Top Tent Camping near Kearny, AZ
Looking for the best Kearny tent camping? Finding a place to camp in Arizona with your tent has never been easier. Each tent campsite offers quick access to one or more of Kearny's most popular destinations.
Best Tent Sites Near Kearny, AZ (15)
1. Shores Recreation Area
3 Reviews•9 Photos•27 SavesThe site is located along the Gila River upstream from the town of Winkelman, Arizona. The Shores recreation site is minimally developed to provide access to the river for river-related recreation opportunities. River flows during the spring and summer are suitable for river floating activities through outstanding canyon scenery with diverse desert wildlife habitat. Generally, stream flows over 300 cubic feet per second provide small craft floating opportunities, including inflatable kayaks, canoes and tubing. Floating hazards include a fence across the river upstream from the Shores site with an opening for small floating crafts to pass. A permit is not required for private, non-commercial use of the sites. Use of the sites in connection with commercial recreational use requires a BLM Special Recreation Permit. Target shooting is not allowed in developed sites. A four-wheel-drive vehicle is not necessary to access the site or to maneuver into driveways and parking turnouts at the recreation site. However, due to the narrow passages, motor homes and trailer RVs are not suitable in the area. The restrooms are wheelchair accessible; however, access to other recreation opportunities is limited because of uneven ground surfaces, loose soils, steep slopes, and dense vegetation. Primitive camp sites are available at the site. Facilities include parking, fire pits, and vault toilets. The camp site is not suitable for motor homes bigger than a small pickup camper. Lodging is available at hotels and campgrounds in the nearby communities of Winkelman, Kearny, Superior, Mammoth, and Globe. Winkelman has a river park with camping, water, toilets and other facilities available for public use. Restaurants, grocery, fuel and convenience stores are available in the Towns of Winkelman and Mammoth. The nearest medical facilities are in Globe at the Cobre Valley Community Hospital, and in Oro Valley at the Oro Valley Hospital. The Gila River crosses private and Arizona State Trust land. Access across private land requires the land owner’s permission. Please respect private property rights by not stopping on private land without permission and obtain a permit from the Arizona State Land Department before driving across state lands. A valid Arizona Game and Fish Department license is required for hunting or fishing.
- Pets
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Trash
- Picnic Table
2. Sulphide Del Rey Campground
2 Reviews•14 Photos•31 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Picnic Table
- Toilets
3. Christmas - Gila River Recreation Area
1 Review•6 SavesThe site is located along the Gila River upstream from the town of Winkelman, Arizona. The Christmas recreation site is minimally developed to provide access to the river for river-related recreation opportunities. River flows during the spring and summer are suitable for river floating activities through outstanding canyon scenery with diverse desert wildlife habitat. Generally, stream flows over 300 cubic feet per second provide small craft floating opportunities, including inflatable kayaks, canoes and tubing. Floating hazards include a fence across the river upstream from the Shores site with an opening for small floating crafts to pass. A permit is not required for private, non-commercial use of the sites. Use of the sites in connection with commercial recreational use requires a BLM Special Recreation Permit. Target shooting is not allowed in developed sites. A four-wheel drive vehicle is not necessary to access the site or to maneuver into driveways and parking turnouts at the recreation site. However, due to the narrow passages, motor homes and trailer RVs are not suitable in the area. The restrooms are wheelchair accessible; however, access to other recreation opportunities is limited because of uneven ground surfaces, loose soils, steep slopes, and dense vegetation. Primitive camp sites are available at the site. Facilities include parking, fire pits, and vault toilets. The campsite is not suitable for motor homes bigger than a small pickup camper. Lodging is available at hotels and campgrounds in the nearby communities of Winkelman, Kearny, Superior, Mammoth, and Globe. Winkelman has a river park with camping, water, toilets and other facilities available for public use. Restaurants, grocery, fuel and convenience stores are available in the Towns of Winkelman and Mammoth. The nearest medical facilities are in Globe at the Cobre Valley Community Hospital, and in Oro Valley at the Oro Valley Hospital. The Gila River crosses private and Arizona State Trust land. Access across private land requires the land owner’s permission. Please respect private property rights by not stopping on private land without permission and obtain a permit from the Arizona State Land Department before driving across state lands. A valid Arizona Game and Fish Department license is required for hunting or fishing.
- Tents
4. Tonto National Forest Dispersed Camping at Lake Roosevelt
6 Reviews•25 Photos•239 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
5. Hackamore Road Dispersed
10 Reviews•8 Photos•77 SavesCamping 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
- Equestrian
7. General Hitchcock Campground
5 Reviews•16 Photos•107 SavesThis small, sheltered campground is tucked away just off the Catalina Highway, along the rocky streambed that forms the floor of upper Bear Canyon. Campsites are nestled under a canopy of ponderosa pines, junipers and oaks. Some sites are located right along Bear Creek among large rocks. The Creek generally only flows during rainy periods or during the Spring snowmelt, but be vigilant of flash floods.
- Pets
- Fires
- ADA Access
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
$10 / night
8. Charouleau Gap Trailhead Camp
1 Review•1 Photo•14 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
9. Diversion Dam
1 Review•10 Photos•7 Saves- Fires
- RVs
- Tents
- Dispersed
- Trash
- Picnic Table
10. The Point Campground
1 Review•7 Photos•129 SavesBoat access only.
The Point is located in the Mesa Ranger District and is mostly known for boat access only camping on Canyon Lake. There are only three designated camp units at this site, but the camp units can also be used as picnic sites for day use. Boaters enjoy The Point during summer months along with fishermen because of the courtesy dock. No garbage collection. Pack it in, Pack it out.
- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Picnic Table
- Toilets
- Alcohol
Showing results 1-10 of 15 campgrounds
Recent Tent Reviews In Kearny
475 Reviews of 15 Kearny Campgrounds
Lisa M.
Guide
Lost Dutchman State Park Campground
Amazing view and great hikes
We only got to stay here one night, but it is very beautiful. At the base of the Superstition mountains, which are awesome. Out of the city, so nice and quiet. All the sites are paved and fairly level. There are many sites that have pull through, electric, and water. The showers were good. Many hiking trails in the area. Would love to stay here a little longer.
- DDavid D.
Scout
Catalina State Park
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
- D
David D.ScoutCatalina State Park
Great views. Quiet.
Great roomy spots. Terrible ant problem.
- Becca C.Guide
Lost Dutchman State Park Campground
SUPERStition Views
This State Park campground located in the Superstition Mountains is a frequent quick camp spot for me if I don feel like trying to beat the crowds to some favorite local dispersed sites.
They offer sites with electric and water, and sites for dry camping, along with some cabins and group sites you can reserve. The sites offer as much privacy as one can expect in the desert and are not super close together, except for the site numbers 70+ which are only available in winter typically. There are plenty of hiking trails and activities in the park and nearby. The bathrooms and showers are clean and well maintained, and they even have a small dog “park” for your best pal to run off some energy.
Favorite things about the park: The views and the wild life. We have seen so many beautiful birds, from quail and owls to roadrunners and vultures, along with several different types of squirrels, lizards, hare, and coyotes.
- Patricia N.
RangerLost Dutchman State Park Campground
Spectacular views
If traveling near Phoenix you should make this state campground a number one option.
The towering superstition mountain range is a beautiful site and while we were there we were able to watch a hiker who was rescued. This hiker was not injured, just afraid to come back down the trail. Guess going up is easier than coming down.
The site we had had power and water. The showers in the restrooms were not great but something is better than nothing.
Ryan D.
Traveler
Pioneer Pass Campground
Great place for a quiet night amongst the pines while you explore the Pinal Mountains
The campground is nestled in a secluded canyon amongst the Ponderosa Pines and next to an intermittent mountain stream. The views on the drive up from Globe to the campground at 5,900 feet are gorgeous.
The campground and bathrooms were clean. Some of the sites are a little close together, but others are nicely separated.
Each site has a nice fire pit with a grill gate and a concrete picnic table.
Cas M.Traveler
Tonto National Forest Dispersed Camping at Lake Roosevelt
Coyotes!
Beautiful desert camping, lots of birds and wildlife. I heard coyotes in the middle of the night that woke me up, and was glad for a rooftop tent.
- JJosh P.Scout
Mount Bigelow Dispersed
Well kept and secluded
Awesome views, secluded spots. Just make sure you have 4wd and go all the way to the back
David T.GuideCatalina State Park
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.
Jim A.TravelerLost Dutchman State Park Campground
Great place to Stay
Fairly close to our home (30 miles) but we love to do 1-2 nighters here when we have the time. There is plenty to see around the area. Park is well maintained. Spots are close but not too close to each other. Its a little elevated so the valley views are great. Gets a little warm during the summer - after all it is AZ. Theres an old Gold Mine nearby to visit.
- Jim A.Traveler
Saguaro Cove
Remote Camping
Takes a little 4 wheeling to get there or you can access it from the water. Basic dispersed camping but gets a little warm during the summer months. Views are nice and its a nice pack it in, pack it out spot.
- SShane W.Ranger
Canyon Lake Marina & Campground
Fun lake, weekends exceptionally busy
Been staying here off and on for over a decade. Great place to hang out with the family. Water hookup and electrical hookup. No sewer. They have a truck that will come pump your tank for a small fee. You can launch your boat and then bring to the campsite and tie off for easy access. Lots of parking available. You have to pay for extra vehicles. Dolly the Steamboat is available to ride around the lake and ticket purchase is at the marina. There is also a restaurant and bar at the marina. The campground has a mix of available sites. Day use also. Large grassy area for kids to play. Drive in can seem daunting if you haven’t experienced it before. Not bad, however. Hauled a 32’ 5th wheel with no problems at all.
- DDynamical Thunder D.Scout
Mount Bigelow Dispersed
Beautiful and friendly
Very crowded on the weekend but the crowd is friendly and respectful. Great way to escape the summer heat of Tucson! Bring your hats and gloves!
Rachel W.Traveler
Sulphide Del Rey Campground
Good if you're prepared
Beautiful campground on a hill surrounded by pines. Gets completely silent at night assuming other campers behave. Perfectly dark except for stars between the trees and your fire. Please be careful with fires, keep them small, because there's already clear fire damage all around the area. Stayed 2 nights on Memorial day weekend. There were three groups that just came for a picnic then left, which surprised me considering the miles of washboard dirt road to get there. Our Honda CRV handled the road ok, I've seen worse roads that I would not drive. Do pack everything you need, don't plan to drive back into town if you can help it. Do not drive your ATV up and down the hill especially after quiet hours. I will say there is very little parking and a couple sites have very little flat ground for tents. One group did seem to have a couple large tents in the sites at the top of the hill, and ours at the entrance was good but we slept in our car.
- SShane W.Ranger
Picket Post
Quick Night
Good place to pull off in a pinch for free. You do hear road noise. Close to Arizona Trail, where it crosses 60 so you can hike both directions if you decide to, or take the trail up to the top of the mountain. Very beautiful area
- Tonya L.Scout
Picacho-Tucson NW KOA
Ok
Not freen 55 plus
- Chris K.Scout
Rose Canyon Campground
Great 👍 Time
Great place to camp 🏕
Monte W.
Legend
Jones Water Campground
Overgrown
Stayed here a night in early April 2024. There were a lot of positive things about this place. Both vault toilets were very clean. The sites that weren’t overgrown with brush had cement tables and fire rings. The roads were narrow and easily managed in my Forester however much of the road, and camp sites, were covered in brush and overgrown trees. I could only locate about 4 sites that weren’t overgrown. The campsite is off of the highway so there is some road noise. Around 7:30 AM someone stopped by a nearby unoccupied site and started cutting wood for about an hour, and then they left. Overall not a bad place for an escape from the heat not far from Globe.
Emmi O.Guide
Goldfield Ghost Town Dry Camping
Camping for one night
Camping for one night and it was 30$. Very clean restrooms and showers!
We were almost only campers there and lots of spots available. Closest campgounds were full or expensive.
- NNathan S.Guide
Catalina State Park
Beautiful and quiet
I travel to Tucson from Phoenix on a regular basis. CSP is close enough to get to my destinations and it provides scenery and views comparable to $400 a night resorts in the same vicinity. Plus I can camp and do my astrophotography at the same time.
- Ericka C.Traveler
Charouleau Gap Trailhead Camp
Small site not far from amenities
Great easy little spot that is highly used so make sure you plan ahead. Not all sites have fire circle and if you don’t have a toilet there are only a few bushes tall enough. Works for a quick one nighter.
Joel R.Legend
Picacho Peak State Park
Beautiful campground in the saguaro
This is a great little camping spot nestled below Picacho Peak just north of Tucson. The campground is spread through the saguaros, and other cactus so you are right in with them. There isn’t much shade so the campground is only open September thru May. It closes during the hot months of summer. Several sites did have covered picnic tables. Sites have water and electricity, some have sewer. There is a dump station also. The sites are level. There are modern showers and bathrooms. Convenient to several hiking trails. In
Lucy P.Ranger
Windy Hill Campground
Very pretty, kinda cramped
Gorgeous location and more spaced out than other campgrounds in the area (we stayed at the first loop). Be aware that if you have Verizon you may have bars but no LTE and that access and senior passes don’t work for double sites - also the host made rude remarks to other campers about my partner and I not being seniors because her access pass (she’s very visibly disabled) showed automatically as “senior” when we paid. Bathrooms are clean but bring your own soap!
- FFreddie F.Scout
Hackamore Road Dispersed
This area and the whole bulldog canyon are are closed for construction
The whole are is closed
Dylan G.ScoutCanyon Lake Marina & Campground
Not worth it
Came with my girlfriend's friend for her b-day. She specifically chose this spot for the Porta-potties and the flushable toilets. The porta-potties were full when we arrived on a Saturday and even after numerous complaints/inquiries they were never emptied even after being told they were supposed to be cleaned on Sunday. As well as the flushable toilets clogged one night so for one night there was no where to go to the bathroom at a campground that is a public area where you can't just pop a squat in the bushes. As well as if you don't want to be around kids, this is NOT the place for you. A lot of kids especially ill-behaved little demons running around like they are entitled to the place. Also at 66-ish dollars a night it is very expensive considering that you may have no amenities they offer to you in the first place.
- rrob D.Guide
Picacho Peak State Park
Great state park
I enjoyed my stay here for 2 days. Had a great time hiking the Sunset Trail to Picacho Peak.
PROS - large campsites, picnic tables and fire pits on each site. Some sites have a covered pavilion. Great hot showers. Separate dish washing station. Clean facilities. Electric hookups.
CONS - No hot water or trash cans at the dishwashing station. Can hear road noise from I-10, but you get use to it
Brad | Britany B.GuideLost Dutchman State Park Campground
Lost Dutchman State Park: Desert Playground for the Adventurous Soul!
Lost Dutchman State Park isn't just a campground, it's an adventure paradise! I'm giving it a flawless 5-star rating because it truly blew me away. Here's why:
Off-Roading Nirvana: Dust off your UTVs(side-by-sides) and get ready for a blast! The washboard washes (river beds) offer thrilling rides for off-road enthusiasts, with stunning desert landscapes as your backdrop.️
Hikers' Haven: Lace up your boots and conquer one of the park's diverse hiking trails. From challenging climbs to scenic strolls, there's a path for every level and every desire.
Feast for the Eyes: Prepare to be awestruck by the breathtaking scenery. Jagged mountain peaks pierce the azure sky, while the vast desert stretches out before you, creating a postcard-perfect landscape.
History Comes Alive: Immerse yourself in the legendary lore of the Lost Dutchman's Gold Mine. Uncover the park's rich history and explore the stories that have captivated adventurers for centuries.
Camper's Dream: The park offers spacious campsites with convenient power and water hookups, making it a comfortable home base for your desert exploration.(Note: sewer hookups are not available.)
A Final Note: While you're busy conquering the trails and soaking up the scenery, keep in mind that cell service can be limited in certain areas. This might just be the perfect opportunity to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature! Lost Dutchman State Park is an unforgettable experience for anyone seeking adventure, breathtaking views, and a touch of history. I can't wait to get back and explore more of this desert gem!
Guide to Kearny
Camping near Kearny, Arizona, offers a mix of stunning desert landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking to hike, bike, or just relax under the stars, there are some great spots to check out.
What to do:
- Hiking and Exploring: There are numerous trails around the area. At Lost Dutchman State Park Campground, one reviewer mentioned, "Lace up your boots and conquer one of the park's diverse hiking trails. From challenging climbs to scenic strolls, there's a path for every level."
- Off-Roading: If you enjoy off-roading, the park is a fantastic spot. Another camper shared, "Dust off your UTVs and get ready for a blast! The washboard washes offer thrilling rides for off-road enthusiasts."
- Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. A visitor at Gilbert Ray Campground noted, "You really feel like you’re in the desert. Quiet and relaxing."
What campers like:
- Scenic Views: Campers rave about the views. One happy camper at Catalina State Park Campground said, "The campsite is surrounded by stunning desert landscapes, with majestic saguaro cacti and rugged mountains providing a picturesque backdrop."
- Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the well-maintained restrooms and showers. A reviewer at Picacho Peak State Park Campground mentioned, "Great hot showers. Clean facilities."
- Spacious Campsites: Campers enjoy the space between sites. One visitor at Usery Mountain Regional Park noted, "The sites are level and well spaced, making it a comfortable stay."
What you should know:
- Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Gilbert Ray Campground, lack showers and water hookups. A camper pointed out, "Sites have electric hook-ups and there is a bathroom, but no site water hook-ups and no showers."
- Wildlife Caution: Be aware of local wildlife. A camper at Cactus Forest Dispersed warned, "I came across 6 rattlesnakes... and packs of coyotes rolling through at night."
- Road Noise: Some campgrounds are near busy roads. A visitor at Picacho Peak State Park Campground mentioned, "You can see and hear the traffic on I-10 about a half mile to the east."
Tips for camping with families:
- Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots with amenities. One parent at Tucson - Lazydays KOA said, "There are so many offerings including two pools, a hot tub, and a fitness center."
- Plan for Activities: Make sure to have activities for kids. A camper at Burnt Corral Campground noted, "The lake with the mountains in the background is breathtaking. We went kayaking and just relaxed on the shore."
- Pack Snacks and Drinks: Keep everyone happy with snacks. A family at Rose Canyon Campground mentioned, "It is downhill when hiking to the lake so be prepared for the uphill trek on the way back."
Tips from RVers:
- Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Tucson - Lazydays KOA shared, "We maneuvered to get our 10’ sewer hose to fit between our two dump valves."
- Look for Full Hookups: Many RVers prefer sites with full hookups. One camper at Usery Mountain Regional Park said, "The facilities were clean and well kept."
- Be Prepared for Limited Cell Service: Some areas have spotty service. A visitor at Cactus Forest Dispersed noted, "Phone service for Verizon and ATT are not good, but they do offer wifi."
Camping near Kearny, Arizona, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the beautiful desert scenery!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Kearny, AZ?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Kearny, AZ is Shores Recreation Area with a 3-star rating from 3 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Kearny, AZ?
TheDyrt.com has all 15 tent camping locations near Kearny, AZ, with real photos and reviews from campers.