Searching for the best camping near Thatcher, AZ? Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Thatcher is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Thatcher. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.
Roper Lake State Park is located 6 miles south of Safford in Graham County in southeast Arizona and sits at the base of Mt. Graham. There are three different campgrounds for lakeside camping as well as fishing, bird watching and water activities. This park is home to a large variety of bird species, offers great seasonal fishing, and is within close proximity to one of Arizona's most beautiful "Sky Island" mountain ranges. Comfy camping cabins dot the shoreline, and neighboring Dankworth Pond State Park offers hiking trails and more water access.
The Cottonwood Campground contains 25 sites with water and electric hookup sites (20/30/50 amp). Each site includes fire rings and picnic tables. Most sites have small shade Ramada with the exception of campsites #24 and #25. Cottonwood campground has a bathroom with hot showers. Most sites will accommodate a vehicle length of up to 45 feet and are back-in only.
$30 / night
Mt. Graham camping and Riggs Flat Lake at Riggs Flat Campground. Experience Some come to fish in it, some to boat on it, and some just to enjoy the reflective beauty this small (11 acre) lake adds to such a scenic area. The dam was financed by the Arizona Game and Fish Department in 1957 to provide trout fishing for forest recreationists. Information about stocking Riggs Lake is available from Arizona Game and Fish Department.
$10 / night
Roper Lake offers three different campgrounds for lakeside camping. The Gila campground offers eight cabins, five non-electric sites, and a 14 site group camp area. All non-electric sites include fire rings and picnic tables.
$20 / night
Roper Lake offers three different campgrounds for lakeside camping.
The Hacienda Campground has 20 sites with water and electric (20/30 amp). Each site includes fire rings and picnic tables. Hacienda campground has a bathroom with hot showers near the entrance of the campground. Most sites will accommodate a vehicle length of up to 45 feet and are a mix of pull-through and back-in sites.
$30 / night
When early settlers ventured up Mount Graham, the Arcadia area was usually as far as they got on the first day. A little later in the history of the Pinaleños, Arcadia was the site of one of several Civilian Conservation Corps camps established in the 1930s to provide jobs for workers idled by the Great Depression. Today, Arcadia Campground, which has 19 campsites, is the first campground visitors encounter on their way up Mount Graham by way of the Swift Trail (AZ 366), which was built by those Depression-era workers. Arcadia Campground is shaded by stands of tall ponderosa pine interspersed with Gambel oaks and Arizona walnuts. Such a diverse habitat makes this an excellent area for bird watching. Watch for poison ivy. Note: Black bear area.
$20 / night
Happy Camp Trail in Arizona is a hidden gem for those who enjoy dispersed camping. Nestled not too far from I-10 and Fort Bowie, this spot offers a serene escape with plenty of space between campsites. The area is free to use and allows campfires, making it a great place to unwind and enjoy the natural surroundings.
One of the standout features here is the free-roaming cattle. Many visitors have enjoyed watching the cows and even capturing some great videos of them. The landscape is dotted with fascinating granite rocks, perfect for exploring and climbing. If you're into history, you'll appreciate the remnants of Native American activity scattered around.
The road to the campsite is a compacted dirt road, which can get bumpy. If you have an AWD or 4x4, you'll have an easier time reaching the more secluded spots. For those with bigger rigs, it's wise to scout ahead as the sand can get deep and the turns tight.
While there are no hookups or drinking water available, the area does have toilets. Just be prepared to pack out your trash as there are no trash facilities. Cell signal is decent with T-Mobile, so you can stay connected if needed.
Overall, Happy Camp Trail offers a peaceful and scenic camping experience with plenty of opportunities for adventure and relaxation. Whether you're here for a quick overnight stay or a longer retreat, this spot is sure to leave you with some great memories.
Mt. Graham camping and Riggs Flat Lake at Riggs Flat Campground. Experience Some come to fish in it, some to boat on it, and some just to enjoy the reflective beauty this small (11 acre) lake adds to such a scenic area. The dam was financed by the Arizona Game and Fish Department in 1957 to provide trout fishing for forest recreationists. Information about stocking Riggs Lake is available from Arizona Game and Fish Department.
$10 / night
When early settlers ventured up Mount Graham, the Arcadia area was usually as far as they got on the first day. A little later in the history of the Pinaleños, Arcadia was the site of one of several Civilian Conservation Corps camps established in the 1930s to provide jobs for workers idled by the Great Depression. Today, Arcadia Campground, which has 19 campsites, is the first campground visitors encounter on their way up Mount Graham by way of the Swift Trail (AZ 366), which was built by those Depression-era workers. Arcadia Campground is shaded by stands of tall ponderosa pine interspersed with Gambel oaks and Arizona walnuts. Such a diverse habitat makes this an excellent area for bird watching. Watch for poison ivy. Note: Black bear area.
$20 / night
Happy Camp Trail in Arizona is a hidden gem for those who enjoy dispersed camping. Nestled not too far from I-10 and Fort Bowie, this spot offers a serene escape with plenty of space between campsites. The area is free to use and allows campfires, making it a great place to unwind and enjoy the natural surroundings.
One of the standout features here is the free-roaming cattle. Many visitors have enjoyed watching the cows and even capturing some great videos of them. The landscape is dotted with fascinating granite rocks, perfect for exploring and climbing. If you're into history, you'll appreciate the remnants of Native American activity scattered around.
The road to the campsite is a compacted dirt road, which can get bumpy. If you have an AWD or 4x4, you'll have an easier time reaching the more secluded spots. For those with bigger rigs, it's wise to scout ahead as the sand can get deep and the turns tight.
While there are no hookups or drinking water available, the area does have toilets. Just be prepared to pack out your trash as there are no trash facilities. Cell signal is decent with T-Mobile, so you can stay connected if needed.
Overall, Happy Camp Trail offers a peaceful and scenic camping experience with plenty of opportunities for adventure and relaxation. Whether you're here for a quick overnight stay or a longer retreat, this spot is sure to leave you with some great memories.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Thatcher, AZ?
According to TheDyrt.com, Thatcher, AZ offers a wide range of camping options, with 60 campgrounds and RV parks near Thatcher, AZ and 14 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Thatcher, AZ?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Thatcher, AZ is Cottonwood Campground — Roper Lake State Park with a 4.5-star rating from 18 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Thatcher, AZ?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 14 free dispersed camping spots near Thatcher, AZ.
What parks are near Thatcher, AZ?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 parks near Thatcher, AZ that allow camping, notably Saguaro National Park and Coronado National Forest.
