Located about 40 miles northeast of Tucson, San Manuel offers access to diverse camping options ranging from high-elevation forest to low desert terrain. Temperatures can vary dramatically between summer and winter, with elevations ranging from 3,000 feet in San Manuel to nearly 9,000 feet at mountaintop campgrounds. While established yurt camping options near San Manuel are limited, several campgrounds in the surrounding area provide alternative glamping accommodations.
What to do
Explore Mount Lemmon's forest: At Spencer Canyon Campground, visitors can experience dramatic climate change while driving up the mountain. "We went from desert to full forest in the matter of 45min it is nothing I've ever seen before," notes Suzanne P. Hiking trails near the campground provide recreation at higher, cooler elevations.
Visit Summerhaven village: Located less than 6 miles from Spencer Canyon Campground, the small mountain town offers food options. "If you want a break from camp food you can jet up to summerhaven it's not that far and grab lunch," recommends Suzanne P. The town features restaurants and small shops popular with campers seeking supplies.
Search for temporary glamping structures: While permanent yurt camping near San Manuel is scarce, temporary yurt-style accommodations occasionally appear at special events in the area. Some visitors seeking alternative glamping near San Manuel check Palo Verde Estates & RV Park for seasonal offerings.
Explore Saguaro National Park: For day trips, campers can visit the iconic cactus park. "This park is minutes away from the east section of Saguaro National Park. It may look and feel remote, but good shopping, restaurants and attractions are very close," writes HandL C. about Cactus Country RV Park's convenient location.
What campers like
Elevation relief from desert heat: Mount Lemmon campgrounds provide escape from summer temperatures. "Spencer Canyon Campground is a nice campground approx. 20 miles from Tucson up the General Hitchcock Highway... situated at approximately 7,900 feet of elevation. Thus, Spencer Canyon Campground is a great getaway from the Arizona heat," reports Dray S.
Accessible forest camping: General Hitchcock Campground offers pine forest settings within reasonable driving distance. "This sky island campground in Mt Lemmon is perfect for a quick weekend getaway from Tucson. The weather here is 10-15 degrees cooler than the city," notes Candy P.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept amenities. At Pioneer Pass Campground, "The campground and bathrooms were clean. Some of the sites are a little close together, but others are nicely separated. Each site has a nice fire pit with a grill gate and a concrete picnic table," according to Ryan D.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Campers appreciate the natural surroundings at Pioneer Pass Campground, where the environment supports diverse animals. "The campground is nestled in a secluded canyon amongst the Ponderosa Pines and next to an intermittent mountain stream. The views on the drive up from Globe to the campground at 5,900 feet are gorgeous," shares Ryan D.
What you should know
Road conditions vary seasonally: Access to higher elevation campgrounds requires preparation. At Upper Pinal Campground, "On the website it says that the road is good enough for sedan vehicle which is true in good conditions. If you're afraid of heights this might not be the drive you want to take as most of the way you are looking off the side of the mountain with no rails," warns Eli S.
Reservations unavailable at some sites: Many forest service campgrounds operate first-come, first-served. "This campground is walk up only with over 60 sites to choose from. Several sites are double or group size... Your best bet for a good site for the weekend is to get there on Thursday or early Friday," advises Christina C. about Spencer Canyon Campground.
Limited connectivity: Cell service diminishes in mountainous areas. "No service on campground very nice place to get away and relax," mentions Pedro G. about General Hitchcock Campground.
Weather preparedness essential: Temperatures change dramatically with elevation. "Please keep in mind that you are at elevation and temperatures drop significantly," cautions Eli S. about Upper Pinal Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with nearby activities: For family outings, select locations with recreation options. Cactus Country RV Park offers "a neat cactus garden to walk through. Shuffle board available too," according to Kaylene H.
Consider Whitetail for groups: Coronado National Forest Whitetail Group Site accommodates larger gatherings. "This campground boasts several group sites, complete with plenty of parking, large gazebos with multiple grills for your group gatherings, and tent pads scattered throughout. The tent pads are not close together, giving you the privacy you need to retreat to your tent but still close to the amenities of the group site," explains Candy P.
Look for campgrounds with water features: Children enjoy natural water sources. At Pioneer Pass, some sites are positioned "next to an intermittent mountain stream" according to Ryan D.
Check for firewood availability: Some campgrounds have ample natural materials. "The entire area had a lot of downed and broken trees for firewood. We could have easily supplied our fire all weekend with just broken pieces," writes Krista Z. about Upper Pinal Campground.
Tips from RVers
Verify site dimensions before arrival: Many forest campgrounds have limited space for larger rigs. At Spencer Canyon, "Parking can be limited with only a few of the sites having adequate parking for trailers up to 22 feet," notes Christina C.
Consider weather when traveling: Mountain roads pose challenges for RVs in poor conditions. "Do not go unless you have a 4x4 or are positive about the condition at the top. It was 67° in Globe this day. I have an E350 dually and I was sliding," warns Thomas P. about Pioneer Pass.
Check hookup availability: Water and electric access varies between campgrounds. At BLM off of W Valencia Rd, you'll find "level ground, lots of room. Any size camper will work. Turn north on the dirt road just west of the casino and follow the power lines north up a coupe hundred yards and you will see the camping area just off your right," according to david M.
Consider safety in camping locations: Security varies by area. "Nice views of the mountains and close to town for supplies or Casino if you feel compelled to part with some cash," notes Kathy S. about the BLM camping area, adding that "Some trash and evidence of full-time living led to 3 stars vs. 4."
