Camp Verde, in the geographic center of Arizona, is the gateway to the Verde Valley. It is less than an hour away from Flagstaff, Sedona, Jerome, Cottonwood, Clarkdale, Page Springs and Cornville.
Because of its central location, Camp Verde is the perfect place to launch a half-day, full-day or multiple-day adventure. Whether you enjoy exploring Native American ruins, learning about frontier and mining history, seeing and interacting with animals from around the world, visiting wineries, kayaking, tubing, hiking, biking, horseback riding, fishing, camping, playing golf, shopping, dining or gaming, it’s all within or an easy drive from Camp Verde.
To plan an itinerary that is tailored to your interests, visit the Camp Verde Chamber of Commerce at 395 S. Main Street or call 928-567-9294.
Options include:
Native American Ruins
Montezuma Castle in Camp Verde is considered to be the best-preserved cliff dwelling in North America. Nearby Tuzigoot offers another first-hand look at Sinagua Indian life. Only 11 miles from Montezuma Castle is Montezuma Well, a large limestone sink hole. The site includes remains of a Hohokam pit house.
Also noteworthy are the V Bar V Ranch, a well-preserved petroglyph site with more than 1,000 images, and Camp Verde’s Salt Mine, which dates back 2,000 years.
Frontier History
Fort Verde State Historic Park is one of only seven Apache War forts in Arizona. Located in downtown Camp Verde, it was established in 1871 as a major base for General George Crook's army. The architectural heritage site features three residential buildings and a visitor center with a small museum.
History buffs might also enjoy the small Camp Verde Historical Society museum with two rooms of permanent displays and rotating exhibits. In nearby Cottonwood, the Clemenceau Museum offers additional displays.
Outdoor Adventures
Kayaking or floating down the Verde River, horseback riding and hiking are some of the ways to experience Camp Verde’s high-desert vistas. Several state parks and scenic areas offer additional recreational activities, and there are lovely golf courses throughout the Verde Valley.
For animal lovers, Out of Africa Wildlife Park is a must-see stop. This interactive park is the only one of its kind in Arizona. In addition to its Wildlife Preserve, the park offers a simulated safari and special shows, including Tiger Splash, the Giant Snake Show, the Predator Feed and the Wonders of the Wildlife Show.
Shopping and a Taste of Wine
Camp Verde features affordable, high-quality shopping along the town’s historic streets. In nearby communities, there are additional shops and art galleries.
Halfway between Camp Verde and Cottonwood on the Verde River is Alcantara Vineyards with its Tuscan farm-style tasting room. Several other wineries are in nearby Cornville and Page Springs.
Gaming
For the ninth year in a row, Camp Verde’s Cliff Castle Casino has been voted the #1 casino in Arizona. In addition to nearly 700 gaming machines and live-action poker and blackjack, the multi-amenity facility features restaurants, cocktail lounges, bowling, top-name entertainment, a childcare center and a video arcade.
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