Sycamore Campground provides dispersed camping opportunities near Chiricahua, Arizona. Located in Pearce, this campground sits beside a mountain stream at an elevation around 5,600 feet. The area experiences distinct seasonal changes with summer monsoons from July through September and winter snowfall possible from November through March. Sites accommodate tents and smaller RVs with basic amenities.
What to do
Wildlife observation: The region surrounding Sycamore Campground supports abundant wildlife. "We saw many deer and turkeys in the area," notes camper Cole M., who visited in May. Bring binoculars for better viewing opportunities.
Waterfall hikes: Access trailheads directly from camping areas. "Campgrounds are next to a creek with a trailhead leading to a waterfall," reports Monique R. Waterfall flow varies seasonally, with peak flow typically after monsoon rains.
Stargazing sessions: Take advantage of the dark skies at Rusty's RV Ranch with specialized astronomy facilities. "Concrete pad (could support 2 telescopes) are available with power outlet to run all astronomy gear. Bring some tie down, the wind could be very strong," advises Francois T., who visited multiple times throughout the year.
What campers like
Large private sites: Many campsites offer generous spacing between neighbors. "The space was huge and very private. We didn't have to unhook our toad vehicle until we needed the car which was really nice," writes Charlie about their stay at Rusty's RV Ranch.
Extensive trail networks: Several campgrounds maintain dedicated walking paths. At Desert Oasis Campground, "Trails to meander and a clubhouse with tables, chairs, couches, library, games and other amenities," according to Betsy C. The property features approximately 1.8 miles of nature trails.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers rank highly in reviews. "Nice clean bathrooms, picnic tables, fire pit, and bear box," reports Monique R. about Sycamore Campground, while Mary F. notes that at Desert Oasis, "Laundry, showers and bathrooms are all in great working order."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds require careful driving. For Sycamore Campground, Caitlyn B. advises: "There is a long stretch of primitive road (quite rocky) to get out the campground. We also took Apache Pass to get there - and would not recommend this 'shortcut' - almost 30 minutes of primitive bumpy road."
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies widely. At Tombstone RV & Campground, you'll find reliable connections, but SMCadventures4u reports about Rusty's RV Ranch: "AT&T was about four bars of 4g and Verizon is one bar of 4g, not very good."
Supply planning: Stock up before arrival as shopping options are limited. "Bring supplies because the closest place for decent shopping is Douglas, AZ about 55 miles south," advises SMCadventures4u about the Rodeo, NM area.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife encounters: Create wildlife checklists for kids. Cole M. reports from Sycamore Campground: "Saw many deer and turkeys in the area. Nice, small campground with pit toilets, fire rings and bear boxes."
Clubhouse activities: During temperature extremes, utilize indoor recreation. At Desert Oasis Campground, "the clubhouse is also a great place to hangout, with lots of appliances free to use," according to margaux C.
Nighttime preparation: Desert nights get dark quickly. Charlie advises visitors to Rusty's: "If you bring your pet be sure to have some flashlights to walk them at night because it is dark dark."
Tips from RVers
Level sites: Most glamping close to Chiricahua, Arizona offers well-graded parking. Ray & Terri F. note about Rusty's RV Ranch: "The CG roads are gravel, as are the sites. The sites themselves are all level."
Site spacing: Look for campgrounds with generous site dimensions. "Sites have spaces between rigs to breathe," reports Sharon B. about Desert Oasis Campground, adding there are "Tons of space for boon dockers."
Access considerations: Large rigs should consider approach angles. Christina H. shares about Tombstone RV & Campground: "Although the park is big rig friendly, we found the turn into the row very tight for our 37ft 5th wheel and long tow vehicle (about 55ft total rig length). Once in the proper row, the turn into the pull through sites is easy."
