RV camping near Cortaro, Arizona offers accommodations ranging from basic to premium sites with full hookups. The Tucson area experiences winter high temperatures averaging 65-70°F, making it a popular destination for snowbirds seeking warmer weather. Most RV sites near Cortaro provide concrete pads or level gravel spaces suitable for larger recreational vehicles and extended stays.
What to do
Desert hiking trails: Access multiple trail systems directly from Desert Trails RV Park - Adult-only Resort, where guests appreciate the convenient location. "Great place to explore the trails right from your camp! Easy pull throughs all hook ups, clean bathrooms with laundry," notes one camper. The park borders Saguaro National Park, providing immediate access to desert wilderness.
Wildlife viewing: Search for unique desert creatures throughout the Tucson area. One visitor at Rincon Country East RV Resort reported "Love the Rincon parks in general even if it's just for a drive. Great wildlife! Tad poles in the wash with the biggest eyes I've ever seen!! A Gila monster just chilling." Native birds, reptiles, and mammals appear frequently in early morning or evening hours.
Urban exploration: Take advantage of central Tucson locations for city activities. "There's a grocery store across the street and only a 5 min drive to downtown Tucson," states a reviewer about Sentinel Peak RV Park, making it convenient for museum visits, restaurants, and shopping. Several RV sites near Cortaro, Arizona provide shuttle services to downtown attractions during peak season.
What campers like
Activity programs: Many resorts offer organized events for winter residents. At Voyager RV Resort & Hotel, "They have a wood shop which you can become a member of or bring them a project to do for only a donation. Great service!" Another visitor notes, "Sports, crafts, cards, games, pools... Too many things to do to list. All very well organized."
Long-term community: Seasonal residents create social atmospheres at many parks. A visitor at South Forty RV Ranch reported being "welcomed to a farewell feast on this our 2nd stay here; many of their 'snowbirds' were readying to leave until next fall." These social connections make extended stays more enjoyable for many campers.
Resort amenities: Swimming pools and recreation facilities rate highly among visitors. "Extraordinarily well maintained, spotless, full amenity RV Park," writes one camper about Rincon Country East. Another states, "Their internet setup is beautiful heated swimming pool and hot, a clubhouse with pool tables, exercise room, library and laundry," regarding South Forty RV Ranch, emphasizing the luxury elements available.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Winter bookings require advance planning at most facilities. From November through March, campgrounds fill quickly with seasonal residents. Summer visits typically offer more availability and lower rates at all RV parks near Cortaro.
Park demographics: Many resorts cater to older adults with specific age restrictions. "This is a nice 40+ campground right on the edge of Saguaro National Park," notes one reviewer about Desert Trails. Similarly, Mission View advertises as a 55+ resort, and others mention predominantly retirement-age residents.
Site variations: Premium locations offer significantly different amenities than standard spaces. At Justin's Diamond J RV Park, "Premium sites offer better views and have more privacy," while standard sites might be smaller or closer to roads. One visitor reports, "Sites are not well defined but once you know where to park the sites are quite large."
Tips for camping with families
Age restrictions: Verify family-friendliness before booking as many parks restrict younger visitors. One traveler at South Forty RV Ranch noted that the park "is meant to be, I think, 55+, but sensible exceptions are made (I'm in my 40s, traveling with my dad, no problem)." However, another campground visitor warned, "There is a mix of full time residents, part time, and traveling campers. Apparently not the best place if you have kids though… not even sure if they 'allow' them."
Pool access: Choose parks with heated swimming facilities for year-round enjoyment. "My son LOVED the swimming pool," reported one family at Prince of Tucson RV Park. This campground maintains family-friendly policies and amenities that appeal to younger campers.
Entertainment options: Select parks with varied recreational facilities to keep children engaged. "There are classes for everything. If you want to keep learning, this is for you," mentions a visitor about Voyager RV Resort, noting the educational possibilities available for families with school-aged children.
Tips from RVers
Maneuverability challenges: Some parks require assistance with parking larger rigs. "ALL RVs are escorted through the park upon check-in and check-out," notes one visitor about a park. At Rincon Country East, a camper mentioned "site parking is a serious challenge unless 25 foot and under... With the help of friendly neighbors we parked our 35 foot Toy Hauler--took an hour--serious obstacle coarse to parking--palm trees at curbs being a problem."
Site selection priorities: Request spaces away from high-traffic areas for quieter stays. "Sites for short termers are by the road and not the best, just gravel sites with full hookups, but sufficient for our needs," notes one RVer at Justin's Diamond J RV Park, highlighting the importance of location within campgrounds.
Utility management: Some parks have usage restrictions for specific equipment. Justin's Diamond J "doesn't allow credit card payment and doesn't have online reservations... No use of washers/dryers in RVs, no streaming/skyping, no electric heaters." Many parks have similar restrictions to prevent system overloads during peak season.
