Tent campsites near Pima, Arizona sit along the eastern slopes of the Pinaleño Mountains at elevations ranging from 4,000 to 10,000 feet. These primitive camping areas feature notable temperature variations between seasons, with snow possible at higher elevations from November through March. Access roads to many sites require high-clearance vehicles, particularly after rainfall when normally passable dirt roads become muddy and rutted.
What to do
Hike around Indian Bread Rocks: Located about 25 miles from Pima, Happy Camp Trail provides excellent rock scrambling and hiking. "This is probably view wise my favorite place to camp. The sunset here is unmatched," notes camper Jessica. Multiple unmarked trails wind through the boulder formations.
Filter creek water: The higher elevation camping areas feature accessible water sources during spring months. "A beautiful creek down the hill from the campground had crystal clear water for filtering and washing up," reports a camper at Round the Mountain Campground. Creek access typically requires a short hike from established campsites.
Wildlife observation: The transition zones between desert and mountain forests create diverse habitats for wildlife. "We saw a bear 50 feet across the river on our first day," reports camper Jason T. from White Crossing Camping along the Black River. Coatimundi and deer sightings are common throughout the region.
What campers like
Cooler temperatures: The elevation gain provides significant relief from summer desert heat. "This sky island is a great place to head in the summer when the desert is too hot to enjoy it," notes a camper about the Pinaleño Mountains camping areas.
Secluded camping spots: Marijilda offers hidden tent sites away from crowds. "It's right on the creek and secluded and quiet," reports Shane W. Most primitive sites in the area provide substantial privacy between camping spots.
Night sky viewing: The remote location provides excellent stargazing opportunities. "There is no light pollution so stargazing would have been awesome if not for the waxing moon," notes Scott B. about camping in the region. Clear mountain air enhances visibility of celestial objects.
What you should know
Permit requirements: Some camping areas require permits. "You do need a San Carlos Apache use permit which cost $20 per day per person over 12," notes Jason T. about camping near the Black River.
Road conditions: Many sites require substantial vehicle clearance. "Road is a couple miles, rough, and one shallow water crossing. 4x4 needed to exit," warns Shane W. about Marijilda. Road washboarding is common on unpaved access roads.
Pack it in, pack it out: Most dispersed sites have no trash facilities. "Please pack out what you packed in," urges George K., noting that at one location, "people are abusing the trash barrels and they might resort to start charging an entrance fee."
Tips for camping with families
Choose established campgrounds: For camping with children, developed sites offer easier access and basic facilities. Owl Creek Campground provides designated camping areas with amenities. "There are 7 campsites with ramadas and fire rings. One small pit toilet. There's a small hiking trail to a bridge that leads to the day use area and along the creek," notes Mike D.
Be wildlife aware: The region has active wildlife including predators. "Our family had 14 people camping out of 5 vehicle at our site alone. Good fishing and lots of wildlife to see," reports Jason T. about camping with family near the Black River. Store food securely and supervise children.
Watch for hazards: Construction areas can pose safety issues. "The entire grounds are a work in progress tho and the sites are littered with sharp objects like screws, nails, etc.," warns Tim M. about one site. Inspect your chosen campsite thoroughly before setting up.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most camping areas limit RV size. "This tiny little campground is perched on the side of the road in another of AZ's Sky Islands. Just 3 campsites, not big enough for large RV's, though Hamlet-sized trailers and camper vans are fine," notes a camper about Round the Mountain Campground.
Check site access: Rough roads limit RV access to many sites. "Some sketchy parts of the road, rocky and narrow with some dips, but it can be done if you're careful," reports Laura M. about navigating to a campsite in a 26-foot Class C motorhome.
Generator etiquette: Generator use can disrupt the quiet wilderness experience. "A resident construction camper is occupying one of three sites and he ran his super loud generator nonstop from 5pm onward. It was still going when I left around 7am. I didn't sleep at all," reports Tim M. about one camping experience.
