Best Tent Camping near Thatcher, AZ

Recent Tent Reviews near Thatcher, Arizona

130 Reviews of 14 Thatcher Campgrounds

• 

  Marty C.

  Scout

  

  Jun. 19, 2018

  Cottonwood Campground — Roper Lake State Park

  One of our favorites

  We love Roper Lake. Great sites with full hook ups, no sewer. Group camping and tent camping available. Hot springs hot tub. Great hiking. Very busy in the winter months and during holidays. Early reservations required.

• A

  Anna S.

  Traveler

  

  Aug. 26, 2022

  Grande Vista RV Park

  Awesome for RV Camping, Tent not so much

  Everyone was super kind and sweet, restrooms/laundry center were very clean and well maintained. Tent camping spots are in front of the park, where the truck wash across the street can be heard prevalently. Cats everywhere are cute and sweet but I’m pretty sure they use the tent spots as their litter box.

• 

  Sara S.

  Legend

  

  Jun. 5, 2016

  Cottonwood Campground — Roper Lake State Park

  please with our stay

  Great camping experience! We were pleased with our camping experience. Good amenities. A couple camping areas/campgrounds to choose from within the park. Camping is designed for Rv's it seems but tent camping is easy to do as well. We had a small 'pavilion' type structure at our site over the picnic table which was a nice feature. Camping cabins were also a nice feature of the park we may utilize on our next trip :) We heard about people having issues with excessive partying/noise, but we were there during the week and didn't have an issue with this. Hot Springs were a nice attraction of the park as well.

• 

  greg M.

  Traveler

  

  Dec. 20, 2021

  Happy Camp Trail

  Huge camping area, all alone

  Thought I was going to see a crowd based on reviews. But nobody here but me. About 5 miles from I-10 to the South. Last 2 miles on dirt bit well maintained. Then you get to a bunch of connected dirt roads. At least 50 campsites off dirt roads. I met some cows on one dirt road and had a stare down. I lost and backed up. Expecting a super quiet night. Tucked into the boulders near the mountains. Very nice. Another clear moonlit night in southern AZ. I LOVE the desert. All sites are on loose dirt and there are many places for larger rigs. I tent camp so don’t need much room. I highly recommend this site. 3 hrs W of Las Cruces NM, 3 hrs from PHX.

• 

  Adam R.

  Guide

  

  Sep. 8, 2018

  Cottonwood Campground — Roper Lake State Park

  Small Oasis in the middle of Southeast Arizona

  Roper lake state park is a beautifully well kept state park. It's $20 a night for tent camping, $30 a night for full RV hookups. (which is kinda high for this area and amenities offered).

  This is my local state park so I visit almost every weekend and kayak the lake. There is a lot of fishing, swimming, and hiking available. There are also some really nice cabins available to rent!

  The camp sights are a small size but offer some privacy from other sites. There are fire rings in every site, as well as a Covered pick-nick tables!!!

  They also offer some full hookup sites, as well as sewage dump and potable water.

  There is a group sized hot tub available for public use that is filled with natural hot springs water as well as a swimming beach and day use area.

• 

  Beth G.

  Legend

  

  Feb. 16, 2020

  Arcadia Campground

  Nice break from the desert heat but overpriced

  My husband, myself and our 2 small dogs live in Tucson, AZ. We recently acquired a roof top tent and we’ve been trying out various campgrounds across the Southwest.

  The drive up scenic highway 366 is worth a trip regardless. There are some amazing views of the Pinaleños. Since it’s still February, the road to the top of the mountain was closed to us so we decided to stay at Arcadia since it’s open year round.

  We were the only people staying overnight, which surprised us since it was a holiday weekend. We did see a group picnicking when we first arrived though. Also, we could hear sports cars on the highway at night. Probably racing down the tight switchbacks.

  No water, so make sure to bring your own. Toilets were clean, pit toilets and there were 2 sets. Campsites are pretty spread out. Some were 30-50 feet from the main road and wouldn’t really suit our needs as RTT campers. Lots of trash cans and a few bear boxes. Each site has a fire pit with a cooking grate and a cement picnic table. For camping in AZ, it is well suited for tent camping. We stayed in site 12. Most other sites wouldn’t not be ideal for RTTs.

  I would definitely return to the Pineleños, but I’m going to wait until April, when we can access the sites at the top of the mountains.

  Overall, it’s a nice wooded area, but with only 1 hiking trail (to Shannon Campground, 10mi r/t) and no vista views from the site, I don’t think it’s worth $20 a night. We decided to only spend 1 night here.

• 

  Lisa M.

  Ranger

  

  Oct. 31, 2024

  Cottonwood Campground — Roper Lake State Park

  Quiet, well maintained state park

  This is our second time staying here and they have started doing some upgrades to the park. New dump station and some new bathrooms and shower houses. We stayed in the Hacienda loop both times. I like this loop better because it doesn’t seem as crowded as the other loops. Sites are well spaced and level. Nice hiking trails around the lake also where you can fish. Very close to Safford and Thatcher that have a great number of stores.

• S

  Sable

  Traveler

  

  Oct. 20, 2020

  Alaskan RV Park

  Simply but convenient!

  Can't beat $10 for a tent. We slept under 2 pistachio trees with fresh nuts. Showers included, very friendly staff. Would recommend.

• J

  Jonathan

  Guide

  

  Mar. 31, 2021

  Black Jack Campground

  High in the Jackpines

  About 15 miles from 3 Way on 78, a nice little CG w pit toilets and no water. Though next to the road, there isn’t much traffic and our night was peaceful. I would guess that there are a dozen sites, fairly flat and good for tenting.

• 

  Kelly W.

  Scout

  

  Aug. 1, 2016

  Cottonwood Campground — Roper Lake State Park

  Fantastic Getaway

  This State Park is very well cared for and a pleasure to stay in. It has three campgrounds, with sites for tents and RV's, as well as eight camping cabins for rent. The lake has fishing, swimming, and is perfect for kayaks and SUP's ... no gas powered motors allowed. The restrooms are nice and clean, with showers. There is also a dump station for RV's to use. There are several miles of walking paths - the wildlife and bird-watching is good. There is also a charming spring-fed natural stone hot tub!

• 

  Owen M.

  Traveler

  

  Oct. 9, 2019

  Grande Vista RV Park

  Friendly Staff, Gravel spots, Clean and convenient to Willcox

  The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars is that the Male showers/restroom was under construction and not usable.

  Gravel drive-through and back-in spots for RVs with 30 or 50 amp connections, water and sewer. Two tent spots. North of Willcox, but the city is small enough that the whole town is within walking distance (we walked to the center of town in about 15 minutes).

  This is basically an old trailer park that has been upgraded to accommodate RVs around the perimeter and a couple of tents near the park/restroom area.

  The shower/restroom area also has laundry facilities.

  We didn't go into the rec room, but were told it has a pool table and a book/video exchange-type library.

  The Rodeo grounds are a short drive across the freeway (don't follow your GPS if it tells you to use airport road - take the route that uses Rex Allen Drive) at Quail park (about 2 miles away - straight shot).  This is a very convenient park to the Rodeo Grounds.

  This park, as was all of Willcox (even though it was Rex Allen Days weekend) is VERY QUIET. Didn't see anyone other than a couple of dog walkers in the morning and the staff when we checked in.

• 

  Beth G.

  Legend

  

  Sep. 25, 2023

  Clark Peak Corrals

  Beautiful Views and Vault Toliet

  Nothing beats the summer Arizona heat like escaping to the top of the Pinaleños.

  At 8800 ft elevation, this corral and campsite offers amazing weather in the summer and gorgeous views off the edge of the mountains.

  Be prepared to bring in anything you might need, including water. There are only about 3 campsites located near the vault toilets, but their are dispersed sites further down the forest road.

  This forest road is gated off during the winter months and this area is not accessible.

• 

  Tony C.

  Guide

  

  Oct. 10, 2021

  Cottonwood Campground — Roper Lake State Park

  Well maintained, great hiking

  We found the ranger to be very helpful in terms of outdoor activities (hiking, fishing, etc.) The park has great spaces for tent campers and big rigs, with electricity for 30 and 50 amp campers. They also have several cabins right on the lake. 

  Our spot had a picnic table and was right beside the beach. There is a great hike only minutes from the campground where you can see Mt. Graham. 

  The bathrooms, showers, and sinks were all well maintained. Also, the spot is great for stargazing.

  We are looking forward to returning. The town of Safford is charming and has some nice restaurants too.

• K

  Kellie L.

  Traveler

  

  May. 12, 2020

  Honeymoon Campground

  Perfect place

  My husband and I went with our 3 small children. The camp ground only has 3-5 camp sites but on the way in there’s places to put tents off the road. The road is long and goes through a few low water crossings which are so fun to play in. There isn’t much fish up there but there’s crawfish galore once you go upstream from the water crossings. We saw tons of animals and livestock. A few locals too but it was a perfect spot for us just a little far to drive.

• 

  Michael B.

  Guide

  

  Jul. 9, 2021

  Upper Twilight Group Site

  Private and Clean

  This site was very private and expansive for the location. There is the lower campsite however it is a bit down from the area where the tents were set up. There were multiple fire rings set up around the camp and the rangers who visited us informed that we may not use them and they were going to be dismantled once we left. There is a "main" fire ring near two tables and a bear box. The restroom being close and CLEAN was a bonus but is the only restroom for both the upper and lower campsites. There are great hikes and trails in the surrounding areas especially if you want to venture off trail to a lookout point nearby. Highly recommend this site for families and new to camping campers.

• 

  Susan A.

  Traveler

  

  Dec. 3, 2018

  Alaskan RV Park

  Take a trip down Music Road for a great stay!

  Alaskan RV Park is conveniently located off of I-10 at Exit 366 near Bowie. The park features affordable RV sites at $20/night. The sites are all spacious pull-throughs. There is a dump station on site($10), and water refill available (based on tank size, but not more than $20). The park is handicap accessible and pet friendly. No breed restrictions. Tenting is also available. There are showers and laundry available. Alaskan RV Park is Bowie's best kept secret as it was the site of the Sideman Jamboree each year and featured music from country stars. The park hopes to bring music back to the stage in the future.

• 

  Candy P.

  Legend

  

  Dec. 29, 2020

  Cottonwood Campground — Roper Lake State Park

  Desert Terrain with Moutain View

  There is plenty to do at Roper Lake. Great spots for RVs, tents, and cabins too. This is a popular area so get your reservations in early. The lake was low in December and it was windy and cold, but we made the best of it and enjoyed the views of snow capped Mt. Graham. Campground was clean and very dog friendly. They have a dog park. The have a junior ranger program... fun for the little ones! We did notice that many weren’t following covid protocol in bathrooms and around the campsite. But we had no problem social distancing and keeping to ourselves, even with our loop completely full. We felt safe and comfortable. Your stay also includes access to Dankworth Pond State Park, a 10 min drive down the road. The pond is small, but you’ll catch more fish here. There are also great educational hiking paths with information & replicas of tribal villages. Worth the drive!

• 

  Kaileen F.

  Guide

  

  Sep. 29, 2021

  Riggs Flat Campground

  Perfect

  Me and the boys picked a site with a few flat areas for tents. Standard issue picnic tables and fire pits with a flat common area is fantastic. Very easy access to this cute little Lake that is stocked with fish. Good fishing if you're into it. Definitely some trails on the mountain, but we also greatly enjoyed just wandering through the forest to some local lookouts. No sour reception in Camp that we've found, but if you walk out to the West edge of the mountain you can pick some up. The pine Forest up here is fantastic. Not as many Aspen's at this camp as others on the mountain. We got caught in some pretty heavy rain. Definitely be aware of the weather and that the mountains attract more rain. It is definitely a healthy drive to get out there, and the last 30 minutes or so is dirt with some holes and dips and rocks.

• 

  J K.

  Legend

  

  Oct. 9, 2019

  Cottonwood Campground — Roper Lake State Park

  Gorgeous AZ park!

  Loved it.Great family friendly camping! Very clean and well kept park, beach swimming area is very large and never felt crowded by people!  Plenty of shaded picnic areas, campsites big, and on site bathrooms very clean and showers have hot water and great water pressure! Only downfall was the hot springs was closed, but not necessary when campinge in Arizona!

  If you like fishing you mihght be a bit disappointed. you could see a ton of fish around the dock, but sadly none of them were biting or we just didn't have the right kind of bait.We don't come here too often because you have to pay each time you come unless you get a pass. But it's a fun place to swim and fish and be by some water when it's ridiculously hot.

  Loved the pool and cabins even though we have a camper

• 

  Adam R.

  Guide

  

  Sep. 8, 2018

  Arcadia Campground

  Prefect Desert Getaway

  Within a 30 mins drive from the nearest town, you can leave 112 degree heat, cactus, and sand to find yourself surrounded by large pine, long mountain hikes & 30 degree difference in temperature!

  Surrounded by large pine, a cool breeze and a cornucopia of wildlife! Although fire restrictions are always a concern Arcadia campground is the blessing all desert dwellers need!

  Fire rings, BBQ, & bathrooms are available at camp sights. There is a $10 day pass or $10 nightly pass required to stay.

  Info from the USDA:

  When early settlers ventured up Mount Graham, the Arcadia area was usually as far as they got on the first day. A little later in the history of the Pinaleños, Arcadia was the site of one of several Civilian Conservation Corps camps established in the 1930s to provide jobs for workers idled by the Great Depression. Today, Arcadia Campground is the first campground visitors encounter on their way up Mount Graham by way of the Swift Trail (AZ 366), which was built by those Depression-era workers. Arcadia Campground is shaded by stands of tall ponderosa pine interspersed with Gambel oaks and Arizona walnuts. Such a diverse habitat makes this an excellent area for bird watching. Watch for poison ivy.

  RV’s up to 22' and vehicles with trailers less than 21' are recommended. Longer vehicles have difficulty negotiating the switchbacks on AZ 366. Pack and saddle stock are not permitted in campground. Limit 2 vehicles and 10 persons per site. 14 day stay limit.

• 

  Adam R.

  Guide

  

  Sep. 9, 2018

  Riggs Flat Campground

  Long, Slow, Beautiful Curvy Scenic Route to an Under Whelming Lake

  Riggs Flat Campground is located in the Pinaleño Mountains 40 miles southwest of Safford, AZ. The lake is not all that big, a bit under whelming to be honest after such a great drive, although if your lucky you may be able to catch some trout and bass for dinner (you'll need a valid Arizona fishing license and trout stamp). I don't believe many people come to the lake to specifically "camp", what this location offers is a scenic drive and a base camp for much better nearby activities such as hiking, mountain biking, birding, caving and swimming.

  There are no services or first Aid, the nearest would have to be Mt. Graham Community Hospital in Safford, 42 miles away. RV Camping is 22 feet and less. Boats permitted on the lake may be powered by no more than a single electric trolling motor. RV’s up to 22' and vehicles with trailers less than 21' are recommended. Longer vehicles have difficulty negotiating the switchbacks on the road up the mountain (AZ 366). Pack and saddle stock are not permitted in campground. Limit 2 vehicles and 10 persons per site. 14 day stay limit.

  The drive up starts out paved and well maintained, but half way turns to a semi-maintained dirt road. You'll climb from 3200 feet to 9000 in a matter of miles, Mt. Graham is known for is amazing diversity from the surrounding desert. You'll climb through many different Biospheres and witness wildlife change from Lizards, Snakes, and desert dwellers to Deer, Endanged Red tree squirrels, and black bear. There are many other camp grounds on the way but if they are all full then this is your… 15th or so choice!

  If your a hiker you can find traces of the Anasazi Indians that once inhabited this area.

  Keep in mind the cabins you will pass on the way up are PRIVATELY OWNED, and are not for rent.

• 

  Laura M.

  Legend

  

  Nov. 30, 2020

  Happy Camp Trail

  Secluded and beautiful

  This site is relatively easy to get to, considering how remote and alone and quiet it feels once here. We found a nice spot at 32.2437301, -109.5120963 in our 26 ft class C.  Some sketchy parts of the road, rocky and narrow with some dips, but it can be done if you're careful.  

  BLM ranger and other law enforcement drove up the road about once per day, which was nice. 

  Drive through Bowie to get to Apache Pass Rd then a left on Happy Camp Canyon dirt road which is wide and flat but washboarded. Once you get to the recreation area, there is a picnic spot with tables and toilet but no camping is allowed in that area, you'll have to keep driving a bit further. There were a lot of campers when we stayed but we found a nice spot right off the dirt road with amazing views. Heard some gun shooting going on the first day but none following that. There are open range cattle roaming around so give them space and keep your animals leashed. On a hike one was walking right up to us so be aware.There were times on our hikes where you turn a corner and there are a few just standing there. The brush is high enough to hide some too so keep an eye out. This is BLM so the camping is FREE there is however a private property further up the dirt road (property is gated and fenced off). Spots are adequate for tents, smaller RVs or trailers. 

  Good place to hike, scramble up the rocks or mountain bike.  

  Good verizon and AT&T reception.

• 

  Adam R.

  Guide

  

  May. 3, 2023

  Lexington Pines Resort

  Senior ONLY community mobile Home Park With RV sites

  *I live nearby and chose to write a more accurate description for the community members. As I am under 55 yrs old I have not stayed here, although I've worked throughout this park for many years.*

  This is a large, multiple-block Senior Citizen community. There are RV spots available with restrictions. this is in town and not a camper's ideal location for outdoor privacy.

  RV rates are based on two adults, 55 years with NO PERSON UNDER 40 years of age.

  Daily:$40.00 

  Weekly:$150.00 

  Monthly:$265.00(plus electric) 

  Year: Limited availability–$2,300.00(plus electric)

  Here are just some of the wonderful features for our active seniors and winter visitors:

  Warm winter days, cool winter nights Sunshine 340 days per year average

  The backdrop of Mt. Graham stands nearly 11,000 feet high! 

  Municipal Golf Course and Country Club nearby

  The best location for hunting and fishing, hiking, and dune buggies 

  A birder's paradise! 

  Blocks from Mt. Graham Community Hospital 

  Shopping and restaurants nearby(including Super Walmart and Home Depot)

  In-season planned activities 

  A local airport right in Safford 

  Firing ranges, radio-controlled aircraft parks, and paintball courses 

  All with spectacular painted desert sunsets

• 

  Bianca B.

  Guide

  

  Dec. 3, 2020

  Cottonwood Campground — Roper Lake State Park

  Beautiful scenery

  Great scenery. Spots are spacious. Seemed kind of pricey at $20 a night. If you luck out and get respectful neighbors, can be an amazing experience.

• 

  Robert F.

  Guide

  

  Jan. 2, 2022

  Cottonwood Campground — Roper Lake State Park

  Roper Lake State Park

  We stayed there for three nights in Fall 2022. Wonderful quiet lake and walking trails. Near to shopping if needed. Great birding!

• 

  Rich M.

  Legend

  

  Jul. 14, 2023

  Cottonwood Campground — Roper Lake State Park

  Beautiful little lake

  This campground is well maintained. It is on roper lake. They have cabins that overlook the lake and plenty of camping spots for both tints and rvs. They also have a day use area with a designated swimming area and lots of picking tables

• S

  Shawn

  Guide

  

  Nov. 7, 2024

  Cottonwood Campground — Roper Lake State Park

  It is a beautiful view of the mountains

  Sadly, there is construction going on in the park right now. It is windy and cold. The sites are pretty private and there are nice picnic table covers. Unfortunately, the dump station is closed for a while.