Pine Flat Campground West
4.36484 reviewsCOCONINO
Pine Flat Campground West
$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
Peak season fees (April to October) are $30 per night for standard nonelectric sites. Additional fees include $10 for an extra vehicle and reservation service fees ($8-$9 depending on booking method). Discounts apply to Interagency Pass holders.
About this campground
Discover your perfect basecamp at Pine Flat Campground West, where 59 thoughtfully designed sites await beneath the towering ponderosa pines of Oak Creek Canyon. Just minutes from Sedona's world-famous red rock formations, this hidden gem offers the best of both worlds—easy access to adventure and a tranquil retreat in nature. Each site comes equipped with a picnic table and campfire ring, perfect for evening s'mores and stargazing. Two fully accessible sites ensure everyone can experience the magic of this canyon oasis, while well-maintained vault toilets provide essential comfort in the wilderness.
Pine Flat Campground West caters to a variety of camping preferences, including tent camping and RV camping. Sites are well-equipped with basic amenities but lack luxury or glamping options.
Historical SignificanceStep into Arizona's agricultural heritage at nearby Slide Rock State Park, where a century-old apple orchard tells the story of early settlers who transformed this desert canyon into a productive farm. Today, this historic site doubles as one of Arizona's most beloved natural water parks, where generations have cooled off in the smooth rock chutes. Your campground sits within the magnificent Coconino National Forest, a landscape that showcases millions of years of geological history and serves as a living laboratory of ecological diversity, from desert floors to alpine peaks.
Weather and SeasonsExperience four distinct seasons in this high-desert paradise. Summer days invite you to seek refuge under the cooling canopy of pines, where temperatures remain comfortable even as the desert below sizzles. Autumn transforms the canyon into a painter's palette of golden aspens and crimson maples, with crisp air perfect for hiking. Winter occasionally dusts the red rocks with snow, creating stunning photographic opportunities and cozy campfire nights. Spring awakens the canyon with wildflowers and ideal hiking conditions, as mild temperatures and flowing creeks beckon outdoor enthusiasts.
ElevationPerched within the dramatic elevation gradient of Oak Creek Canyon, your campsite occupies the sweet spot between desert and forest. The canyon's elevation ranges from 4,000 feet at its lower reaches to 7,000 feet at the rim, creating a unique microclimate that supports an incredible diversity of plant and animal life. This vertical journey through life zones means you can experience multiple ecosystems within a single day's adventure.
Natural Features and SceneryWake up to the gentle murmur of Oak Creek as it winds through your backyard, its crystal-clear waters beckoning anglers and swimmers alike. Massive ponderosa pines create a natural cathedral overhead, their vanilla-scented bark and whispering needles providing the soundtrack to your stay. The campground's lush riparian setting feels worlds away from the surrounding desert, offering a cool green refuge where sycamores and cottonwoods thrive alongside the creek. Look up to see the canyon's signature red sandstone cliffs glowing at sunrise and sunset, their ancient layers telling a 300-million-year story written in stone.
Geological RegionWelcome to one of Arizona's most spectacular geological showcases, where Oak Creek has carved a dramatic 16-mile gorge through the Colorado Plateau. Your campground in the Coconino National Forest sits at the intersection of ancient forces—where water meets rock, creating a lush ribbon of life through the high desert. The surrounding red cliffs reveal the Schnebly Hill Formation, whose iron-rich sandstone creates the famous crimson hues that have captivated artists and adventurers for generations. This unique riparian ecosystem, cradled between towering canyon walls, supports an astonishing variety of life in what would otherwise be arid terrain.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes two accessible campsites. Accessible vault toilets are also present.
Sites SizeSites are generally large enough to accommodate two small tents or one large tent. Some sites are spacious and have ample parking space, while others are tighter and not suitable for larger RVs.
Sites PrivacyThe level of privacy varies significantly. Some sites are close together, providing limited privacy, while others are more spread out. Creekside sites offer better separation and scenic views.
Total Campsites59 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCreek-side sites are recommended for tranquility, while sites farther from the road offer less noise. Avoid sites near vault toilets due to potential odor issues.
Best CampsitesSite 31 is highly recommended for its creek-side location, privacy, and space for multiple tents.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
The maximum stay is limited to 7 nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Most sites accommodate up to 8 guests.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are arranged in a single loop with creek-side and road-adjacent sections.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season for reservations: April 11 to October 26. Closed season: October 27 to April 10.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online or through their app. Phone reservations are also available.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites are first-come, first-served, but availability is limited during peak season. Reviews suggest arriving early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made anytime before the date of arrival. A $10 fee applies to changes or cancellations. Late cancellations (made after midnight the day before check-in) will also forfeit the first night's use fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Pine Flat Campground West offers diverse recreational opportunities that cater to outdoor enthusiasts. Activities range from hiking and wildlife viewing to fishing and photography in the scenic Oak Creek Canyon. The creek provides a refreshing spot for wading, and various trails offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
Hiking
Several hiking trails are accessible from the campground, including paths that climb canyon slopes to reward hikers with stunning panoramic views. West Fork Trail, located nearby, is particularly popular for its scenic beauty and shaded paths.Fishing
Fishing is permitted in Oak Creek, which is stocked with trout. However, per user reviews, the creek’s water levels may vary, and fishing success depends on the season and location within the creek.Swimming
The creek provides opportunities for wading and swimming, though the shallow depth in some areas limits extensive water activities. Slide Rock State Park, a short drive away, offers more robust swimming options.Wildlife viewing
Birding is a highlight, with the riparian zone attracting diverse bird species. Campers may also encounter small mammals and skunks during evening hours.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned, but the campground’s peak season runs from April to October, indicating limited winter accessibility.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding are not suitable for Oak Creek due to its shallow and narrow flow.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings, but firewood must be purchased on-site or locally to prevent the spread of pests.
- Quiet hours are from 9 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsProximity to the highway poses noise hazards and may not be ideal for light sleepers. Wildlife such as skunks has been reported to roam at night. Vault toilets can emit odors depending on wind direction.
Active alertsNo current alerts are mentioned.
Weather forecast
72
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 54%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 2.7 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
Sedona has emergency services including hospitals and police stations approximately 12 miles away. Flagstaff provides larger medical facilities about 17 miles from the campground.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 11 to October 26.
Trash and recyclingTrash disposal facilities are available and were noted as being conveniently located and consistently emptied. Recycling services were not mentioned in the source materials.
Proximity to water featuresMany campsites are located near Oak Creek, which offers fishing and swimming opportunities.
Common complaintsNoise from Highway 89A and odors from vault toilets are common complaints. Some guests also reported cramped sites and difficulty backing RVs into parking areas.
HostMultiple reviews praise hosts such as Frank, Jen, and PJ for their hospitality and cleanliness. Hosts sell firewood and ice and are available to assist campers.
Campground Map
COCONINO
Driving directionsFrom Phoenix, take I-17 north to Highway 179 toward Sedona. Turn north on Highway 89A and continue for 12 miles into Oak Creek Canyon. From Flagstaff take I-17 to Highway 89A South. Follow 89A for 17 miles to Oak Creek Canyon.
Road access is paved and accessible year-round. Some reviews note that parking can be tight for larger RVs, and the road leading into the campground can be narrow and winding. Traffic on Highway 89A can cause delays, particularly during peak seasons.Nearby places
Sedona: 12 miles (approximately 20 minutes). Flagstaff: 17 miles (approximately 30 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Sedona, 12 miles away. Firewood and ice can also be purchased on-site from campground hosts.
Camper Reviews
4.4
484 reviews
Pine Flat Campground West is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is widely praised for its natural beauty, cleanliness, and well-maintained facilities. Proximity to hiking trails and swimming spots makes it a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts. However, the lack of privacy between sites, road noise, and occasional vault toilet odors are common complaints.
Review Summaries
Based on 484 reviews
What Campers Love
- Exceptional cleanliness of sites and restrooms
- Friendly and helpful camp hosts
- Proximity to Oak Creek and hiking trails
- Scenic vistas and shaded campsites
Based on 484 reviewsCommon Concerns
- Proximity to busy Highway 89A resulting in road noise
- Odors from vault toilets depending on wind direction and campsite location
- Limited privacy between closely spaced campsites
- No showers...
Based on 484 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
- Select creekside campsites for better privacy and cooler temperatures.
- Bring earplugs to mitigate road noise if sleeping in tents.
- Purchase firewood and ice early, as availability can be...
Based on 484 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is especially busy during peak season (April to October). Weekday arrivals are recommended to secure better campsite options. Summer months see increased traffic and activity in the...
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Camper Quotes
"The bathrooms are the cleanest I've seen for a campground." - Heather St. Pierre
"Frank and Jen were incredibly friendly and helpful. They kept the grounds and restrooms spotless." - Kayla B.
"Vault...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site #21: Close to the restrooms but subject to odors during windy conditions. High convenience for families.
Site #31: Highly recommended for its spacious layout and proximity to Oak Creek.
Site #7:...
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Accessibility Features
Two accessible sites are available, and the vault toilets also include accessible features. However, no specific feedback from users with disabilities was highlighted in the reviews.
Based on 484 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and many users appreciated the pet-friendly environment. However, pet owners are advised to be cautious of road proximity and wildlife like skunks.
Based on 484 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025