Top Tent Camping near Arizona City, AZ

Looking for the best options for tent camping near Arizona City? You can find tent campsites by type, including drive-in, walk-in, and even hike-in for a backpacking adventure. You're sure to find the perfect campsite for your Arizona tent camping excursion.

Best Tent Sites Near Arizona City, AZ (2)

    Camper-submitted photo from Garden of Peden
    Camper-submitted photo from Garden of Peden
    Camper-submitted photo from Garden of Peden
    Camper-submitted photo from Garden of Peden
    Camper-submitted photo from Garden of Peden
    Camper-submitted photo from Garden of Peden

    1. Garden of Peden

    1 Review
    6 Photos
    4 Saves

    Connect with nature when camping with friends

    Peden is connecting individuals of all ages and fueling love for wildlife and nature herself.

    Occasional free campouts with activities and special guests are hosted to encourage outdoor exposure and experiences.

    Peden is a cherished land which has been certified as protected Wildlife Habitat. A place for humans, nature, and animals to coexist.

    Be mindful of the animals who share the environment and respect that you are a guest in their home during your stay.

    Please clean up and care for nature so we can continue to offer respite for the community and our beloved travelers within the garden of peden.

    Thank you for booking us!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Trash
    • Firewood Available

    $13 - $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Charouleau Gap Trailhead Camp

    2. Charouleau Gap Trailhead Camp

    1 Review
    1 Photo
    14 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol

Recent Tent Reviews In Arizona City

277 Reviews of 2 Arizona City Campgrounds


  • D
    Camper-submitted photo from Catalina State Park
    Oct. 14, 2024

    Catalina State Park

    Beautiful Mountain View’s

    Would recommend this campground. Clean lots of trails to hike or bike. No sewer hookup but does have electric and water. Campground was full but still very quiet. I have already reserved again next month

  • Pol G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Gilbert Ray Campground
    Oct. 2, 2024

    Gilbert Ray Campground

    Quiet and Well Maintained

    I came here at the beginning of September 2024 and stayed for one night only. My spot has Shore Power (15,30,50), but you need to fill up your water tank before parking your trailer. If you select a site near a water source, that's fine, which I did. All roads are one way, and that's why they called a loop. I stayed at Loop A. Make sure you make your reservation online before going there. I bet this campground is packed in wintertime. By the way, their office is closed during off-season. If you arrive during this period, you'll help yourself locate your campground number. And you can just go online and pay your fees.

  • j
    Camper-submitted photo from Ironwood Dispersed
    Jul. 12, 2024

    Ironwood Dispersed

    Animals in the forest

    I want to know if there are any dangerous animals in such mountains and forests. My group of friends and I are planning to come here to explore among us.

  • David T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Catalina State Park
    Jun. 30, 2024

    Catalina State Park

    Adventures

    Had a quick stay here but was still able to see some. It’s AZ so it’s always hot, just prepare for that. The hiking trails and history are amazing here. Showers and bathrooms well maintained. It did rain pretty good as we were rolling in so the ants were…insane. They were everywhere.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Picket Post
    May. 22, 2024

    Picket Post

    Quick Night

    Good place to pull off in a pinch for free. You do hear road noise. Close to Arizona Trail, where it crosses 60 so you can hike both directions if you decide to, or take the trail up to the top of the mountain. Very beautiful area

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Catalina State Park
    Apr. 12, 2024

    Catalina State Park

    Beautiful and quiet

    I travel to Tucson from Phoenix on a regular basis. CSP is close enough to get to my destinations and it provides scenery and views comparable to $400 a night resorts in the same vicinity. Plus I can camp and do my astrophotography at the same time.

  • Angela C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Gilbert Ray Campground
    Apr. 8, 2024

    Gilbert Ray Campground

    Desert campground w spectacular landscape

    Gilbert Ray campground integrates the beautiful desert environment seamlessly with the campsites, which are very generous in size. Some reviews seem to suggest that sites are really backcountry and private, but I wouldn’t say that - most of the landscaping is low so you definitely see your neighbor and you can hear the cars on the nearby road.

    We reserved ahead of time (I didn’t have a problem with the online system, but I did read a lot of complaints). We showed up after hours and I felt the information at the Administration Office was really straightforward, but I got stuck behind two sets of campers who couldn’t figure out what to do or where to go and seemed to expect me to walk them through the after-hours process. In general, most of the campers were older and we didn’t see a single family.

    That may be in part because the chief amenity is the landscape and proximity to the Desert Museum and SNP. Sites have electric hook-ups and there is a bathroom, but no site water hook-ups and no showers. On our way out we drove to the dump station (located at a different loop) and water was available at that location.

    The only other consideration is be careful what route you choose to enter the park. We started traveling according to directions only to realize it wasn’t recommended by the Park that RVs over 24 feet take that particular road.

  • Ericka C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Charouleau Gap Trailhead Camp
    Apr. 2, 2024

    Charouleau Gap Trailhead Camp

    Small site not far from amenities

    Great easy little spot that is highly used so make sure you plan ahead. Not all sites have fire circle and if you don’t have a toilet there are only a few bushes tall enough. Works for a quick one nighter.

  • Joel R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Picacho Peak State Park
    Mar. 28, 2024

    Picacho Peak State Park

    Beautiful campground in the saguaro

    This is a great little camping spot nestled below Picacho Peak just north of Tucson. The campground is spread through the saguaros, and other cactus so you are right in with them. There isn’t much shade so the campground is only open September thru May. It closes during the hot months of summer. Several sites did have covered picnic tables. Sites have water and electricity, some have sewer. There is a dump station also. The sites are level. There are modern showers and bathrooms. Convenient to several hiking trails. In

  • rThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Picacho Peak State Park
    Mar. 6, 2024

    Picacho Peak State Park

    Great state park

    I enjoyed my stay here for 2 days. Had a great time hiking the Sunset Trail to Picacho Peak.

    PROS - large campsites, picnic tables and fire pits on each site. Some sites have a covered pavilion. Great hot showers. Separate dish washing station. Clean facilities. Electric hookups.

    CONS - No hot water or trash cans at the dishwashing station. Can hear road noise from I-10, but you get use to it

  • Bill R.
    Camper-submitted photo from Picacho Peak State Park
    Feb. 24, 2024

    Picacho Peak State Park

    A good spot for a night or two

    Another newer, paved State Park CG with 85 sites, all electric. No water or sewer hook-ups. Restrooms with flush toilet, showers also available. You can see and hear the traffic on I-10 about a half mile to the east. Some sites are spaced further apart then others but overall, decently distanced.  

    We stayed 2 nights in March of 2019. planned to climb the peak but ended up biking around on the the hilly roads.

    Amazing sunsets!!

  • Hannah T.
    Camper-submitted photo from Gilbert Ray Campground
    Feb. 20, 2024

    Gilbert Ray Campground

    Out In It

    This campground is so cool!!! I prefer to be in nature while camping and this is it! You really feel like you’re in the desert. Sites provide some privacy and aren’t right up on each other. Quiet and relaxing. Good accessibility to the NP. I would definitely return.

  • Hannah T.
    Camper-submitted photo from South Forty RV Ranch
    Feb. 20, 2024

    South Forty RV Ranch

    Great Ammenities

    The amenities at this place are great for the price. Nice pool, hot tub, laundry, bath & showers. There is a mix of full time residents, part time, and traveling campers. Apparently not the best place if you have kids though… not even sure if they “allow” them. Sites are typical RV park style… not much to them/no privacy… but if this is what you’re after I’d imagine you’ll be happy.

  • Ashlee G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Gilbert Ray Campground
    Feb. 20, 2024

    Gilbert Ray Campground

    Great stay amongst the saguaros!

    Enjoyed this campsite and all it has to offer - electrical hookup for our RV, a dump station, several drinking water spigots around the loop, and hiking trails all around. Easy to get to, easy to park and level. Our rig is about 38 feet total. So close to the national park & easy to ride in for hikes or exploring! Would definitely return.

  • L
    Camper-submitted photo from Gilbert Ray Campground
    Feb. 20, 2024

    Gilbert Ray Campground

    Organized and clean tent camping

    Loved this spot for a night. Practically in the NP, hard to tell the park bounds of Saguaro. Camp hosts were orderly and extremely friendly and available. Grounds were tidy! Bathrooms were clean. Felt really safe as a solo camper. Tent only sites are secluded to themselves. I was in B2 and I’d book that one or B3 if I ever go back. This tent site cluster has a little shade whereas the other two tent sites down the road are pretty exposed.

  • Bill R.
    Camper-submitted photo from Catalina State Park
    Feb. 16, 2024

    Catalina State Park

    A very nice, urban, campground with spectacular mountain views.

    We've stayed here on 3 different trips to the SW, 2019,2020 & 2023. A very nice break from the remote, amenity-less places we usually camp. It's a great place to resupply, dine out, see the sights, clean up and relax in the Arizona sunshine while gazing a the Santa Catalina Mountains. 

    There is some hiking including guided Ranger led tours. Lots of birds, coyotes and a whole lot of giant saguaro cactus. In spring at least, there is water, sometimes a lot.

    I find that some of the sites are well spaced, some with stunted trees which could provide more shade once they leaf out. We've never had that experience with all out visits coming in March or early April.

    We're not much for big campgrounds or RV Parks but this one works for us. It has however gotten, like everywhere else, EXTREMELY HARD to reserve a site, especially one of the better ones.

    One other note - Wood fires are not allowed!! We use a propane Firebowl there.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Catalina State Park
    Feb. 12, 2024

    Catalina State Park

    Oro Valley

    Very nice campground with great views of the mountains, hiking, and biking around Oro Valley on road bike. Easy access to the loop trail. It was low 30s in the mornings (February). Bathroom and showers in loop A were coolish.

  • Henry E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ragged Top Rd Dispersed
    Feb. 11, 2024

    Ragged Top Rd Dispersed

    Peacefully Quiet, Awesome Views

    Great raised up spot that allows for a full vista of the surrounding mountains and thousands of saguaros. Not a single person drove past the site during the weekend. Overlooks the Pinal County Airport and plane graveyard (this can be seen on the drive in, or with binoculars directly from the site). Adequately lifted 4x4 needed to reach.

  • Scott K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Gilbert Ray Campground
    Dec. 12, 2023

    Gilbert Ray Campground

    Great views and beautiful campground.

    Only issue with the site was traffic noise. Was woken up by loud exhausts/tire squealing at 3 & 4 am.

  • dThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Gilbert Ray Campground
    Dec. 10, 2023

    Gilbert Ray Campground

    Great spot for the money

    No water at the site but there are full stations within the park. For the price, you get a great view and a wide open quite spot.

  • Jake C.The Dyrt ADMIN User
    Camper-submitted photo from Garden of Peden
    Dec. 8, 2023

    Garden of Peden

    Camping near Saguaro National Park

    Jake from the Dyrt here!  The Garden of Peden is now accepting bookings from the Dyrt!  Check them out and share your trip on the Dyrt!

  • Berton M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Catalina State Park
    Oct. 31, 2023

    Catalina State Park

    Base of Catalina Foothills

    Catalina State Park in Tucson, Arizona, is a fantastic campground that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and convenience. The campsite is surrounded by stunning desert landscapes, with majestic saguaro cacti and rugged mountains providing a picturesque backdrop. 

    The well-maintained facilities and spacious campsites make it an ideal destination for both novice and experienced campers. What sets Catalina State Park apart is its remarkable proximity to the town of Tucson. Just a short drive away, campers can easily access the vibrant city to explore its cultural attractions, dine at diverse restaurants, and shop for supplies. 

    This accessibility makes it an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy the serenity of the outdoors without sacrificing the convenience of urban amenities. Whether you're into hiking, stargazing, or simply seeking a peaceful getaway, Catalina State Park offers it all. The stunning natural beauty combined with its proximity to town makes it a top-notch choice for a camping adventure in Tucson, Arizona.



Guide to Arizona City

Camping near Arizona City, Arizona, offers a unique blend of stunning desert landscapes and a variety of campgrounds to suit different preferences. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a quiet retreat, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking: There are several trails nearby, including those at Picacho Peak State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "Convenient to several hiking trails," making it a great base for outdoor adventures.
  • Wildlife Watching: The area is rich in wildlife. A visitor at Cactus Forest Dispersed noted, "You’ll come across packs of coyotes rolling through at night," adding to the natural experience.
  • Stargazing: With minimal light pollution, the night sky is perfect for stargazing. One camper at Ironwood Forest BLM National Monument Pump Station Dispersed shared, "Very dark sky with lots of stars," making it a magical experience.

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. A review from Picacho Peak RV Resort highlights, "Campsites nicely spaced out," allowing for a peaceful atmosphere.
  • Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the well-maintained amenities. A visitor at Cactus Forest Dispersed said, "The sites were well spread out and very clean," which is a big plus for families.
  • Privacy: Campers enjoy the spacious sites that offer a sense of seclusion. One reviewer at BLM Ironwood Forest National Monument - Pipeline Rd Dispersed camping mentioned, "Remote, private, and free but accessible," making it ideal for those seeking solitude.

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Many campgrounds, like Cactus Forest Dispersed, do not have drinking water or toilets. A camper warned, "Not good for dogs really 'cause of cholla cactus everywhere," so be prepared for the desert environment.
  • Noise Levels: Some areas can be noisy due to nearby roads or shooting ranges. A visitor at Cactus Forest Dispersed noted, "There is an outdoor shooting range close enough to hear semi-autos all day," which might be a concern for some.
  • Seasonal Closures: Certain campgrounds, like Picacho Peak State Park Campground, are only open from September to May due to the heat. One camper mentioned, "The campground is only open September thru May," so check ahead before planning your trip.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots with amenities like picnic tables and fire pits. A reviewer at Picacho-Tucson NW KOA said, "Great hot showers. Clean facilities," which is perfect for families.
  • Watch for Wildlife: Kids will love spotting local wildlife, but keep an eye out for cacti. A camper at Cactus Forest Dispersed advised, "Watch where you walk and be sure to check shoes before entering your home for the night."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep everyone entertained. One camper at BLM Sonoran Desert National Monument - Vekol Road Dispersed Camping Area mentioned, "Tons of space to walk and explore," which is great for family adventures.

Tips from RVers:

Camping near Arizona City, Arizona, is a fantastic way to experience the beauty of the desert while enjoying various activities and amenities. Just remember to plan ahead and be prepared for the unique environment!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Arizona City, AZ?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Arizona City, AZ is Garden of Peden with a 5-star rating from 1 review.