Let me tell you, there's a certain magic to cruising down Historic Route 66, especially as you climb into the high country of Northern Arizona. The air gets thinner, the sky gets bigger, and the ponderosa pines start to stand guard on either side of the road. But with that magic comes a very practical problem for us RVers: finding a good, clean, and convenient place to handle the less glamorous side of travel, namely emptying the black and grey tanks. After a few days of boondocking in the desert or making the long haul across the state, the need becomes pretty urgent. That’s where a place like Woody Mountain Campground becomes less of a stop and more of an oasis. It sits right there on the west side of Flagstaff, a beacon for road-weary travelers on the Mother Road.
Getting there is part of the experience. As you roll into Flagstaff, you can feel the elevation change. The city sits at a cool 7,000 feet, and after driving through the lower, hotter parts of Arizona, that crisp mountain air hitting your face when you step out of the rig is just incredible. This isn't just some pull-off; it's a destination in itself. Flagstaff has held onto its Route 66 soul, with neon signs and old-school diners that make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. But it’s also a modern mountain town, bustling with breweries and outdoor gear shops. The real draw, for many of us, is its position as the perfect base camp for exploring the wonders of this region. You’re about 80 miles from the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, an easy and spectacular day trip. And you’re not just limited to the big one. Sunset Crater Volcano and Wupatki National Monuments are just a short drive away, offering a completely different kind of landscape to explore. One of my favorite routes is taking Highway 89 north from town towards the Grand Canyon’s East Entrance. It’s usually less crowded, and the drive itself is a scenic journey, with overlooks for the Little Colorado River Gorge that will take your breath away.
Finding Woody Mountain is simple, it’s right on Route 66, so you can’t miss it. Pulling in, you immediately notice this isn't your typical gravel-lot RV park. The place is nestled among those tall pines, giving it a genuine campground feel, even though you’re just minutes from the city. It’s also a bed and breakfast, which adds to its unique, cozy charm. The fact that it’s a purpose built RV park means the dump station isn’t some weird, hard to reach afterthought. You don’t have to perform some ten point turn down a sketchy back alley. Here, it’s integrated right into the park layout. The staff are usually pretty helpful and will guide you in, which is a nice touch. The dumping area itself is on a wide concrete pad, making it easy to position your rig without getting your tires in the mud. For those of us who have dealt with poorly designed stations, this is a huge relief.
If you’re just passing through and only need to dump, it’s always a good idea to call ahead. They don’t really advertise a dump-only fee, as their business model is geared towards overnight guests. But I’ve found that most campgrounds like this are accommodating, especially during the shoulder seasons or on a quiet weekday. They’ll often let you use the station for a small fee, which is well worth the price for the cleanliness and convenience. However, the real value here is in staying for a night or two. Their full hook-up sites mean you can stay hitched, take care of business right at your site, and then settle in. The rates, starting in the high $60s, are pretty standard for a private park in a prime location like this. When you factor in the included dump, the potable water to refill your fresh tank, and access to trash disposal, it’s a solid deal. It’s certainly a lot more affordable than the parks right outside the Grand Canyon’s gates.
The amenities here are what really make it a full reset point. You’ve got your standard threaded sewer connections and non potable rinse water at the dump station, but also potable water spigots to fill your fresh tank. This is crucial. After emptying the tanks, being able to fill up with good, clean water before heading out for more adventures is a game changer. They have on site propane and gas, so you can refuel everything, from your tanks to your engine, before tackling the mountain grades on I-40. For those of us who have been dry camping for a bit, the hot showers and laundry facilities feel like pure luxury.
A few pieces of advice from someone who’s been there. If you’re planning a visit during the peak summer months or on a holiday weekend, reserve your spot online well in advance. This place is popular for a reason. Also, it’s a good idea to carry a little extra sewer hose. Some of the sites are situated at slightly odd angles to maximize space under the beautiful old pines, and an extra ten feet of hose can save you a lot of hassle. The best time to use the main dump station, if you’re not on a full hookup site, is mid morning, between 10 and 11 a.m. The overnight crowd has usually cleared out by then, and you’ll likely have the place to yourself. And a little high-altitude tip: when you’re at 7,000 feet, the pressure difference can be surprising. Open your tank valves slowly to avoid any unpleasant burps or splashes. Finally, be mindful of the wildlife. Elk are common in Flagstaff, and you might even see a bear. Keep your food stored securely and your campsite clean.
So, is Woody Mountain the right stop for you? If you’re traveling Route 66 or using Flagstaff as your hub for exploring Northern Arizona, it’s an absolute gem. It’s the perfect place to dump and dwell. You get the charm of a forest campground with the full-service convenience of a modern RV park. Just be sure to call ahead to confirm their policy on dump-only service and dumpster access if you’re not staying the night. It's a stop that lets you handle the dirty work with ease, so you can get back to the clean air and stunning views of the high country.
2727 W Rte 66, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
(928) 774-7727
Cost: Price not available
Category: RV park
Has Water
woodymountaincampground.com