Camping near Douglas, Arizona occurs in a high-desert borderland environment with elevations ranging from 4,000-5,000 feet. This southeastern corner of Arizona experiences distinct seasonal changes, including cooler winter temperatures that typically remain in the 60s during daytime. The Mule Mountains and Chiricahua Mountains create natural boundaries and hiking opportunities throughout the region.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: At Desert Oasis Campground near McNeal, visitors can explore on-site nature trails. "We saw many deer and turkeys in the area. Plenty of shade available," notes Cole M. about the wildlife viewing at Sycamore Campground.
Visit historic mining towns: Located just 8 miles from Tombstone RV & Campground, the old western town offers authentic experiences. "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," reports GoldDust D.
Stargazing: The clear desert skies make glamping near Douglas, Arizona ideal for astronomy. "Perfect for astronomer/stargazing. Concrete pad (could support 2 telescopes) are available with power outlet to run all astronomy gear," writes Francois T. about Rusty's RV Ranch in nearby Rodeo, New Mexico.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer well-separated camping areas. "Sites have spaces between rigs to breathe. There is a large club house for weekly get togethers with food," shares Sharon B. about Desert Oasis Campground.
Clean facilities: Visitors consistently mention well-maintained amenities. "Bathrooms and showers are clean, and it was nice to do laundry. The pool was crystal clear and refreshing in the AZ heat," notes GoldDust D. about their glamping experience at Tombstone.
Private locations: Sycamore Campground offers more secluded options. "We stayed in a dispersed spot about a mile before Sycamore Campground - it was great! Very private and next to a babbling creek. No cell service and so very quiet and peaceful," reports Caitlyn B.
What you should know
Limited amenities at primitive sites: Some campgrounds have minimal facilities. "Nice, small campground with pit toilets, fire rings and bear boxes. Unfortunately, only stagnant pools of water in the creek this time of year," explains Cole M. about Sycamore Campground.
Cell service varies widely: Connectivity can be inconsistent in this remote region. "AT&T was about four bars of 4g and Verizon is one bar of 4g, not very good. Bring supplies because the closest place for decent shopping is Douglas, AZ about 55 miles south," advises SMCadventures4u about camping at Rusty's RV Ranch.
Road conditions: Access to some sites requires preparation. "Road up is dirt/rock -- could by tough with snow/rain. Several stretches are one lane with occasional turnouts," warns Jane J. about Ramsey Vista Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Bring entertainment options: Some campgrounds offer communal spaces. "The clubhouse with pool tables, TVs, library, dvds and pellet stoves is very cozy," shares mary F. about the Desert Oasis Campground facilities.
Plan for temperature fluctuations: Desert conditions mean significant day-to-night changes. "Winter visitors appreciate the mild climate with daytime temperatures typically in the 60s," but "It was getting down to freezing temperatures in November briefly over night," notes Jose J. about Wells Fargo RV Park near Tombstone.
Animal encounters: Families can enjoy wildlife interactions at some locations. "Rusty does a lot to keep this little rv park a cool place to visit. She's built trails and has goats/birds that the campers can interact with," mentions Untrammelers B. about Rusty's RV Ranch.
Tips from RVers
Arrival timing: Larger rigs should plan accordingly. "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. about Tombstone RV & Campground.
Site selection: Choose based on specific needs. "The space was huge and very private. We didn't have to unhook our toad vehicle until we needed the car which was really nice," shares Charlie about their experience glamping at Rusty's RV Ranch.
Supply planning: Services are limited in this rural area. "Bring supplies because the closest place for decent shopping is Douglas, AZ about 55 miles south," warns one camper staying near Rodeo, New Mexico.
