You’re driving down State Route 89A, the switchbacks are getting tighter, and suddenly the temperature drops ten degrees. That’s the magic of Oak Creek Canyon. While most people are sweating it out in downtown Sedona, fighting for a parking spot at a crystal shop, the smart ones are already unrolling sleeping bags at Cave Springs Campground Sedona. It’s not just a place to park a van. It’s arguably the most sought-after patch of dirt in the Coconino National Forest.
The air smells like ponderosa pine and damp earth. It’s quiet. Well, mostly quiet, except for the rushing water of Oak Creek nearby.
Honestly, if you haven't booked months in advance, you’re probably out of luck. That’s the reality of modern camping in Arizona. This isn't some secret "hidden gem" anymore; it’s a heavyweight champion of Forest Service sites. But there’s a reason for the hype. You’ve got towering red rock cliffs on one side and a lush, green riparian corridor on the other. It’s a weird, beautiful contrast that you won't find in the desert flats.
The Layout and the Luck of the Draw
Cave Springs is massive. We’re talking 84 campsites. Most of them are tucked under a thick canopy of trees, which is a lifesaver when the Arizona sun starts cooking the red rocks. If you’re looking for sunshine, you might be disappointed. This place is shaded. Deeply shaded.
The sites aren't all created equal. Some are right on the edge of the creek, while others feel a bit more like a traditional loop in a forest. You’ve got the standard fire rings, picnic tables, and those heavy-duty bear boxes. Don't ignore those boxes. The local black bears aren't aggressive, but they’re definitely opportunistic. If you leave a bag of marshmallows on the table, you’re basically inviting a furry guest to your 2:00 AM party.
The roads inside the campground are paved, which is nice for those of us who don't have a rugged 4x4. However, the spaces can be tight. If you’re pulling a 35-foot trailer, you’re going to be sweating through some of those turns. Most sites are better suited for tents, vans, or smaller Class C rigs.
Water, Trash, and Those Famous Showers
Let’s talk about the showers. This is the big selling point for Cave Springs Campground Sedona. In the world of National Forest camping, a hot shower is basically a five-star luxury. They’re coin-operated, so you’ll need a stash of quarters. It’s one of the few places in the canyon where you can actually scrub the red dust off your shins without jumping into a freezing creek.
There are vault toilets scattered around. They’re... well, they’re vault toilets. They’re clean enough, but it’s still camping.
You can get potable water from several spigots throughout the loops. Don't expect RV hookups, though. No electricity, no water at the individual sites, and definitely no sewer. This is dry camping at its finest. If you need a microwave and a TV, you’re in the wrong canyon.
The Logistics of Actually Getting a Spot
Timing is everything. Typically, the campground is open from April through October, though that can shift based on the weather or Forest Service staffing.
🔗 Read more: Why the Map of Colorado USA Is Way More Complicated Than a Simple Rectangle
Reservations are handled through Recreation.gov. If you think you can just roll up on a Saturday afternoon in June and find a spot, you’re kidding yourself. You need to be on the website the second the window opens, which is usually six months in advance.
- Create an account on Recreation.gov before the booking window opens.
- Mark your calendar for exactly six months before your planned arrival date.
- Be ready to click at 7:00 AM MST.
There are a handful of first-come, first-served sites, but they’re like winning the lottery. People start circling the loops at 8:00 AM like vultures, waiting for someone to pack up their tent. It’s stressful. Just reserve a spot. Save yourself the headache.
What Most People Get Wrong About the Creek
People hear "Cave Springs" and "Oak Creek" and assume they’ll be swimming right at their campsite. Some sites are "creekside," sure. But "creekside" often means you’re 20 feet above the water on a steep embankment. You might have a great view of the water, but you’ll have to walk a bit to find a safe path down to the actual bank.
The water is cold. Even in July. It’s snowmelt and spring-fed, so it’ll wake you up faster than a double shot of espresso.
There’s also the issue of water quality. During heavy monsoons or high-traffic weekends, the E. coli levels in Oak Creek can spike. It’s a bummer, but it’s the truth. Always check the local advisories posted near the entrance or at the ranger station. If there’s been a massive rainstorm, maybe skip the swim and stick to wading.
Exploring Beyond the Picnic Table
You aren't just here to sit in a folding chair. The location of Cave Springs Campground Sedona puts you right in the heart of the best hiking in Northern Arizona.
Directly across the road (careful, people drive like maniacs on 89A) is the A.B. Young Trail. It’s a brutal climb. You’ll gain about 2,000 feet in three miles. It’s not for the casual stroller. But the view from the top of the rim? It’s arguably better than anything you’ll see from the tourist overlooks.
If you want something easier, West Fork Trail is just a few miles down the road. It’s the "superstar" hike of Sedona. Think towering canyon walls, dozens of creek crossings, and an almost prehistoric feel. Because it’s so popular, the parking lot fills up by 8:30 AM. Since you’re already camped at Cave Springs, you’ve got a massive head start on the crowds coming from town.
The Reality of the "Sedona Experience"
Let's be real for a second. Sedona has changed. It's crowded. The traffic on the 89A can be a nightmare, especially near Slide Rock State Park. If you stay at Cave Springs, you are choosing to stay in the thick of that canyon traffic.
💡 You might also like: Bryce Canyon National Park: What People Actually Get Wrong About the Hoodoos
If you need to run into town for supplies, try to do it early or late. Between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM, the drive into Sedona can take three times longer than it should.
There’s no cell service. Most people find this a blessing, but if you’re trying to work remotely or stay connected, you’re going to be frustrated. You might get a bar or two if you drive up toward the rim, but don't count on it. Embrace the "off-grid" life for a few days. The red rocks don't care about your Instagram feed.
Bear Safety and Food Storage
I mentioned the bears earlier, but it’s worth a deeper dive. The Coconino National Forest is active habitat. The Forest Service takes food storage seriously. If a ranger sees a cooler left out, you’re going to get a lecture, or worse, a fine.
- Keep all food, trash, and scented items (toothpaste, deodorant) in the bear lockers.
- Don't feed the squirrels or jays. They’re cute until they’re chewing through your expensive tent to get to a granola bar.
- Clean up your grill. Leftover grease is like a beacon for wildlife.
Comparing Cave Springs to Manzanita
A lot of people ask if they should stay at Cave Springs or Manzanita Campground. Manzanita is smaller, tent-only, and feels a bit more intimate. Cave Springs is the "big brother." It has the showers and more space for small trailers. If you want a social atmosphere and the convenience of a shower, Cave Springs wins. If you want quiet and no RV engines nearby, try for Manzanita.
But honestly? Take whatever you can get. In Sedona, a campsite is a commodity.
Essential Gear for the Canyon
Because of the shade and the canyon walls, Cave Springs stays much cooler than the town of Sedona. Even if it’s 95 degrees in the desert, it might drop into the 50s at night in the canyon.
Pack layers. A light jacket is necessary even in mid-summer.
Also, bring sturdy water shoes. The rocks in Oak Creek are incredibly slippery. I’ve seen plenty of people take a hard fall because they tried to cross the creek in flip-flops. Get something with a grip.
Lighting is another big one. Once the sun drops behind the canyon walls, it gets dark fast. Really dark. A good headlamp is better than a flashlight because you’ll want your hands free for cooking or navigating the path to the restroom.
📖 Related: Getting to Burning Man: What You Actually Need to Know About the Journey
Why the High Elevation Matters
You’re at about 5,500 feet here. If you’re coming from sea level, you’ll notice the difference. You’ll get dehydrated faster, and that hike up the A.B. Young Trail will feel twice as hard. Drink more water than you think you need. It’s the golden rule of Arizona.
Actionable Steps for Your Trip
If you’re planning to visit Cave Springs Campground Sedona, don't just wing it. Follow this checklist to actually enjoy your time without the stress of being "that person" without a plan.
First, check the weather for both Sedona and Flagstaff. The campground is halfway between them, and the weather often mimics Flagstaff more than the lower desert. If there’s a 30% chance of rain in Sedona, it’s probably going to pour in the canyon.
Second, buy your groceries before you enter the canyon. There is a small store nearby at Hoel's Indian Shop or the Slide Rock market, but the prices are high and the selection is limited. Stock up in Flagstaff or at the Safeway in West Sedona.
Third, bring plenty of quarters. The shower machines don't take cards, and the camp hosts aren't always around to make change.
Lastly, download offline maps. Since there’s no cell service, you’ll want your hiking trails and driving directions saved to your phone.
Staying at Cave Springs is about slowing down. It’s about watching the light change on the canyon walls and hearing the wind through the pines. It’s the best way to see the "real" Sedona, away from the pink jeeps and the high-end spas. Just remember to pack out what you pack in and keep the creek clean for the next person.
Next Steps:
Go to Recreation.gov and look at the site map for Cave Springs. Look for sites in the 1-20 range if you want to be closer to the creek, or the higher numbered sites if you want a bit more privacy away from the main entrance. Check the "length" requirements for each site if you are bringing a vehicle longer than a standard SUV to ensure you’ll actually fit. For the best experience, try to book a mid-week stay to avoid the extreme Saturday crowds on the local trails.