Top Tent Camping near Pearce, AZ
Looking for the best tent campgrounds near Pearce? The Dyrt helps you find campsites with tent camping near Pearce. Each tent campsite offers quick access to one or more of Pearce's most popular destinations.
Best Tent Sites Near Pearce, AZ (23)
1. Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed
22 Reviews•76 Photos•203 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
3. Camp Site 001 Dispersed Site
1 Review•11 Photos•9 SavesYou may camp outside of developed areas across most of the Coronado National Forest at no charge. We recommend that you stop in to one of our five ranger stations to pick up a free travel management map so that you are aware where vehicles are and are not permitted. Potable water, restrooms, and other amenities are not available at dispersed sites. If you choose to camp outside developed areas, be sure to bring adequate water or be prepared to purify any water source before drinking. No permits are required to camp in wilderness areas. The Coronado National Forest has a 14-day stay limit on all camping. Areas designated as “Day Use Only” are limited to posted hours, no overnight use.
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- Tents
- Dispersed
5. Sycamore Campground
3 Reviews•5 Photos•58 SavesLocated on the west side of the Chiricahuas, Sycamore Campground straddles the banks of West Turkey Creek, a small perennial stream that cascades into the campground down a series of small waterfalls and through a rocky cleft decorated with wildflowers. These sycamore- and oak-shaded sites are located near the end of Turkey Creek Road in an area that serves as a jumping off place into the Chiricahua Wilderness. A number of trails start in the vicinity of the campground and climb to destinations and connecting trails high in the mountains. If you’re a hiker or an equestrian, you’ll find this an excellent base of operations with enough nearby trail miles to keep you busy for quite a while. Note: Black bears in area.
- Pets
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Tent Cabin
- Glamping
- Trash
6. Rucker Lake - Tahoe National Forest
1 Review•4 Saves- Fires
- Reservable
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Picnic Table
7. Miller Backcountry Camp
1 Review•7 SavesThe Hereford Trailhead provides access to the San Pedro Trail to the San Pedro House along Highway 90 to the north, approximately 9.5 miles away, and to Waters Road to the south, approximately 3.5 miles. The Hereford trailhead includes improved parking, a picnic shelter and tables, and a toilet. The trail is available for non-motorized travel, including hiking, bicycling and equestrian riding. The trail to the north crosses under the Hereford Road Bridge, and follows a historic road along the scenic San Pedro River valley, and passes several historic farm fields that are now turning into sacaton grassland and mesquite bosque. The trail passes by the Miller Backcountry Camp approximately 6 miles north of Hereford. The camp has is primitive, with tent pads, fireplaces, and a toilet. The trail south also follows the river valley, and crosses historic farm fields also revegetating to native plant communities. The trail passes by an artesian about a mile south of the trailhead, where an aquatic habitat refugia is maintained.
- Fires
- Tents
- Dispersed
- Toilets
8. Happy Valley Saddle
4 Reviews•5 Photos•90 SavesThe story of Saguaro National Park dates back much farther than its establishment in 1994. Prior to this, the area was designated a national monument in 1933 as a way to preserve the unique Sonoran Desert landscapes of the Tucson and Rincon mountain districts. This saved the area from the ranchers and miners who settled in the area in the 1880s. These followed the Spanish explorers who established a military fort in Tucson in the 1770s, nearly a century after founding a mission in the ares in the 1690s. Petroglyphs and potshards indicate that the Hohokam peoples inhabited the area for more than a millennium prior to the Spanish. Travel back even farther, and there’s a complex geologic history of exactly how the landscape came into being—and why it’s worth preserving. Camping in Saguaro is like entering a time machine. With no campgrounds in the park accessible by vehicle, the only way to camp is to hike in to any of the six designated campgrounds. The trails to get to the campgrounds typically start from developed roads and trailheads, but venture deep into the Sonoran backcountry, where only the rocks, plants, and animals tell the story of a landscape that’s changed little—with the exception of who’s occupied it—for the past several thousand years. One of the more popular campsites for those looking to bag 8,482-foot Rincon Peak, is the Happy Valley Saddle, which lies in a grove of scrubby pine and juniper forest, about halfway along the hike to the peak. This small campsite is located on the east end of the Rincon Mountain District. The campsite is accessible via a 3.9-mile trail that climbs 2,000 feet from the Miller Creek Trailhead. The road to this trailhead is not maintained, so may not be passable by passenger vehicles, or following inclement weather. The site offers three spaces for pitching tents. The water supply at nearby Miller Creek is seasonal at best, so visitors should plan accordingly. There are no facilities here, so hikers should exercise Leave No Trace and pack-it-in-pack-it-out practices. Camping in the Saguaro Wilderness backcountry requires a park-issued wilderness permit, which can be acquired in person at the park visitor center, or by submitting an application in advance.
- Fires
- Reservable
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
$8 / night
9. Herb Martyr Campground
1 Review•8 SavesThe Herb Martyr trailhead, located near Herb Martyr campgound, is one of the popular birdwatching and overall hiking areas in Cave Creek Canyon. Though South Fork is known for its trogons, there are plenty of other interesting and rare creatures to encounter here. Over 300 species of birds have been sighted in the Chiricahua Mountains, including the magnificent hummingbird, blue-throated hummingbird and Montezuma quail. Other interesting types of wildlife frequently sighted here include Apache fox squirrels, coatimundis and Coues white-tailed deer. The scenery is quite impressive in this area, too.
- Pets
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Toilets
Showing results 1-10 of 23 campgrounds
Recent Tent Reviews In Pearce
301 Reviews of 23 Pearce Campgrounds
- jjoy R.
Traveler
Queen Mine RV Park
Awesome little park!
Easy access to Bisbee historical area. 5 minute walk! Nice quiet park, level spots, and view of town.
- ttam F.Traveler
Stampede RV Park
Stampede for the win!
Great campsite. We had two campers, a 34 ft 5th wheel and a 17 foot TT. Sites were built to accommodate both easily. Water, electric, sewer hookup, and even sites made it a quick set up and we were able to get to site-seeing in town quickly! Breakfast at the Shotgun Cafe was excellent! You have to order the country potatoes!
Pedro G.
Guide
Bonita Canyon Campground — Chiricahua National Monument
Chiricahua is Amazing
I love Bonita canyon campground in Chiricahua second time visiting, I plan to visit this amazing place every year Milky Way photography varies depending on the month of visit
Cass G.Guide
Scotia Canyon - Coronado National Forest
One on my favorites
This is site is always a fun time, i’ve been camping along this dirt road so many times and now make it a yearly visit. All of these photos are different years. For greener grass I recommend going any month before late August! All photos taken with dry grass is October various years. Tons of dispersed camping sites and pull offs along the dirt road once you pass Parker Canyon Lake area. Good hiking in the area, tons of wildlife. Watch out for rattlesnakes and javelina especially if you have dogs with you! Most of the sites have fire rings already established so you don’t have to do much work. I’d rate it 11/10!
- R
Rick I.Traveler
Shootout Arena RV Park
A Gem of a Campground
This place is perfect for dry camping a short distance from historic Main Street Tombstone. There were no amenities, so be prepared! You cannot beat the price! For car/tent camping there are some private spaces with a little shade and evidence of past campfires. Be sure to stay to the left of the sign to go into the lower camping area. Pay your 10 bucks at the drop box.
David T.Guide
Kartchner Caverns State Park
Quiet getaway
-This was a great little spot! There is no light pollution besides maybe a neighbor that forgot to turn off their lights. -Kartchner Cave is walking distance with a great observation center even if you don’t take a tour into the caves. -Couple stores within 20miles for any forgotten items. -Spots a very large and spaced well. -Restrooms/showers well maintained *Shower water pressure is less than desired. -Visited Tombstone, AZ as well. About a 30min drive. **Watch your step, we came across a Diamond Back Rattle Snake about 4 feet from our picnic bench. ***It’s Arizona, summer times will be hot, our temp in June was 108.
Jose J.Guide
Tombstone RV & Campground
Close site to Tombstone
Quiet park, level and clean gravel sites. About 5 minutes from the town of Tombstone. It’s was getting down to freezing temperatures in November briefly over night. You can rent an outdoor fireplace and buy firewood on site too.
Rod D.GuideBonita Canyon Campground — Chiricahua National Monument
Chiricahua National Monument is special indeed
If approved by congress, Chiricahua National Monument will become Arizona's fourth National Park. While the current monument is a compact area geographically, it definitely has the uniqueness of a national park and warrants the added protections. It will however make a very special place more popular, so you might want to visit sooner than later.
If you camp in a tent, van, micro-camper, or small travel trailer you will find Bonita Canyon Campground to be a memorable and wonderful place. Don't try to bring any big rigs as they simply won't fit. Reservations are a must.
The campground is small, beautiful, shaded and right in the middle of some incredible scenery providing easy access to the fantastic hiking and wildlife viewing that is all around you. Hosts were professional and friendly, bathhouse small but super clean, and the site boundaries were mostly marked with fences which is somewhat unique. This is an old CCC built campground. From the campground you can easily walk to the foundations of the original camp located nearby.
Pay attention to fire regulations and status. If permitted, campfires are limited to the raised grills (no rings) but you can bring your own solo type camp stove. You will need to bring your own wood and ice. Pay attention to your fuel levels in your vehicle as this is a remote place.
This is premier birdwatching country. If you can, I would highly recommend taking one of the guided walks provided by the rangers and park biologists. We learned a bunch and I am not even "a birder" and enjoyed it. The nearby visitor center will have the details.
The Arizona Coatimundi's are a very unique mammal and frequently visit the campground. Deer, turkeys, quail, and other wildlife are in abundance and easy to see from the hikes. The views of the night sky are unparalleled.
A short drive away provides access to some incredible trails for hiking or simply viewing the surrounding Wilderness areas. The rock features found in this area make it unique.
This continues to be one of our favorite places in Arizona to camp and hike.
- DDan D.
Scout
Grande Vista RV Park
Tesla hate?
I tried to stay here, and they had openings, but I was in a Tesla and refused service. I have an adapter. Looked like a nice place, but couldn’t stay because of ignorance.
- SSheree O.Scout
Tombstone RV & Campground
Vacation
The place was clean. People were friendly close to attractions and enjoyed our stay very much. Would recommend it. Five star bathrooms were clean.
Tom P.TravelerShootout Arena RV Park
Location location location
Arrived around 1pm. Almost empty. Pay cash $10/n at box near entry. Walk to old town. Attended shootout and ok coral. Walked through DT and back to campsite. Clean and convenient. Will stay here again.
Roger W.
LegendBonita Canyon Campground — Chiricahua National Monument
An Amazing National Monument
Bonita Canyon CG- Chiricahua NM: (Scale 1- bad, 5-Very good
(71 yr olds in 17’ trailer.)
Overall Rating: Campsites in outer loop are more nicely spaced(rate 4) and trailer adds to privacy. Inner loop sites are often a bit close (rate 3). Price 2024: $ 10 w interagency Usage during visit: Very full, especially weekends.
Site Privacy: No Site Spacing: Outside sites are spacious Pad surface: Gravel Reservations: Yes Campground Noise: Very quiet.
Outside Road Noise: None Through Traffic in campground: No Electric Hookup: No Sewer Hookup: No Dump Station: No Potable Water Available: Yes. Spigots are scattered, locations clearly marked Generators: Allowed, but other than ours, I never heard one. Bathroom: Built by CCC. Clean and rustic. I like them. Showers: No Pull Throughs: I didn’t notice any Cell Service (AT&T): No. WiFi at the visitor center Setting: Woods Recent Weather: 70s to low 80s.
Solar: At our site with good positioning, we were able to bring in 12amps per day with 400 watt fixed panels.
Insects: None now Host: Yes, 2 couples Rig Size: Limited to 24’.- TTarryn T.Traveler
Tombstone Camp on Forest Road 687
Felt like camping on desert safari
Moderately rough road out for non 4x4 vehicle road, but fine going slow. Good spots off the road, fairly private and not too many other campers nearby. Lots of animals nearby very loud waking up and ants on the ground, we were glad we were in a roof tent not on the ground.
- TTonya B.Guide
Stampede RV Park
Quaint little RV spot
The Stampede is the perfect place to stay. It's right next the town so you can walk if you want. It's quiet and feels safe. The grounds are clean, gravel, and even. We enjoyed our stay.
- CChasity M.Guide
Tombstone Camp on Forest Road 687
Peaceful and Quiet
Take Middle March road on left off of highway 80. Campsite is 10 miles on the left. The first .5 miles is paved, the other 9.5 miles is primitive (embedded rock, loose gravel, and about 75%washboard). You’ll cross a few cattle guards and dry river beds. Plenty of camping spots with fire rings.
Tony S.Traveler
Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed
Little busy
Was a little busy and the bulls can get aggressive in your campsite.
Joel R.Legend
Cochise Stronghold
Secluded
Cochise stronghold campground is a rugged campground in a deep canyon. The canyon was the refuge for the Chiricahua Apache leader, Cochise. This is a National Forest Service campground. There are Eleven campsites and two group campsites. All are shaded by scrub oaks and surrounded by towering rock formations. The sites have picnic tables and grills. There is no water available so bring your own. No electricity or other facilities. There is a bathroom with flush toilets. There are food storage lockers due to bear activities. It is dog friendly (on leash). This campground is a little hard to get to, with several water crossings. I would not recommend attempting to drive without a high clearance vehicle. Sites are first come first served. Limit 6 people per site. $8 per night.
- Joel R.Legend
Bonita Canyon Campground — Chiricahua National Monument
Quiet and peaceful
Bonita Canyon Campground at the Chiricahua National Monument is a quiet little campground in a scrub pine forest. Chiricahua National Monument is a “dark sky” park, so there is very little light at night. Bring flashlights but leave lanterns at home! There are 36 sites with picnic tables and grills. There are community water faucets, but all were turned off when we were there. There are bathrooms with flush toilet, but no hookups or showers. Most sites are small and could accommodate tents, a small class C or van campers. 25’ is the max length and 14 days is max stay. The sign said the campground was full but there were empty sites. All sites are reservable through the www.US.gov web site.
- HHarold P.Traveler
Kartchner Caverns State Park
Friendly clean campground
Stayed one night will return to explore more. Clean restrooms, nice showers, friendly camp hosts.
- Joel R.Legend
Quail Ridge RV Resort
Clean but lots of permanent & semi-permanent
This is a very large RV. “Resort” just off Hwy 90 north of Huachuca City AZ. It’s about 20 minutes to Sierra Vista, and 30 minutes to Tombstone. Wide streets for easy maneuvering even larger RVs. 30/50 amp, water, electricity, and sewer. Several bathroom/showers, laundry, WiFi. Good sized dog run. Many of the sites look like they are permanent or semi-permanent! I saw some for sale signs on lots, do you may be able to purchase a spot here.
- RRick F.Scout
Sunny Flat Campground
Great campground, but extremely difficult to get a site
Beautiful location, but odds of finding an available campsite are almost nil. FCFS policy. Have tried several times, never successful. Similar for Stewart Campground nearby, these are the only ones open in winter. Be prepared for alternatives.
- RRick F.Scout
Rusty's RV Ranch
Well-run and good location
Rusty runs a tight ship, and the state of the campground reflects that. All services work properly and facilities are neat and clean. Price is $35 per night and absolutely no refunds are given for any reason (you sign a separate agreement to that effect).
- AAndrew M.
Ranger
Lakeview Campground
Comfortable in S. AZ
First come first serve sites with a variety of pull-through or back-in sites. Pit toilets that were kept clean and supplied(TP) by camp host. Only downside was that the hand sanitizer dispensers were empty. Horse shoes available. 0.5 miles to the lake with access included in cost of campsite($20/night). Easy reach for Sierra Vista, Bisbee and Coronado National Monument
Rick and Margaret V.Scout
Double Adobe Campground and Shotgun Sports
Nice place to visit
Very friendly hosts. Made you feel welcome. Campground was quite and in a good location for checking out the area attractions.
- Joel R.Legend
Mountain View RV Park
Nice rv park, not great
This is an ok rv park. It’s not fancy. But it has what we need. We have reservations for a month. Had planned to stay at RV park down the road, but they didn’t have a working shower, and we didn’t think we could go a month without, This park has 72 pull through sites, water, 30/50 amp electric, and sewer. Monthly sites charge extra for electricity. There are 2 bathrooms/showers which are passable. There is a big dog run, and a small one for small dogs. They have laundry and an exercise room. Internet is spotty. There are a few tent sites. There is an RV service and sales facilities adjacent to the park
Bill R.RangerBonita Canyon Campground — Chiricahua National Monument
Old school CCC built campground in an out of the way location
We've stayed here a number of times, always in March. Very nice, quiet campground in a wooded canyon with a small stream running right through the CG. There are 25 sites, mostly smallish, better suited for small rvs/trailers or tents. Not enough room for very rigs in here.
Water spigots are scattered throughout, 1 restroom with flush toilet. Last time we were there they had an issue with water system and had to shut it off and bring in port-a-potties.
As far as other amenities, there's spotty cell service (at least Verizon) and Wifi at the visitor center not far from the CG. Nearest services and dump station are in Willcox, 37 miles away. There's also a gas station/convenience store at a place called the Mustang Mall (it's not a mall in the usual sense), 29 miles west of Bonita.
A number of good hiking trails, mostly up on top at Massai Point with a few additional trails starting at the CG. Our favorite is Echo Canyon to the Visitor Cntr.
One important note: Ground fires are not allowed (at least as of 2023), which means you can have one in the above ground little BBQ grill or you have to have your own fire pan to have a wood fire. Speaking of which, no wood is for sale at the Monument nor are you allowed to gather it.
So, bring everything you need!!
- Bill R.Ranger
Kartchner Caverns State Park
Fairly new State Park with most of the amenities and a cavern
We stayed here for 5 nights at the end of March, 2023. The campground has paved roads, showers, dump station, water & electric hookups and the usual campsite set-up.
Three trails are located within the park. The campground itself is large, sites somewhat spaced apart and the grounds have a lot of stubby trees which were leafless when we were there.
A large visitor center is near the park entrance and the cavern is up the hill behind the center. We reserved and did the Rotunda/Throne Tour. It was very cool and our 1st cave tour. I would suggest reading the rules for tours before reserving. Access to the cavern is very controlled as far as how you get in and what you can take. There's quite a story about how this park came into being.
The location of the park allows quick access to the I-10 and the town of Benson, about 12 miles away. Other interesting sights are within an hour or so of the park.
Guide to Pearce
Camping near Pearce, Arizona, offers a mix of stunning landscapes and unique experiences. Whether you're looking for a quiet getaway or an adventure-filled trip, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.
What to do:
- Explore Kartchner Caverns State Park: This park is just a short drive away and features impressive caves. One visitor mentioned, “Kartchner Cave is walking distance with a great observation center even if you don’t take a tour into the caves.”
- Hiking in Chiricahua National Monument: The trails here are beautiful and provide great views. A camper noted, “This is premier birdwatching country. If you can, I would highly recommend taking one of the guided walks provided by the rangers and park biologists.”
- Visit Tombstone: Just a 30-minute drive from the campgrounds, Tombstone is rich in history. One reviewer said, “It’s about 5 minutes from the town of Tombstone,” making it easy to explore the famous Wild West town.
What campers like:
- Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Kartchner Caverns State Park Campground remarked, “Restrooms/showers well maintained.”
- Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer large, spaced-out sites. One camper shared, “The camp sites are large, offer electric and water,” at Bonita Canyon Campground.
- Friendly staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of campground hosts. A reviewer at Tombstone RV & Campground said, “The people at this place were very informative.”
What you should know:
- Highway noise: Some campgrounds are near busy roads, which can be noisy. A camper at Cochise Stronghold Campground noted, “Highway noise continues well into the night.”
- Limited amenities: Not all campgrounds have full hookups or showers. One visitor at Bonita Canyon Campground mentioned, “There are bathrooms with flush toilet, but no hookups or showers.”
- Wildlife encounters: Be cautious of wildlife. A camper at Kartchner Caverns State Park Campground warned, “Watch your step, we came across a Diamond Back Rattle Snake about 4 feet from our picnic bench.”
Tips for camping with families:
- Choose family-friendly campgrounds: Look for places with amenities for kids. A reviewer at Desert Oasis Campground said, “There is a large clubhouse for weekly get-togethers with food.”
- Plan for activities: Make sure to have games or outdoor activities ready. One camper noted, “There’s tons of space for boon dockers,” at Desert Oasis Campground.
- Safety first: Always keep an eye on children, especially near wildlife. A visitor at Happy Camp Trail mentioned, “Was a little busy and the bulls can get aggressive in your campsite.”
Tips from RVers:
- Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the campground. A reviewer at Cochise Stronghold Campground said, “Not enough room for very rigs in here.”
- Bring your own water: Some campgrounds don’t have drinking water available. A camper at Bonita Canyon Campground advised, “You will need to bring your own wood and ice.”
- Be prepared for rough roads: Some campgrounds have bumpy access roads. A visitor at Dragoon Mountains noted, “A bit rough but wide road and fine when going slow.”
Camping near Pearce, Arizona, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the beautiful surroundings!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Pearce, AZ?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Pearce, AZ is Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed with a 4.6-star rating from 22 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Pearce, AZ?
TheDyrt.com has all 23 tent camping locations near Pearce, AZ, with real photos and reviews from campers.