Camping In Prescott

By AZ Leisure Staff Writers

Last updated on April 30, 2026.

Camping in Prescott offers a refreshing escape into the cool pine forests of central Arizona, surrounded by the scenic landscapes of the Prescott National Forest. With elevations ranging from 5,500 to over 6,000 feet, the Prescott area provides ideal conditions for camping nearly year-round, especially compared to the hotter desert regions of the state. Campgrounds are conveniently located near lakes, hiking trails, and granite mountain formations, making Prescott one of the most popular camping destinations in Arizona for both tent campers and RV travelers.

The Bradshaw Mountains in the Prescott National Forest surround the city of Prescott, Arizona. Campgrounds are located within a short drive of downtown and offer easy access to lakes such as Goldwater Lake, Lynx Lake, and Granite Basin Lake. Most sites accommodate RVs and trailers up to 40 feet, with nearby hiking trails leading into scenic forest and mountain terrain.

Why Go Camping In Prescott

Camping in Prescott combines mild weather, scenic forest landscapes, and easy access to outdoor recreation. Visitors enjoy camping near lakes such as Lynx Lake and Granite Basin Lake, along with hiking trails that lead into rugged terrain and panoramic viewpoints. Unlike many Arizona destinations, Prescott offers a cooler climate during the summer months while still providing four distinct seasons. Its proximity to downtown Prescott also allows campers to enjoy restaurants, historic sites, and shopping just minutes from most campgrounds.

Following are overview summaries of the most popular Prescott Campgrounds with links to more information and directions. Each of the campgrounds in Prescott have nearby hiking trail heads into very scenic territory. See a list of some of the most popular Prescott hiking trails.

Best Things To See & Do Around Prescott

• Hike scenic trails in Prescott National Forest and Granite Mountain Wilderness
• Fish, kayak, or picnic at Lynx Lake, Goldwater Lake, and Watson Lake
• Explore downtown Prescott including Whiskey Row and historic Courthouse Plaza
• Take scenic drives through the Bradshaw Mountains
• Visit Granite Dells for unique rock formations and photography
• Enjoy mountain biking and horseback riding trails throughout the area
• Explore nearby Jerome and Sedona for additional day trips

Best Campgrounds in Prescott Arizona

Granite Basin Group Campground At Granite Basin Lake

Granite Basin Campground sits at an elevation of about 5,600 feet in the Prescott National Forest and will accommodate up to 100 campers. There are 30 vehicle sites. RVs and camping trailers are permitted but parking is difficult. There are no utility hookups or drinking water. Granite Basin Lake is only about a 1/4 mile from the campground. Hiking trailheads to the Granite Mountain Wilderness are within 1 mile. The rugged, boulder strewn cliffs of the 9,000 acre Granite Mountain Wilderness provide a scenic setting for this group campground. There is a 14 day stay limit.

Granite Basin Lake is a man-made lake of about 5 surface acres. Although fishing is usually rated as only fair to poor, a patient angler can often catch bluegill, largemouth bass, or catfish. A State of Arizona fishing license is required for anglers over the age of 13 years. Swimming is not permitted in the lake. Boating is permitted, but boats are limited only electric motors.

Read more about Granite Basin Group Campground.

Hilltop Campground Near Lynx Lake

Elevation of Hilltop Campground is about 5,500 feet in the Prescott National Forest about 0.5 mile directly south of Lynx Lake. There are 38 campsites and can generally accommodate most recreational vehicles under 40 feet in length. There is a 7 day stay limit with a $18 nightly fee per site which is subject to change. There is a general store and boat rentals at the Lynx Lake's north shore. There are several hiking trails into the backcountry. A campground host is located at the campground for assistance and campsite selection.

Lynx Lake is approximately 55 surface acres and is periodically stocked with trout. A State of Arizona fishing license is required for all anglers over the age of 13. No swimming is permitted and the use of boat motors is limited to electrically powered motors, kayaks and canoes.

Read more about Hilltop Campground.

Lower Wolf Creek Campground

Elevation about 6,000 feet. Arizona walnut and live-oaks are interspersed among the ponderosa pines in this boulder-strewn campground located within a short drive of Prescott. Includes 20 campsites with a 14 day stay limit. RV Friendly not to exceed 40 feet. There are no hookups, dump station, shower facilities or drinking water available. There is a campground host available to provide information and to help visitors find a suitable camping site. No reservation, first-come basis. A $10 fee per campsite applies and is subject to change.

Read more about Lower Wolf Creek Campground.

Lynx Lake Campground At Lynx Lake

Lynx Lake Campground sets at an elevation of 5,500 feet in the pine forest along the western shore of Lynx Lake and includes 36 camp sites with a 7 day stay limit. A campground host is available to provide information and camper assistance. RV and camping trailers no longer than 40 feet are permitted. However, there are no hookups, dump stations or shower facilities. Hiking trailheads are nearby the campgrounds including to the archaeological site at the Lynx Creek Ruin Day Use Picnic Area. Fees are $18 a day for each camp site and are subject to change. There is a general store with a restaurant at the north shore of Lynx Lake. Campsites are available on a first come basis.

Read more about Lynx Lake Campground.

Upper Wolf Creek Group Campground

Upper Wolf Creek is primarily a group campground that can accommodate a maximum of 100 campers and 30 vehicles. The boulder-strewn, treed area sits an elevation of about 6,000 feet. There are several hiking trails from the campground. Facilities include a volleyball court and horseshoe pits with equipment available from the campground host. Campground fees apply. Lower Goldwater Lake, Upper Goldwater Lake and the Prescott Reservoir are within 2-3 miles of the campground. RV parking is available for recreational vehicles that do not exceed 40 feet in length. There are no utility hookups, drinking water, or trash collection.

Read more about Upper Wolf Creek Group Campground.

White Spar Campground

Elevation about 5,700 feet. There are 60 campsites of which 2 are handicap accessible. 11 of the campsites are open year-round. RVs are permitted with a 40 foot limitation. Fees of $10 per day apply to each camp site and there is a 14 day stay limit. The campsites are generally large enough to accommodate most recreational vehicles (not exceeding 40 feet in length), and the paved road system to and throughout the campground makes for easy access to each camping site. There are no utility hookups, dump stations or shower facilities. The campground is near Goldwater Lake. There is a $18 campsite fee and is subject to change. Stay limit is 14 days.

Read more about White Spar Campground.

Yavapai Campground Near Granite Lake

The rugged, boulder-strewn cliffs of Granite Mountain Wilderness provide a scenic setting at an elevation of 5,600 feet. It is a short walk from the campground to Granite Basin Lake. There are 25 campsites including 1 handicap accessible site. A $10 fee per camping site applies and is subject to change. There are no RV hookups, dump stations or shower facilities. There is a 14 day stay limit. Reservations are not accepted. Served on a first come basis.

Granite Basin Lake is man-made and about 5 surface acres. It is not stocked with fish. Although fishing is usually rated as only fair to poor, the patient angler can often catch bluegill, largemouth bass, or catfish. A State of Arizona fishing license is required for anglers over the age of 13 years. Boats with electric motors only are allowed on the lake and swimming is not permitted.

Best Times To Go Camping In Prescott

Spring (March – May)

• Mild temperatures and blooming vegetation
• Ideal for hiking and outdoor exploration
• Occasional cool nights

Summer (June – August)

• Cooler temperatures than Phoenix and desert areas
• Peak camping season with full campground access
• Afternoon monsoon storms possible

Fall (September – November)

• Crisp air and changing colors in the forest
• Less crowded than summer
• Excellent weather for camping and hiking

Winter (December – February)

• Cold temperatures with occasional snow
• Some campgrounds remain open year-round
• Quieter season with fewer visitors

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best campground in Prescott Arizona?
Popular campgrounds include Lynx Lake Campground, Granite Basin Campground, White Spar Campground, and Hilltop Campground.

Do you need reservations for Prescott campgrounds?
Some campgrounds operate on a first-come basis, while others allow reservations. It is recommended to check ahead during peak seasons.

Can you camp year-round in Prescott?
Yes, some campgrounds remain open year-round, although winter conditions may limit access to certain areas.

Are RVs allowed at Prescott campgrounds?
Yes, most campgrounds allow RVs and trailers, typically with length limits around 40 feet, though hookups are generally not available.

Is camping in Prescott cooler than Phoenix?
Yes, Prescott is typically 15 to 25 degrees cooler than Phoenix due to its higher elevation.

Are there lakes near Prescott campgrounds?
Yes, several campgrounds are located near lakes including Lynx Lake, Goldwater Lake, and Granite Basin Lake.

In The Pines Around Prescott