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Best Campgrounds near Chiricahua, AZ

253 Reviews

Chiricahua, Arizona offers camping within a diverse landscape of mountains, forests, and desert terrain. The area includes several established campgrounds like Bonita Canyon in Chiricahua National Monument and dispersed sites along Forest Service roads. Campers can choose from a range of accommodation types including tent camping, RV sites with some hookups, and cabin options at locations like Rusty's RV Ranch just across the New Mexico border. The Chiricahua Mountains region contains both developed sites with amenities and free dispersed camping areas in Coronado National Forest, providing options for various camping preferences and budgets.

Road conditions can significantly impact access to many campgrounds in the Chiricahua area, particularly during winter months and monsoon season. Forest Service roads leading to sites like West Turkey Creek Dispersed and Sycamore Campground require vehicles with decent ground clearance, with several miles of unmaintained dirt roads. Seasonal variations affect the camping experience, with snow and hail common during winter months at higher elevations, while summer brings monsoon rains that can make roads challenging. Water availability varies by location and season, with some campgrounds offering drinking water and others requiring campers to bring their own. According to one visitor, "The drive up is beautiful, the road isn't maintained, but in pretty good condition... The creek was flowing and quite a few animals at dawn and dusk."

The Chiricahua region attracts campers seeking natural beauty and solitude. Campgrounds near flowing water receive particularly positive reviews, with sites along Turkey Creek and Sycamore Creek offering the pleasant background sound of mountain streams. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with visitors reporting sightings of deer, turkeys, and numerous bird species. Hikers appreciate the extensive trail systems throughout the mountains, with many campgrounds serving as convenient bases for exploring the unique rock formations of Chiricahua National Monument. Privacy levels vary between campgrounds, with dispersed sites typically offering more seclusion. A camper noted that West Turkey Creek Dispersed was "quiet, isolated, beautiful, and serene," highlighting the remote character that makes this area appealing despite sometimes challenging access roads.

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Best Camping Sites Near Chiricahua, Arizona (67)

    1. Chiricahua Mountains

    9 Reviews
    Portal, AZ
    17 miles

    "Chiricahua Mountains. The eastern route to Chiricahua National Monument is dicey in areas. Check with rangers before traversing this route."

    "There's hundreds of beautiful, well maintained and overgrown trails throughout the mountain range. Tons of wildlife and big trees. It's a forest wonderland compared to the surrounding Arizona desert."

    2. Sunny Flat Campground

    8 Reviews
    Portal, AZ
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 364-3468

    "The Cave Creek Canyon on the western edge of the Chiricahua Mountains is a spectacular area that will completely take you by surprise."

    "There are some campgrounds that just stick out in your mind for their beauty, location, and proximity to other cool stuff.  Sunny Flat is one of them."

    3. Bonita Canyon Campground — Chiricahua National Monument

    26 Reviews
    Portal, AZ
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 824-3560

    $25 - $50 / night

    "If approved by congress, Chiricahua National Monument will become Arizona's fourth National Park.  "

    "Bonita Canyon CG- Chiricahua NM: (Scale 1- bad, 5-Very good

    (71 yr olds in 17’ trailer.)

    Overall Rating: Campsites in outer loop are more nicely spaced(rate 4) and trailer adds to privacy."

    4. Rucker Lake - Tahoe National Forest

    1 Review
    Portal, AZ
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 265-4531

    "Various campsites on Rucker lake. Close waterfalls and plenty of hiking trails. Near fort Rucker and up the road from a few other campsites and hiking trails."

    5. Cypress Park Campground

    1 Review
    Portal, AZ
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 364-3468

    "Many hiking trails up the road from the campsites. Fort rucker is nearby to see a little bit of Cochise Counties history."

    6. Sycamore Campground

    4 Reviews
    Portal, AZ
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 364-3468

    "The campground is situated right next to a mountain stream that is cool to explore. It's a little tough to get to but it's worth it. Not very many sites though so it may fill up on weekends"

    "Campgrounds are next to a creek with a trailhead leading to a waterfall, couldn’t ask for more for a free campsite."

    7. West Turkey Creek Dispersed

    4 Reviews
    Portal, AZ
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 364-3468

    "Turkey creek flows right next to the campground and offers fantastic hikes along it's banks. There are multiple small waterfalls and pools to splash in."

    "The drive up is beautiful, the road isn’t maintained, but in pretty good condition. I stopped right after the cattle guard. There is another site going up about .5 mile in the left."

    8. FS Road 42 Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Portal, AZ
    21 miles

    "From chiricahua entrance head on FSR 42. A mile or two in many many sites along dry creek in the trees. Some Otv and motorcycle activity during day. We stayed only 15 minutes from monument."

    9. Rusty's RV Ranch

    7 Reviews
    Rodeo, NM
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 557-2526

    $29 / night

    "While visiting we went exploring and visited the Chiricahua Desert Museum & the Apache Museum next door. Enjoyed all of the displays and history as Geronimo surrendered nearby."

    "We are birders and were happy with the proximity to many mountain canyons.  Our space was private with a nice patio.  Everyone was easy going and friendly.  The dog park was convenient and clean."

    10. Pinery Canyon Road Dispersed Camping - Coronado National Forest

    8 Reviews
    Portal, AZ
    27 miles
    Website

    "Your best bet if you are looking to visit Chiricahua National Monument and Bonita is full. This is the closest in proximity from what I could tell."

    "Spent one night on 7/12 at the second campsite a little ways down the road after the GPS says you’ve arrived at the location. About 30 minute drive from the Chiricahuas."

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Recent Camping Photos near Chiricahua, AZ

31 Photos of 67 Chiricahua Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Chiricahua, AZ

253 Reviews of 67 Chiricahua Campgrounds

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 27, 2025

    John Hand Campground

    Sweet spot

    Darling spot with sound of river over rocks. Great views. Free.

  • Ray & Terri F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Rusty's RV Ranch

    Really nice, out of the way, quiet CG

    We have a 36 ft Class A with a Cherokee Trailhawk tow and stayed in site 28 for 5 nights in early/mid September. The CG is clean, well maintained. The CG roads are gravel, as are the sites. The sites themselves are all level. The sites were fairly well spaced, particularly for a private CG. The CG was very quiet and peaceful. There were only 5+ other campers in the whole CG, some looked to be long-term. Our site, 28, was a pull-through, as were most, but some were back in. The trees, though plentiful, are fairly short and don’t provide much shade.

    AT&T coverage was good, but only 1 bar of 5G service with speeds up to 8 MB/s. We had a clear view to the N at the site, so Starlink was fine with speeds up to 25 MB/s.

  • Haley L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 14, 2025

    Pinery Canyon Road Dispersed Camping - Coronado National Forest

    Beautiful

    Spent one night on 7/12 at the second campsite a little ways down the road after the GPS says you’ve arrived at the location. About 30 minute drive from the Chiricahuas. Good parking for my SUV, nice fire ring, multiple spaces for a tent. Quiet and secluded in the trees. People drove up and down the road during the evening, but no one stopped nearby or could be heard. I did not drive further past this camp site, so it’s unclear the condition of the other sites down the road. Absolutely no cell phone service.

  • Jonathan E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 29, 2025

    West Turkey Creek Dispersed

    Beautiful and isolated

    This spot was quiet, isolated, beautiful, and serene. I didn’t see anyone else here when I went and didn’t see/hear any wildlife besides birds. I also didn’t have any cell reception (T-Mobile), which was fine by me! Temperatures were cool under the shade of the trees. Perfect for pitching a tent for a few nights.

    The only con is that it is a bit out of the way, with 8-10 miles of unmaintained dirt road to get there. In my experience, the road was pretty washboard the whole way.

    I think it’s worth the drive to get to the area, but it can just take a while to get to/from, especially if you’re like me and have a normal car that you at least kind of care about..

  • Rush C.
    Jun. 16, 2025

    Playa Dispersed Campsite

    a profound sense of peace and connection with nature.

    Playa Dispersed Campsite is a unique and serene camping area located on the expansive alkali flats of the Black Rock Desert in northwestern Nevada. Known for its otherworldly landscape, this remote site offers an unparalleled experience for those seeking solitude, vast horizons, and stunning sunsets. The flat, cracked playa surface stretches endlessly in all directions, creating a sense of open freedom that’s hard to find elsewhere. Camping here is truly off-grid— there are no amenities, no marked spots, and no shade— just you, the wind, and the desert sky. color rush

  • GoldDust D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 10, 2025

    Tombstone RV & Campground

    Pick a tombstone & be welcomed by the buzzards!🪦

    We embraced the WildWest and chose to stay at Tombstone RV park. The whole trip didn't disappoint! This place is so nice. We were welcomed and escorted to our plot🤣, got settled, and were welcomed by a donkey and its owner that were visiting as well. Bathrooms and showers are clean, and it was nice to do laundry. The pool was crystal clear and refreshing in the AZ heat. We pulled up our boot straps and mounted the 4WD pony and headed to town, which was just up the road. There is a boothill cemetary and the legendary downtown Tombstone and the OK Corral. We even got to ride in a stagecoach! We absolutely loved our stay, and we'll be seeing y'all real soon!🐎🪦🌵

  • ball M.
    May. 29, 2025

    Playa Dispersed Campsite

    great

    Playa Dispersed Campsite is a hidden gem located in the stunning landscapes of Arizona. This campsite offers a unique opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts to experience the beauty of nature while enjoying the serenity of a less crowded environment. The site is perfect for camping, hiking, and stargazing, with ample space for tents and RVs. Visitors appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and scenic views, making it an ideal spot for both relaxation and adventure. The accessibility to nearby trails and natural attractions enhances the camping experience, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the breathtaking surroundings. Overall, Playa Dispersed Campsite is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and connect with head basketball nature.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 26, 2025

    Upper Juniper Flats Road

    Nice views with easy access to Tombstone and Bisbee

    Views of Bisbee, Douglas and Sierra Vista. Lots of open sites when we visited. Much cooler weather than the lower valley.

  • A
    May. 21, 2025

    Playa Dispersed Campsite

    great

    Absolutely loved this spot! Wide open skies, peaceful surroundings, and incredible sunrises made for a perfect desert camping experience. The solitude was just what we needed, and the stars at Baldi’s Basics Plus night were unbelievable. Easy access for our RV, and the ground was level and firm. Huge thanks to the BLM for keeping places like this free and accessible— we’ll definitely be back!🌄🌵

Guide to Chiricahua

Camping near Chiricahua, Arizona, offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to hike, stargaze, or simply relax in nature, this area has something for everyone.

What to do

  • Hiking: There are many trails around the campgrounds. For example, at Bonita Canyon Campground, visitors rave about the easy access to fantastic hiking and wildlife viewing. One camper noted, "This continues to be one of our favorite places in Arizona to camp and hike."
  • Birdwatching: The Chiricahua area is known for its diverse bird species. A reviewer at Bonita Canyon Campground mentioned, "This is premier birdwatching country," highlighting the unique wildlife you can see while camping.
  • Stargazing: With minimal light pollution, the night sky is breathtaking. One camper shared, "The views of the night sky are unparalleled," making it a perfect spot for stargazers.

What campers like

  • Scenic Beauty: Campers love the picturesque surroundings. A visitor at Sunny Flat Campground said, "Gorgeous views from every single direction!" This sentiment is echoed by many who appreciate the natural beauty of the area.
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many campgrounds, like Cochise Stronghold Campground, are known for their peaceful settings. One camper noted, "Very quiet place too," which is ideal for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
  • Friendly Hosts: Campers often mention the welcoming nature of campground hosts. At Rusty's RV Ranch, a reviewer remarked, "Rusty runs a tight ship," indicating the care taken in maintaining the campground.

What you should know

  • Reservations are a must: Many campgrounds, especially Bonita Canyon Campground, fill up quickly. One camper advised, "Reservations are a must," to ensure you have a spot.
  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds, like Cochise Stronghold Campground, lack drinking water and electric hookups. A visitor mentioned, "There is no water and decent pit toilets," so be prepared to bring your own supplies.
  • Road conditions can vary: Accessing some campgrounds may require a vehicle with good clearance. A reviewer at Pinery Canyon Road Dispersed Camping noted, "The roads weren’t terrible but had a few washboard spots."

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose family-friendly campgrounds: Look for spots like Desert Oasis Campground, which has amenities like a clubhouse and laundry facilities. A camper shared, "There is a large clubhouse for weekly get-togethers with food."
  • Plan for activities: Make sure to have games and outdoor activities ready. One family at Sunny Flat Campground enjoyed meeting new friends around their fire pit, which can be a great way to bond.
  • Pack for comfort: Bring extra blankets and warm clothes, especially if camping in cooler months. A visitor at Cochise Stronghold Campground mentioned, "Pretty cold and rugged in Jan but really gorgeous."

Tips from RVers

  • Check size restrictions: Some campgrounds, like Bonita Canyon Campground, are not big rig friendly. A reviewer cautioned, "Don't try to bring any big rigs as they simply won't fit."
  • Be prepared for limited hookups: Many campgrounds do not offer electric or water hookups. A camper at Rusty's RV Ranch noted, "All services work properly and facilities are neat and clean," but it's essential to check ahead.
  • Plan for remote locations: Some campgrounds are quite isolated. A visitor at Pinery Canyon Road Dispersed Camping mentioned, "Pay attention to your fuel levels in your vehicle as this is a remote place."

Camping near Chiricahua, Arizona, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors. With its beautiful landscapes and variety of activities, it’s a perfect getaway for families and RVers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need reservations for camping in Chiricahua National Monument?

Yes, reservations are recommended for Bonita Canyon Campground in Chiricahua National Monument. With only 36 sites available and increasing popularity (especially if it gains National Park status), securing a spot in advance is advisable. If Bonita is full, consider Pinery Canyon Road Dispersed Camping as an alternative, which doesn't require reservations. When making reservations at Bonita, note that the campground has both inner and outer loops, with outer loop sites offering more space and privacy. Interagency passes provide a discount on camping fees. The campground's relatively small size and the monument's growing popularity make advance planning essential, particularly during peak seasons.

Where is Bonita Canyon Campground located in Chiricahua National Monument?

Bonita Canyon Campground is tucked away on a quiet road within Chiricahua National Monument. The campground is positioned in a scrub pine forest that provides ample shade for campers. It's strategically located on the way to all the hiking trails in the monument, making it an excellent base for exploring the area's unique geology. The campground sits within a designated dark sky park, so there's minimal light pollution, allowing for excellent stargazing and Milky Way photography opportunities. Parking can be tight for larger vehicles, so be prepared to navigate carefully. The campground is accessible from the monument entrance and provides convenient access to the visitor center.

What camping alternatives exist in the broader Chiricahua Mountains?

The Chiricahua Mountains offer several dispersed camping alternatives beyond the monument. FS Road 42 Dispersed provides numerous sites along a dry creek bed in the trees, located just 15 minutes from the monument entrance. Pinery Canyon Road Dispersed Camping - Coronado National Forest offers secluded sites about 30 minutes from the Chiricahuas with good parking, fire rings, and multiple tent spaces. Other options include Rustler Park Campground at higher elevations, Sunny Flat Campground, and West Turkey Creek Dispersed camping. The eastern route to the monument can be challenging in areas, so check with rangers before traveling. Most dispersed sites have no facilities, so plan accordingly.

What RV camping options are available near Chiricahua National Monument?

Rocking T Cattle Ranch offers excellent RV accommodations near Chiricahua National Monument with both dry camping and full hookup sites. The ranch is conveniently located for visits to Douglas, Bisbee, Tombstone, and the monument, with friendly hosts that make guests feel welcome. For RVs within the monument, Bonita Canyon Campground can accommodate smaller to mid-sized RVs and trailers, though space is limited and navigation can be tight for larger rigs. Visitors report successfully parking 17-20 foot trailers, but note that these were among the largest vehicles in the campground. Rusty's RV Ranch is another option in the broader region. For most RV sites near the monument, advance reservations are recommended, especially during peak seasons.

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