Best Campgrounds near Portal, AZ

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Portal. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Arizona camping has to offer. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Arizona camping adventure.

Best Camping Sites Near Portal, Arizona (68)

    1. Bonita Canyon Campground — Chiricahua National Monument

    26 Reviews
    Portal, AZ
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 824-3560

    $25 - $50 / night

    "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.  "

    "Super underrated and amazing national monument on the south eastern border of Arizona. Definitely worth a stop in!"

    2. Sunny Flat Campground

    8 Reviews
    Portal, AZ
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 364-3468

    "There are some campgrounds that just stick out in your mind for their beauty, location, and proximity to other cool stuff.  Sunny Flat is one of them."

    "The Cave Creek Canyon on the western edge of the Chiricahua Mountains is a spectacular area that will completely take you by surprise."

    3. Chiricahua Mountains

    9 Reviews
    Portal, AZ
    9 miles

    "There's hundreds of beautiful, well maintained and overgrown trails throughout the mountain range. Tons of wildlife and big trees. It's a forest wonderland compared to the surrounding Arizona desert."

    "Some of the campgrounds located in the middle island have less privacy but there are still some trees and shrubs to separate them. Sites on the outside are large and very private."

    4. Rusty's RV Ranch

    6 Reviews
    Rodeo, NM
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 557-2526

    $29 / night

    "Enjoyed all of the displays and history as Geronimo surrendered nearby."

    "We are birders and were happy with the proximity to many mountain canyons.  Our space was private with a nice patio.  Everyone was easy going and friendly.  The dog park was convenient and clean."

    5. Pinery Canyon Road Dispersed Camping - Coronado National Forest

    7 Reviews
    Portal, AZ
    12 miles
    Website

    "Our site was right next to a very clean flowing stream, which provided not only a nice soundtrack but also a filterable water source.  "

    "We went further SE on Pinery Canyon Road and found multiple spots under the trees and back away from the road right at the intersection to Fork Road. There was no water in the creek bed in October."

    6. FS Road 42 Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Portal, AZ
    4 miles

    "From chiricahua entrance head on FSR 42. A mile or two in many many sites along dry creek in the trees. Some Otv and motorcycle activity during day. We stayed only 15 minutes from monument."

    7. Sycamore Campground

    4 Reviews
    Portal, AZ
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 364-3468

    "The campground is situated right next to a mountain stream that is cool to explore. It's a little tough to get to but it's worth it. Not very many sites though so it may fill up on weekends"

    "Campgrounds are next to a creek with a trailhead leading to a waterfall, couldn’t ask for more for a free campsite."

    8. Stewart Campground

    1 Review
    Portal, AZ
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 364-3468

    "The Cave Creek Canyon on the western edge of the Chiricahua Mountains is a spectacular area that will completely take you by surprise."

    9. Granite Gap

    6 Reviews
    Animas, NM
    16 miles

    "A bit sandy of a drive. You have to open and close a gate but it is not locked. Quite, no lights nearby, dispersed camping at its best. Just a few cows. I would camp here again."

    "This spot is about a tenth of a mile off the highway. I walked the road because of past reviews."

    10. Rustler Park Campground

    1 Review
    Portal, AZ
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 364-3468

    "Was a long drive but well worth it. We wanted to visit Chiricahua National Monument but camp more in the mountains. The drive up was a long dirt road."

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Showing results 1-10 of 68 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Portal, AZ

238 Reviews of 68 Portal Campgrounds



Guide to Portal

Camping near Portal, Arizona, offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to relax or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something for everyone.

What to do

  • Hiking: Explore the beautiful trails around the Chiricahua Mountains. One camper mentioned, "There's hundreds of beautiful, well-maintained trails throughout the mountain range. Tons of wildlife and big trees."
  • Birdwatching: This area is a birdwatcher's paradise. A reviewer noted, "This is premier birdwatching country. If you can, I would highly recommend taking one of the guided walks provided by the rangers."
  • Stargazing: The dark skies around Bonita Canyon Campground make it perfect for stargazing. One visitor said, "The views of the night sky are unparalleled."

What campers like

  • Scenic Beauty: Campers rave about the stunning scenery. A review for Sunny Flat Campground states, "There are some campgrounds that just stick out in your mind for their beauty, location, and proximity to other cool stuff."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many appreciate the peacefulness of the campgrounds. One camper at Cochise Stronghold Campground mentioned, "It was very quiet and secluded."
  • Friendly Hosts: Campers often highlight the welcoming nature of campground staff. A review for Rusty's RV Ranch noted, "Rusty runs a tight ship, and the state of the campground reflects that."

What you should know

  • Limited Amenities: Many campgrounds, like Bonita Canyon Campground, have limited facilities. A visitor pointed out, "There are bathrooms with flush toilet, but no hookups or showers."
  • Reservations Recommended: Popular spots can fill up quickly. One camper advised, "Reservations are a must" for Bonita Canyon Campground.
  • Wildlife Encounters: Expect to see various wildlife. A reviewer at Happy Camp Trail mentioned, "Was a little busy and the bulls can get aggressive in your campsite."

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose the Right Campground: Look for family-friendly spots like Chiricahua Mountains, which offers a variety of activities. A camper said, "Great hiking in the area!"
  • Plan for Activities: Bring games and outdoor gear to keep kids entertained. One family enjoyed the "large club house for weekly get-togethers with food" at Desert Oasis Campground.
  • Safety First: Keep an eye on kids, especially around wildlife. A camper at Cochise Stronghold Campground noted, "Bumpy road washed out farther up but the dispersed area was fine."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Size Restrictions: Some campgrounds, like Bonita Canyon Campground, have size limits for RVs. A reviewer mentioned, "Don't try to bring any big rigs as they simply won't fit."
  • Bring Your Own Supplies: Many sites lack amenities. A camper at Rusty's RV Ranch advised, "You could tell that they have made a concerted effort to make the grounds nice."
  • Stay Connected: Cell service can be spotty. One RV traveler noted, "Very poor wifi internet connection" at Rusty's RV Ranch, so plan accordingly.

Camping near Portal, Arizona, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, with plenty of activities and beautiful scenery to explore.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Portal, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, Portal, AZ offers a wide range of camping options, with 68 campgrounds and RV parks near Portal, AZ and 17 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Portal, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Portal, AZ is Bonita Canyon Campground — Chiricahua National Monument with a 4.8-star rating from 26 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Portal, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 17 free dispersed camping spots near Portal, AZ.

What parks are near Portal, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 parks near Portal, AZ that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.