Facilities

Club House

Laundry Room

Swimming Pool

Hot Tub

Fitness Center

Game Room

Rec Hall

Pavilion

Exercise Room

Restroom/Shower

Restroom Only

Shower Only

Restaurant

Groceries

RV Supplies

ATM Machine

WiFi

Dog Park

Cocktail Lounge

Dog Washing Station

Pit Toilet

Snack Bar

Play Ground

Sites

Water

20 Amp

30 Amp

50 Amp

Sewer

Cable TV

Services

Escort to Site

Self-Service RV Wash

Metered LP Gas

Firewood

Fishing Supplies

Pet Supplies

Onsite Rentals

Worship Services

Golf Carts

Fishing Guides

Onsite RV Service

Staffed RV Wash

Fishing Licenses

Complimentary Breakfast

Recreational activities in or near the park

Recreational Activities

Archery Range

ATV Riding

Biking

Boating

Body Of Water

Casino

Climbing

Dock

Driving Range

Fishing

Golf

Heated Pool

Hiking

Horseback Riding

Horseshoes

Kayaking

Lawn Bowling

Mini Golf

Paddle Boats

Pickle Ball

Putting Green

Ramp

Sauna

Shuffleboard

Snow Sports

Splash Pad

Swimming

Tennis

Wading Pool

Water Slide

Water Sports

Water Umbrella

Whitewater Rafting

Policies

RV Age Restrictions

Pets Welcome

Pet Restrictions

Pet Restriction on Quantity

Pet Restriction on Breed

Pet Restriction on Size

No Pets

Tent Camping Allowed

Folding Tent Campers Allowed

No Tents

No Overnight Guests

<h2>Overview</h2><p>Dead Horse Ranch State Park is a premier destination for nature enthusiasts seeking a genuine Arizona outdoor experience. Nestled along the banks of the Verde River, this park offers a peaceful escape from the desert heat. Travelers will find a well-maintained environment that celebrates the natural beauty of the high desert, providing a <strong>serene camping atmosphere</strong> for those who prefer wide-open spaces over traditional commercial campgrounds. It serves as an ideal base for exploring the diverse landscapes of the Verde Valley.</p><h2>Location & Surroundings</h2><p>Located in the heart of Cottonwood, Arizona, the park enjoys a prime position in a region known for its rich history and geographic diversity. The surrounding area features <strong>stunning riparian corridors</strong> that stand in contrast to the rugged red rock mountains visible on the horizon. Because it is situated at an elevation of approximately 3,300 feet, the climate remains relatively temperate, allowing for comfortable outdoor activity throughout much of the year while providing easy access to nearby mountain ranges.</p><h2>Amenities & Park Features</h2><p>The park provides comprehensive facilities for RV travelers, including sites equipped with <strong>full hookups</strong> and ample space for larger rigs. Guests benefit from clean, modern restroom and shower facilities, which are maintained to high standards. Beyond the camping area, the park features a network of trails suitable for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Several stocked lagoons are available for those who enjoy <strong>fishing opportunities</strong>, adding a recreational element to the quiet, natural setting of the grounds.</p><h2>Nearby Attractions & Things to Do</h2><p>Staying at Dead Horse Ranch places visitors minutes away from the vibrant town of Old Town Cottonwood, which offers various local dining and tasting rooms. A short drive takes travelers to the <strong>historic copper mining town</strong> of Jerome, perched precariously on a mountainside, or the famous red rock formations of Sedona. Nature lovers can explore the nearby Tuzigoot National Monument to view ancient ruins, ensuring that both history buffs and outdoor explorers have plenty of diverse activities to fill their itineraries.</p><h2>Who This Park Is Best For</h2><p>This park is perfect for travelers who prioritize nature and outdoor recreation over urban amenities. It is a fantastic choice for <strong>active RVers</strong> who enjoy bird watching, fishing, or navigating technical mountain biking trails right from their campsite. Families and solo adventurers who appreciate a quiet, park-like environment will find this destination highly rewarding. If your goal is to experience the authentic beauty of the Verde Valley, this state park is an excellent home base.</p>



Dead Horse Ranch State Park is a state park located in Cottonwood, Arizona. The park is situated along the Verde River and is a popular destination for camping, fishing, hiking, and bird watching. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including coyotes, javelinas, and a variety of birds. The park also features a variety of trails, including the Dead Horse Trail, which is a 4.5-mile loop that takes visitors through the park's riparian areas. The park also offers a variety of educational programs, including guided hikes, bird watching, and interpretive programs.

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Dead Horse Ranch

RV Site

Cabin

Tent

Discover Dead Horse Ranch State Park in Cottonwood, AZ. Enjoy full hookups, scenic trails, and riverfront views in this beautiful high-desert destination.

Dead Horse Ranch State Park: RV Guide to Cottonwood, AZ

Always great to rent out the inexpensive cabins. The lagoons are great exercise for walking & very popular for fishing. We've even seen a bald eagle circling & perched by the 3rd lagoon.

This is a very nice park with a beautiful lake. Or should I say multiple large fishing holes. We got here early and we're greeted by the park ranger. He helped us get tickets and find a great spot to fish. We got here on time at 7am. A couple bites so far, but no fish yet..

Very nice campground. Large sites, lots of trees. Beautiful day use area with covered picnic table areas by a lagoon. Enjoyed our stay. Will be back.

Great State Park.   Campground loops all looked to be in great shape.  We were in Coopers Hawk site 100.  Faces west.  Beautiful mountain view.   Trails all over the place.  W/E site.  Paved with lots of low shade trees.  Bathrooms/showers were always clean.  Hot water.  All the staff and volunteers were encountered were pleasant and helpful.  Cottonwood is a nice little town.  Sedona 20 minutes away.   Will definitely be back.

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!!!

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.

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!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (100/10 would recommend!)

Chaz was hands-down one of the best tour guides we’ve ever had. We showed up completely unannounced, and instead of turning us away, he went out of his way to make a special exception and squeeze us in for a ride — which already says so much about the kind of person he is.

From the moment we started, it was clear that Chaz is not just a guide, but a true character in the best way possible. He was entertaining, welcoming, and incredibly knowledgeable. His understanding of the land, the history of the town, and the surrounding foliage added so much depth to the experience and made the ride feel meaningful, not just scenic.

You can tell he genuinely loves what he does and cares about sharing it with others. The ride was relaxed, informative, and full of great stories — the kind of experience you’ll be talking about long after it’s over.

If I could give Chaz 100 stars out of 10, I absolutely would. If you’re considering this tour, do yourself a favor and book it — and if you get Chaz, you’re in for something special.

I had been eagerly anticipating an overnight camping and fishing trip with a group of young boys, aiming to provide them with an outdoor experience away from screens and video games. We reserved two adjacent sites in the Blackhawk Loop, intending to set up tents and enjoy the night under the stars.
Shortly after arrival, the camp host approached our group and stated—without prior discussion or verification—that only two tents were permitted per site. She informed us that if we did not comply immediately, authorities would be called. While direct communication can be appreciated, the delivery was abrupt and offered no opportunity for clarification or resolution.
Per the campground’s official website and reservation details, our group was within all stated limits:
•  No more than 10 people per site (across both reserved sites)
•  Only 2 vehicles per site
•  No explicit restriction on tents per site
Nowhere in the published rules is a two-tent-per-site limit mentioned. We were fully prepared to adhere to occupancy and vehicle guidelines and believed we were in compliance.
Unfortunately, the host did not engage in any problem-solving or offer alternative solutions. There was no attempt to verify our reservations, review the rules together, or explore accommodations—only an ultimatum. As a result, we were forced to pack up and leave, disrupting a meaningful weekend planned for the boys.
I regret not obtaining the host’s name at the time. I am submitting this review in hopes that management will:
1.  Clarify tent policies on the website and at check-in to prevent future confusion.
2.  Train staff to handle rule enforcement with professionalism, transparency, and a willingness to assist guests in complying.
This experience was deeply disappointing, not because of the rules themselves, but due to the lack of communication, flexibility, and customer service. I sincerely hope this feedback leads to improvements so other families and youth groups can enjoy a welcoming camping experience.

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.

This is a nice state park with many amenities. It’s a hikers paradise. There’s 3 lagoons you can go fishing in. There are horse trails, camping. A playground for the kids.  Not too far from town.

This park is amazing, it has a lot of thing to do with family, really nice hiking trails. Also there’s a playground for kids but the zip line area in the playground hasn’t been fix. Great place to go and forget about everything else

Stayed in a cabin last weekend.  The booking, check-in, cancellation ( I booked 2 & cancelled 1) and deposit refund were a smooth easy online process.  The camp host Bill was gracious and engaging when we bothered him at close to 9 at night.
The cabin was clean and comfortable.  The area next to our cabin with a fire ring felt secluded even though every cabin was full.  The bathroom/ showers look brand new and were kept clean and stocked.  We could not have asked for a better experience!  So thank you to all of you who work so hard to keep this area pristine!

Fantastic RV parking here big space in between guy next to you , quiet but only two miles to town , great Volunteers keep restrooms sparkling clean and campground sites are very tidy , all have fire rings and firewood can be purchased at the hosts anytime during the day or night ,just bang on their door until you wake them up , enjoy !!

50amp/water/dump on site Beautiful park located on a hillside overlooking the town of Cottonwood at 3,300ft elevation. They also have cabins (8), and a separate area for tents. Fishing, horseback riding, hiking trails, river access, planned seasonal activities. Very quiet yet a short drive into town where there are several markets, Walmart, etc. Showers immaculate, sites huge, park hosts very nice. Max stay 14 days. We have an incredible view from our coach, and at present, the weather is beautiful. Would recommend checking it out if your in the area! - Review provided by RV Park Recommendations & Reviews Facebook Group