Meteor Crater
Winslow, AZ
A near-perfect impact crater almost a mile wide, left by a meteorite roughly 50,000 years ago. There are viewing decks on the rim.
About 50,000 years ago a nickel-iron meteorite roughly 50 m (160 ft) across struck here, releasing energy estimated at around 10 megatons of TNT. The crater is about 1,200 m (3,900 ft) across and 170 m (560 ft) deep, and its rim rises 45 m (148 ft) above the surrounding plain. Mining engineer Daniel M. Barringer acquired the land in the early 20th century and championed the idea that it was an impact crater rather than a volcanic one. It still belongs to the Barringer family. It has been a National Natural Landmark since 1967, and Apollo astronauts trained here in the 1960s and 1970s.
The crater lies 29 km (18 miles) west of Winslow and 60 km (37 miles) east of Flagstaff, reached via Interstate 40. The visitor center has exhibits on meteorites and space travel, including the American Astronaut Wall of Fame. Viewing platforms look down into the crater, and guided rim tours are offered. Around 270,000 people visit each year.
- Nearest town
- Winslow, AZ
- Category
- Nature & parks
- GPS
- 35.0272, -111.0225
Hours, fees and access change. Confirm with the operator or park before you go.
Good to know
Best time to go
The most pleasant months are usually May and September–October. Still fine, with some compromises, in April, June and August. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)
Sources
Featured in these trip guides
Nearby
Campsites nearby
- Meteor Crater RV ParkMotorhome stopover6 mi from Meteor Crater · 71 pitchesMotorhomesElectricityWaste disposalWi-Fi
- Winslow Rodeo Grounds RV ParkMotorhome stopover18 mi from Meteor CraterMotorhomes
- Kinnikinick Lake CampgroundCampsite19 mi from Meteor Crater
- Soldier / Long LakesCampsite20 mi from Meteor Crater
- Long Lake Dispersed CampingCampsite20 mi from Meteor Crater
- Homolovi CampgroundCampsite21 mi from Meteor Crater
All campsites in Arizona · Campsite data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL 1.0 · Updated October 3, 2026
FAQs
Where is Meteor Crater?
Meteor Crater is in Winslow, AZ, at GPS 35.0272, -111.0225. It is about 36 mi from Sunset Crater Volcano.
Can you camp near Meteor Crater?
Yes. The nearest campsite listed in OpenStreetMap is Meteor Crater RV Park, about 6 mi away; within 25 mi there are 9 campsites and motorhome stopovers.
Which road trips pass Meteor Crater?
Meteor Crater is a stop on these CampingSpirit trip guides: Route 66, part two: Oklahoma City to the Pacific and Neon, diners and endless horizons – Route 66 by camper from Chicago to Santa Monica.
What is there to see near Meteor Crater?
Places worth a stop nearby: Standin' on the Corner Park (18 mi), Walnut Canyon National Monument (29 mi), Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument (38 mi) and Lowell Observatory (38 mi).
When is the best time to visit Meteor Crater?
The most pleasant months are usually May and September–October. Still fine, with some compromises, in April, June and August. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)