Hidden in a stand of ponderosa pines, Bonito Campground is the perfect basecamp to use while exploring nearby Sunset Crater Volcano and Wupatki national monuments. Cinder cones, which are part of the San Francisco Volcanic Field, dot the landscape surrounding the campground and make for an interesting backdrop to your tent or camper!
The campground gets its name from the Bonito Lava Flow, which oozed out of the base of Sunset Crater Volcano nearly 900 years ago. Head to the visitor center down the road to learn more about the volcanic history of the region. Wupatki National Monument is a little over 20 miles north of the campground, offering five pueblo ruins and several short interpretive trails. Check for ranger programs at both monuments.
Located centrally between other Southwest parks and destinations, a stay at Bonito Campground can be the perfect complement to any road trip. Consider spending the night here on your way to the Grand Canyon or Zion National Park.
From the train station in Flagstaff, Arizona, take Rte 66 east through town. Continue for 12 miles as the road turns north and becomes Hwy 89. Turn right on Sunset Crater – Wupatki Loop Road (FR 545), and drive about two miles. Following signs to Bonito Campground, turn left on a marked gravel road just before arriving at the Sunset Crater Volcano visitor center.
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The jury is split — some say ponderosa pines smell like vanilla. Others say butterscotch. But regardless of your sweet leaning, forests in northern Arizona need our help. Decades of forest supression have led to unnaturally dense stands that are risk of severe wildfire. Learn more about what we're doing to improve the health of ponderosa forests ›
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