Camping near Coronado National Forest
Coronado National Forest spans across Arizona with camping options for all types of outdoor trips. The forest sits near both the Grand Canyon and Sonoran Desert, giving campers varied landscapes to explore. Saguaro National Park is just a short drive away, where you can see thousands of the iconic cacti. Most camping here works on a first-come, first-served system, so showing up early is smart, especially during busy times. Some areas have water and electrical hookups that work well for RVs and trailers. A lake in the forest gives kids good fishing spots, making it good for family camping. Higher elevation areas in the forest stay cooler than Phoenix and Tucson during summer months. Winter camping requires warm gear as temperatures can drop significantly at night. The forest often has fire bans during dry spells, so check current rules before planning to have a campfire. You typically don't need reservations, but holiday weekends fill up fast throughout the forest. Hiking trails cross through several different ecosystems, from desert to alpine zones. Many campers who visit also check out Saguaro National Park for its wildlife watching and desert scenery. The Colorado River isn't far away, adding kayaking and swimming options to your trip. Both tent sites and RV-friendly spots can be found throughout the forest's different campgrounds. Amenities vary widely between locations - some have full facilities while others are basic. Remote sites in the forest may require four-wheel drive vehicles to access. Remember to follow Leave No Trace guidelines when camping here. Coronado National Forest makes a great base camp for exploring southern Arizona's natural areas.
