5 Best Flagstaff Camping Spots to Explore in September

September in Flagstaff is a magical time for camping.

Whether you’re looking for a lakeside escape, forest solitude, or a family-friendly campsite, Flagstaff offers the perfect spots to pitch your tent and enjoy the high-country outdoors.

Pricing and availability for campgrounds in Arizona’s Coconino National Forest can vary in September, as some areas may be moving to a first-come, first-served basis or closing for the season.

1. Lockett Meadow Campground – Golden Aspens & Mountain Views

Lockett Meadow Campground is a dream for anyone visiting Flagstaff in September.

Nestled among groves of aspen trees, this high-elevation campground offers stunning fall colors and crisp, cool air perfect for sleeping under the stars.

The meadow is expansive, giving campers plenty of space to set up tents while soaking in the surrounding San Francisco Peaks.

• Elevation & Climate: Located at nearly 8,600 feet, nights can be chilly with early frost possible by late September.
• Layout: Smaller campground with limited sites, all first-come, first-served.
• Amenities: Vault toilets are available, but no showers or running water, so plan ahead.
• Activities Nearby: Inner Basin Trail is just steps away, offering breathtaking views of golden aspens.
• Family vs. Adventure: Best for nature lovers and photographers; less suited for RV campers due to limited access.
• Local Access: The road leading to this trailhead is currently closed indefinitely, making it a 6-mile round-trip walk to reach the area.

Price & Reservations: $12 per night. No reservations available; all sites are first-come, first-served. Campground typically closes mid-October.

2. Bonito Campground – History Meets Nature

If you love combining nature with a touch of history, Bonito Campground is ideal.

Located close to Sunset Crater Volcano and Wupatki National Monument, this spot is perfect for families who want to explore both hiking trails and ancient Native American ruins.

The campground itself is shaded by tall pines, making it comfortable even during sunny September days.

• Elevation & Climate: Around 7,000 feet, offering mild daytime weather and cool nights.
• Layout: Dozens of sites suitable for tents and RVs, with shaded areas.
• Amenities: Picnic tables, fire pits, restrooms available.
• Activities Nearby: Hike Sunset Crater trails or visit Wupatki’s pueblos.
• Family vs. Adventure: Excellent for families due to proximity to historical landmarks.
• Local Access: A short drive from downtown Flagstaff for food and supplies.

Price & Reservations: Reports vary from $17–$40 per night, with most campers citing around $34.

Reservations are available on Recreation.gov with an $8 fee. Book early for September weekends.

3. Pinegrove Campground – Spacious Forest Retreat

Pinegrove Campground offers a classic forest camping experience.

Surrounded by towering pines and open spaces, it’s perfect for larger groups or families.

September’s cooler temperatures make it an excellent time to enjoy campfires and evening storytelling without the summer heat.

• Elevation & Climate: About 7,000 feet, with pleasant daytime temps and crisp evenings.
• Layout: Spacious campsites, many suitable for RVs and groups.
• Amenities: Showers ($7 for 8 minutes), water refill ($5), and ice ($5 per bag). Restrooms and picnic tables available.
• Activities Nearby: Great access to hiking and biking trails around Lake Mary.
• Family vs. Adventure: Perfect for families or group outings, less remote than some other campgrounds.
• Local Access: Close to Lake Mary Road with easy access back into Flagstaff.

Price & Reservations: Exact nightly price not specified, but services are available.

Reservations recommended for September.

4. Dairy Springs Campground – Cozy Forest Escape

Dairy Springs Campground is a quieter option that still gives you easy access to outdoor fun.

Located near Lake Mary, campers can enjoy hiking, biking, or even a peaceful morning paddle.

• Elevation & Climate: Roughly 7,100 feet, offering cool fall weather.
• Layout: Smaller, more intimate campground, ideal for tent campers.
• Amenities: Basic facilities like picnic tables and fire rings; limited services.
• Activities Nearby: Hiking and biking trails, plus quick access to Mormon Lake.
• Family vs. Adventure: Great for families looking for a quiet camping experience.
• Local Access: About a 30-minute drive to Flagstaff for food and fuel.

Price & Reservations: No specific pricing available.

Many sites transition to first-come, first-served in fall, with fees typically between $25–$50 per night. Check USDA Forest Service for updates.

Insider Tip: Early September is the perfect time to catch morning mist over the lake.

5. Ashurst Lake Campground – Lakeside Serenity

Ashurst Lake Campground is perfect for anyone looking for a lakeside experience.

The lake offers fishing, kayaking, and a peaceful atmosphere for evenings by the water.

September’s cooler temperatures make it ideal for enjoying a warm campfire by the lake.

• Elevation & Climate: At 7,100 feet, expect crisp nights and sunny days.
• Layout: Moderate-sized campground, some sites overlooking the lake.
• Amenities: Picnic tables, restrooms, fire pits available.
• Activities Nearby: Boating, kayaking, birdwatching, and lakeside hikes.
• Family vs. Adventure: Family-friendly for fishing and paddling, while also appealing to adventurers who love lakeside camping.
• Local Access: About 20 miles from Flagstaff, so plan for a short drive into town for supplies.

Price & Reservations: $27 per night for up to eight people and one vehicle.

Additional vehicle $10 per night. Ten sites are first-come, first-served; others are reservable.

Pro Tip: Bring a portable chair and enjoy sunset views over the lake—it’s one of the most tranquil spots in all of Flagstaff during fall.

Other Things to Do Around Flagstaff While Camping

While camping, Flagstaff has plenty to keep you busy.

Take scenic drives through the San Francisco Peaks for vibrant fall foliage, enjoy hiking trails that start right from your campground, or stargaze under the clear September skies—Flagstaff is an International Dark Sky City, after all.

You can also visit local breweries or cafes in downtown Flagstaff for a warm meal after a day outdoors.

Conclusion

September is arguably the best month to experience Flagstaff’s camping spots.

From golden aspens at Lockett Meadow to lakeside tranquility at Ashurst Lake, there’s a campsite for every kind of camper.

With cooler weather, fewer crowds, and breathtaking fall scenery, camping in Flagstaff this September is an adventure you won’t forget.

Read More: 5 Best Flagstaff Hikes to Do in September