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Camping near Coronado National Forest

899 Reviews

Camping options around Coronado National Forest include a mix of established campgrounds and dispersed sites in southeastern Arizona. Kartchner Caverns State Park Campground offers tent, RV, cabin, and glamping accommodations with amenities like electric hookups and sanitary dump stations. Near Benson, several RV parks provide full hookup sites, including Benson KOA and Red Barn Campground, which also features cabins described by visitors as "very clean" and looking like they "came out of a Magnolia magazine." For those seeking free camping, dispersed options exist in the Dragoon Mountains and at Cieneguita Dispersed Camping Area within Las Cienegas National Conservation Area.

The region experiences significant seasonal variations that affect camping conditions throughout the year. Most established campgrounds remain open year-round, though some like Encore Valley Vista operate seasonally from October through April. Travelers should verify availability before arrival, particularly during peak tourist seasons. Developed campgrounds typically provide amenities such as showers, toilets, and trash service, while dispersed sites on public lands offer minimal facilities. Road conditions can vary dramatically, with some dispersed areas requiring high-clearance vehicles for access. As one visitor to a local RV park noted, "The traffic noise is nonstop. I know I should have seen it coming. Trucks (Jake Brakes), Trains, airplanes."

Proximity to historic attractions makes the area popular with RVers exploring southeastern Arizona. Several campgrounds are strategically located near Tombstone and Benson, providing convenient access to regional highlights while offering varying levels of amenities. Sites with unique features tend to receive the highest ratings, such as Butterfield RV Resort and Observatory, which includes an on-site observatory that "has free tours for those staying at the park." Campers frequently mention the importance of location when selecting sites, with some preferring proximity to services while others seek more secluded experiences. Train noise appears in multiple reviews as a consideration, with railroad tracks running near several campgrounds in the region. Staff interactions also feature prominently in visitor experiences, with many reviews highlighting the hospitality of campground hosts and managers.

Map showing campgrounds near Coronado National Forest, ArizonaExplore the Map

Best Camping Sites Near Coronado National Forest (193)

    1. Kartchner Caverns State Park Campground

    44 Reviews
    Benson, AZ
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 586-4100

    $50 - $129 / night

    "Kartchner Cave is walking distance with a great observation center even if you don’t take a tour into the caves. -Couple stores within 20miles for any forgotten items."

    "Nice that the trailheads are just a few min walk from the campgrounds. The foothills loop is easy and takes you all around the area without being too challenging."

    2. Benson KOA

    7 Reviews
    Coronado National Forest, AZ
    4 miles
    Website

    "My only complaint was we had a back in spot in the back but they called around 4 wanting to know our ETA we said close to 5:30."

    3. Red Barn Campground

    4 Reviews
    Coronado National Forest, AZ
    4 miles
    +1 (520) 586-2035

    $25 - $49 / night

    "Right next to the freeway and a stone’s throw away from gas stations/grocery stores, this is a great place to pull in for the night."

    4. Butterfield RV Resort and Observatory

    4 Reviews
    Coronado National Forest, AZ
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 586-4400

    $45 / night

    "A Safeway, Ace Hardware, restaurants, and a TSC are all within walking distance of the park."

    "The resort is close to the freeway and historic sites as well. The nightly fee is reasonable and staff members are friendly/responsive."

    5. Encore Valley Vista

    3 Reviews
    Benson, AZ
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "The grounds are very clean and it looks like campers are at least one space away from another. We stayed here and traveled to Tombstone, Tucson Botanical Gardens, and Old Tucson."

    6. Benson I-10 RV Park

    2 Reviews
    Coronado National Forest, AZ
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 586-4252

    $50 / night

    7. SKP Saguaro Co-Op

    2 Reviews
    Benson, AZ
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 586-7343

    "Close to Tombstone and Benson."

    8. Cieneguita Dispersed Camping Area - Las Cienegas National Conservation Area

    15 Reviews
    Sonoita, AZ
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 258-7200

    "We camped just past the cieneguita sites tucked back in the mesquite thicket."

    "Great space to walk the dogs around here. It’s gets a little windy at times and the cows can make a racket every so often, but we really like it here."

    9. Tombstone Territories RV Park

    11 Reviews
    Huachuca City, AZ
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 457-2584

    "Off the beaten trail a bit but we really enjoyed our stay here. Hiking trail entrances right in the park and it’s close to the San Pedro river."

    "Park is out away from civilization, with a lot of hiking /biking trails. Laundry was acceptable but not exceptional. Several machines were out of order at any given time."

    10. Dragoon Mountains

    11 Reviews
    Tombstone, AZ
    19 miles

    "USFS Coronado National Forest controlled. Ranger came by a day after we arrived and checked in with us. 14 day limit on staying here and it seems like it is enforced."

    "Beautiful rock backdrops and views with lots of trails. There is much dispersed camping and although the area can be quite busy, there's lots of space and privacy can be had."

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Recent Camping Photos near Coronado National Forest

137 Photos of 193 Coronado National Forest Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Coronado National Forest

899 Reviews of 193 Coronado National Forest Campgrounds

  • Thomas
    Nov. 2, 2025

    El Bosquecito

    Clean and Quite Campground

    Nice little get away campground. Only 4 RV spots here and it's first come first serve.  It was empty when we were there.  Operated and maintained by Colossal Cave Park and you will need to travel up to the Gift Shop to pay for the stay.  There is a road that leads up to more campgrounds, but vehicles/ camper over 20 Ft are not allowed and the road is for high clearance vehicles only.

  • WThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 31, 2025

    Davis Monthan AFB FamCamp- Boneyard Vista

    Easy Campgrounds with a View

    Check-in was a breeze; the office is centrally located and has good rig parking. The Campground is big with multiple sections. He office was also very easy on the phone to confirm availability as it is entirely first-come, first-served. Really cool view in the older section of the aircraft boneyard.

    We used the main gate (Craycroft) and ignored the little detour that Google Maps gave us through the housing area. Just keep straight by the pool for an easier drive.

  • Amilyn W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 30, 2025

    Tombstone RV Park

    Close to historic Tombstone

    This campground has everything... full hook ups, great rec room with games and a full kitchen, pool, laundry, bathrooms/showers, shade, 2 pet play areas, basic play area for kids, even horse corals and long term rv storage. Stay in a tent site, pull through rv site, large sites next to horse corals, a building with 4 motel rooms or one of their cute cabins. Motel and cabins do not have bathrooms, but the communal bathrooms are clean and have showers. Only down side we experienced was Verizon cell service just ok and the free wi-fi is again, just ok. Minutes to historic downtown. Would stay again.

  • Lisa M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 28, 2025

    Kartchner Caverns State Park Campground

    Nice park but expensive for a state park

    The park itself is very nice. The spaces are adequately far apart from each other. It does have several pull through spaces, which is nice. The showers were clean. Got to do a little hiking, although the trails were pretty rough. The visitor center was nice and informative. My complaint is that we have stayed at many state parks across the US and Arizona by far has the highest rates for state parks and they don’t give any kind of discounts for Seniors or residents . We paid $50 a night for just water and electric.

  • PThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 21, 2025

    Gilbert Ray Campground

    Nice little camping area, except for one small detail…

    We like this place, even though it’s somewhat limited in its access to water and sewer. However, that would not keep us from coming back, but their policy of no vehicles over 40 feet total length (end of camper to end of tow vehicle) are allowed anymore. There are plenty of spots here where they could fit no problem, as we did ours, but it’s now a matter of policy of Pima County to not allow any campers in any bigger than that.

  • Alisa P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 20, 2025

    Wells Fargo RV Park

    Right in Tombstone

    This RV park is right next to the OK Coral in Tombstone. The spot are level but pretty close together. It is located right next to the main road going through Tombstone so you will get road noise. There are some full timers here. They have some really cool covered wagons you can rent to stay in. I think if you had kids they would love that!! This campground gives you the ability to walk downtown have a beer or two and walk back to camp!

  • Alisa P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 20, 2025

    Shootout Arena RV Park

    Nice Spot in Tombstone

    We tried to stay but they were sponsoring a bull riding competition so they were full. It cleared out by Sunday evening.
    The campground is level and big…sites are close together but I imagine if she’s not full she’d spread people out. One spot even had their coral set up for their horse. You are right next to Tombstone so no need to drive to the local saloon for a beer….you can easily walk home! The stadium is only for bull riding and it is right up top from the camping area. There is a porta potty available and you can ride you ATV right onto BLM land from here.

  • Kim G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 19, 2025

    Catalina State Park Campground

    Beautiful and peaceful desert park

    If you like desert camping, this is a beautiful park tucked up against the Santa Catalina Mountains. The campsites have electric and water. They are spaced far apart. There are many hiking and mountain biking trails but not many have shade. So it is hot, even in late October. There are Ironwood trees in the campground so some sites have shade. Bathrooms are dates but clean. Showers ok - no adjustment for hot water but the water temp was ok. I would have liked it hotter but it wasn’t cold.

Guide to Coronado National Forest

Camping near Coronado National Forest, Arizona, offers a mix of stunning landscapes and a variety of campgrounds to suit different preferences. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a secluded area to unwind, there's something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Explore Kartchner Caverns State Park: This park is just a short drive from the campground. One visitor noted, "The campground has paved roads, showers, dump station, water & electric hookups and the usual campsite set-up," making it a convenient base for exploring the caverns.
  • Hike in the Dragoon Mountains: Known for its beautiful views, one camper shared, "We found a nice secluded spot among the rocks," highlighting the area's appeal for those seeking solitude and nature.
  • Visit Tombstone: The historic town is nearby, and many campers enjoy the short trip. A review from Tombstone RV & Campground mentions, "It’s was getting down to freezing temperatures in November briefly overnight," reminding visitors to prepare for cooler nights.

What campers like:

  • Amenities at Tucson - Lazydays KOA: Campers appreciate the variety of amenities available. One review states, "This KOA is a true resort with major amenities, such as a pool, putt-putt golf course, pickleball, restaurant, and planned activities."
  • Clean facilities at Kartchner Caverns State Park Campground: Visitors often mention the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A camper remarked, "Clean restrooms, nice showers, friendly camp hosts," which adds to the overall positive experience.
  • Scenic views at Rose Canyon Campground: Campers enjoy the natural beauty of the area. One reviewer said, "Cool little lake, with river that was flowing when we were there in May," showcasing the picturesque surroundings.

What you should know:

Tips for camping with families:

  • Activities for kids at Tucson - Lazydays KOA: Families can enjoy various activities. One parent shared, "There are multiple events throughout each day, some for kids, some for family," making it a great spot for family bonding.
  • Nature exploration at Bog Springs Campground: This campground is perfect for nature lovers. A visitor mentioned, "It's great for people who love nature," highlighting the family-friendly environment.
  • Fishing at Lakeview Campground: Kids can enjoy fishing in the nearby lake. A review stated, "This is a great campsite for tent or campers... the fish are almost always biting," making it a fun activity for families.

Tips from RVers:

  • Space for RVs at Tucson - Lazydays KOA: RVers appreciate the spacious sites. One camper noted, "The full hookup site was private, had a small grassy area," which is ideal for those traveling with larger vehicles.
  • Access to amenities at Tombstone RV & Campground: RVers enjoy the convenience of nearby facilities. A review mentioned, "Very clean, large/wide sites, nice pool, dog parks," making it a comfortable stay for RV travelers.
  • Road conditions at Dragoon Mountains: RVers should be cautious of the road conditions. One camper advised, "A bit rough but wide road and fine when going slow," which is helpful for those planning to drive in.

Camping near Coronado National Forest, Arizona, offers a unique blend of adventure and relaxation. With various campgrounds to choose from, each with its own charm, you're sure to find the perfect spot for your next outdoor getaway.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Coronado National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, Coronado National Forest offers a wide range of camping options, with 193 campgrounds and RV parks near Coronado National Forest and 53 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Coronado National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Coronado National Forest is Kartchner Caverns State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 44 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Coronado National Forest?

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