Rancho del Nido provides equestrian-focused camping in southern Arizona, situated 15 miles from Rio Rico at an elevation of 4,000 feet. The campground features established horse trails throughout the property with specific areas designated for riders with their own horses. Water and electric hookups are available at most sites, with portable toilets servicing the camping areas.
What to do
Trail riding connections: Campers can access miles of horse trails directly from Rancho del Nido. "This is horse ranch with great host and amazing views. They offer horse back riding which our kids loved," reports Geraldine B. The property connects to multiple scenic routes suitable for both novice and experienced riders.
Cave exploration: Take a 25-minute drive to Colossal Cave Mountain Park where underground tours provide relief from summer heat. "Dane was our tour guide and he was fun to listen to and very informative. It really was 70 in the cave," shares a visitor. Cave tours cost $18 for adults and operate year-round.
Wildlife observation: Visit Bueno Aires National Wildlife Refuge, approximately 30 miles west of Rio Rico. "Good areas for birding. Roads well maintained. Surprisingly little campers here on a Saturday. Beautiful Mountain Views," notes Karen. The refuge offers free camping with established fire pits at well-marked sites.
What campers like
Stargazing opportunities: The clear night skies provide exceptional stargazing at horse campgrounds near Rio Rico. At Rancho del Nido, campers appreciate the minimal light pollution. "Come for the stars, if nothing else," recommends Maryrose L. who enjoyed the dark skies during her stay.
Weather advantages: The higher elevation provides cooler temperatures than nearby Tucson. At La Siesta Campgrounds, "The weather is cooler than Tucson and the views are amazing. My favorite place to camp," reports a regular visitor. This temperature difference can be 5-10 degrees cooler during summer months.
Privacy between sites: Many equestrian camping areas near Rio Rico provide adequate spacing. "We were the only ones in the tent camping area which was a plus," reports Joe F. about his experience at Colossal Cave Mountain Park. Most horse-friendly sites include sufficient room for trailers and camping equipment.
What you should know
Gate closure timing: Some campgrounds restrict entry after certain hours. "They do lock the gate at 4:00, so once in, you are there for the night," notes Robbie B. about Colossal Cave Mountain Park. Check specific entry restrictions when making reservations.
Seasonal considerations: Certain amenities may be unavailable depending on when you visit. "The Butterfly Garden - There were a few but it was out of season" and "The Bats - Out of season" are common off-season limitations in the area.
Road conditions: Access roads to horse campgrounds may require appropriate vehicles. At Pima County Fairgrounds, "The only little hassle was they have a lot of weekend shows going on and they change the line of travel for getting in and out of the facility," explains Theresa R. Many smaller horse campgrounds have unpaved access roads.
Tips for camping with families
Guided trail rides: For families without their own horses, some ranches offer guided rides. "They offer horse back riding which our kids loved," mentions a parent who visited Rancho del Nido with children. Trail rides typically cost $40-75 per person depending on duration.
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds provide learning experiences for children. "The Path of Ancestors has information boards along the way talking about the Hohokam tribe," notes a visitor to Colossal Cave Mountain Park. These interpretive trails are typically less than a mile long and suitable for school-age children.
Group site advantages: Families camping together should consider group sites. Rock Bluff Group Site offers "vault toilets near by and each campsite has a fire pit and picnic table. We saw deer and blue birds during our stay," according to a camper. Group sites typically accommodate 15-25 people.
Tips from RVers
Military access options: Service members have additional camping choices in the area. At Apache Flats RV Resort, "The spaces are large concrete slabs with shade trees," notes Stacey M. Military ID is required for entry.
Hookup availability: Most equestrian campgrounds near Rio Rico offer limited hookups. "This campground with water and electric was quiet and beautiful. There were horse trails all around and you can bring your horses too," shares a camper who visited Rancho del Nido with their RV.
Dump station locations: Not all horse campgrounds have on-site dump stations. "Good stopover. Showers and bathrooms are closed. Quiet place but dusty. Nice people running it," reports Deborah C. about temporary facility closures. Most campgrounds within 20 miles of Rio Rico direct RVers to public dump stations in Nogales or Tucson.
