Chiricahua offers campers a diverse range of options spanning elevations from 4,000 to 9,000 feet with distinct vegetation zones from desert scrub to pine forests. Winter temperatures at higher elevations can drop below freezing with occasional snow, while summer monsoons typically occur July through September. Many campgrounds feature bear-proof storage containers due to the presence of black bears in the mountain range.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: At Sycamore Campground, campers can access a trailhead leading directly to a waterfall from the campground. "Mid week in September and we were the only people at the campgrounds. Nice clean bathrooms, picnic tables, fire pit, and bear box. Campgrounds are next to a creek with a trailhead leading to a waterfall, couldn't ask for more for a free campsite," notes one camper.
Bird watching: The Cave Creek Canyon area is nationally renowned for diverse bird species. "Birds! Nice clean campground. Small. Gets very busy during spring," reports a visitor to Sunny Flat Campground, which attracts serious birders during migration seasons.
Exploring historical sites: Visit nearby Fort Rucker to learn about regional history. "Many hiking trails up the road from the campsites. Fort rucker is nearby to see a little bit of Cochise Counties history. Roads could get difficult from rain and snow so only use vehicles with decent ground clearance," advises a camper who stayed at Cypress Park Campground.
What campers like
Mountain streams: The sound of flowing water enhances many camping experiences in the area. "If you take Turkey Creek Rd to Sycamore campground, you'll sleep with the beautiful sound of a mountain stream behind you. They have restrooms that are sanitized and many bear proof trash cans that are emptied regularly," shares a visitor.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: West Turkey Creek Dispersed offers excellent wildlife observation possibilities. "The creek was flowing and quite a few animals at dawn and dusk. Not a lot of traffic, and a trail right up the road to hike or follow the creek," reports one camper about this secluded area.
Stargazing conditions: The remote location provides exceptional night sky viewing. "We would have loved to see more of the stars but the trees obviously block the views so I would recommend walking out to the road to stargaze at night," suggests a visitor to Chiricahua Mountains.
What you should know
Road access challenges: Many campgrounds require navigating unmaintained roads. "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... Sites have rock fire pits and good shade. We heard turkeys, had a nightly skunk visitor who was pretty un-afraid of humans," notes a camper about Pinery Canyon Road Dispersed Camping.
Limited services: The nearest substantial supplies are far from most camping areas. "Bring supplies because the closest place for decent shopping is Douglas, AZ about 55 miles south," advises a visitor to Rusty's RV Ranch.
Seasonal considerations: Weather patterns dramatically affect camping conditions. "Snows during winter often. Not as good for hiking and backpacking but makes for a fun snow day!" mentions a camper about the higher elevation sites.
Tips for camping with families
Bathroom access: Bonita Canyon Campground offers more developed facilities. "Bathrooms are modernized and super clean. Overall a great campground and would definitely stay here again!" reports a recent visitor, making this one of the best places to camp near Chiricahua, Arizona for families.
Wildlife education opportunities: Children can observe various animals safely. "Saw many deer and turkeys in the area. Plenty of shade available; unfortunately, only stagnant pools of water in the creek this time of year," notes a camper about their experience.
Easy trails: Some campgrounds connect to beginner-friendly hiking paths. "Beautiful, easy trail right off the campsite when you are ready for something a bit less demanding. Bear boxes at every site. I'll be back!" shares an enthusiastic visitor.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most campgrounds accommodate only smaller RVs. "Small campground best suited for tents or small trailers. Ours is 24 and we just fit. Toilets and great tasting water are the amenities," advises an RV camper at Chiricahua Mountains campground.
Private site options: Some sites offer more seclusion than others. "Each site offers a picnic table, sun shelter, and fire ring. The pit toilets were clean and well-maintained, and the potable water on-site was delicious," describes a visitor about their experience at Sunny Flat.
Site selection strategy: Rusty's RV Ranch offers the most reliable facilities for larger rigs. "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," reports an RVer who found this to be among the top camping destinations near Chiricahua.
