Arizona is one of the most diverse outdoor destinations in the U.S., offering everything from high desert trails and red rock canyons to alpine forests and rugged mountain ranges. Whether you’re hiking, camping, off-roading, or just exploring the desert landscape, the Arizona outdoors has something for every level of adventurer.
This page provides an overview of what makes Arizona a premier outdoor destination—and how to gear up for it.
Outdoor Activities in Arizona
Hiking & Backpacking
- Popular destinations include the Grand Canyon, Sedona, Superstition Mountains, and Mount Lemmon
- Trails range from easy desert walks to challenging alpine routes
- Be prepared for heat, sun, and elevation changes
Camping & Overlanding
- Dispersed camping is allowed across much of the state’s public land (check BLM and USFS guidelines)
- Developed campgrounds can be found in national parks, state parks, and national forests
- Four-season camping is possible thanks to the state’s wide elevation range
Climbing & Canyoneering
- Arizona offers world-class rock climbing, from granite faces to sandstone towers
- Slot canyons and desert washes provide technical challenges—gear and local knowledge are essential
Off-Roading & Exploring
- Extensive trail networks for 4x4s, ATVs, and overland rigs
- Remote locations require good navigation tools and recovery gear
Birding & Wildlife Watching
- Southeastern Arizona is a birding hotspot, especially in spring and fall migrations
- Elk, deer, bighorn sheep, javelina, and even jaguars are part of the state’s diverse wildlife
What to Know Before You Go
- Climate: Arizona has extreme temperature swings, especially in desert regions. Be prepared for hot days and cold nights.
- Water: Always carry more than you think you’ll need. Many areas have little to no water access.
- Altitude: Some regions, like Flagstaff or the White Mountains, exceed 7,000 feet. Plan accordingly if you’re coming from low elevation.
- Leave No Trace: Much of Arizona is fragile desert terrain—tread lightly, respect closures, and pack out all trash.
Gear Up for Arizona Adventures
Explore our recommended buyer’s guide sites to find reliable gear for Arizona’s unique terrain and conditions:
- 3DayPack.com – Packs for desert hiking, road trips, and bug-out situations
- CompassBuyersGuide.com – Navigation tools for remote backcountry areas
- FlashlightBuyersGuide.com – Lighting essentials for canyons and campsites
- KnifeBuyersGuide.com – Fixed blades and survival knives for rugged desert use
- FirstAidKitBuyersGuide.com – First aid kits suited for remote travel and outdoor injuries
- BootBuyersGuide.com – Footwear that handles rocky terrain, cactus, and heat
- JacketBuyersGuide.com – Lightweight shells and layers for changing conditions
- GPSBuyersGuide.net – GPS and offline navigation tools for public land exploration