RV camping near Benson, Arizona centers around a high desert landscape at approximately 3,600 feet elevation with significant temperature variations between seasons. Winter lows can drop to freezing in December and January while summer daytime temperatures regularly exceed 95°F. The San Pedro River Valley provides a distinctive habitat supporting over 100 bird species, creating unique wildlife viewing opportunities for campers.
What to do
Observatory stargazing sessions: Butterfield RV Resort features an on-site observatory with free tours for resort guests. "As a point of interest there is also a functional observatory on site that has free tours for those staying at the park," notes one camper at Butterfield RV Resort and Observatory.
Desert hiking trails: Access multiple walking paths directly from Tombstone Territories RV Park. "There are a lot of hiking/biking trails. Park is out away from civilization," explains a reviewer who spent winter months at Tombstone Territories RV Park. The park connects to numerous trails suitable for different ability levels.
Bird watching along the San Pedro River: Holy Trinity Monastery provides access to a dedicated bird sanctuary. "The Trinity Wild Bird Sanctuary is a 1.3 mile along the San Pedro River," describes a visitor to Monte Casino RV Park at Holy Trinity Monastery.
What campers like
Lake fishing in the desert: Stocked fishing lakes provide unexpected water recreation in this arid region. "They have pretty lakes stocked with fish for catch and release fishing. It is a true gem to find lakefront sites in the desert!" shares one RVer about Pato Blanco Lakes RV Resort.
Historic site proximity: Most campgrounds serve as convenient bases for exploring regional attractions. "We stayed here and traveled to Tombstone, Tucson Botanical Gardens, and Old Tucson. All an easy drive away," notes a visitor at Valley Vista RV Resort.
Community activities: Many RV parks offer social gatherings for longer-term stays. "Activities like potlucks and poker. Would definitely come back," mentions a camper about Quail Ridge RV Resort, highlighting the social aspects available for visitors.
What you should know
Winter reservations required: October through April brings the highest occupancy rates, requiring advance planning. "We spent 4 months here over the winter months. Big spacious pull thru spots and very clean and well maintained," explains a winter visitor at Tombstone Territories RV Park.
Seasonal closures: Some RV parks operate only during peak months. "Office is only open 9-12pm Mon - Sat but you can check yourself in if you arrive when they are closed," notes a visitor at Apache Mobile Park.
Variable amenity access: Pool and common area availability may fluctuate. "I say it's on the decline because they have a pool and the check in clerk said it had not been open since COVID, she had no idea when/if they would reopen it," reports a camper at Tombstone Territories RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Choose campgrounds with swimming facilities for kids. "The pool was crystal clear and refreshing in the AZ heat," shares a family staying at Tombstone RV & Campground.
Recreation options: Look for parks with on-site games and activities. "Kiddos said there were horseshoes to play," mentions a parent visiting Tombstone Territories RV Park.
Educational opportunities: Combine camping with historic sites for learning experiences. "Beautiful land and big lots. The kids and I used the hiking trails and played horseshoe toss," reports a family at Tombstone Territories RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: Some parks provide extra room between sites. "The sites are normal site plus they left an empty site between each camper," notes an RVer at Valley Vista RV Resort.
Big rig access: Check turning radius requirements for larger vehicles. "With my 42ft trailer I had no problem getting around," mentions a camper with a large setup at Quail Ridge RV Resort.
Budget-friendly options: Several parks offer reasonable rates compared to other areas. "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," shares an RVer at Benson I-10 RV Park.
