Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Benson, AZ

Dispersed camping options near Benson, Arizona provide affordable alternatives to established RV parks. The surrounding Coronado National Forest ranges from 4,000 to 5,000 feet elevation, creating moderate year-round temperatures compared to lower desert regions. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing at night in higher camping areas, while summer brings monsoon storms typically between July and September.

What to do

Stargazing at designated facilities: Butterfield RV Resort and Observatory offers unique astronomy opportunities with an on-site observatory. "This is a smaller high end facility that is managed very well. As a point of interest there is also a functional observatory on site that has free tours for those staying at the park," notes reviewer Dave.

Rock climbing access: The Dragoon Mountains dispersed camping area serves as a base for climbing enthusiasts. "Beautiful rock backdrops and views with lots of trails. There is much dispersed camping and although the area can be quite busy, there's lots of space and privacy can be had," writes Rachel. The area attracts weekend climbers, with one camper noting "Some traffic as it is a popular rock climbing area especially on Friday and Saturday."

Wildlife viewing: Cieneguita Dispersed Camping Area offers opportunities to observe native wildlife. "The ranch is 44,000 acres boastes lots of wildlife elk, antelope, coyotes, kangaroo rats, and roadrunners," explains Jamie P. Another camper mentions, "It is isolated, camp sites are well spaced and the scenery is great. There is no highway noise and the night time stars are brilliant."

What campers like

Affordability of nearby options: Quail Ridge RV Resort receives praise for value. "Can't believe this place is only $10 a night! Clean bathroom and nice space," reports Nicole R. Another visitor comments, "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."

Spacing between sites: Tombstone Territories RV Park provides well-spaced camping areas. "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," notes Avery T. Another reviewer appreciates "Beautiful land and big lots. The kids and I used the hiking trails and played horseshoe toss."

Pet-friendly accommodations: Several campgrounds welcome animals beyond standard leash policies. At Quail Ridge, one camper notes "So friendly! Nice dog park, good wifi, activities like potlucks and poker." Tombstone Territories provides "Nice little dog park for our pooch to run around too and we used the public firepit," according to a visitor.

What you should know

Road conditions to dispersed sites: Access to Dragoon Mountains requires preparation. "Washboard road first 10 miles. Then rough sandy road 5 more miles to the area. Many secluded spots," warns Dave B. Another camper elaborates, "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."