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Dead Horse Ranch State Park
State Park

Dead Horse Ranch State Park

Cottonwood, Arizona
4.6 (1214 reviews)

Photos shown are stock images and may not represent the actual campground.

About Dead Horse Ranch State Park

Dead Horse Ranch State Park is a popular state park near Cottonwood, Arizona offering 127 sites for campers and RV enthusiasts. Enjoy the natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities this destination provides.

Nestled in the heart of Arizona's Verde Valley, Dead Horse Ranch State Park offers RV travelers an exceptional escape into the natural beauty of northern Arizona. Located just outside Cottonwood, this 423-acre park provides a perfect balance of accessibility and authentic outdoor recreation, making it an ideal destination whether you're seeking a weekend getaway or an extended stay.

The park's location along the Verde River creates a serene backdrop for your camping experience. You'll wake to the gentle sounds of flowing water and the sight of cottonwood trees providing natural shade throughout the property. The valley setting offers stunning views of the surrounding red rock formations and desert landscape that Arizona is famous for. The cooler elevation compared to lower desert areas makes this a particularly attractive destination during spring and fall months, though the park welcomes visitors year-round thanks to its mild winters.

For those traveling with family and pets, Dead Horse Ranch State Park is exceptionally welcoming. The pet-friendly policy means your four-legged companions can enjoy the adventure alongside you. The park's layout includes 127 RV sites well-equipped with essential amenities to make your stay comfortable. You'll find modern restrooms and shower facilities maintained throughout the grounds, fire rings for evening gatherings, and picnic tables perfect for outdoor meals. The dump station ensures you can easily manage your RV's systems, whether you're staying for a few days or longer.

The immediate area surrounding the park offers excellent opportunities for outdoor activities. The Verde River invites fishing enthusiasts, while the park's trails provide wonderful options for hiking and nature exploration. Birdwatchers frequently visit, as the riparian habitat attracts numerous species throughout the year. The relatively flat terrain makes this accessible for visitors of varying mobility levels.

Cottonwood's proximity means you're never far from services, dining, and cultural attractions. The town itself has experienced a renaissance as an arts community, while nearby Jerome offers historic charm and unique shops. The Verde Valley wine country is within easy driving distance for those interested in exploring local vineyards. For history buffs, the region's Native American heritage and Old West connections provide fascinating context to your Arizona visit.

Whether you're exploring Arizona for the first time or returning to a favorite region, Dead Horse Ranch State Park delivers a quintessential Verde Valley experience with the comfort and convenience modern RV travelers expect.
127

Total Sites

4.6

Rating

1,214

Reviews

Amenities & Features

Amenities

Dump Station
Picnic Tables
Fire Rings
Showers
Restrooms

Booking & Operations

Pet Friendly

Park Details

Season Year-round
Total Sites 127

Tips & Tricks

Book Early

Cottonwood is popular during peak season. Reserve 2-4 weeks in advance for weekends and holidays.

Check-in Time

Most parks have check-in after 1:00 PM and check-out by 11:00 AM. Call ahead if you'll arrive late.

Local Weather

Arizona weather can change quickly. Pack layers and check the forecast for Cottonwood.

Explore the Area

Don't miss local attractions near Cottonwood. Ask the camp host for hidden gems and trails.

Dead Horse Ranch State Park Reviews

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Zoe Nicholas

Mar 18, 2026

3.0

Google Review by Zoe Nicholas

It's an ok campground, I've definitely stayed in better. The sites are spaced apart ok with moderate privacy. Lots of trail Bathrooms are run down. Now they have upped their rates to $50 a night, I few upgrades would be a good idea. Including introducing laundry services on site. The surrounding area is nice. Good for horse riding, fishing, hiking and mountain biking. Close to Sadona which is fant... It's an ok campground, I've definitely stayed in better. The sites are spaced apart ok with moderate privacy. Lots of trail Bathrooms are run down. Now they have upped their rates to $50 a night, I few upgrades would be a good idea. Including introducing laundry services on site. The surrounding area is nice. Good for horse riding, fishing, hiking and mountain biking. Close to Sadona which is fantastic place!!!

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Thom Willson

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Thom Willson

A gem of a find, hidden behind Old Town Cottonwood, along the Verde River and all the trees. Three loops, we stayed in Quail Run , site 24, electric and water. We have a 32 foot trailer that was easy to park. Trash free, clean bathrooms, very helpful rangers. Want to try Loop Red tail Hawk where a few sites back up to overlook Cottonwood and Jerome. Walk the many trails, look for the Reys cemetery... A gem of a find, hidden behind Old Town Cottonwood, along the Verde River and all the trees. Three loops, we stayed in Quail Run , site 24, electric and water. We have a 32 foot trailer that was easy to park. Trash free, clean bathrooms, very helpful rangers. Want to try Loop Red tail Hawk where a few sites back up to overlook Cottonwood and Jerome. Walk the many trails, look for the Reys cemetery. We will definitely return.

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Kayla Kummerl

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Kayla Kummerl

George was the best guide when me and my boyfriend went to ride horses during a day trip in Sedona! He had all the jokes and kept our ride fun. The ride lasted around an hour and we got to go through water too! Would definitely come back!

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Lady

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Lady

Took a mini Trip in Sedona (Riding wild an free) ~Literally I had a blast:) and Dont ask Why the feet bare;) ⭐Highlight⭐ George is a cool Guy I appreciate him for his Generosity and Warm Welcoming I Definitely will be back to Saddle up again here Thank you for this fun experience 🐎🤠

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Jody Martinez

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Jody Martinez

This was a neat little State Park that my family attended as part of an invitation to a Foundation's event. The roads were were good to drive on-no gravel, and there was a play ground, horse stable and two ponds that we saw. People can fish, dogs can walk as long as they are leashed, and the restroom facilities were well maintained. The female restrooms had sinks, mirrors, air dryers and were comp... This was a neat little State Park that my family attended as part of an invitation to a Foundation's event. The roads were were good to drive on-no gravel, and there was a play ground, horse stable and two ponds that we saw. People can fish, dogs can walk as long as they are leashed, and the restroom facilities were well maintained. The female restrooms had sinks, mirrors, air dryers and were comparable to a clean restroom you would find in a store or mall.

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