Manzanita.
4.53477 reviews5900 N. Hwy 89A
Manzanita.
$30.00 - $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
The nightly fee for tent-only sites is $30 throughout the year. Additional service fees apply for reservations made online ($8), through the contact center ($9), or in person ($3). Reservation fees are non-refundable. Discounts apply for holders of certain Interagency Passes.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of Oak Creek Canyon, Manzanita Campground offers an intimate tent-only retreat where 18 carefully positioned sites bring you closer to nature's rhythm. Wake to the gentle murmur of Oak Creek just steps from your tent, where wildlife regularly visits the crystal waters. This cozy campground creates a true wilderness experience, with neighboring campers sharing in the canyon's raw beauty and the creek's soothing soundtrack.
Manzanita Campground is tent-only with limited space for small camper vans. It offers both reserved and first-come-first-serve sites within a serene canyon setting.
Historical SignificanceYour basecamp sits in the shadow of centuries of human history, just moments from the famous Slide Rock State Park where generations have played in nature's water park. The nearby artistic haven of Sedona, with its iconic red rock formations, has long inspired Native American cultures, early settlers, and modern-day seekers alike. This corridor through Oak Creek Canyon has served as a vital passage between the high country and the desert for countless generations.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformations of Oak Creek Canyon, where summer transforms the creek into a natural swimming hole perfect for cooling off after a day of exploration. As autumn arrives, the canyon walls glow with golden light while temperatures drop. Winter brings a magical transformation as snow dusts the rim while the deep canyon walls create a natural refrigerator, keeping temperatures refreshingly crisp. The towering canyon walls create extended shadows, offering natural air conditioning in summer but requiring extra layers during cooler months.
ElevationTucked deep within Oak Creek Canyon's protective embrace, the campground rests in a natural cathedral where towering walls filter the day's first and last light. This dramatic setting creates a unique microclimate where morning mists linger and evening shadows arrive early, offering respite from the high desert sun while creating an enchanting atmosphere that feels worlds away from the rim above.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a hidden oasis where Oak Creek has carved a lush ribbon of life through the high desert. Smooth gravel beaches invite barefoot exploration, while ancient stream-bed boulders create natural seats for creek-side contemplation. Towering Arizona ash and box elder trees form a verdant canopy overhead, their leaves dancing with colorful songbirds that fill the canyon with morning melodies. The creek's crystal-clear waters reveal smooth stones below, creating perfect swimming holes and gentle cascades that provide nature's soundtrack to your stay.
Geological RegionOak Creek Canyon showcases nature's artistic mastery, where millions of years of patient water flow has carved a spectacular gorge through ancient rock layers. This riparian wonderland stands in stunning contrast to the surrounding high desert, with towering ridges standing sentinel over a green corridor below. The canyon's unique geology creates a rare ecosystem where massive Arizona ash and box elder trees thrive alongside the ever-present creek, their roots anchored among smooth boulders that tell the story of countless floods and patient erosion that shaped this natural sanctuary.
Campsite details
AccessibilityCertain campsites (e.g., site 9) are more accessible for mobility-impaired individuals, with dirt paths and close proximity to amenities. Stair-access sites are less suitable.
Sites SizeCampsites range from small (accommodating one tent or small vehicles) to medium-sized for multiple tents. Larger tents may face challenges at some sites due to rocky terrain.
Sites PrivacySites are generally close together with limited privacy. Reviewers frequently noted cramped conditions.
Total Campsites18 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose creek-side sites (#10-19) for proximity to water and tranquility. Avoid sites near pit toilets (#14, #15) if sensitive to odors.
Best CampsitesHighly rated sites include #5 (elevated and spacious), #10-19 (closest to the creek), and #4 (more private corner location).
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time varies but is typically available anytime after 12 PM.
Check-out
Check-out time is required by 12 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 7 nights per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of one vehicle and no more than 6 guests allowed per site.
Groups
No specific group sites are noted.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layout18 single-family sites arranged closely together. Creek-side and elevated options available.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov or through its mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityFour first-come, first-served sites are available but often occupied. Arriving early is highly recommended.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled up to the day before check-in with a $10 cancellation fee and forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee for late cancellations. No refunds are issued for cancellations on or after the check-in date.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Manzanita Campground offers activities such as fishing, swimming, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Nearby attractions include Slide Rock State Park and the vibrant town of Sedona.
Hiking
Nearby trails include Sterling Pass Trail and multiple hiking trails in Sedona. The trails vary in difficulty and provide stunning views of the red rocks and canyon.Fishing
Oak Creek provides good fishing opportunities, especially for trout. Some reviewers mentioned catching trout while camping.Swimming
Swimming holes along Oak Creek are accessible from the campground. The creek's cool waters are ideal for summer relaxation.Wildlife viewing
Common wildlife includes songbirds, skunks, raccoons, and occasional deer. Campers are advised to secure food to avoid attracting skunks.Winter Activities
Winter activities include snow camping and hiking in nearby areas. The campground remains open year-round.Water Sports
Water-related activities include swimming and fishing in Oak Creek but no designated water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires permitted in designated fire rings. Firewood is sold onsite for $7.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM onwards.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife activity includes skunks and raccoons. Creek proximity poses drowning risks. Parking lot rocks may damage vehicles.
Active alertsSome reviews mention flooding risk during high creek levels, and snow may impact accessibility.
Weather forecast
72
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 44%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 17.7 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
Closest hospital: Verde Valley Medical Center (~7 miles, ~15 minutes drive); Closest police station: Sedona Police Department (~6 miles, ~15 minutes drive); Closest ranger station: Red Rock Ranger District (~6 miles, ~15 minutes drive)
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 - December 31 (peak season year-round)
Trash and recyclingTrash cans are available and emptied regularly, but recycling facilities may be insufficient.
Proximity to water featuresDirect access to Oak Creek, with swimming and fishing opportunities. Creek-side sites allow easy water access.
Common complaintsComplaints include lack of privacy between sites, noisy road traffic, and parking challenges. Pit toilets have occasional odor issues.
HostHosts are described as friendly and helpful, frequently cleaning facilities and selling firewood onsite for $7 per bundle.
Campground Map
5900 N. Hwy 89A
Driving directionsFrom Phoenix, take I-17 north to Exit 298 for Highway 179. Take 179 north to Sedona. Turn right (north) onto Highway 89A in Oak Creek Canyon and travel 6 miles to the campground.
From Flagstaff, take I-17 south and exit for Highway 89A toward Sedona. Travel 23 miles south on 89A (a winding mountain road) into Oak Creek Canyon. The campground is located just south of Slide Rock State Park.
The campground is right off Highway 89A. Accessing the campground can be challenging due to the winding mountain road. The entrance is described as 'small and hidden, extremely sloped downhill, and dangerous on a busy and winding road.' Visibility for oncoming traffic is very limited, and extra caution is advised.Nearby places
Sedona (~6 miles, ~10 minutes drive), Flagstaff (~23 miles, ~40 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
Closest grocery store: Whole Foods Market in Sedona (~6 miles, ~10 minutes drive)
Closest fuel station: Chevron (~6 miles, ~10 minutes drive)
Firewood is sold onsite for $7 per bundle.
Camper Reviews
4.5
477 reviews
Manzanita. is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Manzanita Campground frequently receives praise for its scenic location, creek access, and friendly camp hosts. However, complaints about site size, proximity to the highway, and vault toilet odors are common.
Review Summaries
Based on 477 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include creekside access, clean facilities, helpful hosts, and peaceful surroundings. Sites 11, 12, 13, and 14 are often praised for their proximity to the creek and scenic views.
Based on 477 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include cramped sites, lack of privacy, road noise from Highway 89A, vault toilet odors, and limited parking space. Accessibility of the campground entrance is another concern for...
Based on 477 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Reserve well in advance due to high demand, especially for creekside sites. Bring drinking water, as the campground's water spigots may have metallic taste. Site 4 offers privacy and direct creek...
Based on 477 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and fall are favored for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer sees high activity, especially around swimming holes, while winter provides a serene and snowy experience. However, snow may...
Based on 477 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Dennis and Lydia were phenomenal camp hosts." "Vault toilets are well maintained but smelly at times." "Sites along the creek are the best." "Proximity to Highway 89A results in some road noise."...
Based on 477 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites 12, 13, and 14 are praised for creek views and shaded environments. Sites 9 and 10 were criticized for being too close and lacking privacy. Site 5 is elevated and offers premium privacy for...
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Accessibility Features
Site 9 is accessible for mobility-impaired individuals. However, stair-accessed sites may pose challenges.
Based on 477 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Manzanita is pet-friendly, but campers should leash pets due to proximity to wildlife and other campers.
Based on 477 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025