Camping at Manzanita Campground
Manzanita Campground Overview
Manzanita Campground is a small, year-round, tent-only facility located along the scenic Oak Creek in the Coconino National Forest Recreation Area, near Sedona, Arizona. It offers a tranquil camping experience in a beautiful wooded setting, providing access to a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, bird watching, and swimming.
Location and Access
Manzanita Campground is situated off Highway 89A approximately six miles north of Sedona. The campground can be accessed via Oak Creek Canyon, which is a popular and picturesque byway connecting Sedona to northern Arizona. Be aware that RVs and trailers are not permitted due to the limited space and layout of the campground.
Amenities and Facilities
The campground offers basic amenities such as:
- Picnic Tables: Each campsite includes a picnic table.
- Fire Rings: There are fire rings with grill grates for cooking.
- Restrooms: Vault toilets are available, but there are no shower facilities.
- Drinking Water: Potable water is accessible in the campground.
- Parking: Each site features a space for parking a vehicle.
Since Manzanita is a tent-only site, campers should be prepared to carry their gear a short distance from the parking areas to their campsites.
Camping Reservations and Fees
Reservations can be made in advance, which is highly recommended, especially during the peak season (late spring through early fall), because this campground is small and often fills up quickly. Reservation details along with the current fee structure can be found on the U.S. Forest Service website or through a reservation service such as Recreation.gov.
Camping Guidelines
- Check-In/Check-Out: There are specific check-in and check-out times that must be adhered to.
- Campsite Occupancy: Each campsite usually allows a maximum of 6-8 individuals.
- Quiet Hours: To ensure a peaceful atmosphere, quiet hours are typically enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.
- Pets: Pets are generally allowed, but they must be kept on a leash and under control at all times.
- Wildfires: Due to the risk of wildfires, campfire restrictions may be in place, especially during dry periods. Always check current fire conditions and rules before starting a fire.
- Leave No Trace: It's crucial to follow Leave No Trace principles, including packing out all trash and minimizing your impact on the natural surroundings.
Recreational Activities
There's no shortage of things to do around Manzanita Campground:
- Hiking: Several hiking trails are in close proximity, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes.
- Fishing: Oak Creek is known for its trout fishing.
- Swimming: The creek also provides spots for swimming and cooling off in the summer.
- Wildlife Observation: The area is home to diverse wildlife, including birds and mammals.
- Photography: The scenic beauty of Oak Creek Canyon makes it a great place for photography enthusiasts.
Points to Remember
- Weather in the area can be variable, with summer monsoons causing sudden rainstorms, so campers should be prepared for changing conditions.
- Cellular coverage may be limited, depending on the provider and exact location within the canyon.
- Campsites at Manzanita are often shaded by tall trees, which provide relief from the sun but can also lead to cooler temperatures, particularly at night.
For the most up-to-date information regarding Manzanita Campground, it's beneficial to contact the Coconino National Forest Ranger District or visit their official website. Always check for alerts and updates before planning your trip.
