The Pinal Mountains offer diverse camping opportunities ranging from 3,500 to nearly 6,000 feet in elevation. These mountains near Globe, Arizona feature abrupt elevation changes creating distinct camping microclimates. Most camping areas remain open from May through November, with some higher elevation sites requiring high-clearance vehicles due to unpaved access roads.
What to do
Explore historic sites: Near Lost Dutchman State Park Campground, campers can visit the nearby ghost towns and abandoned mining operations. "We enjoyed a splendid paddle out on the water near sundown, after many power boats were already back up on their trailers. Across the road, lies the Tonto National Monument which shows off some terrific examples of early Puebloan cliff dwellings," one visitor noted.
Hike mountain trails: The trail system around Upper Pinal Campground offers routes for all skill levels through pine forests. "The trip to the top of Pinal Mountains is a journey, very cool and beautiful scenic views, the road is not the best, especially if you don't have a higher clearance vehicle," explains a camper who made the trek.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings and evenings provide prime opportunities to spot desert wildlife. "We enjoyed walking around the campground and into the woods to the north and east," shares a visitor to Timber Camp Recreation Area, where deer and small mammals are commonly spotted along the campground perimeter.
What campers like
Cooler temperatures: The elevation change between Globe and the mountain camping areas creates significantly cooler conditions. "I love that there is a free campground in the pines less than 2 hours from the valley," notes a camper at Pioneer Pass Campground, where summer temperatures can be 15-20 degrees cooler than Phoenix.
Mountain views: The panoramic vistas from higher elevation sites provide perspectives across multiple mountain ranges. "Our site #48 Buckhorn was really spacious and private. Great views all around. Table and fire pit. The park has tons of trails for hiking and MTN biking," says a visitor to Usery Mountain Regional Park.
Stargazing opportunities: The distance from urban centers creates excellent night sky viewing. "Sky was amazing at night. Good luck," commented a winter visitor to Pioneer Pass, noting the exceptional clarity despite occasional light pollution from distant Phoenix.
What you should know
Road conditions matter: Many glamping sites near Globe require navigating unpaved roads with switchbacks. "Probably beautiful. Had to turn around and drive all the way back. Do not go unless you have a 4x4 or are positive about the condition at the top. It was 67° in Globe this day. I have an E350 dually and I was sliding," cautions a visitor to Pioneer Pass.
Site layouts vary widely: Campgrounds in this region often have unusual arrangements. "This place is a little easier to get to than upper pinal, which is just on the other side of Pinal Mountains. This campground was set up kinda weird, but worked out good," notes a camper at Timber Camp Recreation Area.
Cell service inconsistency: Connectivity varies dramatically between sites. "Verizon service was great the entire time. Sites are well maintained and level. Vault toilets were clean," reports a camper at Timber Camp, though service is more limited at higher elevations.
Tips for camping with families
Consider accessible options: Some glamping areas offer more family-friendly amenities. "Enjoyed three nights and generally had the place to ourselves excluding the host. The host was very nice. The fee station was out of order during our stay, so we paid via daily tickets at a place in Globe on our way out," explains a camper at Timber Camp, noting the well-maintained facilities.
Choose sites carefully: Review campground layouts before arrival. "Each site has a nice fire pit with a grill gate and a concrete picnic table," notes a camper at Pioneer Pass, though they also mention that "some of the sites are a little close together, but others are nicely separated."
Pack for temperature swings: Mountain glamping requires preparation for significant day-to-night temperature changes. "Be very aware of the weather when you visit. It'll be hot during the day and very cold at night depending on the time of year," advises a visitor to Mesa-Apache Junction KOA.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions apply: Most mountain glamping sites have limitations for larger vehicles. "Quiet off the beaten path place. Switchbacks most of the way up to the area. Wouldn't advise a 'big' rig. But once there and settled in loved it!" shares an RVer who visited Pioneer Pass.
Consider lower elevation alternatives: For full hookups and amenities, stay at accessible locations. "We stayed a couple of nights while visiting family and friends in the area. Gave us a chance to refill water and propane, take some long hot showers and generally recharge before heading back out on the road," explains a visitor to Mesa-Apache Junction KOA.
Road navigation planning: Research routes carefully before attempting mountain access. "I did find '1' campsite on the way down. Sky was amazing at night," notes a camper who had to turn around at Pioneer Pass, suggesting exploring intermediate options if higher sites prove inaccessible.
