Portal, Arizona sits at the base of the Chiricahua Mountains at approximately 4,700 feet elevation in southeastern Arizona's Cochise County. The area experiences significant temperature variations between day and night, with summer highs reaching 95°F and winter nights dropping below freezing. Campers should prepare for potentially dusty conditions during dry periods, with the nearest major supply point located in Douglas, 55 miles south.
What to do
Astronomy viewing sessions: Set up at Rusty's RV Ranch which features concrete pads designed specifically for telescope equipment. "Very poor wifi internet connection... I was there 3 times in 8 months… August, February and April," notes one stargazer who frequently returns to enjoy the exceptionally dark skies.
Wildlife observation: Visit the Chiricahua Desert Museum near Sycamore Campground which offers creek-side camping with access to surrounding natural areas. "We stayed in a dispersed spot about a mile before Sycamore Campground - it was great! Very private and next to a babbling creek. No cell service and so very quiet and peaceful. We saw 6 turkeys!" reported one camper.
Mountain exploration: Drive through Coronado National Forest accessible from various Portal-area camps. The terrain changes dramatically from desert to mountain forest. A camper explained, "We took a ride over to the Coronado National Forest and coming from the wide-open desert we felt like we had stepped into another world."
What campers like
Private camping spots: Campers appreciate the spacious layouts at Desert Oasis Campground which offers both RV hookups and tent camping options. "Sites have spaces between rigs to breathe. There is a large club house for weekly get togethers with food. Pool tables, paddle ball, library, videos, showers, rest rooms," notes one reviewer who enjoyed the breathing room between sites.
Nature trails: Many campgrounds feature walking paths for exploring local landscapes. "Loved the hiking trails that went around the entire property and we used those a number of times," mentioned a visitor describing the trail network that provides exercise opportunities without leaving the campground.
Pet-friendly accommodations: Most Portal-area campgrounds welcome dogs with designated areas for exercise. "Super dog friendly, great clubhouse, hosts were fantastic and so willing to help. Great trails around the property to walk dogs!" shared one pet owner who appreciated the amenities for four-legged companions.
What you should know
Limited shopping access: Plan to bring supplies with you when camping near Portal. "Bring supplies because the closest place for decent shopping is Douglas, AZ about 55 miles south," warns one camper at Willcox-Cochise KOA who advises stocking up before arrival.
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly between providers in this remote area. One camper at Grande Vista RV Park noted, "I have Verizon and management stated Verizon is the best in this small town... He said all other carriers suck."
Temperature fluctuations: The high desert experiences significant day-to-night temperature changes. Bring appropriate layers for both warm days and cool evenings, especially during spring and fall seasons when temperatures can range from 80°F during day to 40°F at night.
Tips for camping with families
Educational wildlife encounters: Several campgrounds near Portal feature animal viewing opportunities for children. "Rusty does a lot to keep this little rv park a cool place to visit. She's built trails and has goats/birds that the campers can interact with," noted a visitor who appreciated the family-friendly animal interactions.
Budget-friendly options: For families watching expenses, Playa Dispersed Campsite offers free camping with wildlife viewing. "March 6th 2024 camped here. Got here about 6 PM and the lagoon was filled with cranes. Got amazing pictures of them. In the morning the lagoon was empty," reported a visitor who enjoyed this cost-free camping option.
Yurt camping Portal, Arizona alternatives: While dedicated yurt camping near Portal is limited, several campgrounds offer cabin and glamping options for families seeking structure without full RV setup. The combination of sturdy shelter and outdoor experience makes alternative accommodations particularly suitable for families with young children.
Tips from RVers
Level sites: RV campers consistently mention the quality of camping pads at Portal-area campgrounds. "Level gravel sites. FHU worked fine; appears to be maintained. Nice staff, well stocked store," observed one RVer at Lordsburg KOA.
Pull-through availability: Many campgrounds accommodate larger rigs with pull-through sites. "We have a 36 ft Class A with a Cherokee Trailhawk tow and stayed in site 28 for 5 nights... The site was a pull-through, as were most, but some were back in," noted a camper describing the accessibility for larger vehicles.
Hookup reliability: Full-hookup sites generally function well in the area, though water pressure can vary. "Full hookups, all in good condition. Gravel parking sites," reported one RVer who found the utilities reliable despite the remote location.
