One of the most photographed scenes in the southwest is towering Cathedral Rock reflected in the waters of Oak Creek at Red Rock Crossing. It should come as no surprise, then, that the picnic area located at that same site is as popular as it is beautiful. People come here to fish, swim, and wade in the creek, as well as to picnic and photograph the scenery. At times it can become quite crowded. If you want the world-class beauty of Red Rock Crossing all to yourself (or nearly so) visit early in the morning or on a weekday.
This cozy group campground is tucked in the Lower Sonoran Desert along the banks of the fresh, chilly Clear Creek. Campers can wade in the creek, fish, or curl up with a book under the umbrella of cottonwood trees. Another popular pastime here is birdwatching, where you might just spot a hawk or bald eagle in flight. Clear Creek Campground is seven miles southeast of the small ranching town of Camp Verde. It’s part of the Coconino National Forest, one of the most diverse forests in the country. Landscapes range from alpine tundra to desert valleys and red canyons.
Chavez Crossing Group Campground is in the picturesque Red Rock district of Arizona, with famous red rock formations and breathtaking painted sunsets. Placed beside a creek and surrounded by sycamore and cypress groves, the campground’s location offers a fresh sense of the great outdoors. It’s also conveniently close to developed entertainment like golf courses and stylish restaurants in the resort town of Sedona. Drive through Oak Creek Canyon to view majestic red-hued cliffs, buttes, and canyons. At night, relax by the campfire at your site or take advantage of Sedona’s trendy shopping and nightlife.
Dairy Springs is a comfortable campground tucked away in a scenic area of northern Arizona. Its main attraction is the seasonal Mormon Lake which, when filled with water, draws visitors for fishing, windsurfing and wildlife watching. Hiking, biking, horseback riding and photography are available year-round. The facility has both individual and group sites that can accommodate groups of many sizes, including large families.