Best Campgrounds near Marana, AZ

Marana, Arizona camping ranges from basic to full-service sites that work for most campers. Tucson - Lazydays KOA has two pools, a fitness gym, and pickleball courts for folks who want more comforts while camping. Saguaro National Park lets you camp among the tall cactus forests that make this desert famous. Camping at Picacho Peak State Park puts you right by good hiking trails with great views of the surrounding landscape. Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area is more basic with open desert sites for a simpler camping experience. Book your spots ahead of time if you're coming in spring or fall when the weather is best and sites fill quickly. Most places take reservations online or by phone. Fire rules change often in this dry area, so check what's allowed before you light anything. You'll find bathrooms and water at most developed campgrounds, but bring what you need if you're staying at more remote spots. The Sonoran Desert has some really interesting plants and animals you won't see in many other places. The Grand Canyon and Colorado River are within driving distance if you want a day trip from your campsite. RVs and tents are welcome at most places around Marana. Take all your trash with you when you leave and try not to damage the desert - it takes decades to recover from even small impacts. Marana's surrounding area has camping options that work for just about anyone looking to spend time outdoors.

Best Camping Sites Near Marana, Arizona (124)

    1. Gilbert Ray Campground

    73 Reviews
    Cortaro, AZ
    13 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!"

    2. Catalina State Park Campground

    62 Reviews
    Oro Valley, AZ
    14 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."

    3. Cactus Forest Dispersed

    32 Reviews
    Marana, AZ
    14 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."

    4. Tucson - Lazydays KOA

    49 Reviews
    Tucson, AZ
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 799-3701

    "When spending time on the road many times you will find campsite after campsite that is welcoming but not quite like home away from home."

    "There were a handful of kiddos around, a couple walked through our site which we were okay with but if you’ree looking to avoid kids this might not be your spot."

    5. Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area

    32 Reviews
    Cortaro, AZ
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 258-7200

    "The BLM land had several entrances. We went in towards the end of the road, but found the parking was more level at the third or forth turn off."

    "This BLM property, right off the Ajo highway near Tucson, is extremely convenient for a short or extended stay. Anyone can stay up to 14 nights, free of charge. "

    6. Picacho Peak State Park Campground

    43 Reviews
    Picacho, AZ
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 466-3183

    $30 / night

    "Great stop off or home base to see a lot of great arizona attractions like saguaro national park, tombstone and tucson."

    "We stayed on the western edge of "C" loop so the sunsets were unobstructed and magnificent. The peak looms over the Campground and the layout is perfect to take in all the surroundings."

    7. Ironwood Forest BLM National Monument Pump Station Dispersed

    12 Reviews
    Marana, AZ
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 258-7200

    "This was my first real Arizona camping experience. I actually came back a second time and my make it back some more. There are very easy dirt roads for awhile."

    "If you want the environment you expect Arizona to be, this is the place. Plenty of spots to choose from, open to all types of camping. I chose to tent here, but the majority of people were in RVs."

    8. BLM Ironwood Forest National Monument - Reservation Road Dispersed Camping

    12 Reviews
    Marana, AZ
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 258-7200

    "There is a closed gate at the entrance, you’re allowed to open it, just close it behind you. Not a ton of spaces to set up camp but very peaceful and quiet."

    "There’s several spots and it’s literally next to Saguaro NP! It was a little muddy, but there were paths around the mud. Very private and nice."

    9. South Forty RV Ranch

    7 Reviews
    Cortaro, AZ
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 297-2503

    "Its location within the city limits makes it the perfect place for lodging while exploring Tucson, Green Valley, Tombstone and Tubac. "

    10. Cactus Forest Dispersed Site

    10 Reviews
    Marana, AZ
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 258-7200

    "If you want to be away from the crowds go further down the road. Watch out for jumping cholla cactus and you’ll be just fine."

    "Be aware, you are surrounded by a beautiful cactus forest and dogs could have some trouble."

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Showing results 1-10 of 124 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Marana, AZ

672 Reviews of 124 Marana Campgrounds



Guide to Marana

Camping near Marana, Arizona, offers a unique blend of stunning desert landscapes and convenient amenities. Whether you're looking for a quiet retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking: There are numerous trails nearby, especially around Picacho Peak State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "I enjoyed my stay here for 2 days. Had a great time hiking the Sunset Trail to Picacho Peak."
  • Exploring Cacti: The area is filled with iconic saguaro cacti. Campers at Cactus Forest Dispersed rave about the scenery, saying, "If you want saguaros this is the perfect place for you."
  • Visiting Kartchner Caverns: Just a short drive from Marana, Kartchner Caverns State Park Campground offers tours of stunning caves. A visitor noted, "The campground has paved roads, showers, dump station, water & electric hookups."

What campers like:

  • Privacy: Many campers appreciate the spacious sites at Gilbert Ray Campground. One review states, "Sites provide some privacy and aren’t right up on each other. Quiet and relaxing."
  • Clean Facilities: Campgrounds like Catalina State Park Campground are praised for their cleanliness. A camper shared, "Showers and bathrooms well maintained."
  • Natural Beauty: Campers love the beautiful surroundings. A review for Picacho Peak State Park Campground highlights, "Great views and epic sunsets."

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds, like Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area, can be noisy. One camper mentioned, "I can’t say for sure because there is a posted 14-day limit but it looked like many of the people were living there on a permanent basis."
  • Limited Amenities: Campgrounds such as Cactus Forest Dispersed lack facilities. A review warns, "It has no facilities or even pit toilets."
  • Wildlife Caution: Be aware of local wildlife. A camper at Cactus Forest Dispersed noted, "Watch out for jumping chollas and keep your furry friends close."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like Tucson - Lazydays KOA, which offers amenities for kids. A review states, "The staff was great and the customer service was great."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. One camper at Catalina State Park Campground mentioned, "The hiking trails and history are amazing here."
  • Safety First: Always keep an eye on children, especially around wildlife. A camper at Kartchner Caverns State Park Campground advised, "Watch your step, we came across a Diamond Back Rattle Snake."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A review for Gilbert Ray Campground mentions, "Be careful what route you choose to enter the park."
  • Use Amenities Wisely: Campers at Tucson - Lazydays KOA appreciate the amenities. One noted, "This KOA is a true resort with major amenities, such as a pool, putt-putt golf course, pickleball."
  • Plan for Dump Stations: Ensure you know where the dump stations are located. A camper at Kartchner Caverns State Park Campground mentioned, "On our way out we drove to the dump station."

Camping near Marana, Arizona, offers a variety of experiences, from serene desert landscapes to family-friendly amenities. Whether you're in an RV or tent camping, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Marana, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, Marana, AZ offers a wide range of camping options, with 124 campgrounds and RV parks near Marana, AZ and 24 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Marana, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Marana, AZ is Gilbert Ray Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 73 reviews.

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

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

What parks are near Marana, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 parks near Marana, AZ that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.