Top Tent Camping near Rio Rico, AZ
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Best Tent Sites Near Rio Rico, AZ (10)
1. Tumacacori Mountains
1 Review•2 SavesMountain range within the Nogales Ranger District which lies just west of Interstate 19 and extends southward to the International border.
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2. Harshaw Ave - Coronado National Forest
2 Reviews•5 Photos•7 Saves- Pets
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- Dispersed
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3. Madera Canyon Picnic Area
1 Review•1 Photo•9 SavesMadera Canyon makes a large dent in the northwest face of the Santa Rita Mountains. Its higher elevation grants relief to desert dwellers during the hot months and allows access to snow during the winter. A world-renowned location for bird watching, Madera Canyon is a major resting place for migrating species, while the extensive trail system of the Santa Rita Mountains is easily accessed from the Canyon's campground and picnic areas. Madera Canyon has a long and colorful history. The Friends of Madera Canyon, a cooperating volunteer group, has developed a small booklet that can be requested at the gatehouse. If you are interested in joining the group, please write: Friends of Madera Canyon , PO Box 1203, Green Valley, AZ 85622. This area is accessible to persons with disabilities.
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- Picnic Table
4. Nogales Recreation Area
1 ReviewRecreation opportunities in the Nogales Recreation Area are dispersed among the Santa Rita Mountains, the Pajaritos, the Tumacacorisand the grassy hill country that seperates them. The Santa Ritas are topped by 9.453 foot Mt. Wrightson, which is surrounded by the 25,260 acre Wilderness area of the same name. Madera Canyonin the Santa Ritas is famous among birdwatchers the world over. A number of Forest roads, including the Madera Canyon Road, provide access to campgrounds, picnic areas and dozens of forest trails. Pena Blanca Lake, at the edge of the Atascosas, offers developed campgrounds, picnic areas and fishing for stocked and resident species. The Pajaritos are home to scenic Sycamore Canyon, a 7,420 acre Wilderness and a history of mining boomtowns and hardy pioneers.
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5. Calabasas Group Campground
Be the first to review!- Pets
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6. Mt. Wrightson Picnic Area
Be the first to review!•2 SavesFormerly know as Roundup Picnic Area, the new Mt. Wrightson Picnic Area is located at the end of Madera Canyon Road, as far into this area of beautiful scenery and plentiful wildlife as you can drive. Tables and fire grills are scattered in the shade of a stand of silverleaf and Arizona white oaks. Views stretch up Mt. Wrightson to the top of the Santa Ritas and down Madera Canyon to the Santa Cruz Valley and the community of Green Valley. Four of the most popular trails in the Santa Ritas start right at the Mt. Wrightson Picnic Area. Two designated National Recreation Trails, Old Baldy National Recreation Trail #372 and the Super Trail #134, both of which lead to the top of Mt. Wrightson, begin their mountain climbing journey from the left of the two parking areas. So does the Very Steep/Vault Mine Trail, which lives up to its name by scaling the north slope of Mt. Hopkins, another of the Santa Rita’s highest peaks. A lot less taxing but no less interesting is the Madera Nature Trail, which leads from the picnic area down Madera Canyon, providing great views and excellent wildlife watching along the way. There is more notable birdwatching and a good place to relax in a shady streamside setting up-canyon from the picnic area, along the higher reaches of sycamore-lined Madera Creek.
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7. Arivaca Lake
Be the first to review!•9 SavesAccessibility is not guaranteed, always scout ahead before driving down dirt roads. Learn more: https://www.campendium.com/camping/boondocking-101/
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9. Huachuca Mountains
Be the first to review!•2 SavesPart of Sierra Vista Ranger District
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10. Ft Huachuca Remote Camping
Be the first to review!•4 SavesReservation and permit required
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- Dispersed
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Recent Tent Reviews In Rio Rico
235 Reviews of 10 Rio Rico Campgrounds
Scarlett D.
Scout
Kokopelli Gardens
Amazing place
The campgrounds are surrounded by coyote song throughout the night. Hardly any light pollution and the hosts are incredible!!! Sinks with drinkable water. Showers. They provide a tote full of goodies like plates and what not. There's a pen type area for the dogs to play in. And Tim and Victoria are so sweet!!! Highly recommend.
Mateo S.
Traveler
Caballo Loco Ranch and RV Park
Beautiful views from the remote wilderness
I have lived here for 10 months now, and love the place. Like any campground, there are malcontents that will complain about little things like not being pampered or catered to. The reality is that this is a relatively remote place where you absolutely must be self-sufficient to a large degree. There has not been full-time management until recently, but the new management team are very attentive and reasonable. Since the ranch has been under new management many of the so-called bad influences have left. If you love natural beauty, privacy, and solitude, and are willing to make some sacrifices of comfort, this is the perfect place.
CoryScoutCaballo Loco Ranch and RV Park
Very disorganized and people and volunteers there aren't very nice
Upon entering it was dirty and restrooms not clean. I never received info they claimed was sent, so went on a hunch. It was dirty, dogs off leash and poop everywhere. Trash disposal area was unclean attracting insects and bugs and wildlife. People living there were not nice or clean. Staff was not friendly either. We decided to leave early. Found place 20 miles away that is wonderful by comparison. Advise trying elsewhere.
Cass G.
Guide
Scotia Canyon - Coronado National Forest
One on my favorites
This is site is always a fun time, i’ve been camping along this dirt road so many times and now make it a yearly visit. All of these photos are different years. For greener grass I recommend going any month before late August! All photos taken with dry grass is October various years. Tons of dispersed camping sites and pull offs along the dirt road once you pass Parker Canyon Lake area. Good hiking in the area, tons of wildlife. Watch out for rattlesnakes and javelina especially if you have dogs with you! Most of the sites have fire rings already established so you don’t have to do much work. I’d rate it 11/10!
Joe H.ScoutCaballo Loco Ranch and RV Park
Wolf's in sheep's clothing, Beware
Place is a nightmare. Have police report from requiring police to escort due to harassment from disturbed owners. Dog was bitten by pit bull, owner did nothing but blame me and call me mentally ill. Very sick thing. Horrible road, brown water and a homeless camp setting. Go for a drive through first. And rules aren't followed. Owners Michelle and Jim even harassed the police officer, which caused me to make multiple trips to Colorado to leave. I walked away from a home, ATV and 5th wheel just to get away from these people. It's like hell on earth with demonic people.... Good luck should you go, you'll need it. Owner also posted a response comment with lies calling me names etc. These are sick evil people who will harm you, caution. Check police report from April 17th with sheriff dept.
andrea K.Guide
El Pais Motel and Campgrounds
Long Story
I stayed about 2 weeks. Nice place. Excellent price. Except... I returned one day to find my stuff had been rearranged. Maybe their free range chickens got into it. That's fine. A few days later my stuff was rearranged again. Maybe they were worried about it getting damp. Nice thought. My last night I returned to find my assigned spot had shrunk to where I could barely fit. I managed to get backed in and had to figure out how to get my driver's door open without hitting the car next to me. Then I had to figure out how to get the side doors open to get my dogs out and to load my stuff. I had no choice but to make it work. I delayed making this review because I did like the place but the rearranging of my stuff twice and shrinking my spot with zero communication really bothers me.
David T.Guide
Kartchner Caverns State Park
Quiet getaway
-This was a great little spot! There is no light pollution besides maybe a neighbor that forgot to turn off their lights. -Kartchner Cave is walking distance with a great observation center even if you don’t take a tour into the caves. -Couple stores within 20miles for any forgotten items. -Spots a very large and spaced well. -Restrooms/showers well maintained *Shower water pressure is less than desired. -Visited Tombstone, AZ as well. About a 30min drive. **Watch your step, we came across a Diamond Back Rattle Snake about 4 feet from our picnic bench. ***It’s Arizona, summer times will be hot, our temp in June was 108.
keith H.ScoutCaballo Loco Ranch and RV Park
Dirty wolf's in sheep's clothing
Beware, it's foul in every way. People 55 plus still drugging and drinking. Dog poop all over, dogs not following rules and many pit bulls (my dog bite by pit bull) owner refused to help causing my move by police escort. It's a complete nightmare you'll become trapped in.. many better places close by. Picture is of my dog after going to vet in Colorado for dog bite. Owner uses the attackers owner to baby sit his dogs, so he defended her! Imagine that. Owner harassing caused police escort to move, he harassed cop too. A very sick and sad pathetic place... Truth stings sometimes.. sorry to be negative, but if it saves kind folks time and money I'm okay with it.
- Berton M.
Legend
Patagonia Lake State Park
Lakeside Campground
Great campground located on a lake. It's offers all the standard campground amenities. I do really like the birdwatching area outside the visitor center. There's also a small beach you can swim at.
- MMartin G.Traveler
El Pais Motel and Campgrounds
Small, funky and fun
Small campground (gravel lot) with motel. Back in spots only. Friendly staff, very fast internet, free laundry, and free free-range chicken eggs. We stayed 2 nights. There two normal full bathrooms, a kitchen, and a room to hang out in with a large TV. The place has lots of memorabilia. We happened to arrive on Easter and were given a free turkey dinner :). We will be back.
Blaise R.Scout
Tucson - Lazydays KOA
Very nice facilities
I stayed two nights with a Class B Van and the full hookup site was private, had a small grassy are, a picnic table and a portable fire pit. The common areas were very nice including the several gas firepits with chairs for just a couple or larger group. I was a little disappointed with the bathhouse/restroom, but that is because I am picky. The important thing is that I would definitely stay there again.
Pedro G.Guide
Bog Springs Campground
4th time visiting favorite place!
This campground sits among tall trees and offers stunning views of the surroundings. It's great for people who love nature. The restrooms are clean and convenient, and there are cozy fireplaces to keep warm. Whether you're enjoying the fire or admiring the scenery, it's a peaceful place to relax outdoors with your family and friends, fires are not allowed year round so you might what to visit the website for fire restrictions. Great hikes nearby perfect for bird watchers.
- HHarold P.Traveler
Kartchner Caverns State Park
Friendly clean campground
Stayed one night will return to explore more. Clean restrooms, nice showers, friendly camp hosts.
Joel R.Legend
Quail Ridge RV Resort
Clean but lots of permanent & semi-permanent
This is a very large RV. “Resort” just off Hwy 90 north of Huachuca City AZ. It’s about 20 minutes to Sierra Vista, and 30 minutes to Tombstone. Wide streets for easy maneuvering even larger RVs. 30/50 amp, water, electricity, and sewer. Several bathroom/showers, laundry, WiFi. Good sized dog run. Many of the sites look like they are permanent or semi-permanent! I saw some for sale signs on lots, do you may be able to purchase a spot here.
- rrob D.Guide
Patagonia Lake State Park
Older Facilities
Good campground for fishermen and bird watchers. There is also some hiking available.
Pros - well maintained facilities but a little old. Hot showers and clean bathrooms. Camping next to the lake. The campground has a visitor center and camp store.
Cons - campsites are very close with limited privacy.
- AAndrew M.
Ranger
Lakeview Campground
Comfortable in S. AZ
First come first serve sites with a variety of pull-through or back-in sites. Pit toilets that were kept clean and supplied(TP) by camp host. Only downside was that the hand sanitizer dispensers were empty. Horse shoes available. 0.5 miles to the lake with access included in cost of campsite($20/night). Easy reach for Sierra Vista, Bisbee and Coronado National Monument
- Joel R.Legend
Mountain View RV Park
Nice rv park, not great
This is an ok rv park. It’s not fancy. But it has what we need. We have reservations for a month. Had planned to stay at RV park down the road, but they didn’t have a working shower, and we didn’t think we could go a month without, This park has 72 pull through sites, water, 30/50 amp electric, and sewer. Monthly sites charge extra for electricity. There are 2 bathrooms/showers which are passable. There is a big dog run, and a small one for small dogs. They have laundry and an exercise room. Internet is spotty. There are a few tent sites. There is an RV service and sales facilities adjacent to the park
- Ashlee G.Guide
El Pais Motel and Campgrounds
Funky & retro!
We love El Pais! So glad we found this hidden gem in Tucson. It’s a beautifully renovated Rv campground owned by a mother and daughter. Great communications, clear directions, easy arrival. Favorite parts:
- full hookups
- free chicken eggs from onsite chickens
- communal fire pit every night
- coffee every morning
- free laundry & showers
- pool and movies in the summer
Only cons are some road noise and close parking quarters, but the communal space makes up for it. We loved having a space to meet other travelers & share stories. We’ll be back!
Bill R.RangerKartchner Caverns State Park
Fairly new State Park with most of the amenities and a cavern
We stayed here for 5 nights at the end of March, 2023. The campground has paved roads, showers, dump station, water & electric hookups and the usual campsite set-up.
Three trails are located within the park. The campground itself is large, sites somewhat spaced apart and the grounds have a lot of stubby trees which were leafless when we were there.
A large visitor center is near the park entrance and the cavern is up the hill behind the center. We reserved and did the Rotunda/Throne Tour. It was very cool and our 1st cave tour. I would suggest reading the rules for tours before reserving. Access to the cavern is very controlled as far as how you get in and what you can take. There's quite a story about how this park came into being.
The location of the park allows quick access to the I-10 and the town of Benson, about 12 miles away. Other interesting sights are within an hour or so of the park.
OllieTraveler
Harshaw Ave - Coronado National Forest
Oliver’s Truck Camping Experience
I enjoyed this camp site overall. It was only 10 minutes away from Patagonia and it had lots of dry firewood. The downside is there is no water source and also road noise. I was there Friday night through Monday morning and heard road noice throughout the night except for Sunday night.
I would recommend exploring above where the pin is because there is more free dispersed camping that will be quieter and more remote.
MickandKarla W.LegendTucson - Lazydays KOA
One of the Better KOAs or Private Campground for that Matter
We followed the website instructions to the campground(CG) by taking I-10 Exit 164B versus our RV GPS and Waze, which wanted us to get off sooner. After driving that route while staying here, we discovered that route would have been good as well. Check-in was easy and informative. We then drove ourselves to FHU pull-through site 1505 with a patio and fire feature. We maneuvered to get our 10’ sewer hose to fit between our two dump valves as the utilities are centered on the pad. This KOA is a true resort with major amenities, such as a pool, putt-putt golf course, pickleball, restaurant, and planned activities. At check-in we received a Tengo Internet WiFi code, so we tried it out. We were able to do sporadic email and texting. We used our Starlink the rest of the time as we were able to get a good shot of the north sky. We got 5 bars on Verizon. Water pressure in our site was good at about 50 psi. As we are dog people, we enjoyed walking our pups to the fenced dog areas and letting them run. In the front of the CG by the gate there’s a huge 1 to 2-acre fenced dog park. In the northwest corner of the CG, there’s another, but much smaller, fenced dog area, and then another even smaller fenced dog area around the corner from our site. They have a variety of sites with various amenities. As we have family in the area, we would stay here again. The next time we would get one of the sites with a fenced dog area, such as 1476-1479, which has a fire feature and a fenced Paw Pen around the patio. There are covered sites under the solar panels, but we would avoid those areas as pigeons are roosting above. Four RV techs were staying at the CG with signs in front of their campsites while we were there. The week in January we were here, we were able to get some work done on short notice. The CG website has good pics of their wide variety of sites and an expandable site map that identifies amenities. We are not normally high-dollar“resort” campers, but this CG was impressive.
- Bill R.Ranger
Patagonia Lake State Park
Very busy, lots of families with kids, good location for exploring the area
We stayed here once in March of 2020. Must have Spring Break - tons of families, tons of kids, dogs and a few old timers. There's a couple short hikes from the campground that were OK. Lots of birds, saw a couple javelinas.
There's some boat rentals and a small visitor center/general store. We had water and electric at our site. Sites can be pretty close together with boundaries undefined. Shore of the lake difficult to get to in places because of thick vegetation. East CG is maybe a little less busy than the west.
Lots of places to explore nearby - Tubac, Madera Canyon, the Town of Patagonia, Ramsey Canyon near Sierra Vista, which is a good place to resupply and other more far flung places like Tombstone.
It was to have a lake by the campground which is a little unusual in Arizona. The land is different than the Sonoran desert of Tucson but still cool. We probably wouldn't go back unless it was offseason.
Victoria M.ScoutNogales Recreation Area
Permanently closed
Area is Permanently closed
- MMarlo C.Traveler
Tierra De La Paz
Peaceful and Serene
Large desert landscaped site, neat bbq area, swinging bench. I really loved this place- the owner was super nice . It is apparent they take pride in their land and they have fixed it up nicely.
- hholly C.Ranger
Harshaw Ave - Coronado National Forest
Nice camp sites right on the road
Nice camp sites right along on the side of the road. Loose cows. Site worked for a night.
- hholly C.Ranger
Colossal Cave Mountain Park
Amazing, beautiful, good price
Loved this camp site. You have to go into the cave gift shop to pay. They do close gates at 4. Was only 10$ for a tent spot.
- TTracy T.Guide
Miller Canyon Road
Not sure if permit needed
Came in late last night and I think I saw a sign for a permit. The coordinates drop you off at a trailhead?? Went up another .5 miles and found a spot to pull over. Might be more up the way.. it’s beautiful, but I’m leaving bc not sure if allowed and don’t want to be disrespectful
Guide to Rio Rico
Camping near Rio Rico, Arizona, offers a mix of stunning landscapes and unique experiences. Whether you're looking for a quiet getaway or a family-friendly adventure, there are plenty of options to explore.
What to do:
- Hiking: The area is surrounded by beautiful trails. Many campers enjoy the nearby hiking trails, especially those leading to scenic views. One visitor at Gilbert Ray Campground mentioned, "Sites have electric hook-ups and there is a bathroom, but no site water hook-ups and no showers. On our way out we drove to the dump station and water was available at that location."
- Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. Campers at Cieneguita Dispersed Camping Area have reported seeing "prairie dogs and pronghorn antelope are daily visitors."
- Exploring Local Attractions: Visit historic sites like Tombstone, just a short drive from Tombstone RV & Campground. One camper noted, "The place was clean. People were friendly close to attractions and enjoyed our stay very much."
What campers like:
- Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. A visitor at Bog Springs Campground said, "This campground sits among tall trees and offers stunning views of the surroundings."
- Quiet Atmosphere: Many appreciate the peaceful environment. One reviewer at Kartchner Caverns State Park Campground mentioned, "This was a great little spot! There is no light pollution besides maybe a neighbor that forgot to turn off their lights."
- Clean Facilities: Clean restrooms and well-maintained sites are a big plus. A camper at Tucson - Lazydays KOA stated, "The staff was great and the customer service was great. All the amenities were clean and in good condition."
What you should know:
- Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may lack certain amenities. A visitor at Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area pointed out, "I can’t say for sure because there is a posted 14-day limit but it looked like many of the people were living there on a permanent basis."
- Noise Levels: Be prepared for some noise from nearby roads. A camper at Gilbert Ray Campground noted, "Only issue with the site was traffic noise. Was woken up by loud exhausts/tire squealing at 3 & 4 am."
- Weather Considerations: Summers can be extremely hot. One camper at Kartchner Caverns State Park Campground warned, "It’s Arizona, summer times will be hot, our temp in June was 108."
Tips for camping with families:
- Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with amenities for kids. A reviewer at Tucson - Lazydays KOA mentioned, "This KOA is a true resort with major amenities, such as a pool, putt-putt golf course, pickleball, restaurant, and planned activities."
- Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep everyone entertained. A camper at Patagonia Lake State Park Campground said, "Great campground located on a lake. It offers all the standard campground amenities."
- Safety First: Always keep an eye on kids, especially near water or wildlife. One visitor at Kartchner Caverns State Park Campground cautioned, "Watch your step, we came across a Diamond Back Rattle Snake about 4 feet from our picnic bench."
Tips from RVers:
- Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Tucson - Lazydays KOA shared, "We maneuvered to get our 10’ sewer hose to fit between our two dump valves as the utilities are centered on the pad."
- Look for Full Hookups: Many RVers prefer sites with full hookups for convenience. One visitor at Gilbert Ray Campground mentioned, "Enjoyed this campsite and all it has to offer - electrical hookup for our RV."
- Plan for Dump Stations: Know where the nearest dump stations are located. A camper at Kartchner Caverns State Park Campground noted, "The campground has paved roads, showers, dump station, water & electric hookups."
Camping near Rio Rico, AZ, offers a variety of experiences, from quiet retreats to family-friendly adventures. With the right preparation, you can enjoy the best camping near Rio Rico, AZ, and make lasting memories.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Rio Rico, AZ?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Rio Rico, AZ is Tumacacori Mountains with a 5-star rating from 1 review.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Rio Rico, AZ?
TheDyrt.com has all 10 tent camping locations near Rio Rico, AZ, with real photos and reviews from campers.