The lake offers recreational fishing. This 7 acre lake is tucked away in a picturesque stand of mature ponderosa pines high on the slopes of the Santa Catalina Mountains. A paved road through Rose Canyon Campground leads to a small parking area, a short walk from the water. Rainbow trout large enough to catch and take home generally are released in the lake about once a month from early April through the end of August, when water temperatures become a little too warm for these cold water fish. All stocking and fishing regulations for Rose Canyon lake, as well as all the other lakes within the Coronado, are managed by Arizona Game and Fish, which publishes the current stocking schedule . This is a beautiful place, and many people come here to enjoy the other features that it offers in addition to fishing. Tall trees and rocky slopes line the shore and are reflected in the lake’s sheltered waters. Rose Canyon Lake Trail #37 leads around the water’s edge and provides good opportunities for photography, bird watching, and just plain strolling. A few downed logs close to the water provide good places to sit and enjoy a snack or a bit of quiet meditation.

Rose Canyon Campground

**RV Resort 55+ community**
Cactus Country RV Resort is conveniently located north of exit 275, I-10, just east of Tucson, Arizona. Cactus Country accommodates nearly all forms of recreational lodging. Surrounded by untouched cactus fields, our park enjoys the peaceful ambiance of a desert oasis, while never leaving you far from the 

shopping and dining of Tucson. Whether you stay for a night or make your home here, we look forward to welcoming you to Cactus Country.

Cactus Country RV Park - 55+

Colossal Cave Mountain Park

Surrounded by gorgeous, scenic mountains & grasslands, you will enjoy magnificent views & pure serenity here at Rancho del Nido. When you ride or hike out on the Empire Ranch, you will feel miles away from anything and 100 years back in time. Each RV site includes full water & electric hookups with an easily accessible community dump station for septic. Horse stalls, 2 arenas & round pens on site. Trail ride through our direct gate access to the historic Empire Ranch (Las Cienegas National Conservation Area) & enjoy thousands of acres of trails. Horses/pets welcome! OHV’s welcome! Close to over 18 wineries!



Rancho del Nido

Red Barn Campground

Desert Sanctuary at Rincon Peak Pitch your tent and enjoy the amazing sunsets and night view of the stars at our new Backcountry site located at The Desert Sanctuary at Rincon Peak, a guest retreat offering dry tenting, RV sites with Full hookup and dry setup and cottage a sleeping 2 to 6 people. The property is a private 120 acres located 45 miles east of Tucson Arizona. Rich in history including the site of the Sri Ashram co-founded by famous Harvard Professor and LSD advocate Timothy Leary. Many of the original buildings have been restored including a dining hall that served as the original pottery studio and a prayer house. The properties amenities include outdoor showers with hot and cold water, games room with billiards and card table, fire pits, Olympic pool, hot tub and BBQ area... all situated in a beautiful and peaceful setting by the main house. Options for accommodations include tenting and quaint cottage rentals.Short and long term guests welcome. This site does not include a canvas tent and platform. Bathroom facilities are located at the main house near the pool. Please bag all of your trash in order for me to dispose of it. No aerosol cans in burnable trash.

The Desert Sanctuary at Rincon Peak - PERMANENTLY CLOSED

The story of Saguaro National Park dates back much farther than its establishment in 1994. Prior to this, the area was designated a national monument in 1933 as a way to preserve the unique Sonoran Desert landscapes of the Tucson and Rincon mountain districts. This saved the area from the ranchers and miners who settled in the area in the 1880s. These followed the Spanish explorers who established a military fort in Tucson in the 1770s, nearly a century after founding a mission in the ares in the 1690s. Petroglyphs and potshards indicate that the Hohokam peoples inhabited the area for more than a millennium prior to the Spanish. Travel back even farther, and there’s a complex geologic history of exactly how the landscape came into being—and why it’s worth preserving.

Camping in Saguaro is like entering a time machine. With no campgrounds in the park accessible by vehicle, the only way to camp is to hike in to any of the six designated campgrounds. The trails to get to the campgrounds typically start from developed roads and trailheads, but venture deep into the Sonoran backcountry, where only the rocks, plants, and animals tell the story of a landscape that’s changed little—with the exception of who’s occupied it—for the past several thousand years. One of the more popular campsites for those looking to bag 8,482-foot Rincon Peak, is the Happy Valley Saddle, which lies in a grove of scrubby pine and juniper forest, about halfway along the hike to the peak.  

This small campsite is located on the east end of the Rincon Mountain District. The campsite is accessible via a 3.9-mile trail that climbs 2,000 feet from the Miller Creek Trailhead. The road to this trailhead is not maintained, so may not be passable by passenger vehicles, or following inclement weather. The site offers three spaces for pitching tents. The water supply at nearby Miller Creek is seasonal at best, so visitors should plan accordingly. There are no facilities here, so hikers should exercise Leave No Trace and pack-it-in-pack-it-out practices. Camping in the Saguaro Wilderness backcountry requires a park-issued wilderness permit, which can be acquired in person at the park visitor center, or by submitting an application in advance.  

Happy Valley Saddle

In 1884, Levi Manning emigrated from Mississippi to Tucson, Arizona, and after some years established L.H. Manning and Company. He later expanded his business interests with ranching and acquired a 160-acre homestead in the Rincon Mountains. There, at an elevation of 8,000 feet, amid pine forest near a perennial spring, he selected a site for what would become his family’s summer home. Manning hired local workers to build an 11-mile wagon road to the site, which was used to transport the tools and materials used to construct his remote, five-room retreat. However, Manning would only enjoy his mountain getaway for a couple summers before his homestead was absorbed into the newly-formed Coronado National Forest in 1907.

For the next half-century, the Manning Cabin was used mostly by Forest Service fire and trail crews. During this time, it went through various states of disrepair and reconstruction. From the late 1950s until the late 1970s, the cabin was largely abandoned until it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1975. One again restored and back in operation, the Manning Cabin serves as a base for area research and backcountry rangers. The cabin is not open to the public, but visitors can hike to the cabin and pitch their tents in the nearby Manning Camp. This small campground has six tent sites that can accommodate up to six people each. Camping here requires obtaining a Saguaro National Park backcountry permit, which can be acquired at a park visitor center, or by mailing in a request form in advance.  

There are several hiking trails that can be used to get to Manning Camp. All are long, and all are difficult. The trail from Happy Valley is 9.8 miles (one-way), and gains a total of 4,700 feet of elevation. This trail starts at the Miller Creek trailhead, near the eastern border of the park, and requires driving an unmaintained forest road; 4WD and/or a high-clearance vehicle are recommended. From the Loma Alta trailhead, in the southwest corner of the Rincon Mountain Unit, the route is 13.5 miles (one-way), and gains more than 5,700 feet of elevation. The trails to Manning Camp climb through a mix of desert scrub, oak woodlands and conifer forests. This area is home to black bears and mountain lions; store all food in the camp’s bear-proof lockers. Hikers should follow LNT guidelines, and treat all backcountry water sources.

Manning Camp

## Overview

Visitors are drawn to Molino Campground for its group camping area, scenic mountain surroundings and hiking and mountain biking opportunities. While most other campgrounds in the Catalina Mountains are closed in winter, Molino Campground and its picnic area are open in late fall, winter and early spring. The pleasant winter weather at this elevation makes it a great time to visit.   
  
Molino Basin is conveniently located 5.5 miles from the base of Mt. Lemmon on the Catalina Highway, and about 10 miles northeast of Tucson.

## Recreation

Hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding are popular activities. The Arizona Trail, which extends from Mexico to Utah, passes through the campground, and the Molino Trail leads to the Pusch Ridge Wilderness (hiking and horseback riding only). A variety of additional trails, including some on 9,157' Mt. Lemmon, are available in the area for those who wish to venture away from the campground for the day.

## Facilities

This facility has a few dozen individual campsites available on a first-come, first-served basis, along with a reservable group camping and picnic area. The group area is accessible with a paved walkway, and is equipped with a large picnic shelter covering several picnic tables, two serving tables, grills and food storage lockers for bear safety. Six cleared tent pads, as well as one accessible tent site, are adjacent to the picnic area. Most of the tent sites are open and sunny. RVs and trailers are permitted.   
  
Visitors must bring their own drinking water; none is provided.

## Natural Features

Campsites sit amid a high desert oak scrub ecosystem at an elevation of 4,500 feet on the slopes of the Santa Catalina Mountains. Along the banks of Molino Creek, which flows during and immediately after rain or snowmelt, species such as cottonwood, Arizona live oak and mesquite provide a scenic setting. Views are dominated by rugged, rocky hills. Colorful wildflowers bloom in spring. 

## Nearby Attractions

Catalina Highway (also known as General Hitchcock Highway and Sky Island Scenic Byway), the only paved road that leads to the upper reaches of Mt. Lemmon and the Santa Catalina Range, is one of the most scenic highways in the Southwest and definitely worth a day trip.   
  
Other notable attractions include Saguaro National Park, Sabino Canyon, Colossal Cave and the city of Tucson.

Molino Basin Campground

This is the HEADLINE

Western

$150 to REI, $100 to MiiR, and 1 year of The Dyrt PRO

**GRAND PRIZE**
$150 to REI, $100 to MiiR, and 1 year of The Dyrt PRO

**4 RUNNERS UP WIN**
[The Dyrt PRO](https://thedyrt.com/pro): 6-Month Membershp


nearby

Looking for the best tent campgrounds in Arizona? It's easy to find a Arizona campground for tent camping with the Dyrt. Each tent site offers quick access to one or more of Arizona's most popular destinations.

Arizona

The Best Tent Camping in Arizona

Searching for the perfect place to pitch your tent near Saguaro National Park? The Dyrt can help you find the best tent campsites for your next trip. Each tent site offers quick access to one or more of Saguaro National Park, Arizona's most popular destinations.

Saguaro National Park

The Best Tent Camping Near Saguaro National Park, Arizona

## Overview

Whitetail Campground offers group campsites in the foothills of the Catalina Mountains of southeastern Arizona, 5 miles south of the town of Summerhaven and the top of Mt. Lemmon. Groups can enjoy picking, hiking, camping and wildlife watching while enjoying a cool respite from hot summer. The facility can accommodate groups for day or overnight use.

## Recreation

Hiking and sightseeing are popular activities. The surrounding national forest boasts a variety of trails, including some on the 9,157-foot Mt. Lemmon, for those who wish to venture away from the campground for the day.   
  
The University of Arizona runs an observatory just up the road, and visitors can also drive a few minutes to the small town of Summerhaven, which offers amenities and attractions on Mt. Lemmon's summit.   
  
Anglers can try for stocked trout at nearby Rose Canyon Lake.

## Facilities

All five group areas have picnic shelters that can accommodate between 40 to 90 people each and come equipped with drinking water, electricity (small appliances only), trash collection and vault toilets.

## Natural Features

Whitetail Campground sits high on the slopes of the Santa Catalina Mountains at an elevation of 8,000 feet. Because of its elevation, it can be much cooler than the lower-elevation campgrounds in the area. The campsites are spacious and spread out among stands of big ponderosa pines   
  
The Coronado National Forest covers 1.78 million acres of southeastern Arizona and southwestern New Mexico. Elevations range from 3,000 to 10,720 feet in 12 widely scattered mountain ranges, or "sky islands," that rise dramatically from the desert floor, supporting biologically diverse plant communities. 

## Nearby Attractions

Catalina Highway, also known as General Hitchcock Highway and Sky Island Scenic Byway, is the only paved road that leads to the upper reaches of Mt. Lemmon and the Santa Catalina Range, offering a scenic day trip.   
  
Other notable attractions include Saguaro National Park, Sabino Canyon and Colossal Cave.

Whitetail Campground

Accessibility is not guaranteed, always scout ahead before driving down dirt roads. Learn more: https://www.campendium.com/camping/boondocking-101/

Redington Pass - Dispersed Camping

Rincon Country East RV Resort

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Phoenix, AZ has a lot to offer. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Phoenix. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Phoenix camping trip.

Phoenix

The Best Camping Near Phoenix, Arizona

Tucson, AZ is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Tucson

The Best Tucson Camping | Arizona Campgrounds

Looking for the best campgrounds near Mesa, AZ? Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Mesa. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Mesa camping trip.

Mesa

The Best Camping Near Mesa, Arizona

Chandler, AZ is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. 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. Discover great camping spots near Chandler, reviewed by campers like you.

Chandler

The Best Camping Near Chandler, Arizona

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Glendale, AZ is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Glendale, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Arizona camping adventure.

Glendale

The Best Camping Near Glendale, Arizona

Scottsdale is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Scottsdale, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Find the best campgrounds near Scottsdale, AZ. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Scottsdale

The Best Camping Near Scottsdale, Arizona

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Gilbert, AZ has a lot to offer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Find the best campgrounds near Gilbert, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Gilbert

The Best Camping Near Gilbert, Arizona

Are you in need of a campground near Tempe, AZ? 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 campground for your Tempe camping trip.

Tempe

The Best Camping Near Tempe, Arizona

Peoria is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Peoria and user-submitted reviews.

Peoria

The Best Camping Near Peoria, Arizona

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Surprise, AZ is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Surprise is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Find the best campgrounds near Surprise, AZ. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Surprise

The Best Camping Near Surprise, Arizona

Prescott National Forest, AZ is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Prescott National Forest and user-submitted reviews.

Prescott National Forest

The Best Camping Near Prescott National Forest, Arizona

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Kaibab National Forest. Kaibab National Forest is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Find the best campgrounds near Kaibab National Forest, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Kaibab National Forest

The Best Camping Near Kaibab National Forest, Arizona

Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Arizona camping adventure.

Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest

The Best Camping Near Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, Arizona

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Coconino National Forest Recreation, AZ is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Coconino National Forest Recreation is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Find the best campgrounds near Coconino National Forest Recreation, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Coconino National Forest Recreation

The Best Camping Near Coconino National Forest Recreation, Arizona

Coronado National Forest, AZ is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Find the best campgrounds near Coronado National Forest, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Coronado National Forest

The Best Camping Near Coronado National Forest, Arizona

Tonto National Forest is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Discover great camping spots near Tonto National Forest, reviewed by campers like you.

Tonto National Forest

The Best Camping Near Tonto National Forest, Arizona

Near Tucson, AZ — with the city dividing the national park in half — visitors and residents can find some of the best camping in the state. Saguaro National Park is named for the large desert cactus that decorates the Arizona landscape. Along with camping among the gigantic cacti, you can explore the Tucson Mountain District, follow trails to petroglyphs created by the ancient Hohokam from your campsite, and enjoy stunning sunsets and starry night skies in the Rincon Mountains. Campgrounds accommodate RV and walk-in campers. Visitors can also find roomy cabins near Saguaro National Park to stay in comfort.

The Best Camping Near Saguaro National Park, Arizona

Grand Canyon National Park, AZ is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Grand Canyon National Park camping trip.

Grand Canyon National Park

The Best Camping Near Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, AZ is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Arizona camping adventure.

Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument

The Best Camping Near Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, Arizona

Looking for the best campgrounds near Degray Lake, AZ? Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Degray Lake is surrounded by family-friendly activities. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Degray Lake camping trip.

The Best Camping in Saguaro National Park, Arizona

Top Saguaro National Park Campgrounds

Rancho del Nido

Red Barn Campground

The Desert Sanctuary at Rincon Peak - PERMANENTLY CLOSED

Molino Basin Campground

Happy Valley Saddle

Manning Camp

Whitetail Campground

Rose Canyon Campground

Redington Pass - Dispersed Camping

Rincon Country East RV Resort

Browse By Type

Browse Saguaro National Park Boat-In

Rose Canyon Campground

Cactus Country RV Park - 55+

Colossal Cave Mountain Park

Browse Saguaro National Park Drive-In

Rancho del Nido

Red Barn Campground

The Desert Sanctuary at Rincon Peak - PERMANENTLY CLOSED

Browse Saguaro National Park Hike-In

Rancho del Nido

Happy Valley Saddle

Manning Camp

Browse Saguaro National Park Walk-In

Rancho del Nido

Molino Basin Campground

Happy Valley Saddle

Get the App

See What We’re Up To