Catalina State Park offers dedicated equestrian camping facilities near the base of the Santa Catalina Mountains in Tucson, Arizona. The park's elevation ranges from 2,500 to 3,000 feet, creating a transitional zone between the Sonoran Desert and higher mountain ecosystems. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F, while winter nights can drop below freezing, making fall through spring the optimal seasons for horse camping in this area.
What to do
Trail exploration for riders and hikers: Trails at Catalina State Park Campground range from easy to moderate difficulty with several loop options. "Catalina SP is amazingly beautiful! The group camping areas are set up very nicely being easy to do all camp activities in a large space. The camp is nestled into the mountains so it's so green and great for nature walks! We saw a pair of owls keeping their nest safe," notes Jennifer H.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The desert ecosystem supports diverse wildlife including ground squirrels, coyotes, and various bird species. "We saw (and heard) coyote, prairie dogs, and a rattlesnake eating a prairie dog along a trail right behind our campground loop!" reports Carly E. from Catalina State Park.
Cave exploration: Colossal Cave Mountain Park offers guided tours of its limestone cave system which maintains a consistent 70°F year-round. "We also did the Regular Cave Tour and it was really neat. Dane was our tour guide and he was fun to listen to and very informative," shares Krista Z. The park charges $7.50 per night for camping with access to hiking trails.
Off-roading adventures: For those seeking rugged terrain, Reddington Pass Dispersed provides challenging routes. "It's a fun trail if you like a challenge of off roading. I wouldn't recommend larger trailers or RVs to travel too far up the trail, we've seen them get stuck trying to turn around," advises Cass G.
What campers like
Desert mountain backdrop: The views of the Santa Catalina Mountains create a dramatic setting for equestrian camping near Marana. "Catalina SP is amazingly beautiful! The group camping areas are set up very nicely being easy to do all camp activities in a large space," notes Jennifer H.
Stargazing opportunities: The clear desert skies and minimal light pollution create ideal conditions for astronomy enthusiasts. "At night the view of the stars was beautiful since there was hardly any light pollution," reports Tyler E. about Reddington Pass.
Affordable overnight options: Pima County Fairgrounds RV Park provides budget-friendly accommodations. "Great place to stay for visiting Tucson and surrounding area. We stayed for a week while visiting Saguaro NP. Cheap with full hook ups," shares Jordan L. The weekly rate runs approximately $150, or $30 per night.
Varied desert terrain: The transition zone between lower desert and mountain ecosystems offers diverse vegetation. "Super quiet and relaxing," comments Sierra N. about the mountainous areas of Reddington Pass, contrasting with the "saguaros" in the lower elevation zones.
What you should know
Gate closure times: Some parks enforce strict entry/exit policies. "They do lock the gate at 4:00, so once in, you are there for the night," explains Robbie B. about Colossal Cave Mountain Park. Similarly, Holly C. notes, "They do close gates at 4. Was only $10 for a tent spot."
Weather considerations: Temperature fluctuations require preparation. "It gets chilly in the fall and winter but it's great relief from the heat of Arizona," warns Joshua M. about Reddington Pass. Cave temperatures remain constant at 70°F year-round, so dress accordingly.
Road conditions: Access to some horse camping sites requires appropriate vehicles. "The road is rough but if you don't mind driving slow over the holes and bumps then no big deal," explains Cass G. about Reddington Pass, adding "You will need a 4x4 in certain spots."
Facility limitations: Pima County Fairgrounds occasionally restricts amenity access. "Showers and bathrooms are closed. Quiet place but dusty. Nice people running it," reports Deborah C. Similarly, event schedules can impact camping. "Park is frequently busy with events, rodeos, etc, which may limit access to some amenities," notes Tod S.
Tips for camping with families
Secure camping spots early: Popular equestrian camping areas fill quickly during peak seasons. "Reservations during January for a short-term (2 night) stay were surprisingly easy to obtain via their online booking tool. Longer stays should book far ahead of time, max stay is 14 days," advises Kristin S. about Catalina State Park.
Choose sites with natural shade: Desert sun exposure is intense year-round. "We were in site B48 - this site was at the edge of the loop so it was nice and fairly private - but there was very little shade. I probably wouldn't pick that site again in the warmer months! There were a lot of other sites that had some trees around them and seemed much shadier," recommends Carly E.
Pack for temperature swings: Desert climate means hot days and cool nights. "Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100 degrees, making fall through spring the optimal seasons for comfortable horse camping," notes Janet H. about Catalina State Park.
Tips from RVers
Select sites strategically: Location within campgrounds impacts experience. "The back-in sites around the outside of the loops are more private, particularly in Loop B. Definitely worth a visit," advises G.F. about Catalina State Park.
Consider utility access: Hookup availability varies significantly. "Electric and water hookups were available at our site (30) in the B Loop. No sewer hookups and the dump stations were crowded when we left at 11:45am on checkout day," reports Kristin S.
Plan for shopping proximity: Supplies are accessible from most camping areas. "Very nearby are grocery stores, gas stations and other shopping/eating spots, but the proximity to commerce doesn't impact the natural feel of these grounds... night at the campground is very dark," explains Kristin S. about equestrian camping options near Marana.
