RV Campgrounds In Clifton, Arizona -- Find RV Parks
33.0509° N, 109.2962° W
Quick Overview
Clifton sits in the heart of Arizona's copper mining country, where rugged desert mountains frame this historic town along the San Francisco River. The area's dramatic landscape tells stories of mining booms, railroad expansion, and the tough folks who carved out a living in this remote corner of southeastern Arizona. Red rock formations rise from the valley floor while ancient saguaro cacti dot the hillsides, creating a backdrop that's quintessentially Southwestern.
RV camping options here reflect the town's practical nature. You'll find several campgrounds serving the area, with some offering free camping for budget-conscious travelers. Most parks cater to working folks and long-term visitors, offering full hookups and basic amenities rather than resort-style features. The camping scene here is straightforward and honest – clean sites, reliable utilities, and fair prices.
From your campsite, you're positioned to explore some fascinating Arizona history. The old Clifton Jail, carved directly into the hillside rock, sits just minutes from most RV parks. Drive the winding road up to Morenci for panoramic views of one of North America's largest open-pit copper mines – it's an impressive sight that stretches for miles. The Coronado Trail (US Highway 191) begins here, offering one of Arizona's most scenic mountain drives through the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest. Hot springs bubble up from the ground at nearby Gillard Hot Springs, though you'll need a high-clearance vehicle to reach them.
Clifton appeals to RVers who appreciate authentic small-town Arizona without tourist crowds. The campgrounds here serve working people, retirees escaping winter weather, and travelers exploring the less-visited parts of the state. You won't find water parks or golf courses, but you will find genuine hospitality and reasonable rates. Most parks offer monthly rates for snowbirds, and several provide pull-through sites for big rigs navigating the mountain roads.
Winter brings the most pleasant weather, with daytime temperatures in the 60s and clear skies perfect for hiking and sightseeing. Summer heat can be intense, reaching well into the 90s, but the elevation keeps it more bearable than Phoenix or Tucson. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures ideal for exploring the Coronado Trail or visiting the nearby ghost towns.
Whether you're using Clifton as a base camp for Coronado Trail adventures or simply passing through on your way to New Mexico, the town's RV parks provide solid value in a genuinely interesting location.
Top Rated Dump Stations in Clifton
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All Dump Stations Near Clifton
| Station Name | Distance | Rating | Category | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Clifton RV Park | 0.8 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Valley View RV Park | 10.2 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Granville Campground | 10.7 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Eaz-c RV Llc | 11.2 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Lower Juan Miller Campground | 15.2 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Upper Juan Miller Campground | 15.4 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Sunrise Village Mobile Home & RV Park | 27.6 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Sunrise Village Mobile Home & RV Park | 27.7 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Copper Mountain Mobile Home Park | 28.5 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Lexington Pines Resort, Llc | 29.2 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
North Clifton RV Park
0.8 miValley View RV Park
10.2 miGranville Campground
10.7 miEaz-c RV Llc
11.2 miLower Juan Miller Campground
15.2 miUpper Juan Miller Campground
15.4 miSunrise Village Mobile Home & RV Park
27.6 miSunrise Village Mobile Home & RV Park
27.7 miCopper Mountain Mobile Home Park
28.5 miLexington Pines Resort, Llc
29.2 miTraveling to Clifton by RV
Getting to Clifton requires some planning since this remote town sits far from major interstates. US Highway 191 serves as the main access route, connecting north to Interstate 40 near Springerville (about 120 miles) or south toward Interstate 10 at Safford (roughly 50 miles). The drive from Phoenix takes about four hours via US-60 East through Globe and Superior, then north on US-191 – it's scenic but involves mountain grades and winding sections.
RV drivers should prepare for challenging terrain on several approach routes. The famous Coronado Trail (US-191 north of Clifton) climbs through tight switchbacks and steep grades that can stress engines and test braking systems. Big rigs should avoid this route entirely and stick to the southern approach from Safford. The road from Globe involves some steep sections but remains manageable for most RVs with adequate power.
Fuel up before heading to Clifton since gas stations are limited in this remote area. Safford offers the last major services when approaching from the south, including Walmart, grocery stores, and multiple fuel options. From the north, Springerville provides similar services before the long mountain descent. Cell phone coverage can be spotty along some stretches, so download offline maps before departing.
The drive itself rewards patient travelers with stunning desert and mountain scenery. Watch for wildlife including elk, deer, and javelinas, especially during dawn and dusk hours. Keep your rig's cooling system in good condition since the combination of grades and desert heat can challenge older vehicles.
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Dump Station Costs in Clifton
Clifton's RV camping costs reflect its working-class character and remote location. Nightly rates typically range from $25-35 for full hookup sites, making this one of Arizona's more affordable camping destinations. Weekly rates often drop to $150-200, while monthly stays can cost as little as $400-500 during slower periods. These prices beat most tourist areas by a significant margin.
Of the several campgrounds serving Clifton, a portion% offer free camping while a portion% charge fees. The paid parks provide essential services like laundry facilities, restrooms, and reliable hookups that justify their modest rates. Free camping requires driving to Forest Service land north of town, where you'll trade amenities for solitude and mountain views.
Seasonal pricing variations are minimal here since Clifton doesn't experience the dramatic rate swings of popular tourist destinations. Winter months might see slight increases due to snowbird demand, but even peak rates remain reasonable. Good Sam and Passport America discounts are honored at some parks, potentially saving 10-15% on nightly rates.
Grocery costs run higher than urban areas due to the remote location. Stock up on supplies in Safford or Globe to avoid paying premium prices at the local market. Fuel prices also trend above state averages, so fill up in larger towns when possible. Despite these higher supply costs, the low camping fees help keep overall travel budgets manageable.
Contact station for pricing details.
Prices may vary. Always confirm with the station before visiting.
What RVers Are Saying About Clifton
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Best Time to Visit Clifton by RV
Winter
December-February
35-65°F
Crowds: Medium
Pleasant weather draws snowbirds; book monthly sites early as availability tightens significantly.
Spring
March-May
45-80°F
Crowds: Low
Ideal camping weather with wildflowers blooming; perfect for Coronado Trail drives and hiking.
Summer
June-August
65-95°F
Crowds: Low
Hot days but manageable at elevation; monsoon rains bring afternoon thunderstorms and cooler evenings.
Fall
September-November
50-85°F
Crowds: Low
Comfortable temperatures return; excellent time for photography and outdoor activities before winter arrives.
Explore the Clifton Area
For the best RV camping experience in Clifton, book ahead during winter months when snowbirds fill the available spaces. Most parks here operate on a first-come basis, but calling ahead prevents disappointment during peak season. The local campgrounds may look basic from the outside, but they typically offer reliable hookups and friendly management who know the area well.
Boondockers have limited free camping options around Clifton, but dispersed camping is available on Forest Service land along the Coronado Trail. Drive about 15 miles north on US-191 and look for established camping spots among the pinon pines. These sites offer no services but provide stunning mountain views and complete solitude. Bring extra water since reliable sources are scarce.
Don't miss the historic walking tour through downtown Clifton – pick up a map at the town library. The old company store, railroad depot, and miners' housing tell the story of Arizona's copper boom days. For dining, the PD Cafe serves hearty Mexican food and American classics that locals have enjoyed for decades. Stock up on groceries in Safford since Clifton's options are limited to a small market.
Bring your camera for sunset shots from the hillsides above town. The combination of red rock formations and desert vegetation creates spectacular lighting conditions. Pet owners will find the area dog-friendly, but watch for cacti and carry extra water during walks since the desert environment can quickly dehydrate both pets and humans.
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Read more →Frequently Asked Questions About Dump Stations in Clifton
What are the best RV campgrounds in Clifton?
The local RV parks focus on practical amenities rather than resort features, offering reliable full hookups and monthly rates for snowbirds. Most campgrounds provide pull-through sites suitable for big rigs, along with basic facilities like laundry and restrooms. Call ahead during winter months since spaces fill up with long-term guests.
Is there free RV camping near Clifton?
Free dispersed camping is available on Forest Service land about 15 miles north of town along the Coronado Trail. These primitive sites offer mountain views and solitude but no hookups or services. You'll need to be self-sufficient with water, waste disposal, and power generation for extended stays.
What is the best time of year to camp in Clifton?
Winter and spring offer the most comfortable weather for RV camping, with daytime temperatures in the 60s-70s and clear skies. Summer can be hot but remains more pleasant than lower desert areas. Fall provides excellent conditions for hiking and exploring before winter weather arrives in the mountains.
Are there full hookup RV parks in Clifton?
Yes, the local RV parks provide full hookups including water, sewer, and electric service at reasonable rates. These working-class campgrounds focus on reliable utilities and practical amenities rather than recreational facilities. Most offer both nightly and monthly rates for different types of travelers.
Can I boondock near Clifton?
Boondocking opportunities exist on Forest Service land north of town along US Highway 191. Drive about 15 miles into the mountains to find established camping spots among the trees. These areas provide beautiful scenery but require complete self-sufficiency since no services are available.
How challenging are the mountain roads around Clifton for RVs?
The Coronado Trail north of Clifton features steep grades and tight switchbacks unsuitable for large RVs. Approach from the south via Safford for the most RV-friendly route. The road from Globe involves some grades but remains manageable for most rigs with adequate engine power and good brakes.
What are the best RV campgrounds in Clifton?
The local RV parks focus on practical amenities rather than resort features, offering reliable full hookups and monthly rates for snowbirds. Most campgrounds provide pull-through sites suitable for big rigs, along with basic facilities like laundry and restrooms. Call ahead during winter months since spaces fill up with long-term guests.
Is there free RV camping near Clifton?
Free dispersed camping is available on Forest Service land about 15 miles north of town along the Coronado Trail. These primitive sites offer mountain views and solitude but no hookups or services. You'll need to be self-sufficient with water, waste disposal, and power generation for extended stays.
What is the best time of year to camp in Clifton?
Winter and spring offer the most comfortable weather for RV camping, with daytime temperatures in the 60s-70s and clear skies. Summer can be hot but remains more pleasant than lower desert areas. Fall provides excellent conditions for hiking and exploring before winter weather arrives in the mountains.
Are there full hookup RV parks in Clifton?
Yes, the local RV parks provide full hookups including water, sewer, and electric service at reasonable rates. These working-class campgrounds focus on reliable utilities and practical amenities rather than recreational facilities. Most offer both nightly and monthly rates for different types of travelers.
Can I boondock near Clifton?
Boondocking opportunities exist on Forest Service land north of town along US Highway 191. Drive about 15 miles into the mountains to find established camping spots among the trees. These areas provide beautiful scenery but require complete self-sufficiency since no services are available.
How challenging are the mountain roads around Clifton for RVs?
The Coronado Trail north of Clifton features steep grades and tight switchbacks unsuitable for large RVs. Approach from the south via Safford for the most RV-friendly route. The road from Globe involves some grades but remains manageable for most rigs with adequate engine power and good brakes.
Are there free dump stations in Clifton?
Yes — there are free RV waste disposal options available near Clifton.
All Dump Stations Near Clifton (14)
RV Park with Dump StationsSafford RV Resort
RV ParkDaily Estates
RV ParkArcadia Campground
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