Suprize Designated Camping Area - Coconino National Forest 0
Suprize Designated Camping Area - Coconino National Forest 1
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Suprize Designated Camping Area - Coconino National Forest 3
Suprize Designated Camping Area - Coconino National Forest 4
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Suprize Designated Camping Area - Coconino National Forest Introduce

The Suprize Designated Camping Area is a hidden gem nestled within the Coconino National Forest, located just minutes from Cottonwood, Arizona. This unique camping spot offers a perfect blend of nature and convenience, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and solo travelers alike. With its proximity to major attractions like Sedona and Oak Creek Canyon, Suprize Designated Camping Area provides easy access to some of the most beautiful landscapes in Arizona while offering a peaceful retreat from the bustling tourist hubs.

One of the standout features of Suprize is its affordability—camping here is entirely free! This makes it an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers who want to enjoy the great outdoors without breaking the bank. The campsite also boasts well-maintained facilities, including clean and functional toilets, which adds a layer of comfort for those looking to rough it in style.

Location-wise, Suprize is strategically situated near Hwy 89A, making it an accessible base camp for exploring the surrounding areas. Whether you're heading into Sedona for its world-renowned red rocks or planning to tackle the trails in Oak Creek Canyon, this camping area puts you right at the heart of the action. The site also offers a mix of seclusion and convenience, with nearby access to grocery stores, gas stations, and other essential amenities while still feeling like a step away from civilization.

Suprize Designated Camping Area is particularly popular among off-road vehicle (ORV) enthusiasts and RVers due to its ample space for parking and maneuvering. The area's terrain provides excellent opportunities for exploring the backroads and enjoying the scenic beauty of the forest. However, visitors should be mindful of the weather conditions, as the area can become muddy after rain, which may lead to challenging driving conditions.

Based on customer feedback, this campsite is a favorite among those seeking a mix of convenience and tranquility. Many guests appreciate the quiet nights and the well-maintained facilities, while others highlight the sense of seclusion despite being close to town. One visitor noted, "We stayed here for 2 nights without any problems," which speaks to the ease and comfort of camping at Suprize.

Overall, the Suprize Designated Camping Area is a fantastic option for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of Arizona while enjoying all the modern conveniences of a well-maintained campsite. Whether you're planning an adventure with family and friends or seeking a solo retreat in nature, this camping area offers something for everyone.

  • Proximity to major attractions like Sedona and Oak Creek Canyon
  • Free camping with access to clean toilets
  • Well-maintained facilities and ample space for RVs and ORVs
  • Closed to vehicle traffic, offering a peaceful environment
  • 20-minute drive from Sedona city center

Location

ArizonaYavapai CountyCottonwood

Customer Reviews

3.0
7 reviews
K
Kevin Nelson
Mar 02, 2025

West Sedona in Sept of 2022 highly restricted dispersed camping in the area of FR Rd 525. There is now 5 DESIGNATED camping areas ONLY. Nolan, Greasy Spoon, Cockscomb, Windmill and Suprise which is closest to Hwy 89A. This camping area is the closest to 89A, seems to be alot of OHV and off road RV units. I have not stayed at Suprize, since it always is very crowded.

J
Jessica Damhuis
Mar 13, 2025

This campsite gets a little crowded but it’s free, the people are quiet at nighttime and there are 2 well maintained toilets. It can get a bit muddy when it rains, so be wary of getting your vehicle stuck in the dirt. I’d say this campsite is about 20min away from Sedona city center (by car). We stayed here for 2 nights without any problems.

D
Dawn Scott
May 23, 2025

Nice overnight, go slow. Gravel road going in, dirt into the lot to park with lots of bumps and ruts. 40ft 5th wheel, no problems, just go slow

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Jenn B.
Mar 27, 2025

You get packed in here like sardines at night. Same thing with all the other dispersed places in the area. It's not the cleanest and if it's raining it's super muddy getting up the entrance / exit is difficult. It does have two porta potties.

J
Jordan Hunter
Apr 08, 2025

It's really dusty with everyone driving their side by sides. The fifth wheel crowd runs loud generators and mulitple groups of people were playing loud music . So bad I had to leave and find another spot.