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Best Campgrounds near Mammoth, AZ

685 Reviews

The Sonoran Desert surrounding Mammoth, Arizona features diverse camping options within the Coronado National Forest and nearby public lands. Catalina State Park Campground, located at the base of the Santa Catalina Mountains, offers developed sites with water and electric hookups, while more primitive experiences can be found at Peppersauce Campground near Oracle. For those seeking higher elevations and cooler temperatures, Mount Lemmon provides several options including Spencer Canyon and Rose Canyon campgrounds, which operate seasonally from spring through fall. Free dispersed camping is available at Mount Bigelow and Cactus Forest areas, where campers can experience more solitude among saguaro cacti and desert vegetation.

Road conditions vary significantly throughout the region, with many dispersed sites requiring high-clearance vehicles. As one camper noted, "The road is rough but if you don't mind driving slow over the holes and bumps then no big deal." Summer temperatures frequently exceed 100°F in lower elevations, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons. Higher elevation sites like Spencer Canyon (7,900 feet) provide relief from summer heat but may close during winter months. Many campgrounds implement fire restrictions during dry periods, particularly in late spring and early summer. Cell service is generally reliable near established campgrounds but becomes spotty in more remote dispersed areas. Permits are required for camping on Arizona State Trust Land, available online for $21 annually.

Campers consistently praise the dramatic desert landscapes and mountain views. "The scenery here is perfect for Arizona. Great views of Tucson Mountain and surrounded by all kinds of hiking trails," reports one visitor to Gilbert Ray Campground. Wildlife sightings are common, with one camper at Catalina State Park mentioning, "We saw and heard coyote, prairie dogs, and a rattlesnake eating a prairie dog along a trail right behind our campground loop!" Road noise affects some campgrounds, particularly those near highways. Stargazing opportunities are excellent in dispersed areas due to minimal light pollution. Many campgrounds serve as convenient base camps for exploring nearby attractions including Saguaro National Park, the Arizona Trail, and the mountain town of Summerhaven.

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Best Camping Sites Near Mammoth, Arizona (133)

    1. Catalina State Park Campground

    61 Reviews
    Oro Valley, AZ
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 628-5798

    $50 / night

    "Dump station near exit of loops and another near state park entrance. Nice selection of pull through and back-in sites. We had a back-in on outer edge and had beautiful views."

    "Catalina State Park in Tucson, Arizona, is a fantastic campground that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and convenience."

    2. Peppersauce Campground

    7 Reviews
    Oracle, AZ
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 749-8700

    $50 / night

    "Most spots are roomy and Shaded, temps were really nice for Arizona in June, due to the elevation. Met a few campers that had been staying there since Wednesday, and they were really nice people."

    "Only about 1 hour outside of Tucson but completely in the country. Perfect area for kids to explore and see wildlife. We spotted both turkeys and deer and were visited by some cotamundi as well."

    3. Spencer Canyon Campground

    17 Reviews
    Mount Lemmon, AZ
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 749-8700

    $22 - $36 / night

    "Spencer Canyon Campground is a nice campground approx. 20 miles from Tucson up the General Hitchcock Highway(often called the Catalina Highway or Mt. Lemmon Highway)."

    "The drive alone is inspiring! There is a fee for camping which you should plan to leave in the box (yes, they do come around to check eventually)."

    4. Rose Canyon Campground

    20 Reviews
    Willow Canyon, AZ
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 576-1477

    $31 - $180 / night

    "The lake was about a half mile walk from the campsite. There is also hiking trails close to the campground.

    Overall, the campsites are larger than normal and the sites are even."

    "The toilets were easily accessable and each had running potable water adjacent to the shelters.

    I would definately return again"

    5. Mount Bigelow Dispersed

    8 Reviews
    Willow Canyon, AZ
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 388-8300

    "We drove 3 hours from Phoenix for a weekend in the forest, new to town and learning the ways of Arizona camping, didn’t realize fires are some times allowed and some times not."

    "Bunch of hiking trails near by, and perfect temperatures in the summer heat."

    6. Cactus Forest Dispersed

    33 Reviews
    Marana, AZ
    34 miles
    Website

    "However, watch where you step AND where you drive!!!!"

    "Not that far of a drive from a highway exit, I was pleasantly surprised by the peaceful seclusion."

    7. Gilbert Ray Campground

    75 Reviews
    Cortaro, AZ
    46 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 724-5000

    $10 - $75 / night

    "The scenery here is perfect for Arizona. Great views of Tucson Mountain and surrounded by all kinds of hiking trails in the Tucson Mountain Park. The sites are gravel and mostly flat."

    "Fantastic place to stay in the Arizona countryside. Cacti everywhere! So cool!"

    8. Molino Basin Campground

    11 Reviews
    Willow Canyon, AZ
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 749-8700

    $100 / night

    "We arrived on a Wednesday afternoon in late February and were pleasantly surprised to find this first come, first serve campground nearly empty."

    "A national campground on the edge of Tucson Arizona with spectacular views, mountains, hiking, and biking trails. Quiet and campers spaced far apart. Beautiful!"

    9. General Hitchcock Campground

    7 Reviews
    Willow Canyon, AZ
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 749-8700

    $10 / night

    "Has some nice boulders to tuck your tent away in, and no really close neighbors. Seems like the rest of the sites you have neighbors right next to you, basically sharing a camp."

    "This campground is small, with tent sites tucked away between pine trees. A vaulted bathroom is at the center of the parking lot."

    10. Charouleau Gap Trailhead Camp

    3 Reviews
    Catalina, AZ
    20 miles
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Recent Camping Photos near Mammoth, AZ

140 Photos of 133 Mammoth Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Mammoth, AZ

685 Reviews of 133 Mammoth Campgrounds

Guide to Mammoth

Camping near Mammoth, Arizona, offers a unique blend of stunning desert landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are several campgrounds that cater to different needs and preferences.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the nearby trails, especially around Picacho Peak State Park Campground. One camper shared, "I enjoyed my stay here for 2 days. Had a great time hiking the Sunset Trail to Picacho Peak."
  • Wildlife Watching: The area is rich in wildlife. A visitor at Cactus Forest Dispersed noted, "If you want saguaros this is the perfect place for you. Awesome dispersed camping."
  • Stargazing: With minimal light pollution, the night sky is perfect for stargazing. A camper at Catalina State Park Campground mentioned, "Plus I can camp and do my astrophotography at the same time."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful landscapes. One review for Gilbert Ray Campground said, "Gilbert Ray campground integrates the beautiful desert environment seamlessly with the campsites."
  • Privacy: Many campgrounds offer spacious sites. A visitor at Cactus Forest Dispersed appreciated the "ample space between them for privacy."
  • Clean Facilities: Campers often highlight the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A reviewer at Roper Lake State Park stated, "The bathrooms, showers, and sinks were all well maintained."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area, lack basic facilities. A camper noted, "There are no toilets or trash, so be prepared to pack out what you pack in."
  • Noise Levels: Be aware of potential noise from nearby roads. A visitor at Picacho Peak State Park Campground mentioned, "You can hear road noise from I-10, but you get used to it."
  • Wildlife Caution: While wildlife is a draw, it can also be a concern. One camper at Cactus Forest Dispersed warned, "Watch your pets, packs of coyotes roll through at night."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with amenities like picnic tables and fire pits. A reviewer at Tucson - Lazydays KOA said, "The staff was great and the customer service was great."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep kids entertained. A camper at Catalina State Park Campground enjoyed the "scenery and views comparable to $400 a night resorts."
  • Safety First: Always keep an eye on children, especially around wildlife. A visitor at Gilbert Ray Campground noted, "Felt really safe as a solo camper."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Tucson - Lazydays KOA mentioned, "We maneuvered to get our 10’ sewer hose to fit between our two dump valves."
  • Use Amenities: Take advantage of the amenities offered, like dump stations and electric hookups. A visitor at Roper Lake State Park appreciated the "great spaces for tent campers and big rigs."
  • Plan for Weather: Be prepared for temperature changes, especially in the mountains. A reviewer at Spencer Canyon Campground advised, "The mountain can get very cold and windy at night."

Camping near Mammoth, Arizona, provides a fantastic opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors while being mindful of the unique environment and amenities available.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Mammoth, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, Mammoth, AZ offers a wide range of camping options, with 133 campgrounds and RV parks near Mammoth, AZ and 24 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Mammoth, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Mammoth, AZ is Catalina State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 61 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Mammoth, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 24 free dispersed camping spots near Mammoth, AZ.

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