Canyon Vista Campground
4.4768 reviews5075 N. Highway 89, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Canyon Vista Campground
$8.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping fee is $30 per night for up to 8 people and one vehicle. Additional vehicle fee is $8 per night. Day use fee is $8 for up to 5 people, available between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Senior and Access Interagency passes provide a 50% discount on single-site camping fees.
About this campground
Nestled in the shadow of the majestic San Francisco Peaks, Canyon Vista Campground offers an intimate escape into nature's embrace. This hidden gem sits peacefully between the historic depths of Walnut Canyon and the shimmering waters of Lower Lake Mary, creating a perfect basecamp for photographers chasing golden hour light, hikers seeking mountain trails, and rock climbers ready to test their skills on ancient volcanic formations. Despite its small size, this tranquil retreat delivers big on breathtaking vistas and outdoor adventure opportunities.
Canyon Vista Campground is a small, scenic campground offering primitive camping with no utility hookups. It is ideal for tent camping, small RVs, or group camping.
Historical SignificanceYour stay at Canyon Vista places you at the crossroads of ancient history and natural wonder. Just moments away lies Walnut Canyon, where centuries-old cliff dwellings whisper stories of the Sinagua people who called these limestone cliffs home over 800 years ago. This archaeological treasure trove adds a profound layer of cultural richness to your camping experience, inviting you to walk in the footsteps of those who first recognized the magic of this landscape.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic dance of Arizona's mountain seasons at Canyon Vista. From late spring through early fall, gentle breezes carry the scent of pine while warm days give way to crisp, star-filled nights—perfect conditions for campfire stories and morning hikes. As autumn paints the aspens gold, temperatures begin their descent, and by winter, a blanket of snow transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, closing the campground until spring's warmth returns to awaken the forest once more.
ElevationPerched at 6,826 feet above sea level, Canyon Vista offers a refreshing mountain retreat where the air is crisp and clean. This lofty elevation provides a natural escape from desert heat, with temperatures running 15-20 degrees cooler than the valleys below. Here, you'll breathe easier in the thin mountain air while enjoying nature's own air conditioning system, making summer camping a comfortable delight.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where towering ponderosa pines create nature's cathedral, their vanilla-scented bark warming in the afternoon sun. The campground's diverse tapestry includes stately mixed conifers, graceful oaks, and quaking aspens that shimmer like gold coins in the breeze. A peaceful meadow stretches nearby, offering a natural amphitheater for wildlife watching, while dramatic views of Walnut Canyon's ancient cliffs and the snow-capped San Francisco Peaks paint an ever-changing backdrop that will fill your camera roll and your soul.
Geological RegionCanyon Vista Campground claims its place within the vast expanse of Coconino National Forest, where volcanic peaks meet ancient canyons in a geological symphony millions of years in the making. This remarkable landscape showcases nature's diversity—from the aromatic ponderosa pine forests that dominate the terrain to pockets of aspen groves that burst with color each fall, all interwoven with sturdy oaks that have witnessed countless seasons. The commanding views of both Walnut Canyon's layered limestone walls and the volcanic San Francisco Peaks offer a front-row seat to Arizona's geological story.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground has wheelchair-friendly vault toilets. Campsites are level, which may assist users with mobility challenges.
Sites SizeThe sites are described as spacious and capable of accommodating large RVs. Parking aprons vary in shape and size but are made of dirt and can fit any RV size, according to additional comments.
Sites PrivacyThe sites are spaced out to provide a good level of privacy, though some reviews note that there are no particularly secluded sites.
Total Campsites14 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites closer to the back provide more privacy and views of scenic cliffs.
Best CampsitesSpecific site numbers are not mentioned.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
14-day limit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 8 people per site.
Groups
Details about group site capacities or configurations are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutConsists of loops near a meadow with 14 single-unit campsites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from early May to mid-October, weather-dependent.
Reservation PlatformsNot applicable as reservations are not accepted.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll 14 campsites are first-come, first-serve and tend to fill quickly during peak seasons.
Cancellation PolicyNo reservations accepted. First come, first serve basis.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Canyon Vista Campground offers hiking, wildlife viewing, and opportunities to enjoy scenic views. Trails like Sandy’s Canyon Trail and the Vista Loop Trail provide access to additional recreational options such as rock climbing.
Hiking
The campground provides direct access to Sandy’s Canyon Trail, which connects to the Arizona Trail. The trail is suitable for both hikers and horseback riders and offers scenic views of Walnut Canyon.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Wildlife viewing
Campers can enjoy wildlife viewing in the surrounding ponderosa pine and aspen forests. The peaceful environment is conducive to spotting local fauna.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not supported as the campground is closed during winter.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not available at this location.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire restrictions may be in place. Campfires are allowed in designated rings unless restrictions are active.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential fire restrictions. Close proximity to Lake Mary Road may lead to noise pollution.
Active alertsOccasional seasonal closures and fire restrictions. Confirm status before planning your visit.
Weather forecast
65
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 64%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 14.5 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Flagstaff Ranger Station located at 5075 N. Highway 89, Flagstaff, AZ 86001 (8 miles, approximately 10 minutes drive).
Good to know
Peak season datesMay through mid-October.
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are available on-site. Firewood and ice can be purchased from the camp host.
Proximity to water featuresClose to Lower Lake Mary but does not offer swimming, boating, or fishing facilities.
Common complaintsHosts have received mixed reviews. Some visitors reported strict policies on RVs and tents, while others praised the cleanliness and friendliness.
HostHosts are present on site, selling ice and firewood. Hosts have received mixed reviews ranging from friendly and accommodating to strict.
Campground Map
5075 N. Highway 89, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Driving directionsTake Lake Mary Road south for 5.5 miles from the intersection of Beulah Blvd. and Lake Mary Rd. Campground is on your left.
Access road is paved. The parking aprons within the campground are dirt and irregularly shaped.Nearby places
Flagstaff, AZ (6 miles, approximately 10-15 minutes by car). Other nearby areas include Lower Lake Mary and Walnut Canyon.
Nearby supplies
Flagstaff town center (within 6 miles) for groceries and supplies. Ice and firewood are available for sale within the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.5
68 reviews
Canyon Vista Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews emphasize the cleanliness of the facilities, the friendliness of the hosts, and the scenic beauty of the campground. Some users had issues with strict host policies.
Review Summaries
Based on 68 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean vault toilets, spacious campsites, excellent hiking and climbing opportunities, friendly and attentive campground hosts.
Based on 68 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints include proximity to a noisy road, strict enforcement of rules by hosts, and occasional confusion over check-in policies.
Based on 68 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early to secure a site as it is first-come, first-serve. Bring your own firewood if you prefer not to purchase on-site. Consider visiting off-peak times for better availability.
Based on 68 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Mid-May to October is the primary season, with fewer crowds in October. Users recommend avoiding summer weekends for better site availability.
Based on 68 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "One of the cleanest bathrooms out there (especially for vault toilet)." - Ryan Kelley
2. "The campground was spacious, quiet, and clean. Definitely a great spot to do some camping if you're in...
Based on 68 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews consistently mention that the back sites offer better views of the cliffs. Some reviews also highlight the spaciousness of certain sites.
Based on 68 reviewsAccessibility Features
Wheelchair-friendly vault toilets and level campsites are noted features. No additional accessibility amenities are mentioned.
Based on 68 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific information on pet policies or reviews related to pets.
Based on 68 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025