Dispersed camping opportunities exist around Saguaro National Park at elevations ranging from 2,500 to 8,000 feet, creating distinct temperature zones throughout the year. Winter overnight temperatures in higher elevation sites can drop below freezing while summer daytime temperatures in lower areas frequently exceed 100°F. Camping options include established campgrounds with electrical hookups, primitive sites with pit toilets, and completely undeveloped backcountry locations.
What to do
Hike the Arizona Trail access points: Several campsites provide direct access to segments of the Arizona Trail. Colossal Cave Mountain Park camping areas connect to hiking routes with interpretive signs. "I took my Girl Scout daughter and her bff-first time camper to spend the night at Colossal Cave MP last Saturday. Group site was next to parking and pit toilets and had water, grills and cement picnic tables were all available there," notes Emma K.
Fish at high elevation lakes: Rose Canyon Campground offers trout fishing in a mountain setting far from the desert landscape. "Rose canyon lake is stocked with trout for some easy and fun fishing and camping. Gets crowded during times when lake is stocked," explains Tanner H. The lake sits at approximately 7,000 feet elevation, making it significantly cooler than the desert floor.
Explore mountain biking routes: Redington Pass dispersed camping areas provide access to multiple trail systems. "Mountain biking just up the road," mentions Ashley M. about the trails near camp. Many routes are accessible year-round, though summer riding should be scheduled for early morning to avoid heat exposure.
What campers like
Elevation gains for temperature control: Molino Basin Campground sits at an intermediate elevation, providing relief from summer heat without the colder temperatures found at the highest mountain sites. "We arrived on a Wednesday afternoon in late February and were pleasantly surprised to find this first come, first serve campground nearly empty," reports Go Play Outside Family G.
Secluded tent sites: Several campgrounds offer walk-in tent sites set back from main roads. "Better for tent camping as there are beautiful, individual walk-in sites that are fairly private," writes Linette G. about Molino Basin. These walk-in sites typically require carrying gear 50-100 feet from parking areas.
Night sky viewing: Redington Pass - Dispersed Camping areas provide minimal light pollution for astronomy. "There was a full moon when we went, but I would imagine the stars are just brilliant out there on darker nights," says Kati H. The best viewing conditions occur during new moon phases, with optimal clarity during winter months.
What you should know
Limited drinking water availability: Many sites require bringing all water needed. "No bathrooms, no water hook ups, nothing, just dispersed wild camping!" explains Cass G. about Redington Pass. Most dispersed sites require carrying at least one gallon of water per person per day.
Road conditions vary seasonally: Access roads to dispersed sites can deteriorate significantly after rainfall. "It's a fun trail if you like a challenge of off roading. I wouldn't recommend larger trailers or RVs to travel too far up the trail, we've seen them get stuck trying to turn around," warns Cass G.
Temperature extremes affect camping plans: The significant elevation changes between campgrounds create vastly different conditions. Spencer Canyon Campground at nearly 8,000 feet provides relief from desert heat. "Spencer Canyon Campground is a nice campground approx. 20 miles from Tucson up the General Hitchcock Highway. Thus, Spencer Canyon Campground is a great getaway from the Arizona heat," explains Dray S.
Tips for camping with families
Bear-resistant storage requirements: Multiple campgrounds require proper food storage. "The camp sites were well maintained with bear boxes for each site," notes Kevin S. about Rose Canyon. All food, toiletries, and scented items must be secured inside vehicles or provided bear boxes at night.
Mixed-elevation itineraries: Plan camping that incorporates both desert and mountain environments for varied experiences. "One morning we did the Sky Island Scenic Byway to the top of Mt. Lemmon and visited the cute little general store to grab souvenir stickers for the kids. In the afternoon we drove the 30 minutes to Saguaro National Park East which was the highlight of this trip," suggests Go Play Outside Family G.
Kid-friendly campgrounds with amenities: Tucson - Lazydays KOA provides developed facilities for families needing showers and activities. "Your kids will never complain of boredom here. There is an unlimited amount of activities to keep them occupied. Laundry room and showers were clean. RV sites were spacious in my opinion," states Lisa H.
Tips from RVers
Size-appropriate campgrounds: Many campgrounds have limited space for larger rigs. "We drove toward the back of the campground to explore open sites and selected walk up site 23. Perched away from the road and surrounding campsites with a beautiful view of the surrounding mountainside," recommends Go Play Outside Family.
Hookup availability: Gilbert Ray Campground provides electrical connections but limited water access. "Has electrical hook ups and a dump station down the road. Some spaces are tight to get into so be ready especially the one we were reserved," advises Ashley C.
Campsite selection strategies: Arrive midweek when possible for best site selection. "We arrived in the evening and left early so we didn't use the camp store. Would definitely come again, not sure if we'll get so lucky w our site again tho," reports Amelio S. about securing a prime location at Rose Canyon.
