Manzanita Lake. CC Image by Gord McKenna (Flickr).

By BOYDE MCMAKIN

If you are tired of the cold and in need of treating your cabin fever with a camping trip to a warm climate, consider Arizona. I have found an amazing little camping area called Manzanita, which is located south of Slide Rock State Park.

The Sound of Running Water

One of the things I love about camping and hiking near rivers and streams is the sound of running water. There is just something very peaceful and therapeutic about it. Unlike many campgrounds where the campsites are located quite a distance from local rivers, Manzanita campsites are right next to the river so you can be lulled to sleep by the wonderful sound.

Hiking and Swimming

The scenery is beautiful in this area and it has some wonderful hiking trails. For families with kids that love to swim, there is a great little swimming hole just about 100 yards downstream from the campground. It is just far enough to get a little exercise and yet close enough that it is not exhausting to walk back to the campground after a refreshing swim.

Rustic, People-Friendly Environment

Although the campground has the rustic feel, there are several water spigots located throughout the campground and a vault toilet that is centrally located. What more can a true outdoors person ask for? One of the things I love about camping is meeting new people and making new friends. These campsites are located far enough away from the neighboring campers for necessary privacy yet close enough to casually meet people and enjoy getting to know them.

Amenities

While Manzanita Campground is for tents and sleep-in vehicles only (no oversized vehicles or RVs allowed), there are still plenty of amenities (like standard campfire rings, grills, and picnic tables) to make you stay more enjoyable. If you plan a longer stay, or just feel the need to get properly cleaned up, there are some coin-op showers at another campground just up the road. And if you want to combine your trip with a visit to nearby Sedona, you can easily find a good hotel or resort along with great shopping. Either way, Manzanita is terrific choice if you’re looking for a great place to get outdoors and stay warm this winter.

Boyde McMakin is a travel fanatic with PPL Motorhomes who enjoys being outdoors with his family. He also likes to read, write, and listen to inspirational and uplifting music.

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