Camping options near Mammoth, Arizona span elevations from 2,500 to 7,900 feet across public lands in the Coronado National Forest. Access routes to dispersed sites vary substantially throughout the region, with many requiring high-clearance vehicles for navigation of unmaintained dirt roads. Seasonal factors significantly impact camping conditions, with water availability at most established campgrounds limited between November and April.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Charouleau Gap Trailhead Camp offers excellent wildlife encounters as one camper reports, "We spotted both turkeys and deer and were visited by some cotamundi as well."
Water-based activities: At Rose Canyon Campground, anglers can find productive fishing spots at the stocked lake. According to one visitor, "Rose canyon lake is stocked with trout for some easy and fun fishing and camping. Gets crowded during times when lake is stocked."
Desert exploration: The Cactus Forest Dispersed area provides access to varied desert landscapes and plant communities. "Loved this campsite! The cactuses and shrubs provided enough privacy between each site for it to feel like it was just us out there, and shielded us from the road as well," notes one camper who enjoyed the natural setting.
Educational programs: Several campgrounds serve as access points for ranger-led programs and educational exhibits. These activities typically run between November and April during peak visitation periods. At the Biosphere 2 facility, campers can learn about desert ecosystems and research. "Biosphere 2 is about 30 minutes from the campground and is definitely worth the visit," recommends one visitor to Peppersauce Campground.
What campers like
Temperature variations: Many campers value the significant temperature differences across elevations. At Mount Bigelow Dispersed, one camper appreciated that it was "perfect temperatures in the summer heat" while another advised to "bring your hats and gloves!" due to cold nights at higher elevations.
Access to multiple ecosystems: The transition zones between desert and forest environments create diverse camping experiences within short distances. "We drove 3 hours from Phoenix for a weekend in the forest, new to town and learning the ways of Arizona camping," shares one visitor to Mount Bigelow.
Clean facilities: Molino Basin Campground receives consistent praise for maintenance standards. "The restroom was very clean and well stocked," reports one camper, while another notes, "This campground is very well maintained with nice restrooms."
Convenient locations: Multiple sites offer proximity to urban amenities while providing natural settings. "Minutes from the hustle and bustle of Tucson and Oro Valley, but surprisingly quiet," writes one camper about Catalina State Park Campground, and another points out "Close to shopping, restaurants and more."
What you should know
Limited availability: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "Check in was easy with the attendants... Longer stays should book far ahead of time, max stay is 14 days, I believe," advises one camper at Catalina State Park.
Fire restrictions: Regulations vary significantly by location and season, with most areas implementing restrictions during dry periods. At Spencer Canyon Campground, one visitor mentions, "We did find some firewood left over from prior campers but recommend bringing your own, dry wood if you have room in your rig."
Traffic concerns: Some campgrounds experience unexpected traffic patterns. At Peppersauce Campground, a visitor explains, "The only drawback...and it is a big one is there is non-stop traffic. The cars drive in and to the end of the campground where there is a big sign that says RITE OF PASSAGE SICAMORE CANYON ACADEMY."
Wildlife management: Bear-resistant storage is required at many mid and high-elevation campgrounds. "All sites have a large bear box, concrete picnic table, charcoal grill and an iron fire pit," notes one Spencer Canyon visitor, while another describes "bear boxes provided" as a standard amenity.
Tips for camping with families
Avoid certain areas with pets or children: Some dispersed sites present specific challenges for families. One camper at Gilbert Ray Campground shares, "Can be a lot of traffic, in and around. Not ideal for little ones but still a beautiful place."
Cactus safety: Desert camping requires special awareness for children and pets. One camper candidly reports about Cactus Forest, "My only advice here is that it's not fun for dogs. (And maybe not fun for kids either?) It's incredibly prickly everywhere... You'll want to avoid wearing sandals too."
Loop roads for recreation: Some campgrounds provide kid-friendly layout features. "Nice loop to have kids run around," mentions one Gilbert Ray visitor, while another camper at General Hitchcock Campground notes, "Great place for a weekend, I went with a couple a friends if you go prepared with winter gear you won't be cold, hiking trails are great and near campsite."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many sites offer educational wildlife encounters for children. At Peppersauce Campground, "We showed up on a Wednesday in November and we were the only ones there. There is a lot of traffic going through camp heading to an academy on the west end of the campground but not a lot after 8 pm. We saw lots of wildlife in just one night."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: RV campers should research specific site dimensions before arrival. At Spencer Canyon Campground, one visitor advises, "Parking can be limited with only a few of the sites having adequate parking for trailers up to 22 feet. Your best bet for a good site for the weekend is to get there on Thursday or early Friday."
Road conditions to dispersed sites: Access to many free camping areas requires preparation. At Charouleau Gap Trailhead Camp, an RVer reports, "Several spots off a dirt road that parallels the main road here. Accessed relatively easily (slowly) in my 23 Ft Class C. Some road noise."
Hookup availability: Services vary significantly between campgrounds. At Catalina State Park, one visitor details, "Price of $30/night +$5 booking fee was very reasonable for RV Electric and water hookups for the stay," while noting, "No sewer hookups and the dump stations were crowded when we left at 11:45am on checkout day."
Water system freezing: Seasonal challenges affect RV systems at higher elevations. As one camper at Catalina State Park observed, "Water pipes at the campground froze overnight on an evening where temps barely touched 32 degrees. They were defrosted and flowing by 8:30am."
