Camping spots near Tubac, Arizona vary significantly in elevation from 3,500 feet to over 5,000 feet, creating distinct temperature differences between higher and lower sites. Monsoon season (July-September) transforms the normally dry terrain with sudden thunderstorms and flash flooding. Winter nights at higher elevation sites like Bog Springs frequently drop below freezing, requiring proper cold-weather gear.
What to do
Bird watching: Madera Canyon is recognized as a premier birding destination. A camper at Bog Springs Campground reported it "creates a habitat for over 100 bird varieties and species," making it ideal for wildlife photography and observation.
Hiking nearby trails: Mount Hopkins area offers moderate to difficult trails with significant elevation gain. At Mount Hopkins Road dispersed camping, one visitor mentioned "Nice spot, flat and easy parking. A little traffic in the morning but not that much," providing convenient access to multiple trailheads.
Water recreation: Patagonia Lake permits motorized boats, fishing, and swimming. A visitor to the lake noted, "We camped here March 17th, a little warm in the day (high 85) but nice and cool at night," highlighting the pleasant temperature contrast for water activities.
Insect collecting: Higher elevation sites offer unique entomology opportunities. A camper at Bog Springs shared, "We were there for insect collecting and it did not disappoint! I am enamored by the area and the wildlife!"
What campers like
Seclusion options: Boat-in sites offer significantly more privacy than main campgrounds. A reviewer at Patagonia Lake State Park Boat-In Campsites explained, "We have camped here for probably close to 20 years. Always at a boat in site because there is very little privacy in the main tent camping area."
Stargazing: Clear desert skies with minimal light pollution create excellent viewing conditions. At Proctor Road, campers reported "Sunrises and sunsets were awesome" and noted the excellent nighttime visibility away from city lights.
Wildlife encounters: The region offers unexpected wildlife viewing beyond birds. A camper at Proctor Road Dispersed Camping observed, "Wildlife (cows) is everywhere," while boat-in campers mentioned, "We had a couple of cows and a bull at our site and scared the crap out of us."
Seasonal temperature variations: Winter camping provides more comfortable conditions. A visitor at Bog Springs noted, "We didn't have any issues finding a spot during the winter," while others appreciated the cooler temperatures at higher elevations compared to nearby Tucson.
What you should know
Access challenges: Many dispersed sites require appropriate vehicles. At Proctor Road, a camper warned, "This is a dusty, bumpy road with sites carved out amongst thorny trees. Watch the weather report or you will be stuck in the mud trying to get out."
Site privacy varies dramatically: Developed campgrounds tend to have closely spaced sites. A visitor to Gilbert Ray Campground noted, "A large campground close to Saguaro National Park, Great views of the cacti and clean facilities," but others mentioned that sites can be very close together.
Campground cleanliness inconsistency: Maintenance varies by location. One visitor reported "This campground was awesome. Has electrical hook ups and a dump station down the road," while others encountered trash issues at less-developed sites.
Border patrol presence: The proximity to Mexico means regular patrols. A camper mentioned, "Even up until midnight we had trucks driving through the campground. (This may have been campers or Border Patrol as we saw them driving through every couple of hours)."
Tips for camping with families
Choose developed sites for amenities: Families benefit from established facilities. A visitor to TerraSol in Patagonia mentioned, "This small, cozy area is very clean and has several great amenities... There are 2 on-site showers. Fire pit to hang out. A kitchen available to all."
Watch for hazard plants: Desert vegetation can be challenging with children. Multiple campers mentioned thorny trees and cacti that require careful navigation, especially with younger children who might wander off established paths.
Check campground activity schedules: Some locations offer educational programs. Gilbert Ray Campground provides seasonal ranger-led activities, while Bog Springs has trail guides specifically designed for children to learn about desert ecology.
Consider timing carefully: School vacation periods affect availability. One camper advised, "So close to town, yet feels like you're way out in the desert. We usually go at the end of busy season and there are plenty of spaces."
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Not all designated RV sites accommodate larger vehicles. A De Anza Trails RV Resort visitor noted, "Here for a week at the end of the season. All amenities open but not rocking like they do all winter long. Lovely pool, spa, pickleball, laundry."
Water and hookup limitations: Bring extra hose length for remote hookups. One RVer at Gilbert Ray shared, "Also many spigots dispersed so filling you tanks or getting water not too much an issue. I used 100 ft of hose to refill."
Level site challenges: Many sites require significant leveling. A camper observed, "Some spots vary is size so make sure your rig can fit. Also some more difficult to back up into," highlighting the importance of careful site selection for larger vehicles.
Seasonal RV community: Winter brings a significant RV population. "All amenities open but not rocking like they do all winter long" suggests the seasonal nature of the RV community, with peak activity during winter months when northern snowbirds migrate south.
