Camping near Benson, Arizona spans across desert, grassland, and mountainous terrain ranging from 3,600 to 5,000 feet in elevation. During monsoon season from July through September, afternoon thunderstorms can develop rapidly, requiring campers to secure loose items and avoid dry washes. The region sits within a biodiversity hotspot where Sonoran and Chihuahuan desert plants intermingle with grassland species.
What to do
Explore unique cave formations: Kartchner Caverns State Park Campground offers tours of its renowned living limestone cave system. "The caverns are amazing. Nice place to camp. All roads are pave and sites are level," reports one camper. The park also provides educational opportunities at its visitor center where you can learn about cave formation and local geology.
Stargaze under dark skies: The area around Kartchner Caverns State Park Campground features designated dark sky viewing areas. "So very very pretty! The giant mountain is a perfect backdrop for camping! It's super dark at night, so sky viewing is great!" notes a visitor. Bring binoculars or a telescope to take advantage of minimal light pollution.
Visit nearby historic towns: Use Quail Ridge RV Resort as a base for day trips. "It's about 20 minutes to Sierra Vista, and 30 minutes to Tombstone," shares a camper. The historic mining towns of Tombstone and Bisbee offer museums, guided tours, and period architecture within a 30-45 minute drive from most Benson area campgrounds.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Many campgrounds offer substantial spacing between sites. At Tombstone Territories RV Park, "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." Another camper adds, "Site was clean, level and pull through."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The diversity of habitats supports numerous bird and animal species. At Cieneguita Dispersed Camping Area, one camper observed "Coues deer (a small whitetail), pronghorns (get up early to see them), a prairie dog town, coyotes can be heard many nights, and all kinds of birds." Many campers report seeing cattle roaming freely near their sites.
Well-maintained facilities: Even at budget-friendly locations, campers praise the cleanliness. "Spacious, level lots. Friendly, helpful staff. Close to the highway but not too noisy. The campground is clean and well maintained. Very affordable!" notes a visitor to Quail Ridge RV Resort. Established campgrounds typically have clean restrooms and hot showers.
What you should know
Road conditions to dispersed sites: Access to free camping areas often requires navigating rough roads. At Dragoon Mountains, "Coming from Tombstone you travel on N Middlemarch rd which is 10 miles of dirt washboard and just plain bumpy for 10 miles until FR 687 comes up as you Y to the left." High-clearance vehicles are recommended for many dispersed sites.
Water availability limitations: Many dispersed camping areas have no water sources. "We got water at the Stampede RV park in Tombstone. The other RV parks didn't allow us to fill," reports a Dragoon Mountains camper. At Cieneguita, "Clean vault toilets at the ranch house parking and potable water, approx. 2.3 miles from campsite."
Wildlife precautions: Venomous reptiles are present throughout the region. One camper at Kartchner Caverns warns, "Watch your step, we came across a Diamond Back Rattle Snake about 4 feet from our picnic bench." Scan your campsite before setting up, and use a flashlight when walking at night.
Tips for camping with families
Look for educational opportunities: Combine camping with learning experiences at state parks. "Kartchner Cave is walking distance with a great observation center even if you don't take a tour into the caves," notes a camper. Rangers often offer junior ranger programs and guided nature walks suitable for children.
Consider cabins during extreme temperatures: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F, making cabins a comfortable option. At Benson KOA, a visitor noted they "offered to upgrade me to a cabin" when tent camping wasn't feasible. Several campgrounds offer cabin rentals with air conditioning.
Pack for varied weather: Temperature swings of 30+ degrees between day and night are common. "It would be hard not to find a site with a beautiful view of the Dragoon Mtn ridge... Your roughly at 5000' so winter camping be prepared for snow on occasion," advises a Dragoon Mountains camper. Bring layers and sun protection regardless of season.
Tips from RVers
Secure loose items during monsoon season: Strong winds can accompany afternoon thunderstorms. "It also can be a little breezy," notes a Dragoon Mountains visitor. Use stabilizers and ensure awnings are retracted when leaving your site during stormy weather.
Access to amenities: Many RV parks provide essential services within walking distance. At The Lakes at St. David RV Resort, "Benson is 15 minutes away and has a Walmart, Safeway, auto parts, etc..." For supplies and services, Sierra Vista (30 minutes south) offers the most comprehensive shopping options.
Budget-friendly options: Several parks offer excellent value. "This is the best place I've stayed at of its type and size. Definitely handles over 200 rigs, has nice bathhouse, very clean, laundry, dog park, etc. And the price is totally fair! Just under $14 a night," reports a Quail Ridge RV Resort camper.
