Green Valley, Arizona sits at approximately 3,000 feet elevation between Tucson and Nogales, with camping options typically 10-30 miles from town. Summer temperatures often exceed 100°F while winter nights can drop below freezing. Most glamping sites near Green Valley operate year-round due to the moderate desert climate, though site availability becomes limited from January through March during peak snowbird season.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Kartchner Caverns State Park Campground offers direct access to hiking opportunities beyond its famous caves. "There are three trails located within the park. The campground itself is large, sites somewhat spaced apart and the grounds have a lot of stubby trees which were leafless when we were there," notes one camper who enjoyed the park's outdoor options.
Bird watching expeditions: Patagonia Lake State Park Campground attracts wildlife enthusiasts with exceptional bird viewing opportunities. "Birder's paradise in April," states one visitor, highlighting the seasonal nature of this activity. The park features a dedicated birding area with spotting guides available at the ranger station.
Mountain exploration: Spencer Canyon Campground on Mount Lemmon provides a complete climate change experience, rising from desert to forest at 7,900 feet elevation. "You go from desert to full forest in the matter of 45min it is nothing I've ever seen before. This is a must see if visiting Tucson, AZ," shares a camper. The 22-mile drive includes numerous pullouts with interpretive signage.
What campers like
Dog-friendly facilities: Pet owners appreciate the dedicated amenities at some area campgrounds. "I have two dogs, but this koa had a dog park that i was able to take them to in order to get all of their energy out before the long car trip," notes one visitor about Tucson - Lazydays KOA. Several campgrounds allow leashed pets on designated trails.
Privacy between sites: Cactus Country RV Park offers more space between sites than typical RV parks. "Sites are level enough with gravel and a patio pad with table and fire pit," notes a camper who appreciated the layout. Many sites include small privacy hedges between neighbors.
Climate control options: Temperature management matters in the desert, and campers note the effectiveness of shade structures. "Pull through sites are very close together but level enough with gravel and a patio pad with table and fire pit," reports one visitor to Cactus Country RV Park. Many glamping sites near Green Valley include either natural shade or artificial shade structures.
What you should know
Security considerations: Some campgrounds near major roads implement safety measures. "It does have a security guard so we felt safe in the campground. However, it is not in the best location and we often heard gunshots at night," notes one camper about Tucson - Lazydays KOA, highlighting the urban-adjacent nature of some sites.
Site access limitations: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger vehicles. "Parking can be limited with only a few of the sites having adequate parking for trailers up to 22 feet," cautions a camper about Spencer Canyon Campground. Always call ahead to confirm size restrictions.
Water availability: BLM off of W Valencia Rd offers no hookups or facilities but provides a convenient free option. "Good spot, level ground, lots of room. Any size camper will work," notes one visitor. Campers must bring all water supplies as no potable water exists on site.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Families appreciate campgrounds with built-in entertainment. "Your kids will never complain of boredom here. There is an unlimited amount of activities to keep them occupied," states a visitor to Tucson - Lazydays KOA regarding their recreation facilities. Most family-friendly sites offer at least basic playground equipment.
Swimming access: Several glamping sites near Green Valley feature swimming pools for cooling off. "We all enjoyed the super nice pool & hot tub. They also had a neat cactus garden to walk through," shares a camper about their stay at Prince of Tucson RV Park. Most pools operate from April through October.
Educational opportunities: Empire Ranch combines camping with historical learning experiences. "The ranch is wonderful to visit as is Las Cienegas with their amazing diversity of landscapes," writes one visitor. The ranch house offers self-guided tours highlighting the area's ranching history with informational displays suitable for school-age children.
Tips from RVers
Power compatibility: Electrical systems vary between campgrounds. "The shore power 30 amp showed reverse polarity and a faulty ground, so we used the 50 amp with a dog bone," reports an RVer at Prince of Tucson RV Park, suggesting bringing adapters for different power configurations.
Seasonal coverage: RVers note the benefit of solar-covered sites during hot months. "Come in the summer and they'll have covered spots. We'll definitely will be back next winter," states a winter visitor to Tucson - Lazydays KOA, highlighting the year-round appeal of the region's glamping options.
Site selection: Different RV sites offer varying levels of amenities. "Lazydays offers just about anything you want, big small, covered, uncovered, just name it. The sites are well set up with a table and benches and they are clean," notes one RVer about the variety available at a single campground.
