Dead Horse Ranch State Park Camping Area

Rate this place

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Dead Horse Ranch State Park is a popular camping destination located in Arizona.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Situated near the town of Cottonwood, the campground offers a range of amenities to make your stay comfortable. The park provides a variety of campsites, including both tent and RV sites, with electrical hookups available. Additionally, there are clean and well-maintained restrooms with hot showers, picnic areas, and a dump station. Campers can also enjoy a swimming lagoon and a catch-and-release fishing pond within the park.

Reservations are accepted at Dead Horse Ranch State Park, allowing visitors to secure their preferred campsite in advance. This is particularly recommended during peak seasons and weekends when the campground tends to fill up quickly. The best time to visit the park is during the spring and fall months when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summers can be extremely hot, so it is advisable to plan outdoor activities accordingly and stay hydrated.

Dead Horse Ranch State Park offers several attractions for campers to explore. The park features over 20 miles of trails that are suitable for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The nearby Verde River provides opportunities for canoeing and kayaking. Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the chance to observe various species of birds and mammals in their natural habitat. However, it is important to be cautious of rattlesnakes, as they can occasionally be encountered in the area. Overall, Dead Horse Ranch State Park offers a scenic and well-equipped camping experience for nature lovers in Arizona.

       

Weather Forecast

Camping Essential Practices

Pack It In, Pack It Out
Take all trash, food scraps, and gear back with you to keep campsites clean and protect wildlife.
Respect Wildlife
Observe animals from a distance, store food securely, and never feed wildlife to maintain natural behavior and safety.
Know Before You Go
Check weather, fire restrictions, trail conditions, and permit requirements to ensure a safe and well-planned trip.
Minimize Campfire Impact
Use established fire rings, keep fires small, fully extinguish them, or opt for a camp stove when fires are restricted.
Leave What You Find
Preserve natural and cultural features by avoiding removal of plants, rocks, artifacts, or other elements of the environment.

Related Links