Kaibab National Forest
RV Guide

Introduction

Step away from the screens and head outdoors to the breathtaking beauty of Arizona’s wilderness. This area borders the north and south area of the Grand Canyon National Park and is near the cities of Flagstaff, Las Vegas, and Phoenix. Come on out and explore the 1.6 million acres of pines, desert, and canyons during your next RV camping trip at Kaibab National Forest.

With acres and acres of peace and quiet, travel to Kaibab National Forest to see all that it has to offer in its three districts of Williams, Tusayan, and North Kaibab. Immerse yourself in the peace and zen of the forest during a hike or get your adrenaline up as you climb Kendrick Mountain, which towers at over 10,000 feet. You can take pictures of some jaw-dropping cliffs at Sycamore Canyon Falls. History buffs will love a trip to the Stone and Steel Dams, and hikers will enjoy the chance to explore Kanab Creek Wilderness. Be the one that got away as you surround yourself with Arizona grasslands or thick, lush forests of fir, spruce, and aspen trees. With a mix of red rocks, desserts, high cliffs and canyons, this area of the country is impressive. For some fantastic RV camping, you have seven campgrounds to choose from for your next vacation, and we've highlighted our top choices below.

RV Rentals in Kaibab National Forest

Transportation

Driving

Escape the daily grind of your daily hustle and load up your motorhome for an excellent adventure at Kaibab National Forest. A friendly neighbor to the Grand Canyon National Park, travel here to see the majestic sites of northern Arizona with fewer crowds. Due to the vast size of this national forest, you can find adventure everywhere and may have to drive your RV regularly to access the different activities.

A short drive from Flagstaff, Arizona, it is just two-and-a-half hours from Phoenix and less than four hours from Las Vegas. Close to so many other options including the Grand Canyon and the famous Route 66, you’ll find visiting this unique part of the country a treat. Open year-round, no matter the season, this national forest makes for a beautiful drive so don’t miss your chance to stay at this unforgettable place.

You’ll instantly fall in love with camping at Kaibab National Forest in your RV. A majority of the camping sites provide an asphalt pad, allowing for easy access to parking your vehicle. With well-maintained roads, camping or driving the scenic byways will be a breeze.

Parking

Public Transportation

Campgrounds and parking in Kaibab National Forest

Campsites in Kaibab National Forest

Reservations camping

Dogtown Lake Campground

Camp at Dogtown Lake Campground from April to September, and take in the views of Bill Williams Mountain. Relax and read under the shade of the hardwoods and pines. The campground was named after the prairie dog towns that once covered the area. With Dogtown Lake just a few minutes away, you’ll find this campground is the needed oasis for anglers and boaters. There are 50 basic RV spots to choose from, and reservations are required. Each site comes with a tent or parking pad, a grill, and a picnic table. Pit toilets, potable water, garbage bins, and picnic tables are available. Your pets are welcome to camp with you, but make sure they are restrained by a leash when out and about. RVs and trailers up to 100 feet in length can be accommodated.

White Horse Lake Campground

A anglers delight, this popular campground is nestled against White Horse Lake. With access to Resident Bass and Rainbow Trout, you’ll catch not only some great meals at this campground but excellent views of the sunrise during your stay. There are 94 RV sites that you can reserve in advance, as well as some additional first-come, first-served sites. Most sites provide shade from the spruce and pine trees, and you'll have access to restrooms, potable water, and picnic tables. While there are no hookups available, there is a dump station on-site. If you're low on groceries, you can grab some grub from the campground food vendor during the open season, which is from May to September. The maximum RV length is 38 feet. Pets are welcome at most sites.

Ten-X Campground

Travel to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon National Park to this hidden gem of a campground from May to October. Named for the trees that tower overs the area in a criss-cross fashion, Ten-X Campground offers 70 sites for RVs and tents. You'll have access to toilets, picnic tables, and potable water. Each site comes with a parking pad, fire pit, grill, and picnic table. Pull-through sites can hold an RV up to 35 feet long, while back-in sites can only fit small RVs or trailers. Most sites are open for reservations, but about one-third are set aside as first-come, first-served. Pets are welcome, but please restrain them on a leash when you are outside the camper.

Seasonal activities in Kaibab National Forest

In-Season

Climb Kendrick Mountain

Have an experience of a lifetime on your next RV camping trip! With elevations at 10,418 feet, the views of the Grand Canyon and Oak Creek Canyon will make your hike so unforgettable. A 9.2-mile round trip adventure, this climb will take you to one of the highest vistas in northern Arizona. You'll hike through majestic Ponderosa pines and firs, and if you're lucky you might be able to spot an owl or elk along the way. This trail is not for the faint of heart, since it is narrow, rocky, and uneven; however, the challenge makes the views from the summit that much sweeter.

Enjoy an Outdoor Meal

You've got to eat and why not do it in the most breathtaking place imaginable? Catch your breath from a day of excitement out in Kaibab National Forest to have a picnic beside White Horse Lake or Kaibab Lake. Traveling with a large group? Visit the Jacob Lake Picnic Site that offers picnic tables, shelter, and bathrooms. Great for sightseeing and access to the lake and trails, it makes for a perfect place to stop and relax.

Stargaze

There so much to do during the day, but don't forget the night sky. After you've enjoyed dinner by the campfire, look up into the wide open sky, and you'll see millions and millions of stars. Pack a blanket and on a clear night, get ready for the best light show Mother Nature has to offer. Come and see why stargazing at Kaibab National Forest is so magical!

Off-Season

Get Out in the Snow

Don't let the snow stop you from having fun at Kaibab National Forest. From December to March, grab your snow gear out of the campervan and head out on the trails for some excellent skiing in paradise. A winter wonderland, visit this national forest for some skiing, snowmobiling, and sledding. Call the ranger station in advance to make sure the roads are passable and then head out here for a day of winter fun.

Fish at Kaibab National Forest

Enjoy this great pastime no matter the weather. From being out in a boat on Jacob Lake or along the banks of a stream, you will love the challenge of catching your next big fish. If you plan to fish in the Williams Ranger District, note that all streams are intermittent and flow only part of the year. From ice fishing to saltwater fishing, it's a great way to spend your next RV camping trip.

Explore the Forest

Take a break from the dinging of your phone and explore of the dozens of running and hiking trails at Kaibab National Forest! Great for campers of all ages, there are ten moderate trails that you can travel anywhere from 1.3 to 38.5 miles. Nature lovers will delight in the variety of vegetation and wildlife that one can see during hike. No matter your adventure level - you’ll find the right trail for you.