Spencer Canyon Campground sits at 7,900 feet elevation in the Santa Catalina Mountains of Arizona. Nighttime temperatures can drop 20-25 degrees below daytime highs, even in summer months, making layered clothing essential. The campground is open seasonally from May through October with 62 individual sites available on a first-come, first-served basis.
What to do
Hike the forest trails: Multiple hiking routes originate near General Hitchcock Campground, located along the Catalina Highway. "There are 11 sites and are spaced pretty close together so privacy is a no in this campground. The sites are 10 dollars a night and some of the sites are near a creek which was filled with water when I was there," notes camper Jasmine L.
Visit Summerhaven town: The small mountain village sits less than 6 miles from Spencer Canyon Campground. "Spencer Canyon Campground is a nice campground approx. 20 miles from Tucson up the General Hitchcock Highway. It is only 22 miles from Tucson and less than 6 miles from the mountaintop hamlet of Summerhaven," writes Dray S.
Explore Saguaro National Park: Cactus Country RV Park provides convenient access to this iconic desert landscape. "This park is minutes away from the east section of Saguaro National Park. It may look and feel remote, but good shopping, restaurants and attractions are very close," shares HandL C.
What campers like
Temperature relief: The mountain elevation offers a significant temperature change from Tucson. "Very large easy to get to well maintained dirt road," notes Jamie P. about Spencer Canyon Campground.
Wildlife sightings: The mountain ecosystem supports diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. "We stayed at site 6, right across from the restrooms. Has some nice boulders to tuck your tent away in, and no really close neighbors. We like to be as far away from others as possible," reports Paul S. about his General Hitchcock Campground experience.
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention the well-maintained amenities at glamping sites near Mount Lemmon. "Very nice, well maintained, and friendly hosts. It is a nice cool area. Definitely going back!" writes Socorro H. about Spencer Canyon Campground.
What you should know
Limited RV access: Many mountain campgrounds have size restrictions for larger vehicles. "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," advises Christina C.
Water availability: Water sources vary by location and season. "The site was a little dirty with cans and cigarette butts on the floor," reports a General Hitchcock visitor, highlighting the importance of carrying your own water supply.
Fire restrictions: Check current fire rules before your trip. "If you camp for the pure love of nature, this place is for you. 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)," explains Audrey R. about Spencer Canyon Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Look for sites with open spaces for play. "I prefer to go all the way to the very bottom of the campground. There is a lot of open area for my boys to run around and build a fort while I read a book next to the stream," shares Suzanne P. about Spencer Canyon.
Amenities for children: Some glamping sites near Mount Lemmon offer special features for families. "Your kids will never complain of boredom here. There is an unlimited amount of activities to keep them occupied. Laundry room and showers were clean. RV sites were spacious in my opinion," reports Lisa H. about Tucson - Lazydays KOA.
Wildlife safety: Teach children about proper food storage. "Tons of sites make sure to lock up your food i had a skunk visitor," warns Eric M. about Spencer Canyon Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV campers should prioritize arrival timing. "This is an open desert State Park campground with a fancy, cavernous registration center you have to park and walk a few hundred yards to enter. The campsites are close together affording little privacy. Each has water and electric hookup, a picnic table and fire ring. The back in sites are paved and level," explains Lisa S. about Kartchner Caverns State Park Campground.
Hookup options: For luxury glamping near Mount Lemmon, full-service sites are available at valley locations. "Pricey, but worth it. Sites with outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, swings, patios... lots of activities for everyone. No exclusions on yr of RV or camper. Tents welcome," shares Nicole D. about Tucson - Lazydays KOA.
Weather planning: Prepare for temperature swings at higher elevations. "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. Great views," advises Pedro G. about General Hitchcock Campground.
