Free Camping Near Sedona – Dispersed Camping & Boondocking

Sedona is world-famous for its glowing red rock formations, spiritual energy, and postcard-perfect hikes – but it’s also known for being one of Arizona’s more expensive places to stay overnight. The good news? If you’re travelling by campervan, you don’t need to fork out for pricey RV parks to experience Sedona’s best scenery.

While many dispersed camping areas around Sedona require travel on unsealed forest roads, there are a handful of low-cost options that are accessible via sealed roads, making them suitable for hire campervans and RVs. These campsites give you the freedom to park up under the stars, wake up surrounded by nature, and spend your budget on experiences instead of accommodation.

Below, we’ve rounded up some of the best low-cost camping options near Sedona as well as a couple of free dispersed camping areas that may be on the way to your next destination.

Ready to hit the road? Let’s take a look.

Sedona Free Camping Areas – Boondocking & Dispersed Camping Sites

There aren’t many truly free dispersed camping areas right around Sedona that are suitable for hire campervans, because most free spots involve forest service roads that are unsealed and require a high-clearance vehicle – but a few near-free options that are worth considering are below.

1. Cave Springs Campground, Coconino National Forest
2. Pine Flat Campground, Coconino National Forest
3. Dead Horse Ranch State Park, Cottonwood
4. Rancho Sedona RV Park

‘Why Renting a Campervan to Sedona is  Great Hire – Expert Advice’

1. Cave Springs Campground (Coconino National Forest)

Distance from Sedona: 11 miles

Set within the scenic walls of Oak Creek Canyon, Cave Springs Campground is some of the closest low-cost camping near Sedona that remains suitable for RVs and campervans. Located just north of town along State Route 89A, the campground is surrounded by tall pines and canyon cliffs, giving it a peaceful, forested feel while still being within easy reach of Sedona’s main attractions.

Unlike dispersed camping areas, Cave Springs offers a few basic amenities, including vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings (seasonal restrictions apply). While there are no hookups, the campground layout allows for RV access, and the paved road right to the entrance makes it a reliable option for hire campervans that must stay on sealed roads.

From here, you’re well positioned to explore hiking trails, swimming spots, and scenic pullouts. Slide Rock State Park is just a short drive away, while Sedona’s red rock trails, shops, and restaurants are less than 30 minutes south.

The campground is open seasonally from April to October. Campsites are first-come, first-served so aim for a weekday during peak season if you can.

FEATURED AMENITIES

• Vault toilets
• Token-operated showers
• Drinking water
• Picnic tables
• Fire rings (seasonal)

2. Pine Flat Campground (Coconino National Forest)

Distance from Sedona: 16 miles

Further north in Oak Creek Canyon, Pine Flat Campground is a solid near-free option for campervan travellers looking for a simple overnight stay surrounded by nature. Accessed directly from the sealed stretch of State Route 89A, this Forest Service campground sits alongside Oak Creek and is shaded by pine and cottonwood trees, making it especially appealing in warmer months.

Facilities here are basic, with vault toilets and picnic tables but no hookups. Several sites can accommodate RVs and campervans, though spaces are limited and operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving earlier in the day is recommended during peak travel seasons.

Pine Flat’s location makes it easy to combine canyon hikes, scenic drives, and a relaxed overnight stop. You’re also within comfortable driving distance of both Sedona and Flagstaff, making this campground a good option if you’re on a Sedona road trip.

FEATURED AMENITIES

• Vault toilets
• Picnic tables
• Campfire rings
• Drinking water

3. Dead Horse Ranch State Park (Cottonwood)

Distance from Sedona: 17 miles

Located in the nearby town of Cottonwood, Dead Horse Ranch State Park offers one of the best value RV-friendly camping experiences near Sedona. While not free, campsite rates are generally lower than private RV resorts, and the park’s well-maintained facilities make it a popular choice for travellers wanting comfort without a high price tag.

The campground features paved access roads, clearly defined RV sites, and a range of amenities including toilets, hot showers, water, and electric hookups. This makes it an excellent option for campervan travellers looking to recharge both themselves and their vehicle before continuing their journey.

Beyond the campground, the park sits along the Verde River and offers walking trails, lagoon areas, and plenty of open space to relax. Cottonwood’s restaurants, grocery stores, and historic Old Town are also just minutes away, adding convenience to an already well-rounded stop.

FEATURED AMENITIES

• Toilets
• Showers
• Water
• Electric hookups
• Picnic tables

4. Rancho Sedona RV Park

Distance from Sedona: 4 miles

Within Sedona itself, Rancho Sedona RV Park is one of the most convenient RV parks, with paved access, full hookups, and a setting close to shops and trails.

Sites here are RV-friendly with amenities including water, power, restrooms, and laundry facilities. While it’s more expensive than national forest campgrounds, Rancho Sedona is still a reasonable alternative to higher-end resorts and offers a level of comfort that many campervan travellers appreciate.

Staying here allows you to explore Sedona on foot or by bike, with easy access to nearby trails and creekside walks. It’s a great choice if you want to experience Sedona without worrying about access restrictions or long daily drives.

FEATURED AMENITIES

• Restrooms
• Laundry
• Water
• Power
• Volleyball
• WiFi

Important Note About Dispersed Camping Around Sedona for Campervan & RV Travellers

There are 8 free campgrounds in the West Sedona designated dispersed camping areas, managed by the US Forest Service – but these require driving on unsealed forest roads and are not suitable for hire campervans. Conditions can also change rapidly after rain, making even short dirt sections unsafe or prohibited under rental agreements.

For this reason, we recommend sticking to sealed-road-accessible campgrounds or checking directly with the Coconino National Forest for current access conditions before setting out.

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Get the Best Rates on Campervan Rentals in Arizona

If you’re travelling to Sedona via Las Vegas, picking up a campervan from Travellers Autobarn’s Las Vegas depot is a great way to start your Southwest adventure. With a range of affordable campervans, free unlimited miles included as standard, and no need to worry about extra distance charges, you’re free to explore Arizona’s red rock country at your own pace. Las Vegas is also perfectly positioned for combining Sedona with other iconic destinations like the Grand Canyon, Zion National Park, and Death Valley – making it an ideal launch point for a classic American road trip.

DISCLAIMER: All information provided, including prices, availability, and site details, is correct at the time of publishing. We recommend contacting campsites or caravan parks directly to confirm the latest details before planning your visit. Please review our Terms and Conditions for additional information.