temperatures or the serenity, you can find an RV park that meets your needs. Having reviewed our list of top-rated RV parks in the area, you now have a range of excellent options featuring great amenities, beautiful scenery, and a friendly atmosphere. To ensure your preferred dates, make your reservation early for a stress-free vacation. For more tips and guides to elevate your RV adventure, explore our blog on choosing the perfect RV or get inspired by our travel ideas. Ready to find the ideal RV rental? Search Payson, AZ RV rentals.
The top 10 campgrounds we selected all show daily, weekly and monthly rates for you. Pricing will vary.
Pricing will vary. The top 10 RV Parks we selected all display daily, weekly and monthly rates for you.
Staying at an RV Park for a long period of time will vary on the campground & RV Park you choose. View our post for more information.
Yes. The majority of campgrounds we selected in this blog allow pets.