When you think of Arizona, desert landscapes and red rock canyons might come to mind, but the state is also home to a surprising number of lakes that offer fantastic camping opportunities. From the cool pines of the White Mountains to the desert reservoirs near Phoenix, Arizona campgrounds near lakes provide a refreshing escape from the heat and a chance to enjoy water-based recreation like fishing, boating, and swimming.
Whether you're planning a family weekend or a solo retreat, finding the right lakeside camping spot can make all the difference. This list highlights a variety of options, including state parks, national parks, and dedicated campgrounds, each offering its own unique setting. We've gathered these locations based on their proximity to water, visitor ratings, and the amenities that matter most to campers.
Read on to compare top-rated Arizona campgrounds near lakes and discover which one suits your next outdoor adventure best.
★★★★☆ 3.8 · 847 reviews
Crazy Horse Campgrounds is a campground located in Arizona, with coordinates placing it near the Colorado River area. It has a rating of 3.8 based on 847 reviews, indicating a generally positive but varied visitor experience. The campground offers a place to set up camp and enjoy the surrounding desert landscape. While specific amenities are not listed, its location near water makes it a potential base for lake and river recreation.
View Details · Get Directions
★★★★★ 4.8 · 14,235 reviews
Petrified Forest National Park is a national park in Arizona, known for its stunning petrified wood and colorful badlands. It has an excellent rating of 4.8 from over 14,000 reviews, making it a highly popular destination. While not primarily a lake destination, the park offers camping opportunities and a unique landscape. Its address is listed as Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona, United States.
Address: Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona, United States
View Details · Get Directions
★★★★★ 4.8 · 8,856 reviews
Saguaro National Park is a national park in Arizona, famous for its iconic saguaro cacti and desert scenery. It boasts a rating of 4.8 from nearly 9,000 reviews, reflecting its popularity among visitors. The park provides camping and hiking opportunities, though it is not specifically known for lakes. Its address is Saguaro National Park, Arizona, United States.
Address: Saguaro National Park, Arizona, United States
View Details · Get Directions
★★★★★ 4.5 · 88 reviews
Roper Lake State Park is a lake in Arizona, with an address of Roper Lake State Park, Arizona 85546, USA. It has a rating of 4.5 from 88 reviews, indicating a solid reputation among visitors. This state park offers a lake setting, making it a fitting option for those seeking Arizona campgrounds near lakes. The park likely provides camping, fishing, and water recreation, though specific amenities are not listed.
Address: Roper Lake State Park, Arizona 85546, USA
View Details · Get Directions
★★★★★ 4.6 · 2,815 reviews
Patagonia Lake State Park is a state park located at 400 Patagonia Lake Rd, Nogales, AZ 85621, United States. With a rating of 4.6 from over 2,800 reviews, it is a well-regarded destination. As the name suggests, the park surrounds a lake, offering camping, boating, fishing, and birdwatching. It is a prime example of an Arizona campground near a lake, providing a scenic escape in the southern part of the state.
Address: Patagonia Lake State Park, 400 Patagonia Lake Rd, Nogales, AZ 85621, United States
View Details · Get Directions
★★★★★ 4.7 · 6,218 reviews
Slide Rock State Park is a state park located at 6871 AZ-89A, Sedona, AZ 86336, United States. It has a rating of 4.7 from over 6,200 reviews, making it a highly popular attraction. While known for its natural rock slide and swimming areas, it also offers camping in a beautiful red rock setting. The park's proximity to Oak Creek provides water-based recreation, though it is not a traditional lake.
Address: Slide Rock State Park, 6871 AZ-89A, Sedona, AZ 86336, United States
View Details · Get Directions
★★★★★ 4.8 · 3,929 reviews
Usery Mountain Regional Park is a park located at 3939 N Usery Pass Rd, Mesa, AZ 85207, United States. With a rating of 4.8 from nearly 4,000 reviews, it is a highly rated outdoor destination. The park offers camping, hiking, and mountain views, and while it may not have a lake within its boundaries, it is within reach of nearby reservoirs. It provides a desert camping experience with modern amenities.
Address: Usery Mountain Regional Park, 3939 N Usery Pass Rd, Mesa, AZ 85207, United States
View Details · Get Directions
★★★★★ 4.7 · 3,930 reviews
Kartchner Caverns State Park is a state park located at 2980 AZ-90, Benson, AZ 85602, United States. It has a rating of 4.7 from over 3,900 reviews, reflecting its popularity for cave tours and nature. While not a lake destination, the park offers camping and a unique underground experience. It is a good option for those seeking a diverse outdoor adventure in Arizona.
Address: Kartchner Caverns State Park, 2980 AZ-90, Benson, AZ 85602, United States
View Details · Get Directions
★★★★★ 4.8 · 30 reviews
Arizona Trail - American Flag Trailhead is a hiking area with a rating of 4.8 from 30 reviews. It is part of the Arizona Trail, offering access to hiking and backpacking. While not a campground itself, it serves as a trailhead for outdoor enthusiasts. Its location in Arizona provides opportunities to explore the landscape, though specific lake access is not documented.
View Details · Get Directions
★★★★☆ 4.2 · 85 reviews
Alaska Canoe & Campgrounds is a campground with a rating of 4.2 from 85 reviews. Despite its name, this location is not in Arizona; it is situated in Alaska based on its coordinates. It is included in this list due to its category as a campground, but it is not geographically relevant to Arizona campgrounds near lakes. Visitors should note the discrepancy and consider other options for Arizona camping.
View Details · Get Directions
★★★★★ 4.5 · 428 reviews
Desert Tortoise Campground is a campground located at Desert Tortoise Campground, Peoria, AZ 85383, United States. It has a rating of 4.5 from 428 reviews, indicating a good reputation. As part of the Lake Pleasant Regional Park area, it offers camping near Lake Pleasant, a popular reservoir in the Phoenix area. This makes it a convenient choice for those seeking lakeside camping with access to boating and fishing.
Address: Desert Tortoise Campground, Peoria, AZ 85383, United States
View Details · Get Directions
★★★★★ 4.8 · 232 reviews
Fool Hollow Lake Mallard Campground is a campground located at Fool Hollow Lake Mallard Campground, Show Low, AZ 85901, United States. It has a rating of 4.8 from 232 reviews, making it a highly rated option. Situated in the White Mountains, this campground offers lakeside camping with opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. It is a prime example of an Arizona campground near a lake, providing a cool retreat in the pines.
Address: Fool Hollow Lake Mallard Campground, Show Low, AZ 85901, United States
View Details · Get Directions
How We Selected These Places
To compile this list of Arizona campgrounds near lakes, we evaluated locations based on their category (campground, state park, national park, lake, park, or hiking area), geographic relevance to Arizona, and proximity to lakes or water bodies. We also considered visitor ratings and review counts as indicators of quality and popularity. Only publicly available information from the supplied data was used; no locations were visited or tested by our team. Each entry is included because it offers a notable camping or outdoor experience in Arizona, with a focus on lakeside access where applicable.
Tips
When planning a camping trip to an Arizona campground near a lake, consider the season and weather. Spring and fall are ideal for moderate temperatures, while summer can be very hot, especially at lower elevations. Always check for fire restrictions and water safety rules. Reserve your campsite in advance, especially during peak weekends and holidays. Bring plenty of water, sun protection, and insect repellent. If you plan to fish or boat, ensure you have the necessary licenses and follow local regulations. Leave no trace to preserve the natural beauty for future visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the best Arizona campgrounds near lakes?
- Some of the top-rated options include Patagonia Lake State Park, Fool Hollow Lake Mallard Campground, and Desert Tortoise Campground near Lake Pleasant. These locations offer lakeside access and have received positive ratings from visitors.
- Are there any free or low-cost campgrounds near lakes in Arizona?
- While specific pricing is not provided, many state parks and national parks charge entrance and camping fees. Some national forest campgrounds may offer lower-cost options. It's best to check with each location for current rates.
- What amenities can I expect at these campgrounds?
- Amenities vary by location. Generally, state parks and developed campgrounds may offer restrooms, picnic tables, fire rings, and potable water. Some may have boat ramps, showers, and electric hookups. Always verify amenities before your trip.
- Can I fish or boat at these campgrounds?
- Many of the lake-based parks, such as Patagonia Lake State Park and Fool Hollow Lake, offer fishing and boating opportunities. However, you may need a valid Arizona fishing license and a boating permit. Check with the park for specific regulations.
- Which campgrounds are most popular?
- Popularity can be gauged by review counts and ratings. Slide Rock State Park and Petrified Forest National Park have high review counts, while Fool Hollow Lake Mallard Campground and Usery Mountain Regional Park have excellent ratings. For lakeside camping, Patagonia Lake State Park is well-reviewed.
Conclusion
Arizona offers a diverse range of camping experiences, and those near lakes are especially rewarding. From the serene waters of Fool Hollow Lake to the scenic shores of Patagonia Lake, there's a spot for every type of camper. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly state park or a remote trailhead, this list of Arizona campgrounds near lakes provides a solid starting point for planning your next outdoor getaway. Remember to check current conditions, make reservations, and respect the natural environment. Happy camping!
Business information, ratings, reviews, opening hours, and other details may change over time. Please verify important information before visiting.
