Happy Valley Saddle Campground, near Tucson, Arizona, is a secluded spot tucked away in Saguaro National Park, perfect for those who crave a bit of solitude and stunning views. The campground sits at an elevation of 6,000 feet, requiring a moderate hike of 4.6 miles along the Miller Creek trail to reach it, but the journey is well worth it for the breathtaking scenery.

This campground features three designated sites, each equipped with a fire ring and a bear box for your gear. Visitors have noted the peacefulness of the area, with one camper mentioning, “We were the only ones there,” which adds to the charm of this remote location. Keep in mind that water is scarce, so pack wisely, especially when it comes to hydration.

The surrounding landscape is filled with tall trees and beautiful mountain views, making it a great backdrop for your camping experience. Reviewers have highlighted the unique experience of hiking up to the campground, with one stating, “Beautiful views hiking up.” Just be prepared for a bit of a workout, as the trail can be challenging, but the sense of accomplishment and the tranquility of the site make it all worthwhile.

If you're looking for a place to unwind and enjoy nature, Happy Valley Saddle Campground offers a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle. Just remember to pack light and enjoy the great outdoors!

The story of Saguaro National Park dates back much farther than its establishment in 1994. Prior to this, the area was designated a national monument in 1933 as a way to preserve the unique Sonoran Desert landscapes of the Tucson and Rincon mountain districts. This saved the area from the ranchers and miners who settled in the area in the 1880s. These followed the Spanish explorers who established a military fort in Tucson in the 1770s, nearly a century after founding a mission in the ares in the 1690s. Petroglyphs and potshards indicate that the Hohokam peoples inhabited the area for more than a millennium prior to the Spanish. Travel back even farther, and there’s a complex geologic history of exactly how the landscape came into being—and why it’s worth preserving.

Camping in Saguaro is like entering a time machine. With no campgrounds in the park accessible by vehicle, the only way to camp is to hike in to any of the six designated campgrounds. The trails to get to the campgrounds typically start from developed roads and trailheads, but venture deep into the Sonoran backcountry, where only the rocks, plants, and animals tell the story of a landscape that’s changed little—with the exception of who’s occupied it—for the past several thousand years. One of the more popular campsites for those looking to bag 8,482-foot Rincon Peak, is the Happy Valley Saddle, which lies in a grove of scrubby pine and juniper forest, about halfway along the hike to the peak.  

This small campsite is located on the east end of the Rincon Mountain District. The campsite is accessible via a 3.9-mile trail that climbs 2,000 feet from the Miller Creek Trailhead. The road to this trailhead is not maintained, so may not be passable by passenger vehicles, or following inclement weather. The site offers three spaces for pitching tents. The water supply at nearby Miller Creek is seasonal at best, so visitors should plan accordingly. There are no facilities here, so hikers should exercise Leave No Trace and pack-it-in-pack-it-out practices. Camping in the Saguaro Wilderness backcountry requires a park-issued wilderness permit, which can be acquired in person at the park visitor center, or by submitting an application in advance.

Happy Valley Saddle Campground — Saguaro National Park

Near Tucson, AZ — with the city dividing the national park in half — visitors and residents can find some of the best camping in the state. Saguaro National Park is named for the large desert cactus that decorates the Arizona landscape. Along with camping among the gigantic cacti, you can explore the Tucson Mountain District, follow trails to petroglyphs created by the ancient Hohokam from your campsite, and enjoy stunning sunsets and starry night skies in the Rincon Mountains. Campgrounds accommodate RV and walk-in campers. Visitors can also find roomy cabins near Saguaro National Park to stay in comfort.

Saguaro National Park

The Best Camping Near Saguaro National Park, Arizona

Happy Valley campground's name can be decieving.. its actually at 6,000' of elevation, 4.6 miles up the Miller Creek trail in the Rincon mountains east of Tucson. It lies within the Saguaro National Park so a permit is required ($8 fee). Up to 6 people per permit. There is 3 spots at the camp. Each spot has a fire ring, bear box, and some good size stumps to sit on around the fire. There is a vaulted toilet at the site as well. Water can be scarce in the Rincons so plan accordingly!

Another 3.4 miles up the trail and you'll be at the summit of Rincon Peak (8,200'ish).

Small & remote camp

Lovely little campground! Tough hike in and down is....fun!

Very cool!

I came here maybe 4 yrs ago. I wasn’t a big hiker but I was young and in good shape. It was so hot and the trail was a little confusing at times. Not many people so if you’re looking for some good exercise and solitude this is for you. Passed a couple on the way up and only one other camp site taken up by a group of 2/3 guys. I was a single female so I didn’t explore any other trails past the campsite. Wish I had! It was beautiful non the less in the midst of tall trees. The toilet was awkward. It’s placed up high so you feel like anyone passing by could see you but since hardly any other people up there not a big deal. Would love to go back sometime soon! You have to pack everything up hill so try and keep it lite with the necessities, ESPECIALLY water! Beautiful views hiking up 

Would definitely return 

Exceeded expectations!! A moderate 4.6 mile hike after 16 miles on a dirt road. The hike up is BEAUTIFUL and not overly steep (but watch for snakes). The campground was great. We were the only ones there and used site 3. It was very secluded and had a nice big bear box and a nice fire ring. I would definitely return! It was a bit chilly in December but slept comfortably.

Photos of Happy Valley Saddle Campground — Saguaro National Park

Real photos from real campers