Picacho, Arizona camping sites extend beyond traditional camping with several options for yurt camping and glamping accommodations positioned between Phoenix and Tucson. The area maintains average summer temperatures near 105°F, with winter lows around 60°F during the day. The region's volcanic formations and desert terrain create unique camping environments typically situated at elevations between 1,500-2,000 feet.
What to do
Ostrich farm visit: Located just minutes from Picacho-Tucson NW KOA, Rooster Cogburn's Ostrich Farm provides an unexpected desert attraction. A camper noted, "We tent camped here one night. We've stayed at a lot of KOAs across the country and this is the cleanest one I've ever been to. 10 minutes from Picacho Peak hiking and don't miss the Ostrich Ranch!"
Mount Lemmon exploration: The drive to Spencer Canyon Campground takes you through multiple ecological zones in under an hour. As one visitor explained, "This road is also very popular for cyclists so make sure you keep your eyes on the road, they come out of nowhere. The views are spectacular even if you are just coming for the day. You go from desert to full forest in the matter of 45min it is nothing I've ever seen before."
Summerhaven treats: When staying near the Mount Lemmon area, the small mountain community offers welcome refreshments. A reviewer recommended, "Hit up the town of Summerhaven for cookies and pizza at the cookie cabin."
What campers like
Desert plant landscapes: The native vegetation surrounding BLM off of W Valencia Rd provides flat terrain with unobstructed mountain views. A camper shared, "Nice views of the mountains and close to town for supplies or Casino if you feel compelled to part with some cash."
Well-maintained facilities: Cleanliness consistently ranks high in camper reviews across several sites. At Mesa-Apache Junction KOA, a visitor reported, "The campground is large and the spots have plenty of space. Campground staff is great. No complaints... we love it here!"
Temperature variety: The elevation change from Picacho to Mount Lemmon offers significant temperature differences, making year-round camping possible. One Spencer Canyon visitor advised, "This is the highest National Forest campground on Mount Lemmon and your best bet for cooler temps during the summer."
What you should know
Train noise considerations: At some locations, particularly Picacho-area campsites, railway lines can create periodic noise. One camper mentioned, "Only downside was the noisy train that goes by a few times a night... we hear everything in a pop up."
Seasonal limitations: Many mountain campgrounds close during winter months. Spencer Canyon Campground operates from "May to October" according to campground information.
Site-specific challenges: Whitetail Group Site requires careful navigation. A camper warned, "This site is actually about an hour further up toward Mt Lemmon. Search 'Whitetail campground' to find it. All the roads in this area are gated off."
BLM access routes: When accessing dispersed camping areas, entrance points matter. A BLM camper advised, "Google Maps attempted to get us in off Sunset. Big dip in entry road would bottom out most RVs. We then followed directions to take the dirt road across from Casino on Valencia and made it in no problem."
Tips for camping with families
Pool availability: During hot months, swimming facilities become essential for families. At Mesa-Apache Junction KOA, "The KOA features a year round heated pool and jacuzzi. The pool area was fenced and had some chairs, tables, and what appeared to be covered grills."
Playground considerations: Recreation areas vary significantly between campgrounds. A visitor observed, "I would say the kids park could use some updating and the pool was too cold to swim in this time of year but we still had a nice stay."
Group site options: For larger family gatherings, dedicated group sites provide better accommodation. Regarding Whitetail Group Site, a camper detailed, "This campground boasts several group sites, complete with plenty of parking, large gazebos with multiple grills for your group gatherings, and tent pads scattered throughout."
Wildlife awareness: Local fauna may include non-threatening visitors. One camper mentioned, "Tons of sites make sure to lock up your food i had a skunk visitor."
Tips from RVers
Site width variations: Prince of Tucson RV Park offers different experiences than typical campgrounds. A visitor clarified, "If you are looking for a traditional campground, this is not it. It's really a long-term RV park with plenty of park model campers. If you need a place to park your camper while exploring Tucson, then it should work out."
BLM accessibility: For yurt camping near Picacho, Arizona or RV boondocking, BLM lands provide spacious options. A visitor confirmed, "Good spot, level ground, lots of room. Any size camper will work. Turn north on the dirt road just west of the casino and follow the power lines north up a coupe hundred yards and you will see the camping area just off your right."
Trailer limitations: Spencer Canyon has specific restrictions for larger units. A reviewer noted, "Parking can be limited with only a few of the sites having adequate parking for trailers up to 22 feet."
