Tent camping in Benson, Arizona offers access to diverse terrain from high-elevation forest camping to desert grasslands. Temperatures in the region vary significantly with elevation changes, with sites like Happy Valley Saddle reaching 6,000 feet and experiencing notably cooler temperatures than the desert floor. Many camping areas require high-clearance vehicles due to unmaintained access roads that can become challenging after rainfall.
What to do
Hiking to remote campsites: Happy Valley Saddle Campground requires a strenuous 4.6 mile hike after navigating 16 miles on dirt roads. "The hike up is BEAUTIFUL and not overly steep (but watch for snakes)," reports Nicole J., who camped there in December.
Explore historic sites: Empire Ranch offers camping near historic ranch buildings. "The ranch is wonderful to visit as is Las Cienegas with their amazing diversity of landscapes," writes Liz W., who appreciated the "gorgeous grasslands" surrounding the camping areas.
Wildlife viewing: Backcountry areas provide opportunities to observe desert wildlife. "My tent was surrounded by coyotes, which was wonderful," shares Chloe D. about her experience at Manning Camp, where she enjoyed the "beautiful and mysterious" landscapes of Saguaro National Park.
What campers like
Environmental diversity: The transition between ecosystems is striking at many camping locations. "When the scenery changes you are met with large pine trees and such a different view, it is like night and day," explains Crystal C. about the dramatic shift from desert to forest on the hike to Manning Camp.
Solitude in remote sites: Miller Canyon Road provides secluded camping. Kevin C. found "a larger spot with an awesomely large fire pit" about 0.2 miles past the mapped location, noting "this is better than most desert camping options if your vehicle can make it up bad roads."
Seasonal temperature advantages: Camping at higher elevations offers relief from summer heat. General Hitchcock Campground is "10-15 degrees cooler than the city," according to Candy P., making it "perfect for a quick weekend getaway from Tucson" with "tent sites tucked away between pine trees."
What you should know
Water availability: Most dispersed camping sites have no water sources. For Happy Valley Saddle Campground, one camper advises: "You have to pack everything up hill so try and keep it lite with the necessities, ESPECIALLY water!"
Road conditions: Many camping areas require navigating rough terrain. "Last 0.4 miles were rough. Road did not appear to have been maintained since the last rain which was last year," reports Kevin C. about accessing Miller Canyon Road.
Permit requirements: Backcountry camping in Saguaro National Park requires permits. A camper explains that Happy Valley Saddle "lies within the Saguaro National Park so a permit is required ($8 fee). Up to 6 people per permit."
Tips for camping with families
Choose established sites: General Hitchcock Campground offers more amenities for family camping. "This campground is small, with tent sites tucked away between pine trees. A vaulted bathroom is at the center of the parking lot," notes Candy P.
Be prepared for weather fluctuations: Mountain camping areas experience significant temperature changes. Nicole J. reports her December camping trip to Happy Valley was "a bit chilly" but she "slept comfortably" with proper gear.
Consider privacy needs: Site selection affects family comfort. Paul S. found that at General Hitchcock Campground, "site 6, right across from the restrooms... has some nice boulders to tuck your tent away in, and no really close neighbors. Seems like the rest of the sites you have neighbors right next to you."
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: Harshaw Ave in Coronado National Forest offers roadside camping for smaller rigs. Ollie recommends "exploring above where the pin is because there is more free dispersed camping that will be quieter and more remote."
Group camping options: Empire Ranch provides specific areas for larger groups. Joshua M. notes, "There are many places to camp on empire ranch. Many are dispersed camping but there is also a really great group site for reservation. Great location for Ground Tents, Roof Top Tents, and RVs."
Noise awareness: When tent camping near Benson, Arizona, consider sound factors. "I was there Friday night through Monday morning and heard road noice throughout the night except for Sunday night," reports Ollie about camping at Harshaw Ave.
