RV camping near Chiricahua National Monument offers desert accommodations at elevations ranging from 3,600 to 5,400 feet, with dramatic temperature swings between seasons. The volcanic rock formations and mountain peaks create a unique landscape for camping, with most RV sites located within a 30-mile radius of the monument. Sites frequently experience high winds and limited shade during warmer months.
What to do
Bird watching excursions: The Chiricahua region attracts serious bird watchers year-round. Rusty's RV Ranch in nearby Rodeo provides access to prime birding habitat. "We are birders and were happy with the proximity to many mountain canyons," notes one visitor who appreciated the location.
Historic town exploration: Visit Bisbee's historic downtown district, just a short walk from Queen Mine RV Park. As one camper observed, "This is like a giant parking lot, but it is practically in Old Bisbee which is fantastic. If your goal is to hang near town, this cannot be beat."
Desert hiking trails: Multiple private campgrounds maintain on-site trail systems. "Loved the hiking trails that went around the entire property and we used those a number of times," reported a visitor to Rusty's RV Ranch, noting the extensive property boundaries.
Mine tours: Queen Mine tours operate adjacent to Queen Mine RV Park. "Open copper mine near the office" impressed one camper, while another mentioned the site is "walking distance to all the local history."
What campers like
Dark sky viewing: The region offers exceptional stargazing opportunities. "Very nice place for astronomer/stargazing. Concrete pad (could support 2 telescopes) are available with power outlet to run all astronomy gear," notes a visitor at Rusty's RV Ranch.
Wildlife encounters: Campgrounds often feature resident and wild animal viewing. "Rusty does a lot to keep this little rv park a cool place to visit. She's built trails and has goats/birds that the campers can interact with," one reviewer mentioned.
Proximity to attractions: Tombstone RV & Campground places visitors minutes from historic sites. "Great campground just down hill from old town tombstone! Sierra Vista is about 18 miles with excellent shopping. Bisbee is a fun drive through mountains and fun town to browse as well," a camper reported.
Budget-friendly options: For those seeking economy camping, Shootout Arena RV Park offers basic accommodations at minimal cost. "Arrived around 1pm. Almost empty. Pay cash $10/n at box near entry. Walk to old town. Attended shootout and ok coral. Walked through DT and back to campsite," explained one visitor.
What you should know
Connectivity challenges: Cell service and internet access vary dramatically between campgrounds. "We have t-mobile and I will tell you we had no service here. We hooked up to their park wi-fi but could barely check our email," cautioned a Rusty's RV Ranch visitor.
Supply planning required: Remote locations demand advance preparation. "Bring supplies because the closest place for decent shopping is Douglas, AZ about 55 miles south," advised one camper, while another added, "There are a couple of restaurants nearby and the closest has a convenience store but that is it."
Weather extremes: Winter freezing and summer heat require preparation. "It was getting down to freezing temperatures in November briefly over night. You can rent an outdoor fireplace and buy firewood on site too," noted a visitor at Tombstone RV & Campground.
Dust conditions: Several parks experience dusty conditions. "All roads and sites are dirt, so it can get a bit dusty, especially when the wind blows," reported one Rusty's visitor, highlighting typical terrain challenges.
Tips for camping with families
Attraction scheduling: Plan multiple days for regional exploration. "We were there for 9 days, but didn't see it all," mentioned one Tombstone camper who recommended scheduling extra time for families wanting to experience all attractions.
Pet accommodations: Stampede RV Park provides designated pet areas. "Tranquil place for people and pets. Facilities, including dog park is clean and community is friendly," reports one visitor, though another campground warns: "No worries except for no campfires and the nightly visits from javelinas."
Educational experiences: History-focused attractions surround most campgrounds. One visitor described their experience: "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."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Early morning and evening offer best wildlife sightings. "Deer will cross by the campground each evening," reported a Stampede RV Park guest, providing a predictable viewing opportunity.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Bisbee RV Park offers spacious sites. "The pull through spaces are nice and wide," noted one visitor, while at Queen Mine RV Park, "Easy back in. Gravel. Full hook ups. 30 amp only."
Leveling requirements: Prepare for uneven terrain at budget locations. "Be prepared to level rv as the spots are no where near level," advised a Shootout Arena visitor, contrasting with Stampede RV Park's "nose sites with concrete pads and picnic tables."
Size limitations: Large rig accessibility varies between parks. "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)," cautioned a Tombstone RV visitor.
Hookup variations: Verify electrical service before booking. Queen Mine RV Park offers "30 amp only. Dated bathrooms but very clean and functional," while other parks provide 50-amp connections for larger power requirements.
