Best Campgrounds near Marana, AZ

The Sonoran Desert surrounding Marana, Arizona features a mix of established campgrounds and dispersed camping areas managed by multiple agencies. Within a 30-mile radius, campers find options ranging from full-service RV parks to primitive BLM sites amid saguaro forests. Catalina State Park, located at the base of the Santa Catalina Mountains, offers developed sites with electric hookups, water, and clean facilities. Free dispersed camping is available in several areas of the Ironwood Forest National Monument, including Pipeline Road and Cactus Forest, where visitors can camp among iconic saguaro cacti. Gilbert Ray Campground in Tucson Mountain Park provides a middle ground with basic amenities but maintains a natural desert setting with mountain views and hiking trails.

Road conditions vary significantly between established and dispersed camping areas. Many BLM sites require navigating unmarked turnoffs and bumpy dirt roads that can be challenging after rain. As one camper noted, "Entrance to Pipeline Road is not marked and difficult to enter and exit safely, about 0.6 miles in from the cattleguard on Avra Valley Road." Cell service is generally reliable near Marana, even at remote sites, though quality varies by carrier. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F during the day while dropping dramatically at night, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons. Winter brings mild daytime temperatures and cold nights, with occasional frost at higher elevations. Fire restrictions are common during dry periods, particularly in dispersed areas where vegetation is sparse but flammable.

Wildlife viewing opportunities receive frequent mention in camper reviews, with coyotes, javelinas, and desert birds commonly spotted. "We saw and heard coyotes, prairie dogs, and a rattlesnake eating a prairie dog along a trail right behind our campground loop," reported one visitor to Catalina State Park. The proximity to Saguaro National Park and Tucson makes many sites convenient base camps for day trips. Noise levels vary considerably, with some BLM areas affected by target shooting despite regulations prohibiting it. Campers seeking solitude often recommend traveling deeper into dispersed areas: "The further east you travel on the pass, the fewer people you have to camp next to. The camping sites closer to the entrance get packed on weekends." Most established campgrounds fill quickly during winter months when seasonal visitors arrive.

Best Camping Sites Near Marana, Arizona (125)

    1. Gilbert Ray Campground

    74 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

    61 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

    33 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

    33 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

    $40 - $50 / 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

    13 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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Recent Reviews near Marana, AZ

677 Reviews of 125 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 125 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 74 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.