RV parks near Cochise, Arizona sit at elevations between 4,000-5,000 feet in the high desert, creating moderate temperature swings between day and night. The surrounding Dragoon Mountains provide a backdrop for camping, with peaks reaching over 7,000 feet. Most campgrounds in the region are situated on gravel lots with minimal shade trees due to the arid climate.
What to do
Historic exploration: 5 miles from town. Visitors staying at Tombstone RV & Campground can easily access nearby attractions. "We embraced the WildWest and chose to stay at Tombstone RV park. 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!" notes one visitor.
Desert hiking: Accessible directly from campsites. The trails surrounding Tombstone Territories RV Park provide immediate access to nature. "Hiking trail entrances right in the park and it's close to the San Pedro river," reports a recent camper. Another mentions, "The kids and I used the hiking trails and played horseshoe toss."
Bird watching: Dawn and dusk best times. The desert environment hosts diverse bird species. "Saw a lot of good birds out here," notes a visitor at Tombstone Territories. The relatively secluded location provides opportunities for wildlife viewing away from urban noise.
What campers like
Budget-friendly options: $10/night for basic sites. Shootout Arena RV Park offers affordable camping near downtown Tombstone. "Can't beat the price or location for this place. Yards away from the main streets. You also might make it for a pro rodeo event," writes one reviewer. Another notes, "Pulled right in picked a spot. Only $10 a night. Happened to arrive on the day of parade and rodeo."
Spacious sites: Extra room between RVs. Campers appreciate the generous spacing at several rv parks in Cochise, Arizona. "We stayed here and traveled to Tombstone, Tucson Botanical Gardens, and Old Tucson. All an easy drive away," writes a camper at Encore Valley Vista, who also mentioned, "The grounds are very clean and it looks like campers are at least one space away from another."
Seasonal activities: Winter months busiest. The cooler months attract the most visitors. "Such a nice Campground. The host was friendly, and helpful," reports a Valley Vista RV Resort visitor. For those visiting during rodeo events, Shootout Arena offers prime positioning: "Arrived around 1pm. Almost empty. Pay cash $10/n at box near entry. Walk to old town. Attended shootout and ok coral."
What you should know
Walking access to attractions: 5-15 minute walks. At Shootout Arena RV Park, one camper noted, "Walking distance to downtown... Well worth it to be within walking distance." Many visitors appreciate not having to drive: "Walk to old town. Attended shootout and ok coral. Walked through DT and back to campsite."
Limited amenities at budget sites: Plan accordingly. Basic campgrounds have minimal facilities. "This place is perfect for dry camping a short distance from historic Main Street Tombstone. There were no amenities, so be prepared!" advises one Shootout Arena visitor. Another notes, "For car/tent camping there are some private spaces with a little shade and evidence of past campfires."
Weather considerations: Prepare for temperature swings. The desert climate means significant temperature differences between day and night. "Quiet park, level and clean gravel sites. About 5 minutes from the town of Tombstone. It's was getting down to freezing temperatures in November briefly over night," reports one Tombstone RV camper.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: On-site games available. Grande Vista RV Park offers recreation options. One reviewer mentioned, "We didn't go into the rec room, but were told it has a pool table and a book/video exchange-type library." These amenities provide entertainment during downtime.
Age restrictions: Check before booking. Some RV parks have age limitations. One visitor to Fort Willcox RV Park reported, "I was told they accepted children and then told my kids were not welcome. Very disappointed." Always confirm family policies before arrival.
Pet areas: Dedicated spaces for dogs. Many campgrounds accommodate four-legged family members. "The dog park on the far end was absolutely spotless," notes a visitor to Tombstone RV. Another camper at Tombstone Territories mentioned, "There was a nice little dog park that actually had some nice grass that our dog definitely enjoyed."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Bring blocks. Several campgrounds require additional effort for leveling. At Shootout Arena, a camper advised, "Be prepared to level rv as the spots are no where near level." This is common at more rustic campgrounds throughout the region.
Internet connectivity: Variable by location. Cattlerest RV Park and Saloon provides reliable connectivity. One visitor noted, "We stayed at Cattlerest as a Harvest Host because the weather was plenty cool to dry camp, but they also have a campground with about 20 sites, I believe all with full hookups." The location offers a blend of amenities and rural charm.
Navigation considerations: Watch turn radius. RVers with larger rigs should plan their approaches carefully. A visitor at Tombstone RV mentioned, "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."
