Glamping near Tucson offers mountain and desert retreat options throughout the year with temperatures ranging from 95°F in summer to 68°F in winter. The Tucson area's glamping sites can be found at elevations from 2,400 feet in the valley to nearly 8,000 feet in the Santa Catalina Mountains, providing diverse climate options for campers seeking luxury outdoor accommodations.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Multiple trails accessible from Spencer Canyon Campground provide both beginner and advanced options. "There are many trails to choose from not too far from your camp (read up on hiking in high elevations though before you venture out)," notes Suzanne P.
Cave tours: Explore underground formations at Kartchner Caverns State Park Campground. "We reserved and did the Rotunda/Throne Tour. It was very cool and our 1st cave tour. I would suggest reading the rules for tours before reserving," advises Bill R.
Water recreation: Boating and fishing available at Patagonia Lake State Park, located about 60 miles south of Tucson. "Lake lovely to canoe, we biked all over the camp (small)," reports Liz W., who visited in April.
What campers like
Year-round fruit trees: The desert climate supports citrus trees at some luxury glamping sites. "Fruit trees at our spot. As it is winter now in most states, people tend to stay throughout the winter. Come in the summer and they'll have covered spots," shares Theo A. about his stay at Tucson - Lazydays KOA.
Bird watching opportunities: The region attracts diverse bird species, particularly at lower elevation sites. "Birds are abundant," states Ron B. about his glamping experience near Patagonia Lake. This destination is known as a "Birder's paradise in April," according to Liz W.
Mountain cooler temperatures: Higher elevation glamping offers relief from desert heat. "Spencer Canyon Campground is walk up only with over 60 sites to choose from. Several sites are double or group size. This is the highest National Forest campground on Mount Lemmon and your best bet for cooler temps during the summer," explains Christina C. about General Hitchcock Campground.
What you should know
Summer heat extremes: Valley glamping sites can reach dangerous temperatures in summer months. "Awesome place with lots of amenities. Feels very urban though. Really good pool. Went in July and it was 122 degrees," warns Nicholas M. about his Tucson glamping experience.
Neighborhood considerations: Some glamping locations are situated in urban areas with varied surroundings. "The campus seems nice enough, but has a few years on it and in a rough neighborhood," notes Todd P. about his stay.
Mountain roads: Access to high-elevation glamping requires careful driving. "The drive up Mt. Lemmon highway is 35 MPH the cops hiding around the corners writing tickets would be glad to remind you or you can take my word for it. This road is also very popular for cyclists so make sure you keep your eyes on the road," advises Suzanne P. about reaching BLM off of W Valencia Rd.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Multiple recreational amenities keep children engaged during glamping stays. "Your kids will never complain of boredom here. There is an unlimited amount of activities to keep them occupied. Laundry room and showers were clean. RV sites were spacious in my opinion," shares Lisa H.
Wildlife awareness: Desert glamping means potential wildlife encounters. "Watch your step, we came across a Diamond Back Rattle Snake about 4 feet from our picnic bench," cautions David T. about his Kartchner Caverns glamping experience.
Pet amenities: Many glamping sites accommodate pets with dedicated areas. "They have a very nice dog area for your four legged camper," notes Carol W. about the pet facilities at Cactus Country RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup quality: Electrical systems vary between glamping locations. "The shore power 30 amp showed reverse polarity and a faulty ground, so we used the 50 amp with a dog bone. The last time we stayed, we were given the same site and the electric had not been repaired...after reporting it 3 weeks prior!" warns HandL C.
Site selection strategies: Arrive early for premium glamping locations. "Parking can be limited with only a few of the sites having adequate parking for trailers up to 22 feet. Your best bet for a good site for the weekend is to get there on Thursday or early Friday," advises Christina C.
Level site considerations: Some glamping options have terrain challenges. "The picnic area of the site is level but the whole campsite is NOT so pick your location carefully if you want to pitch your tent on a flat, level plot," recommends Dray S. about higher elevation glamping sites.
