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
$25 / night
Part of the Douglas Ranger District
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
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.
Guide
Washboard road first 10 miles. Then rough sandy road 5 more miles to the area. Many secluded spots. Good service with Verizon.
Guide
I really like this location. The washboard road was really rough and took me forty minutes to go 15 miles. The sites are totally huge and there are plenty of them along the road. You could have a really big group out here. The dragoon mountains are beautiful and you get pretty close. I wouldn’t suggest any large campers to go very far past the first few sites the road gets narrow and rough.
Guide
This area was pretty hard to get to rough road. It is a quaint little wooded area there are other spots before this one with better views but it was windy when I was there. Also probably better in the spring and summer months as there is ample shade.
Guide
This place is really pretty and very easy to get hear. The camping is limited at the main viewing area but there is an overflow camping area which is very flat. During the winter months October to march I think there are about 20000 Sandhills cranes super cool. It’s in an open valley with distant mountians all around.
Scout
The host offered to help with anything we may have forgotten or needed. Great fires every night. Cool spot
Scout
Been here a couple of months and have enjoyed it
GuideWashboard ride in but well worth it. Found a spot down a side road that was perfect. Quiet with great views . 2 bars with Verizon
Ranger
This a rectangular parking lot literally zero feet from the highway. No trees, no privacy, no nothing except an unmaintained dirt lot.
WOULD NOT RECOMEND.
Ranger
Drove in for a one night stay. Last 0.4 miles were rough. Road did not appear to have been maintained since the last rain which was last year.
There were a series of small campsites along the road starting where Google Maps said we had arrived. We went another .2 miles further and found a larger spot with an awesomely large fire pit.
There is a lot of traffic on the Sunday we we re there. Don't know if they are looking for a camp site or day hikers.
Overall this is better than most desert camping options if your vehicle can make it up bad roads.
LegendYou drive up a steep hill to the top there are nice spots to park for the night. Not idea for large rigs or trailers. Just park your vehicle. It over looks sierra vista.
TravelerMy sprinter had no problem getting there without needing 4WD but I would not take a trailer or anything larger than 25 ft. Views are spectacular same for the nighttime sky So quiet you can hear the crows flying near the mountains. The darkness is incredible
Scout
The owners/managers are very friendly and kind. They told us where else to explore down in this region. Their bird feeders and birding area has way more birds than just the Ramsey Cyn preserve. We saw lots of birds and very close. Also saw lots of turkey and Coos deer. They are also knowledgable about their birds. The wild life and birding opportunity is the reason to stay there. They charged full hook up but have only electric. We did not get a discount at Ramsey Canyon Preserve for booking at the Cabins, though we were told otherwise. The Cabins are not affiliated with the Nature Conservancey.
Scout
Great views! Great facility. The hosts were very communicative and helpful. Loads of wineries and hiking trails are a short drive away.
Scout
Great quiet park with views. Saw a lot of good birds out here.
ScoutBeautiful land and big lots. The kids and I used the hiking trails and played horseshoe toss. There are bathrooms, showers, and washing machines. Will visit again.
GuideDidn’t really drive all the way in since a car that was coming out stated he wouldn’t recommend us driving in. One way road. Decided to turn back around.
GuideCant give my honest opinion since we were led to the overflow path not the actual entrance No one here it was nice and secluded however a lot of loose dirt that gets everywhere. There was a one way road that you can take I wouldn’t recommend 40ft Rv taking the small path. Only stopped to let the dogs out and have some leg time off leash. Dry during the time we were there.
Guide
50$ a night on debit or credit card or 45 $ cash place was small and super cute walking distance from all the shops, we did bring in our 40ft Rv with ease, only 30amp hook ups. Small side area to take your dogs to restroom. Overall loved the view of the open copper mind near the office. The guy running the place was really nice. No complaints. Camped here for Christmas
Guide
This dispersed camping area was a lot more secluded and quieter than I expected. My friend and I were looking to camp overnight before going on a gravel bike ride in the area.
Harshaw Road was already along the bike route, so this was an ideal location. Bonus that this is pretty close to Patagonia which came in handy when we couldn't make coffee in the morning.
We drove a little further than the GPS marker to find a camping spot that was tucked in from the main road. There were plenty of spots for a large group with rock fire pits. As someone mentioned, there was an area further back that was clearly the bathroom spot.
Assume that this spot could get full in the shoulder seasons, but again was pleasantly surprised to be the only ones there.
TravelerMet some friends here. We had a fire in the fire pit and hiked around. Dog park was nice and the bath house had clean showers and facilities. WiFi was free and good. Site was clean, level and pull through.
TravelerOff the beaten trail a bit but we really enjoyed our stay here. Hiking trail entrances right in the park and it’s close to the San Pedro river.
There is a laundry/mail room with a restroom and then a separate bathhouse near the front. Nice little dog park for our pooch to run around too and we used the public firepit.
Kiddos said there were horseshoes to play.
TravelerWe called and spoke with the office, they said they had a spot for us. We were able to go look at the sites there were only a handful open, we parked and had fhu. Internet is additional from another provider. Paid monthly rate plus electric. Everything is within walking distance. Right off the main road and the train tracks are close by and run 24/7. Staff is helpful but office is closed on weekends, but if you call and set it up they have a number to call and they will be there in a few minutes. Has pay laundry. Bathroom and showers.
Ranger
First class RV park where only members of the Escapees
rv club may lease or rent a site. Most sites have a casita which are taxed locally as "sheds". The waiting list to lease a site is several years. I am currently number 248 on the list. 2o months ago I was 350. It is also a 55+ years old RV park
TravelerKim & Dan are wonderful hosts. The property is on the side of a slope with expansive views. Spotlessly clean porta potty. Safe. Peaceful. Horses and cows. I booked 2 nights and as soon as I set up camp I booked two more. So glad I did. Great location. Delicious well water.
Traveler
Stopped here along a 400 mile bikepacking route through southern az. We were immediately welcomed and given a tour by Astral, who quickly became our friend. Astral even recommended an amazing wild camp spot for our following evening, near the border. That evening, Mary made us a delicious dinner that nurtured our bodies, minds and souls. There was plenty of room for tents, as well as tent pads to help keep you warm throughout the night. The bathrooms, showers and laundry were an extra perk after a couple days worth of riding. This will be a regular stop for me anytime I visit Patagonia, which will be often ❤️
Traveler
Wi-fi non existent, bathrooms under construction, otherwise good for a week.
Scout
This is a parking lot location close to the action of this amazing small community! The host Leann is about the friendliest person you’ll ever meet! Love it 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 129 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.
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