Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Sierra Vista, AZ has a lot to offer. Sierra Vista is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Sierra Vista. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.
All campsites at Kartchner feature electric hookups and water. Your camping fee includes use of the shower/restroom, water, electrical and dump station facilities.
All campsites have a table, hose bib and power post. Each back-in site power post is 110 volt AC with a 30 amp RV connection and a 20 amp receptacle. Each pull-through site power post has a 220 volt 50 amp AC & an 110 volt 30 amp AC RV connection and a 20 AMP GFI receptacle. Sites vary in length from 35’ for the shortest back in sites to 60’ in the pull through sites; all sites are single width. Sites have ample room on the side areas for pull out units.
There are three handicapped designated sites (one is a pull through site), 12 pull-through sites and 43 other sites of varying sizes. Handicapped designated sites have paved access to the site and adjacent restroom, a paved pad, and wheelchair accessible table.
Waste bins and shower/restroom facilities are located on the upper west end of each campground. Restroom buildings have bottled water vending machines and dishwashing sinks located on the rear east side.
Important Note: At this park, the entrance gate is closed nightly at 10 p.m. The two-loop campground is located off of the main road past the Discovery Center on the southwest end of the park. Camping fees are payable with cash, Visa or Mastercard at the Contact Station the day of arrival, or at the Discovery Center the following day. Fees must be paid daily or in advance and there is a 14-day stay limit.
Access card keys for camper after-hours entering the park are administered by the four Campground Hosts.
$30 - $99 / night
When it comes to activities at Patagonia Lake, camping is a must. The campground features 105 developed campsites with a picnic table, a fire ring/grill, and parking for two vehicles. Select sites also have a ramada. Sites have 20/30 amp and 50 amp voltage. Sites tend to fill up in the evening from May until November. Campsite lengths vary but most can accommodate any size RV. Quiet hours (no generators, music, or loud voices) are from 9 p.m. – 8 a.m. See Park Rules.
$25 - $119 / night
Located on a hill overlooking Parker Canyon Lake, campsites are spread among a stand of oaks and junipers. From the campground it is just a short walk to the lakeshore or a short drive to the boat launch ramp, fishing pier, paved parking areas and paved walkways, all of which are accessible to persons with disabilities. Parker Canyon Lake and Lakeview Campground are generally less crowded than similar areas that are more easily accessible. On some days you can hike the entire 5-mile trail around the lake and have only the resident wildlife for company. This trail has several viewing areas complete with benches and interpretive signs. Two of the viewing areas are barrier-free. It is an excellent place to view the waterfowl that either live at the lake or use it as a stopover on their seasonal migration. Bald eagles and osprey are also frequently sighted here, as are Coues white-tailed deer and an occasional extended family of coatimundi, those long-tailed, long-nosed southwestern cousins of the raccoon. Note: Black bears are common in the area. This campground is accessible to persons with disabilities.
$25 - $40 / night
$10 / night
This high-mountain group campground and day use area is located on a site that was once occupied by the old mining town of Reef. Many relics of Reef's mining history, including the remains of the town's old water system, are still visible in and around the campground. Groups of up to 50 people can enjoy walking an interpretive history trail, hiking, horseback riding and watching wildlife in this cool mountain setting.
Reef Townsite Loop Trail, an interpretive trail that highlights the mining history of this area and showcases beautiful views, begins and ends at the northeastern edge of the campground. The national forest has a variety of hiking and mountain biking trails for those who wish to leave the facility for a day trip.
This site rests on the "Reef" rock formations in the in the Huachuca Mountains. At an elevation of 7,200 feet, it provides a cool respite from the heat of surrounding lower deserts in summer. 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.
$45 / night
Part of the Douglas Ranger District
Camping on public lands away from developed recreation facilities is referred to as dispersed camping. Most of the remainder of public lands are open to dispersed camping, as long as it does not conflict with other authorized uses or in areas posted "closed to camping," or in some way adversely affects wildlife species or natural resources. Dispersed camping is allowed on public land for a period not to exceed 14 days within a 28 consecutive day period. The 28 day period begins when a camper initially occupies a specific location on public lands. The 14 day limit may be reached either through a number of separate visits or through 14 days of continuous overnight occupation during the 28 day period. After the 14th day of occupation, the camper must move outside of a 25 mile radius of the previous location until the 29th day since the initial occupation. The purpose of this special rule is to prevent damage to sensitive resources caused by continual use of any particular areas. In addition, campers must not leave any personal property unattended for more than 10 days (12 months in Alaska). Campsite Selection Dispersed camp sites are located along most secondary roads and may not be marked. Popular locations can be recognized by the telltale flat disturbed area that has been used as a camp site before. Not all flat spots are sites. If possible, please use existing sites to avoid creating new disturbances. To further protect your public lands, campers must not dispose of any refuse, hazardous materials, sewage, or in any manner pollute the surrounding area.
Located on a hill overlooking Parker Canyon Lake, campsites are spread among a stand of oaks and junipers. From the campground it is just a short walk to the lakeshore or a short drive to the boat launch ramp, fishing pier, paved parking areas and paved walkways, all of which are accessible to persons with disabilities. Parker Canyon Lake and Lakeview Campground are generally less crowded than similar areas that are more easily accessible. On some days you can hike the entire 5-mile trail around the lake and have only the resident wildlife for company. This trail has several viewing areas complete with benches and interpretive signs. Two of the viewing areas are barrier-free. It is an excellent place to view the waterfowl that either live at the lake or use it as a stopover on their seasonal migration. Bald eagles and osprey are also frequently sighted here, as are Coues white-tailed deer and an occasional extended family of coatimundi, those long-tailed, long-nosed southwestern cousins of the raccoon. Note: Black bears are common in the area. This campground is accessible to persons with disabilities.
$25 - $40 / night
This high-mountain group campground and day use area is located on a site that was once occupied by the old mining town of Reef. Many relics of Reef's mining history, including the remains of the town's old water system, are still visible in and around the campground. Groups of up to 50 people can enjoy walking an interpretive history trail, hiking, horseback riding and watching wildlife in this cool mountain setting.
Reef Townsite Loop Trail, an interpretive trail that highlights the mining history of this area and showcases beautiful views, begins and ends at the northeastern edge of the campground. The national forest has a variety of hiking and mountain biking trails for those who wish to leave the facility for a day trip.
This site rests on the "Reef" rock formations in the in the Huachuca Mountains. At an elevation of 7,200 feet, it provides a cool respite from the heat of surrounding lower deserts in summer. 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.
$45 / night
Traveler
Such a nice Campground. The host was friendly, and helpful. The grounds are very clean and it looks like campers are at least one space away from another. We stayed here and traveled to Tombstone, Tucson Botanical Gardens, and Old Tucson. All an easy drive away. I would definitely stay here again.
Guide
Nice spot just off the AZT, stayed while on a bike trip on the trail. Camped in the La Selvilla section in the back of the canyon. Plenty of room and spots are not too tight and most had shade trees. All had flat tent pad, table and fire ring. There is a group spot with a pavilion that has running water, and pit toilets. Verizon was one bar, got a few calls out but text would not work. They do lock the gate at 4:00, so once in, you are there for the night. Only one other group when we were there. Would go back for sure.
Scout
We ended up staying longer than planned, very nice place close to bisbee but far enough to enjoy some quiet and beautiful night sky. Clean facilities with hot showers. the clubhouse is also a great place to hangout, with lots of appliances free to use. Owners very sweet and always here to help. Highly recommend and will be back!! They have RV sites with full hookups but also dry camping sites
Traveler
Easy access to Bisbee historical area. 5 minute walk! Nice quiet park, level spots, and view of town.
Traveler
Great campsite. We had two campers, a 34 ft 5th wheel and a 17 foot TT. Sites were built to accommodate both easily. Water, electric, sewer hookup, and even sites made it a quick set up and we were able to get to site-seeing in town quickly! Breakfast at the Shotgun Cafe was excellent! You have to order the country potatoes!
Scout
Great campsite but a bit weedy. They could have cleaned it out a bit. We had to weed the side to get to the services.
Traveler
We stayed here in late August to hike the AZ Trail, but it isn't really a campsite. We set up a tiny tent in the tall grass, but there isn't a designated place to set-up camp, fire pit, etc. Also, it might get busy with cars during the more popular hiking seasons because it is a starting point for both passage 1 and 2 of the Arizona Trail. That being said, it worked for us for one night. It had a nice view of the lake.
Guide
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!
Traveler
This place is perfect for dry camping a short distance from historic Main Street Tombstone. There were no amenities, so be prepared! You cannot beat the price! For car/tent camping there are some private spaces with a little shade and evidence of past campfires. Be sure to stay to the left of the sign to go into the lower camping area. Pay your 10 bucks at the drop box.
Guide
-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.
Guide
Quiet park, level and clean gravel sites. About 5 minutes from the town of Tombstone. It’s was getting down to freezing temperatures in November briefly over night. You can rent an outdoor fireplace and buy firewood on site too.
Ranger
Great area of you plan to have everything with you. There is a ranch up the road along the way to the end of the road towards the top. Great place to hang out and enjoy the quiet. Take a drive up the road. Onyx Cave isn’t far.
Guide
Off of main road, it’s about 10 miles + of washboard. A bit rough but wide road and fine when going slow. Lots of sites available, also very popular. Beautiful dragoon mountains. Stayed about 1 miles after the Slavin Gulch hike (great hike). Was here thanksgiving weekend (Nov 2023)
ScoutThe place was clean. People were friendly close to attractions and enjoyed our stay very much. Would recommend it. Five star bathrooms were clean.
TravelerArrived around 1pm. Almost empty. Pay cash $10/n at box near entry. Walk to old town. Attended shootout and ok coral. Walked through DT and back to campsite. Clean and convenient. Will stay here again.
Traveler
Moderately rough road out for non 4x4 vehicle road, but fine going slow. Good spots off the road, fairly private and not too many other campers nearby. Lots of animals nearby very loud waking up and ants on the ground, we were glad we were in a roof tent not on the ground.
TravelerThere are lots of sites along Gardner Canyon road, and it can get a little busy. We had a site by a large tree and a wash. The first time cows were our only visitors, but on another trip there was a camper 100 yards away or so. Some of the sites are quite large and are able to fit several large rigs. Depending on the time of year there are some small water crossings passed the ranch. Overall a great place to camp.
GuideThe Stampede is the perfect place to stay. It's right next the town so you can walk if you want. It's quiet and feels safe. The grounds are clean, gravel, and even. We enjoyed our stay.
Legend
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.
Traveler
The place guarantee a beautiful sunset. Really. You can use fireplace and firespot to warm yourself. It include a library, wifi, a fridge (where we find ice) and all attachments for the RV.
GuideTake Middle March road on left off of highway 80. Campsite is 10 miles on the left. The first .5 miles is paved, the other 9.5 miles is primitive (embedded rock, loose gravel, and about 75%washboard). You’ll cross a few cattle guards and dry river beds. Plenty of camping spots with fire rings.
Guide
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.
Guide
We Camped here for two nights with a nice view of elephant head. It is an open range so there are cows walking around. There are quite a few camping spots but had all of them filled by the time we made camp on Friday afternoon. One of the really downsides was we had two skunks walk through our site early Saturday morning and one did spray our 10 months old puppy.
Legend
Cochise stronghold campground is a rugged campground in a deep canyon. The canyon was the refuge for the Chiricahua Apache leader, Cochise. This is a National Forest Service campground. There are Eleven campsites and two group campsites. All are shaded by scrub oaks and surrounded by towering rock formations. The sites have picnic tables and grills. There is no water available so bring your own. No electricity or other facilities. There is a bathroom with flush toilets. There are food storage lockers due to bear activities. It is dog friendly (on leash). This campground is a little hard to get to, with several water crossings. I would not recommend attempting to drive without a high clearance vehicle. Sites are first come first served. Limit 6 people per site. $8 per night.
TravelerStayed one night will return to explore more. Clean restrooms, nice showers, friendly camp hosts.
Legend
Monte Cassino RV Park at Holy Trinity Monastery has 16 full hookup sites (30 Amp) and 3 sites with water and electricity only (30 Amp). Pull through sites can accommodate up to 40 Fr. St. Timothy Hall, adjacent to the RV Park, has bathrooms with shower facilities, a laundry room, and a social hall. Internet, tables and grills, pet friendly. There is a dump station. The Trinity Wild Bird Sanctuary is a 1.3 mile along the San Pedro River.
$35 Nightly sites. $150 weekly $375 monthly. (Plus electricity) The maximum stay is 5 months.
Legend
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.
Camping near Sierra Vista, Arizona, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a quiet place to unwind, there are plenty of options to explore.
Explore Kartchner Caverns State Park: This park is just a short drive from Sierra Vista. One visitor said, “Kartchner Cave is walking distance with a great observation center even if you don’t take a tour into the caves.” It’s a great spot for hiking and checking out the unique cave formations.
Enjoy Patagonia Lake State Park: Perfect for fishing and birdwatching, one camper noted, “Great campground located on a lake. I do really like the birdwatching area outside the visitor center.” The lake also has a small beach for swimming.
Hike in the Dragoon Mountains: Known for its stunning views, a reviewer mentioned, “We found a nice secluded spot among the rocks. Pretty popular place, most spots along the road were occupied but seemed like there were a couple open.” It’s a great area for hiking and enjoying nature.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Sierra Vista, AZ?
According to TheDyrt.com, Sierra Vista, AZ offers a wide range of camping options, with 130 campgrounds and RV parks near Sierra Vista, AZ and 39 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Sierra Vista, AZ?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Sierra Vista, AZ is Kartchner Caverns State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 43 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Sierra Vista, AZ?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 39 free dispersed camping spots near Sierra Vista, AZ.
What parks are near Sierra Vista, AZ?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 parks near Sierra Vista, AZ that allow camping, notably Coronado National Forest and Saguaro National Park.
