Camping near Summerhaven, Arizona offers elevations ranging from 4,000 to 9,000 feet with distinct ecological zones. The temperature differential between Tucson and Mount Lemmon campgrounds can exceed 30°F, making this area popular during summer months when valley temperatures soar above 100°F. Campers can access sites ranging from primitive to fully equipped, with seasonal availability determined by weather patterns.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Find routes for all skill levels at Mount Bigelow Dispersed Camping, located at higher elevations on Mount Lemmon. "Bunch of hiking trails near by, and perfect temperatures in the summer heat," notes Ethan B., who camped at Mount Bigelow Dispersed.
Trout fishing: Rose Canyon Lake provides stocked trout fishing at 7,000 feet elevation, approximately 5 miles below Summerhaven. "Rose canyon lake is stocked with trout for some easy and fun fishing and camping. Gets crowded during times when lake is stocked," reports Tanner H. who visited Rose Canyon Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings offer the best opportunities for spotting local fauna. "We spotted both turkeys and deer and were visited by some cotamundi as well," shares Brianna W. from her stay at Peppersauce Campground. "Tons of sites make sure to lock up your food i had a skunk visitor," adds Eric M. after camping at Spencer Canyon.
Night sky observation: The mountain's elevation provides exceptional stargazing conditions away from city lights. "We arrived on a Sunday evening and were incredibly lucky to get a site close to the lake! The drive up to the campground is gorgeous and the campground is great as well," writes Amelio S. about their experience at Rose Canyon Campground.
What campers like
Temperature relief: The dramatic elevation change creates significantly cooler conditions. "It is an absolutely beautiful area, and the views more than make up for some of the shortcomings of the site," notes Kati H. about Redington Pass Dispersed Camping. "I loved this spot, stayed here for 11 days. It's up above Tucson so it's a bit cooler and you catch some breezes," adds Cameron M.
Campsite spacing: Some locations offer more privacy than others. "Camping high in the mountains above Tucson was great. Rose Canyon campsites are spaced out and quiet," explains Jeramie D. "Overall, the campsites are larger than normal and the sites are even. There are also ample trees to hang a hammock to relax during the day."
Ecological transitions: The drive up Mount Lemmon showcases multiple biomes. "A national campground on the edge of Tucson Arizona with spectacular views, mountains, hiking, and biking trails. Quiet and campers spaced far apart," describes Nancy L. about Molino Basin Campground.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathrooms. "The restroom and shower facility in loop A was clean and adequate, with three toilet stalls (one of which was ADA compliant, as well as two showers (one being ADA compliant)," details Janet H. about her stay at Catalina State Park.
What you should know
Reservations importance: During peak seasons (April-October), campgrounds fill quickly. "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.
Road conditions: Mountain roads require careful driving. "The road up is twisty and bumpy. Mountain biking just up the road," warns Ashley M. about Redington Pass. "The road is very bumpy, with lots of potholes and washouts. I would personally not suggest towing anything up this road," adds Angela G.
Limited services: Many campgrounds have minimal amenities. "Affordable campground for mostly tent and 'car camping'. Vault toilets we lacking locks. At the time of this writing, the water was not working because the previous years fire melted the water supply line," explains Robert G. about Peppersauce Campground.
Bear activity: Food storage precautions are mandatory. "All sites have a large bear box, concrete picnic table, charcoal grill and an iron fire pit," notes Dray S. "We had a nice area to park the car and a second area to setup our tent. There was even a third area beyond that, for another tent or a second spot for a campfire fire," describes Dare To Everywhere.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible trails: Look for shorter routes suitable for all ages. "We took our kids for a hike on the Brown Mountain Loop trail, after passing the picnic area," mentions Hilary S. from Gilbert Ray Campground.
Space for activities: Some sites provide ample room for children to play. "Great place for kids to explore and see wildlife," recommends Brianna W. about Peppersauce Campground. "Unplug and relax as there is no cell service but easy access to toilets and water when needed."
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer nature learning experiences. "Perfect for a quick weekend getaway from Tucson. The weather here is 10-15 degrees cooler than the city. This campground is small, with tent sites tucked away between pine trees," explains Candy P. about General Hitchcock Campground.
Campground loops: Circular layouts allow for safer play areas. "Nice loop to have kids run around. Very full campground but everyone is friendly!" observes Ashley C. about Gilbert Ray Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Many mountain campgrounds cannot accommodate large rigs. "Some spots vary in size so make sure your rig can fit. Also some more difficult to back up into," advises peter S. about Gilbert Ray Campground. "Also many spigots dispersed so filling you tanks or getting water not too much an issue. I used 100 ft of hose to refill."
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary by location. "Easy. 50$ for hookup water/electric. Communal Dumpstations on grounds," reports Annika D. about Catalina State Park Campground. "$20 per night. we were 1 of 2 groups there so very peaceful," adds Helen W. about General Hitchcock Campground.
Leveling challenges: Mountain terrain requires careful setup. "The picnic area of the site is level but the whole campsite is NOT so pick your location carefully if you want to pitch your tent on a flat, level plot," warns Dray S. about Spencer Canyon.
Winter preparations: Higher elevations may have ice and snow. "We got to the parking area about 7:40 PM on November 10th. Started up the road to the campsite about 2 miles further up the mountain but at about 1/2 mile the road was so icy that we lost traction," cautions Daniel G. about Mount Bigelow.
