Best Camping near Cortaro, AZ

Looking for the best campgrounds near Cortaro, AZ? Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Cortaro. Find the best campgrounds near Cortaro, AZ. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Best Camping Sites Near Cortaro, AZ (126)

    Camper-submitted photo from Gilbert Ray Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Gilbert Ray Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Gilbert Ray Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Gilbert Ray Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Gilbert Ray Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Gilbert Ray Campground

    1. Gilbert Ray Campground

    67 Reviews
    234 Photos
    439 Saves
    Cortaro, Arizona

    Next time you need a break in your busy life consider cool weather camping at Tucson Mountain Park's beautiful Gilbert Ray Campground, located on the west side of the Tucson Mountains, a convenient 13 miles from Tucson. RV campers should access the park by way of Ajo Highway to Kinney Road and follow the signs to the campground.

    The campground has 130 RV sites with individual 30-amp electrical hook-ups. The campground has 5 sites that are designated tent only, however tenters are welcome to camp in an RV site but are asked not to use the electrical hook-ups. It has centrally located water, picnic tables, modern restrooms, and an RV dumping station. Shower facilities are not available. There are handicap bathrooms.

    There is a seven-day length of stay limit. The park's peak season is January 1st through March 31st. Camping fees are $10.00 per night for tents and $20.00 per night for trailers and RVs. Senior Pass/Golden Age Pass NOT valid. Due to limited tent sites you can tent in a RV site, however, during peak season the RV campsite fee applies. Wood fires are prohibited.

    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $10 - $75 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Catalina State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Catalina State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Catalina State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Catalina State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Catalina State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Catalina State Park Campground

    2. Catalina State Park Campground

    60 Reviews
    255 Photos
    461 Saves
    Oro Valley, Arizona

    Catalina State Park camping is available in 120 electric and water sites. Each campsite has a picnic table and BBQ grill. Roads and parking slips are paved. Campgrounds have modern flush restrooms with hot showers, and RV dump stations are available in the park. There is no limit on the length of RVs at this park, but reservations are limited to 14 consecutive nights. Campgrounds are open all year. Catalina State Park sits at the base of the majestic Santa Catalina Mountains. The park is a haven for desert plants and wildlife and nearly 5,000 saguaros. The 5,500 acres of foothills, canyons and streams invites camping, picnicking and bird watching — more than 150 species of birds call the park home. The park provides miles of equestrian, birding, hiking, and biking trails which wind through the park and into the Coronado National Forest at elevations near 3,000 feet. The park is located within minutes of the Tucson metropolitan area. This scenic desert park also offers equestrian trails and an equestrian center provides a staging area for trail riders with plenty of trailer parking. Bring along your curiosity and your sense of adventure as you take in the beautiful mountain backdrop, desert wildflowers, cacti and wildlife.

    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $35 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Tucson - Lazydays KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Tucson - Lazydays KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Tucson - Lazydays KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Tucson - Lazydays KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Tucson - Lazydays KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Tucson - Lazydays KOA

    3. Tucson - Lazydays KOA

    48 Reviews
    140 Photos
    93 Saves
    Tucson, Arizona

    Tucson/Lazydays KOA Resort is your desert oasis, featuring beautiful fruit trees abundant throughout the park, with plenty of good times to be had. The campground offers Pull-thru RV Sites with full 30/50-amp hookups, grassy luxury sites and NEW RV Sites with a Patio and a fireplace! No RV? No problem. Stay in one of the NEW two-bedroom Deluxe Cabins with queen beds. Whether you want to relax by one of the two pools, soak in the hot tubs, play a round on our nine hole putting green, or join in the fun activities, this KOA has something for everyone to enjoy. The completed installation of the two PowerParasols® solar shade structures now allows guest to camp, gather and even barbeque under a patented structure that produces clean solar energy. The structures shade more than two acres of the campground, giving visitors room to park RVs on 30 covered RV sites. Check out our NEW resort style activity park! Providing ample shade and sport courts to bring recreation, relaxation, family and friends together. Lazydays, a full-service RV dealership with a service department, is located next door. Other campground amenities include a bar& grill, meeting rooms, fitness center, three off-leash dog parks and complimentary Wi-Fi. Camping in Arizona is a breeze at the Tucson/Lazydays KOA. Pool: Open all year. Max pull thru: 73 feet.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Picacho Peak State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Picacho Peak State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Picacho Peak State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Picacho Peak State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Picacho Peak State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Picacho Peak State Park Campground

    4. Picacho Peak State Park Campground

    42 Reviews
    150 Photos
    193 Saves
    Picacho, Arizona

    Campground A Loop

    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area

    5. Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area

    27 Reviews
    66 Photos
    212 Saves
    Cortaro, Arizona

    Camping on public lands away from developed recreation facilities is referred to as dispersed camping. Most of the remainder of public lands are open to dispersed camping, as long as it does not conflict with other authorized uses or in areas posted "closed to camping," or in some way adversely affects wildlife species or natural resources. Dispersed camping is allowed on public land for a period not to exceed 14 days within a 28 consecutive day period. The 28 day period begins when a camper initially occupies a specific location on public lands. The 14 day limit may be reached either through a number of separate visits or through 14 days of continuous overnight occupation during the 28 day period. After the 14th day of occupation, the camper must move outside of a 25 mile radius of the previous location until the 29th day since the initial occupation. The purpose of this special rule is to prevent damage to sensitive resources caused by continual use of any particular areas. In addition, campers must not leave any personal property unattended for more than 10 days (12 months in Alaska). Campsite Selection Dispersed camp sites are located along most secondary roads and may not be marked. Popular locations can be recognized by the telltale flat disturbed area that has been used as a camp site before. Not all flat spots are sites. If possible, please use existing sites to avoid creating new disturbances. To further protect your public lands, campers must not dispose of any refuse, hazardous materials, sewage, or in any manner pollute the surrounding area.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Cactus Forest Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Cactus Forest Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Cactus Forest Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Cactus Forest Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Cactus Forest Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Cactus Forest Dispersed

    6. Cactus Forest Dispersed

    27 Reviews
    122 Photos
    256 Saves
    Marana, Arizona

    Location is near Park Link Drive - S. Cattle Tanks Road BLM

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Spencer Canyon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Spencer Canyon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Spencer Canyon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Spencer Canyon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Spencer Canyon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Spencer Canyon Campground

    7. Spencer Canyon Campground

    17 Reviews
    74 Photos
    244 Saves
    Mount Lemmon, Arizona

    This area of Mt Lemmon camping is located at the head of a shallow, forested canyon a short distance off the Catalina Highway. Spencer Canyon faces the city of Tucson and the Santa Cruz Valley, both of which are visible as a distant panorama through openings in the forest canopy. Spencer Canyon Campground has 66 sites. Each site has a concrete table, firepit, B-B-Q and bear box for food storage. A beautiful night view of Tucson can be seen from several sites. Spencer is rugged, rustic in layout and close to the hamlet of Summerhaven. Each camping area has clean, stocked vault toilets. Campground hosts live on site. Firewood may be purchased from the hosts. The Catalina Highway is paved, but it can be snow covered in winter when chains and/or 4-wheel drive may be required.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $22 - $36 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Rose Canyon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rose Canyon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rose Canyon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rose Canyon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rose Canyon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rose Canyon Campground

    8. Rose Canyon Campground

    20 Reviews
    55 Photos
    187 Saves
    Willow Canyon, Arizona

    Overview

    Rose Canyon Campground is just 17 miles northeast of Tucson, Arizona, off the Catalina Highway Scenic Drive near the summit of Mt. Lemmon. This area is popular for day use as well as overnight camping. With a high elevation, forested setting, two group picnic areas and opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing and fishing, Rose Canyon offers a great summer respite from the city.

    Recreation

    The lake is sheltered by trees and offers a pleasant setting for a walk in the woods, relaxing on the shore or spending an afternoon fishing for stocked trout. A one-mile trail around the lake is convenient for anglers and hikers. The trail is accessible from the lower parking area to a floating dock near a dam. The surrounding national forest boasts a variety of hiking and mountain biking trails, including several that traverse the 9,157-foot Mt. Lemmon.

    Natural Features

    The campground sits high on the slopes of the Santa Catalina Mountains, at an elevation of 7,000 feet. Because of its elevation, it can be much cooler than the lower-elevation campgrounds in the area. The campsites are spacious and spread out among stands of large ponderosa pines and clusters of Gambel oak. During the summer rainy season, Rose Creek meanders through the area to the six-acre Rose Canyon Lake at the lower end of the campground. The Coronado National Forest covers 1.78 million acres of southeastern Arizona and southwestern New Mexico. Elevations range from 3,000 to 10,720 feet in 12 widely scattered mountain ranges, or "sky islands," that rise dramatically from the desert floor, supporting biologically diverse plant communities.

    Nearby Attractions

    Catalina Highway, also known as General Hitchcock Highway and Sky Island Scenic Byway, is the only paved road that leads to the upper reaches of Mt. Lemmon and the Santa Catalina Range. It is one of the most scenic highways in the southwest and is a popular day trip. Other notable attractions include Saguaro National Park, Sabino Canyon and Colossal Cave.

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (520) 576-1325.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $97 - $157 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from BLM Ironwood Forest National Monument - Pipeline Rd Dispersed camping
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM Ironwood Forest National Monument - Pipeline Rd Dispersed camping
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM Ironwood Forest National Monument - Pipeline Rd Dispersed camping
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM Ironwood Forest National Monument - Pipeline Rd Dispersed camping
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM Ironwood Forest National Monument - Pipeline Rd Dispersed camping
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM Ironwood Forest National Monument - Pipeline Rd Dispersed camping
    Camper-submitted photo from South Forty RV Ranch
    Camper-submitted photo from South Forty RV Ranch
    Camper-submitted photo from South Forty RV Ranch
    Camper-submitted photo from South Forty RV Ranch
    Camper-submitted photo from South Forty RV Ranch
    Camper-submitted photo from South Forty RV Ranch

    10. South Forty RV Ranch

    7 Reviews
    10 Photos
    15 Saves
    Cortaro, Arizona
    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
Showing results 1-10 of 126 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Cortaro

Recent Reviews in Cortaro

640 Reviews of 126 Cortaro Campgrounds


  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Pipeline Road BLM Camping
    Nov. 14, 2024

    Pipeline Road BLM Camping

    I like it!

    Dispersed BLM camping folks the main road in has a pretty good little drop-down I wouldn't take a big rig past the first area on the right there's some pretty good dips in the main road going further back that big bridge are not going to like nor long trailers if you're at a vehicle you'll be all right. Not really a area you want to be in if there's going to be a lot of rain and there are cattle.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Bigelow Dispersed
    Nov. 11, 2024

    Mount Bigelow Dispersed

    Cold night, frozen road

    We got to the parking area about 7:40 PM on November 10th. Started up the road to the campsite about 2 miles further up the mountain but at about 1/2 mile the road was so icy that we lost traction. Snow on the ground by the road, lots of deer tracks in the snow. Ended up backing down the road to spend the night in the parking lot, sleeping in the van.

  • patty W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Justin's Diamond J RV Park
    Nov. 11, 2024

    Justin's Diamond J RV Park

    The Nicest People

    I love Tucson. The big plus about this park (other than the really nice people) is that is borders park land and there are SO many acres and miles of trails right out of the campground. The grounds and the surrounding desert have an abundance of interesting succulents and cacti and gorgeous mountains all around. Most of the folks here are long termers- we only stayed for 4 days. The sites for short termers are by the road and not the best, just gravel sites with full hookups, but sufficient for our needs. No picnic tables. No public toilets. Laundry facilities and a gathering room.

  • Robbie B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Colossal Cave Mountain Park
    Nov. 8, 2024

    Colossal Cave Mountain Park

    Great spot just off Arizon Trail

    Nice spot just off the AZT, stayed while on a bike trip on the trail. Camped in the La Selvilla section in the back of the canyon. Plenty of room and spots are not too tight and most had shade trees. All had flat tent pad, table and fire ring. There is a group spot with a pavilion that has running water, and pit toilets. Verizon was one bar, got a few calls out but text would not work. They do lock the gate at 4:00, so once in, you are there for the night. Only one other group when we were there. Would go back for sure.

  • Scarlett D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Kokopelli Gardens
    Nov. 1, 2024

    Kokopelli Gardens

    Amazing place

    The campgrounds are surrounded by coyote song throughout the night. Hardly any light pollution and the hosts are incredible!!! Sinks with drinkable water. Showers. They provide a tote full of goodies like plates and what not. There's a pen type area for the dogs to play in. And Tim and Victoria are so sweet!!! Highly recommend.

  • ron R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area
    Oct. 31, 2024

    Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area

    Very easy access many spots to camp

    Very easy access relatively close to shopping. Out of the way. However there is a light to moderate amount of garbage. It is near a highway and you do hear traffic. Extremely easy to access and there are many spots and the land is pretty full of campers some look like their full-timers or permanent the sign does say 14 day limit. I saw two tent campers as well. There are two or three entrances all on the same road and the camping area is cordoned off with a metal cable so the land cannot be used as a drive-thru or pass through area. The weather is moderate in the 70s during the day down to the lower 50s at night I got here the day before Halloween.

  • D
    Camper-submitted photo from Catalina State Park Campground
    Oct. 14, 2024

    Catalina State Park Campground

    Beautiful Mountain View’s

    Would recommend this campground. Clean lots of trails to hike or bike. No sewer hookup but does have electric and water. Campground was full but still very quiet. I have already reserved again next month

  • Mateo S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Caballo Loco Ranch and RV Park
    Oct. 8, 2024

    Caballo Loco Ranch and RV Park

    Beautiful views from the remote wilderness

    I have lived here for 10 months now, and love the place. Like any campground, there are malcontents that will complain about little things like not being pampered or catered to. The reality is that this is a relatively remote place where you absolutely must be self-sufficient to a large degree. There has not been full-time management until recently, but the new management team are very attentive and reasonable. Since the ranch has been under new management many of the so-called bad influences have left. If you love natural beauty, privacy, and solitude, and are willing to make some sacrifices of comfort, this is the perfect place.

  • Pol G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Gilbert Ray Campground
    Oct. 2, 2024

    Gilbert Ray Campground

    Quiet and Well Maintained

    I came here at the beginning of September 2024 and stayed for one night only. My spot has Shore Power (15,30,50), but you need to fill up your water tank before parking your trailer. If you select a site near a water source, that's fine, which I did. All roads are one way, and that's why they called a loop. I stayed at Loop A. Make sure you make your reservation online before going there. I bet this campground is packed in wintertime. By the way, their office is closed during off-season. If you arrive during this period, you'll help yourself locate your campground number. And you can just go online and pay your fees.

  • Cory
    Camper-submitted photo from Caballo Loco Ranch and RV Park
    Sep. 6, 2024

    Caballo Loco Ranch and RV Park

    Very disorganized and people and volunteers there aren't very nice

     Upon entering it was dirty and restrooms not clean. I never received info they claimed was sent, so went on a hunch. It was dirty, dogs off leash and poop everywhere. Trash disposal area was unclean attracting insects and bugs and wildlife. People living there were not nice or clean. Staff was not friendly either. We decided to leave early. Found place 20 miles away that is wonderful by comparison. Advise trying elsewhere.

  • yen
    Camper-submitted photo from Casino Del Sol
    Aug. 30, 2024

    Casino Del Sol

    good casino!

    Я недавно прочитал статью, и хотел бы порекомендовать Super Mario Bros.: The Missing Lands. Эта игра поразила меня своим уникальным подходом к казино-геймплею. Если вы ищете что-то новенькое, эта игра определенно стоит вашего внимания. В ней отлично сочетаются элементы классического казино и захватывающие приключения, которые привлекают внимание и создают неповторимую атмосферу. Вы не только наслаждаетесь игрой, но и получаете шанс на реальные выигрыши. Ознакомьтесь с новостями здесь: news.ivest.kz/180268486-gayd-ob-kazino-v-kazahstane. Надеюсь, вам понравится!).

  • Cass G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Reddington Pass Dispersed
    Jul. 27, 2024

    Reddington Pass Dispersed

    Rough Road, Off Grid

    I’ve camped at Redington Pass a few times throughout the years. It’s a fun trail if you like a challenge of off roading. I wouldn’t recommend larger trailers or RVs to travel too far up the trail, we’ve seen them get stuck trying to turn around. The road is rough but if you don’t mind driving slow over the holes and bumps then no big deal.

    Easy to find, follow Tanque Verde Rd all the way East until it turns into Redington Road, this then leads to a dirt road with TONS of dispersed camping pull offs with established fire rings. The further east you travel on the pass the less people you have to camp next to. The camping sites closer to the entrance get packed on the weekends.

    The further you go you’ll run out of service, no bathrooms, no water hook ups, nothing, just dispersed wild camping!

  • Joe H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Caballo Loco Ranch and RV Park
    Jul. 22, 2024

    Caballo Loco Ranch and RV Park

    Wolf's in sheep's clothing, Beware

    Place is a nightmare. Have police report from requiring police to escort due to harassment from disturbed owners. Dog was bitten by pit bull, owner did nothing but blame me and call me mentally ill. Very sick thing. Horrible road, brown water and a homeless camp setting. Go for a drive through first. And rules aren't followed. Owners Michelle and Jim even harassed the police officer, which caused me to make multiple trips to Colorado to leave. I walked away from a home, ATV and 5th wheel just to get away from these people. It's like hell on earth with demonic people.... Good luck should you go, you'll need it. Owner also posted a response comment with lies calling me names etc. These are sick evil people who will harm you, caution. Check police report from April 17th with sheriff dept.

  • David T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Catalina State Park Campground
    Jun. 30, 2024

    Catalina State Park Campground

    Adventures

    Had a quick stay here but was still able to see some. It’s AZ so it’s always hot, just prepare for that. The hiking trails and history are amazing here. Showers and bathrooms well maintained. It did rain pretty good as we were rolling in so the ants were…insane. They were everywhere.

  • andrea K.
    Camper-submitted photo from El Pais Motel and Campgrounds
    Jun. 29, 2024

    El Pais Motel and Campgrounds

    Long Story

    I stayed about 2 weeks. Nice place. Excellent price. Except... I returned one day to find my stuff had been rearranged. Maybe their free range chickens got into it. That's fine. A few days later my stuff was rearranged again. Maybe they were worried about it getting damp. Nice thought. My last night I returned to find my assigned spot had shrunk to where I could barely fit. I managed to get backed in and had to figure out how to get my driver's door open without hitting the car next to me. Then I had to figure out how to get the side doors open to get my dogs out and to load my stuff. I had no choice but to make it work. I delayed making this review because I did like the place but the rearranging of my stuff twice and shrinking my spot with zero communication really bothers me.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Gardner Canyon Rd Dispersed
    Jun. 3, 2024

    Gardner Canyon Rd Dispersed

    Pretty Area, no amenities

    Great area of you plan to have everything with you. There is a ranch up the road along the way to the end of the road towards the top. Great place to hang out and enjoy the quiet. Take a drive up the road. Onyx Cave isn’t far.

  • Matthew B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bobcat Rustic Campsites — Picacho Peak State Park
    May. 24, 2024

    Bobcat Rustic Campsites — Picacho Peak State Park

    Nice Spot to Stay and Explore the Area

    A cool spot to camp amongst the Saguaros. Close enough to Tucson, Saguaro NP, Phoenix, and all the other surrounding attractions for day trips. We stayed at a rustic (non-elec) site for 2 weeks. Road noise from I-10 and train traffic is noticeable outside, but imperceptible inside the van. Surprisingly (to us) green with grass and flowers in late February-early March.

    Facilities: Showers and bathrooms were okay, no other water except for host sites, nice trails

    Cell Service: Good enough Verizon and T-mobile to work remotely

    Starlink: While we didn't need to use it, all sites are open to the sky if you needed to 

    Solar: All sites are open to the sky for good solar

  • Maya D.
    Camper-submitted photo from Casino Del Sol
    May. 19, 2024

    Casino Del Sol

    amazing place

    This Casino Del Sol resort is simply amazing! Everyone should try it out. But and if you don't get a chance to visit here, you can also enjoy the online casino along with www.casinohex.es/casinos-online/5-euros . With a wide selection of games, attractive and professional customer support, players can enjoy top-notch gambling. With a safe environment and licensed operation, players can play with peace of mind. So don't worry, you can play at online casino from anywhere in the world and also have a fantastic time) Translated with DeepL.com(free version)

  • keith H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Caballo Loco Ranch and RV Park
    May. 15, 2024

    Caballo Loco Ranch and RV Park

    Dirty wolf's in sheep's clothing

     Beware, it's foul in every way. People 55 plus still drugging and drinking. Dog poop all over, dogs not following rules and many pit bulls (my dog bite by pit bull) owner refused to help causing my move by police escort. It's a complete nightmare you'll become trapped in.. many better places close by. Picture is of my dog after going to vet in Colorado for dog bite. Owner uses the attackers owner to baby sit his dogs, so he defended her! Imagine that. Owner harassing caused police escort to move, he harassed cop too. A very sick and sad pathetic place... Truth stings sometimes.. sorry to be negative, but if it saves kind folks time and money I'm okay with it.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cactus Forest Dispersed
    May. 3, 2024

    Cactus Forest Dispersed

    Remote, Private, and free but accessible.

    Remote, private, and free but accessible. Not a standard RV parking lot campground but rather several campsites with ample space between them for privacy, along an unpaved sandy road, just off a quiet paved back road. About 20-30min from gas stations, water, food, etc. It has no facilities or even pit toilets. Exactly what I wanted. This campground is aptly named as it is quite literally in the middle of a Saguaro cactus forest 🌵 along with many other different cactus species and wildlife. This location is tranquil and wild. I couldn't think of a better way to immerse yourself in the middle of this national park than this campground. It's a tight drive in if you go past the 2-3 RV sites at the beginning of the east side. I have a 2015 Toyota Tacoma with a roof top tent pulling a 12x6 enclosed trailer with standard wheels. My trailer made it through without scratches and at no point did I even think about four-wheel drive. A larger camper I couldn't speak for. It is quite sandy and has some mogul sections where the water flows have washed some of the trail away but overall an easy drive.

    Disclosures and warnings:

    There are three sides to this campground. The east side, west side, and North end. The West side is the most trailer friendly and most visited as it is where the GPS leads you. However, it gets worse the deeper you go in after roughly 10-15 sites. The east side you could probably manage a trailer for the first 2-3 sites. After that there would be no where to turn around and it gets rough off-road quick, like deep dried up sandy river bed crossings (month of May) and is more exposed to the sun with slightly less cacti than the west side. The North end is the most private and remote of the other two and the quietest. However, it is nothing short of a four-wheel drive off-road trail. I would not recommend anything other than off road vehicles in the north end and the sites are small, just for tents or 1 vehicle.

    There are almost no rocks to worry about on the way in but the cacti here are more than capable of creating flat tires so take care to avoid pieces that have fallen onto the road. Especially the Jumping Cholla cacti! They are the worst things you will come across in this campground and are everywhere, easily the most dominant species of cactus in this area. They have evolved to break apart into spiny segments when they make contact with someone or something to propagate. Sometimes if the wind blows strong enough they cover the ground around their base with a mound of their spined segments. These segments often roll or blow into the roadways. The spines are hard as stone and sometimes over 2 in long. They have evolved special reversed barbs that you can't see with your eyes on every main spine. They go into anything except metal, including Kevlar reinforced tire sidewalls like a knife through hot butter and then hook in and don't come out unless you rip them out. I rode my adventure bike through the campground to explore, lost my footing in the sand and fell against one of these. I had 3-4 segments stuck to my arm. I spent 10 to 15 minutes ripping these segments out of my arm, pulling my skin away from my body about an inch before they will rip out. Don't make the same mistake as me.

    GUNS! In my opinion the biggest downside to this campground is the almost constant gunfire all day long as there is a public shooting area on the south west side of the campground. If you are in the west side and you are looking southwest, there is a tiny little mountain ridgeline about a half mile away. All around the base of that ridgeline people are allowed to pull up and shoot at targets on the hill side. The locals show up as the sun just comes over the trees around 5:00 a.m. and they don't stop until the sun sets almost everyday of the week. They do however, quit at night so you can sleep.

    If you camp here you are IN THE desert. During the day is fine. You will likely only run into swarms of flies. At night however, is a different story. ESPECIALLY If you decide to have a fire on a cold night or set up a lantern near the ground while making dinner. I stayed here for 9 days straight and I came across 6 rattlesnakes (mostly sidewinders), more camel spiders than I can count (at least 5+ per night), 3 brown recluse spiders, packs of coyotes rolling through at night and early morning (watch your pets), and 2 killer bee swarms in the trees. All within the campground boundaries, so just be ready for rugged camping.



Guide to Cortaro

Camping near Cortaro, Arizona, offers a mix of stunning desert landscapes and convenient amenities. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to unwind or a base for outdoor adventures, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Exploring: The nearby Catalina State Park Campground has amazing hiking trails. One camper mentioned, "The hiking trails and history are amazing here," making it a great spot for nature lovers.
  • Wildlife Watching: At Gilbert Ray Campground, you can enjoy the desert wildlife. A visitor noted, "You really feel like you’re in the desert," highlighting the immersive experience.
  • Stargazing: The clear desert skies near Picacho Peak State Park Campground are perfect for stargazing. One reviewer said, "Amazing sunsets!!" which hints at the beautiful night skies.

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the views at Rose Canyon Campground. One said, "Cool little lake, with river that was flowing when we were there," showcasing the natural beauty.
  • Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A visitor at Spencer Canyon Campground remarked, "The bathrooms are clean, and fire pits are great," which is a big plus for many.
  • Friendly Atmosphere: Campers often mention the welcoming vibe. At Tucson - Lazydays KOA, one guest said, "The staff was great and the customer service was great," making it feel like home.

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy. A camper at Picacho-Tucson NW KOA noted, "There is a cow farm behind the KOA and a train track that uses its horn," which might be bothersome for light sleepers.
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. For instance, Cactus Forest Dispersed has no drinking water or toilets, so be prepared to bring your own supplies.
  • Seasonal Access: Some campgrounds, like Picacho Peak State Park Campground, are only open from September to May due to the heat. Make sure to check the season before planning your trip.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots with amenities like showers and picnic tables. Tucson - Lazydays KOA offers a pool and activities, making it a hit with families.
  • Plan for Activities: Bring games and outdoor gear. A family at Gilbert Ray Campground enjoyed hiking and exploring the nearby Desert Museum, which kept everyone entertained.
  • Safety First: Always keep an eye on kids, especially in areas with wildlife. One camper at Cactus Forest Dispersed warned about rattlesnakes and other wildlife, so be cautious.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Catalina State Park Campground mentioned, "Some sites are well spaced," which is great for larger rigs.
  • Use Dump Stations: Many campgrounds have dump stations, like Gilbert Ray Campground. One camper noted, "We drove to the dump station... and water was available," making it convenient for RVers.
  • Stay Connected: Some campgrounds offer Wi-Fi, but it can be spotty. A visitor at Tucson - Lazydays KOA mentioned using their Starlink for better connectivity, which is a smart move for those needing to stay online.

Camping near Cortaro, Arizona, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the beautiful desert surroundings!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Cortaro, AZ?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Cortaro, AZ offers a wide range of camping options, with 126 campgrounds and RV parks near Cortaro, AZ and 31 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Cortaro, AZ?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Cortaro, AZ is Gilbert Ray Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 67 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Cortaro, AZ?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 31 free dispersed camping spots near Cortaro, AZ.

  • What parks are near Cortaro, AZ?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 parks near Cortaro, AZ that allow camping, notably Saguaro National Park and Coronado National Forest.