Mount Lemmon rises from 2,900 to 9,157 feet elevation, creating a climate transition from Sonoran Desert to alpine forest within a 30-mile drive. Temperatures drop 20-30°F between Tucson and the summit campgrounds. Winter snow often closes higher-elevation camping areas from November through April, with road restrictions during storm events.
What to do
Saguaro National Park exploration: The east section of Saguaro National Park sits just minutes from several Tucson-area RV parks. Cactus Country RV Park provides convenient access. "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," notes a camper.
Tucson attractions: The city offers numerous attractions within short driving distance from campgrounds. "The Pima Air and Space museum is within a couple of miles, and East Saguaro National Park is about 20 minutes away," reports a camper staying at Crazy Horse RV Park. Museum admission costs $19.95 for adults with discounts for seniors, military and children.
Mountain recreation: When temperatures in Tucson exceed 100°F, Mount Lemmon offers relief with cooler high-elevation activities. "Mount Lemmon is a short drive or bike ride away with snow capped top and great food offerings. Skying is possible for those with young legs," reports a camper at Rincon Country East RV Resort.
What campers like
Desert-to-mountain transitions: The dramatic elevation change from Tucson to Mount Lemmon creates distinct climate zones. "The mountain views greet us constantly here. Mount Lemmon is a short drive or bike ride away with snow capped top and great food offerings," shares a visitor at Rincon Country East RV Resort.
Wildlife viewing: The desert environment supports diverse wildlife. "Love the Rincon parks in general even if it's just for a drive. Great wildlife! Tad poles in the wash with the biggest eyes I've ever seen!! A Gila monster just chilling. SUCH beautiful sunsets!" reports an enthusiast.
Urban convenience with nature access: Many RV parks offer proximity to both urban amenities and natural areas. "Its location within the city limits makes it the perfect place for lodging while exploring Tucson, Green Valley, Tombstone and Tubac," notes a reviewer at South Forty RV Ranch.
What you should know
Urban vs. rustic options: Campgrounds near Mount Lemmon range from basic parking lots to resort-style facilities. South Forty RV Ranch offers a middle ground. "They have both pull-through and back-in campsites for RVs only (no tenting), with a variety of lengths (from 22' to 68'). I had a back-in site that had so much width to the side that I could set up my 'patio' with awning, chairs and a picnic table beside my RV."
Weather considerations: Temperature variations require planning for both heat and cold. "We stayed here the month of Oct 2021 and came back for Jan 2022. Excellent 55+ resort," mentions a visitor at Voyager RV Resort, highlighting the popularity of winter stays.
Limited availability: Popular sites fill quickly during peak seasons. "RV sites fill quickly during summer weekends when temperatures in Tucson exceed 100 degrees and people head up the mountain to escape the heat," notes a reviewer about Mount Lemmon camping.
Tips for camping with families
Pool options: Many RV parks offer swimming pools, especially valuable during hot months. Crazy Horse RV Park provides this amenity. "The pool is nice and clean, and it is heated. There are nice chairs and tables in the pool area," notes a camper who stayed for 2.5 months.
Age restrictions: Some facilities have age limitations. "This park, along with many I found in the desert southwest, is an Adult Park Only, accepting residents of 55 years and older only," warns a South Forty RV Ranch visitor. Always check policies before booking with children.
Alternative activities: Beyond the campsites, find family-friendly options nearby. "There is also a large community park within walking distance," mentions a Crazy Horse RV Park reviewer, providing an option for children's recreation outside the RV facility.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Many RV parks offer varied site types at different price points. Rincon Country West RV Resort provides multiple options. "We had a 'deluxe' pull-through site, which got us a nice patch of grass, a charcoal grill, a picnic table, good water pressure, clean electricity and a site with two different dump spots."
Electrical considerations: Check electrical services before connecting. "The shore power 30 amp showed reverse polarity and a faulty ground, so we used the 50 amp with a dog bone," warns a repeat visitor to Cactus Country RV Park.
Off-mountain services: No dump stations exist on Mount Lemmon, requiring planning. "Laundry facility has 8-10 each of washers and dryers, $2-$2.25 per wash, and $2 per dry," notes a Crazy Horse RV Park camper, detailing services available at lower elevations that aren't found on the mountain.
