Surrounded by the Coconino National Forest on every side, Flagstaff has no shortage of outdoor recreational activities. And this is excellent news for those looking to camp because the National Forest Service has constructed numerous campgrounds to accommodate people staying in the Arizona forest.

Perhaps the best part is that every park has something to offer; therefore, you'll notice that the scenery and amenities vary. For example, some campgrounds are free while others charge a small fee, some are perched high above the verdant canyons, and others are tucked away deep in the woods. In Flagstaff, you can even camp inside a hollowed-out extinct volcano!

Things To Know When Camping Near Flagstaff

Flagstaff campgrounds and hiking trails feature deep canyons, tall pines, and mountain lake scenery. During early fall, spring, and summer, temperatures are cool and refreshing, with the average high temperature in July being only 83 degrees Fahrenheit.

With that being said, it's essential to keep in mind that many Flagstaff campgrounds operate from early May until late October. And during this time, some parks may close due to high fire risk dangers. After October, the weather can become quite harsh. Flagstaff is known for its cold winters and vast snowfall amounts, with the average being around 108 inches per year!

The good news is that the Coconino National Forest supports dispersed camping, which means that you can technically camp anywhere in the forest. Still, you want to check the weather and other conditions before planning your trip, just to avoid surprises.

What To Bring

The wilderness around Flagstaff can be a dangerous place. The mountains meet the desert in this region, so being prepared for a camping trip is vital. This is especially true for dispersed campers because they may be a long way from the amenities of a campground.

Aside from camping essentials such as sleeping bags, chairs, and a tent, here are some other items that will come in handy when camping near Flagstaff:

• Camping Stove: This is an essential piece of gear for cooking up a delicious camp-side dinner.
• Portable Water Container: Some camping areas do not have reliable water access, so it's highly recommended that you bring your own water container.
• Map: A good map is vital to ensure you're staying on public land, learning more about your location, and ensuring that you don't get lost while exploring. National Geographic has a good map that has a great overview of the Sedona and Flagstaff areas.

Best Places To Camp Near Flagstaff

Now that you know what to expect in Flagstaff let's look at the best places to camp in the area.

Cave Springs

Located about 18 miles outside of Flagstaff, Cave Springs is a popular destination for camping in this area, so book your visit here in advance because the summer months are busy. Yet beware, once you've stayed at this campground, you'll want to return year after year - the hiking, camping, and fishing are unmatched.

This park has 89 sites where all of them offer hook-ups for trailers up to 36' except one that's tent-only. The great thing about camping at Cave Springs is that most of the sites back up to the river, so there's nothing but the quiet river filled with crystal clear water where you can fish or wade. It’s also a great starting point for those looking to hike near the Coconino National Forest around Sedona.

Fort Tuthill County Park

Fort Tuthill is located close to downtown Flagstaff and is an excellent option for large groups such as family reunions or company retreats. While the facility doesn't have any amenities aside from porta-potties, it's a perfect option for those who don't need additional conveniences.

If you decide to camp at Fort Tuthill, be sure to check out the County Park, where you'll find a high ropes course for all the adrenaline fiends. And if you're a mountain bike rider, there are several bike trails around the campground.

Bonito Campground

Also located inside the Coconino National Forest is the Bonito Campground. It features a gorgeous oasis of peaks and hills, ponderosa pine trees, and trails for exploring. If you're looking for quiet and secluded - this is it! And there's an added bonus of getting to see relics such as the Wupatki National Monument and the Sunset Crater.

It's common for campers staying at this campsite to enjoy day trips visiting the Meteor Crater, Petrified National Forest, and Grand Canyon. With Flagstaff just 10 miles away, there are also plenty of places to eat, shop, or find entertainment.

Pine Flat Campground West

Much like Cave Springs, Pine Flat offers 60 campsites along Oak Creek, with most sites offering close access to the creek. The only downside is that this campground has no showers, so if you need one, you'll have to head over to Cave Springs and use their token-operated facilities.

Pine Flat is the perfect spot for those looking to hike in the nearby Coconino Forest or wanting to catch some trout in Oak Creek. This campground features spacious sites, and even though it's close to the main road, the noise is not bad.

Lockett Meadow Campground

Arguably the crown jewel in terms of Flagstaff campgrounds is the Lockett Meadow campground. It's nestled in the Inner Basin of the San Francisco Peaks, so this area provides campers with a serene mountain backdrop. The 360-degree views are breathtaking, as wind-swept mountain peaks surround visitors. These are Arizona's tallest mountains, and it makes you feel more like you're in the Rockies than the Grand Canyon state.

Fall camping in Lockett Meadow Campground should be on everyone's bucket list. During this season, the Inner Basin springs to life with vibrant colors as the Aspen trees start to change. Though it can be hard to find an available campsite in the fall because people come from all over the state to see the seasons change.

Lockett Meadow is home to many hiking trails and is popular with backpackers heading up to the Peaks on trails such as the Humphreys-Kachina Loop. Just keep in mind that water sources are scarce on the Peaks; it's recommended that you pack your own water, or you'll have to melt snow. Furthermore, camping is restricted to elevations under 11,600 ft.

In the end, camping near Flagstaff is a must for every outdoor enthusiast. Regardless of whether you're camping near the city during the summer or staying at the Lockett Meadow Campground during Autumn, you'll have the time of your life between the beautiful weather and scenery!