A whopping 92 million American households identified as campers in 2022 — and 58 million households enjoyed at least one camping trip last year. Meanwhile, Arizona’s campgrounds and recreational vehicle parks industry is expected to be worth $196 million this year.
Whether you’re an avid camper, go camping every now and then, or want to do so for the first time, you’ll want to know what areas in the state offer the best camping experiences. What’s ideal for you and your family might not be a great choice for someone else.
The good news is that there are many options in the Grand Canyon State to explore and enjoy nature. It’s about taking the time to see what camping sites are available around Arizona.
Here’s a look at three of the best locations for your next camping trip in Arizona. Whether you want to stay in a tent, a car, or an RV, you can find the right location for your outdoor adventure.
1. Patagonia Lake State Park
If you’re considering camping locations in Arizona, Patagonia Lake State Park is one outdoor venue that should be on your list of options. One reason is that it offers opportunities for a wide range of activities. So, if you enjoy water sports, for instance, travel with your kayak, pontoon boat, paddleboat, or whatever water vessel you have to enjoy time at the marina.
Situated 70 miles southeast of Tucson, the state park offers options if you like to go hiking. In fact, the Santa Rita Mountains are relatively close. So, consider adding hiking to your to-do list.
Patagonia Lake State Park has 100+ campsites for tent camping or RV camping. If you want a less crowded camping experience, you can rent a site that can only be accessed by boat.
2. Wahweap RV & Campground
If you’re big on scenic views, you’ll want to consider the Wahweap RV & Campground. There’s plenty to captivate the senses in a natural outdoor environment with trees instead of billboards.
With restrooms, free WiFi, fire rings and grills, and coin-operated laundry and shower facilities, this camping location is the perfect spot if you want to go camping without having to rough it. Not everyone, after all, wants to give up all the creature comforts of home to go camping.
It features options like boating, hiking, birdwatching, and more. Traveling with kids? The campsite offers a water playground experience that appeals to people of all ages.
RVing is a great vacation option many Arizona families take advantage of. But RVs have also become necessary for some families struggling to keep up with mortgage or rent payments. One source notes that many people in Southern Arizona opt for RV ownership as a cheaper alternative to more traditional forms of housing.
If you’re standing on the sidelines of the real estate market and waiting for the right opportunity to pounce on, one option to consider is investing via an alternative investment platform. Investing in a property doesn’t have to mean physically owning, maintaining, and repairing it.
3. Jacob Lake Recreation Area
Yet another option to consider is the Jacob Lake Recreational Area. You don’t know what you’ve been missing if you’ve never been to Lake Jacob. But you can compensate for lost time by visiting the Jacob Lake Recreation Area. Whether you like hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, birdwatching, or other activities, you can do it and much more at this venue.
If you want to go camping in Arizona, these are three options to consider. The state offers many options to satisfy campers, whether they’re based in or out of the state. Do your research to find the right spot for you and yours.
