Tent campsites near Summerhaven, Arizona offer diverse backcountry experiences at elevations ranging from 2,500 to 8,200 feet. Located in the Santa Catalina Mountains northeast of Tucson, these camping areas transition from Sonoran Desert to alpine forest ecosystems. During winter months, higher elevation sites can experience freezing overnight temperatures while summer monsoon storms typically occur in July and August.
What to do
Backpacking to remote sites: Happy Valley Saddle Campground requires a 4.6-mile hike and permits from Saguaro National Park. "A moderate 4.6 mile hike after 16 miles on a dirt road. The hike up is BEAUTIFUL and not overly steep (but watch for snakes)," notes Nicole J. from Happy Valley Saddle Campground.
Rock climbing access: Gordon Hirabayashi Campground serves as a convenient base for accessing nearby climbing routes. "It sits away from the Highway so is a little quieter and has easy access to several hiking/mountain biking trails, horse trails, and a rock climbing area," according to Linette G. from Gordon Hirabayashi Campground.
Winter camping opportunities: Tent sites remain accessible year-round at General Hitchcock Campground with proper cold-weather gear. "I went with a couple of friends if you go prepared with winter gear you won't be cold, hiking trails are great and near campsite. Great views," says Pedro G. about General Hitchcock Campground.
What campers like
Fire options at higher elevations: While fire restrictions frequently apply at lower elevations, some mountain sites retain designated fire areas during cooler months. "The campsite itself is positioned around a scenic and historic cabin which has a great story to tell to all those who arrive. The water here is really beautiful," mentions Crystal C. from Manning Camp.
Group facilities: Showers Point Group Site offers dedicated areas for larger camping parties with shared amenities. "Shower Point group site is a wonderfully maintained camping area that can support up to Three large groups at a time. The toilets were spotlessly maintained and running potable water was easily available," according to Kevin S. from Showers Point Group Site.
Dispersed camping proximity: Several informal tent sites can be found along forest service roads not far from town. "Several spots off a dirt road that parallels the main road here. Accessed relatively easily (slowly) in my 23 Ft Class C. Some road noise," reports a camper at Charouleau Gap.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most tent areas lack potable water, requiring campers to bring all needed supplies. "Happy Valley campground's name can be deceiving... it's actually at 6,000' of elevation, 4.6 miles up the Miller Creek trail in the Rincon mountains east of Tucson. Water can be scarce in the Rincons so plan accordingly!" warns Jered K. from Happy Valley Saddle Campground.
Site spacing considerations: Campgrounds vary significantly in privacy levels between sites. "There are about 14 camp sights, some right by the little river that forms during snowfall. We camped at site 6, right across from the restrooms. Has some nice boulders to tuck your tent away in, and no really close neighbors. Seems like the rest of the sites you have neighbors right next to you, basically sharing a camp," explains Paul S. at General Hitchcock Campground.
Bear safety requirements: Backcountry sites in the Rincon Mountains provide bear boxes for food storage. "Each spot has a fire ring, bear box, and some good size stumps to sit on around the fire," notes a camper at Happy Valley Saddle.
Tips for camping with families
Best family-friendly sites: Some campgrounds offer easier access while still providing mountain environments. "Great place for a weekend getaway, I went with a couple a friends... hiking trails are great and near campsite," mentions Pedro G. about General Hitchcock.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience varied noise levels depending on visitor traffic. "The campground is ok, but attracts all kinds of people some more raucous than others. The hike from there is well worth doing, into sycamore canyon, though there are several other hikes close by," reports Nadine A. at Gordon Hirabayashi.
Seasonal timing: For families with children, plan visits during spring or fall for moderate temperatures. "It was a bit chilly in December but slept comfortably," shares a camper at Happy Valley Saddle Campground.
Tips from RVers
Dispersed options: Limited dispersed camping exists for smaller RVs and vans along forest roads. "Several spots off a dirt road that parallels the main road here. Accessed relatively easily (slowly) in my 23 Ft Class C. Some road noise," notes Ian T. from Charouleau Gap Trailhead Camp.
Size restrictions: Most established campgrounds near Summerhaven cannot accommodate larger RVs. "Spent a couple of weeks here. It's a busier campground, as there is trailhead parking at the end of the campground, so expect lots of dust. Easier to pull in with a tiny travel trailer than the Molino Canyon," explains a camper at Gordon Hirabayashi Campground.
Water availability: No hookups exist at any sites near Summerhaven, requiring self-contained systems. "There is 3 spots at the camp. Each spot has a fire ring, bear box, and some good size stumps to sit on around the fire. There is a vaulted toilet at the site as well," adds a camper regarding facilities.
