Glamping close to Coronado National Forest offers accessible escape for travelers at elevations ranging from 3,000 to 9,400 feet. The region experiences significant temperature variations, with desert areas reaching 108°F in summer while mountain sites maintain cooler temperatures even during peak heat. Several designated campgrounds provide vault toilets and potable water, though availability varies seasonally.
What to do
Cave exploration tours: $23-$29 per adult at Kartchner Caverns State Park Campground. Tours require advance reservations, especially during busy periods. "We reserved and did the Rotunda/Throne Tour. It was very cool and our 1st cave tour. I would suggest reading the rules for tours before reserving. Access to the cavern is very controlled as far as how you get in and what you can take," advises Bill R.
Stargazing opportunities: 8:30 pm lights-out at Spencer Canyon Campground creates optimal night sky viewing conditions. "There is no light pollution besides maybe a neighbor that forgot to turn off their lights," notes David T. Visitors recommend bringing binoculars or telescopes during summer months.
Mountain biking trails: 45-minute drive from desert to forest ecosystems on Mount Lemmon. "The drive alone is inspiring! With so many views, trails, and photo ops, you couldn't ask for more," according to Audrey R. Trails range from beginner-friendly paths to technical routes through diverse terrain.
What campers like
Level camping surfaces: Most sites maintained at Kartchner Caverns State Park. "The park itself is very nice. The spaces are adequately far apart from each other. It does have several pull-through spaces, which is nice," reports Lisa M. The campground features paved roads and level camping pads.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Dawn and dusk optimal at Patagonia Lake State Park Campground. "Birder's paradise in April. Camped in site 10 - face in. Lake lovely to canoe, we biked all over the camp," shares Liz W. The park attracts diverse bird species throughout the year.
Historical attractions: 30-minute drives to nearby towns from Tombstone RV & Campground. "This RV park is right next to the OK Coral in Tombstone. The spot are level but pretty close together. This campground gives you the ability to walk downtown have a beer or two and walk back to camp!" notes Alisa P.
What you should know
Temperature extremes: 40°F daily fluctuations common in desert locations. "Visited Tombstone, AZ as well. About a 30min drive. Watch your step, we came across a Diamond Back Rattle Snake about 4 feet from our picnic bench. It's Arizona, summer times will be hot, our temp in June was 108," warns David T. from Spencer Canyon Campground.
Highway noise considerations: Sites near roads experience traffic sounds at Willcox-Cochise KOA. "Very well maintained with decent size sites and ample area to run your dogs. I would give this 5 stars if not for Highway noise," reports Mary F. Some visitors recommend requesting sites farthest from highways.
Reservation requirements: Most state parks fill quickly during peak season. "We paid $50 a night for just water and electric," shares Lisa M. about Kartchner Caverns. Many campgrounds require reservations 3-6 months in advance, particularly for winter stays when snowbirds arrive.
Tips for camping with families
Cabin accommodations: Multiple options available for luxury camping near Coronado National Forest. "This RV park is right next to the OK Coral in Tombstone. They have some really cool covered wagons you can rent to stay in. I think if you had kids they would love that!!" suggests Alisa P. at Tombstone RV & Campground.
Dog-friendly amenities: Designated areas provided at several locations. "The dog park on the far end was absolutely spotless," notes Christina H. about Cactus Country RV Park. Many parks require leashes and provide waste disposal stations.
Recreation facilities: Various options available at different campgrounds. "There is a large visitor center near the park entrance and the cavern is up the hill behind the center," explains Bill R. about Kartchner Caverns. Visitors with children recommend bringing entertainment options as organized activities are limited.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Pull-through availability limited at most locations. "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," advises Christina H.
Hookup access: Electric and water common at established campgrounds. "The shore power 30 amp showed reverse polarity and a faulty ground, so we used the 50 amp with a dog bone," reports HandL C. at Cactus Country RV Park. Many visitors recommend bringing extension cords and water hoses.
Level parking: Gravel sites standard throughout the region. "All roads are pave and sites are level. The caverns are amazing," notes Lew K. about Kartchner Caverns State Park Campground. RVers frequently mention the importance of bringing leveling blocks for some locations.
