Best Campgrounds near Tubac, AZ

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Camping options near Tubac, Arizona range from established campgrounds to dispersed sites in varied desert and mountain environments. The area includes Patagonia Lake State Park Campground with tent, RV, cabin, and glamping accommodations, while Bog Springs Campground provides a more rustic experience in the forested areas of Madera Canyon. Dispersed camping is available at locations like Mount Hopkins Road and Proctor Road, where primitive sites offer more solitude. Several areas feature access to water recreation, including boat-in campsites at Patagonia Lake.

Road conditions vary significantly across the region's camping areas, with many dispersed sites requiring high-clearance vehicles. Rough terrain limits access to some of the more remote camping areas, particularly during monsoon season. Temperature extremes are common, with summers bringing intense heat in lower elevations while higher elevation sites remain cooler. Fire restrictions are frequently implemented during dry periods. Permits may be required at certain locations, including Mount Hopkins Road. According to one visitor at Proctor Road, "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."

Wildlife viewing opportunities represent a major draw for campers in the Tubac area, particularly bird watching. Madera Canyon and Bog Springs Campground are known for exceptional birding, with one camper noting it "creates a habitat for over 100 bird varieties and species." Patagonia Lake offers water-based recreation with boat rentals and fishing opportunities. Most developed campgrounds provide basic amenities like drinking water and toilets, while dispersed sites require self-sufficiency. Campers seeking solitude can find it at dispersed sites, though some visitors report unexpected wildlife encounters, including cattle wandering through campsites. Site privacy varies significantly, with boat-in sites at Patagonia Lake offering more seclusion than the main camping areas.

Best Camping Sites Near Tubac, Arizona (124)

    1. Patagonia Lake State Park Campground

    33 Reviews
    Rio Rico, AZ
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 287-6965

    $25 - $129 / night

    "Right next to the Mexican border. Gorgeous park with sites on the water. Park is clean, with exceptional restrooms. Boat rides are offered on the weekends."

    "Most sites have a lake view. Seems like Arizona takes good care of her parks. Lots to do in the area."

    2. Bog Springs Campground

    11 Reviews
    Amado, AZ
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 281-2296

    $20 / night

    "Driving in you get a beautiful view of Mount Wrightson."

    "Deer roam around inside the campground perimeter and hiking trails lead directly out to miles of Mountain trails including to the top of 9427’ Mt. Wrightson."

    3. Tumacacori Mountains

    1 Review
    Tumacacori, AZ
    5 miles

    4. De Anza Trails RV Resort

    1 Review
    Amado, AZ
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 398-8628

    6. Patagonia Lake State Park Boat-In Campsites

    5 Reviews
    Rio Rico, AZ
    14 miles

    $25 / night

    "Visit the beach, walk the bridge, rent a boat, or fish the lake during your camping trip. I love this place. Different ambiance than most AZ lakes."

    "Most sites are within 100 yards of lake. Mix of rv and tent sites. No sewer hookup at site but do have water and power and a dump station. Nice trails to walk."

    7. Proctor Road Dispersed Camping - Site 3b

    3 Reviews
    Green Valley, AZ
    13 miles

    "The moderately difficult access limits to trucks with off road trailers mostly."

    "Hiked about two miles in to the Elephant Head mountain bike trail at the end of the dirt road. Sunrises and sunsets were awesome."

    9. Gilbert Ray Campground

    77 Reviews
    Cortaro, AZ
    42 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 724-5000

    $10 - $75 / night

    "The scenery here is perfect for Arizona. Great views of Tucson Mountain and surrounded by all kinds of hiking trails in the Tucson Mountain Park. The sites are gravel and mostly flat."

    "Fantastic place to stay in the Arizona countryside. Cacti everywhere! So cool!"

    10. Arivaca Lake

    1 Review
    Arivaca, AZ
    13 miles

    "There is an upper lot that you can camp at with fire rings and mediocre lake views."

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Recent Reviews near Tubac, AZ

537 Reviews of 124 Tubac Campgrounds


  • Dustin T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 4, 2025

    Madera Canyon on Proctor Road

    Quaint dispersed camping

    Fairly calm and quiet camping sites, spread out enough so you almost don't know you have neighbors. Can be cold or windy in the winter months.

    We've seen Golden Eagles, Falcons, Deer and Turkey, listened to the Mocking birds. Lots of wild life.

    Only downside might be the bees during the day, but if you stay in the shade they largely leave you alone. Bring your own shade, there is not much here.

    You can stay up to 14 days in a 60 day period in the National Forest.

  • Victoria H.
    Nov. 28, 2025

    Gilbert Ray Campground

    Great, comfortable spot

    Awesome location, super close to Saguaro West and the desert museum. Weather was nice too, and there was lots of vegetation and birds (saw gambles quail, cactus wren, thrasher, etc this morning). Campground also has hot water, running water in bathrooms, and great camp hosts. Overall great time.

  • Joseph F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 23, 2025

    Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area

    Nice but...

    Nice open area. Seems to be friendly people around. Easy to get into.

    Photos are difficult too many power lines around. Try to get higher on the hill to get over power lines if your car can make it or just hike up.

    Also be aware there is a lot of broken glass everywhere.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 22, 2025

    Proctor Road Dispersed Camping - Site 3b

    Remote with easy hiking

    11 camping spaces. Cars will need additional ground clearance. We made it in our 21 foot Sprinter dually. ATT cell service is spotty, from one bar LTE to two bars 5G, but was able to hang on to radio stations. FM radio reception is fine, just have to find the right spot for a signal. Hiked about two miles in to the Elephant Head mountain bike trail at the end of the dirt road. Sunrises and sunsets were awesome.

  • Ricky R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 13, 2025

    Crazy Horse RV Park

    Easy access off I-10, Some covered full hookup sites

    Very friendly and helpful management. We stayed in a full hookup covered site. Significant noise from I-10 and other roads, also train noise and air traffic. Once you get past the noise this is decent location.

  • Ingrid M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 12, 2025

    Mountain View RV Park

    Well run

    This place was lovely, clean, well kept. Friendly people

  • PAUL R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 7, 2025

    Patagonia Lake State Park Boat-In Campsites

    Beautiful clean campground

    Az parks does it again. A top notch campground. Most sites are within 100 yards of lake. Mix of rv and tent sites. No sewer hookup at site but do have water and power and a dump station. Nice trails to walk. One has bird feeders and hummingbird feeders where we enjoyed many species.

  • R
    Nov. 6, 2025

    Voyager RV Resort & Hotel

    Many amenities

    There are a ton of things to do here, with tennis, pickleball, and many more.

    They have a wood shop which you can become a member of or bring them a project to do for you for only a donation. Great service!

  • Thomas
    Nov. 2, 2025

    El Bosquecito

    Clean and Quite Campground

    Nice little get away campground. Only 4 RV spots here and it's first come first serve.  It was empty when we were there.  Operated and maintained by Colossal Cave Park and you will need to travel up to the Gift Shop to pay for the stay.  There is a road that leads up to more campgrounds, but vehicles/ camper over 20 Ft are not allowed and the road is for high clearance vehicles only.


Guide to Tubac

Camping near Tubac, Arizona, offers a unique blend of stunning desert landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking: There are numerous trails nearby, especially around the Catalina State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "The hiking trails and history are amazing here," making it a great spot for those who love to explore nature.
  • Wildlife Watching: At Cieneguita Dispersed Camping Area, you can see a variety of wildlife. A reviewer noted, "Prairie dogs and pronghorn antelope are daily visitors," which adds to the charm of camping in this area.
  • Cave Tours: If you're up for a little drive, check out the Kartchner Caverns State Park Campground. One visitor shared, "The campground has paved roads, showers, dump station, water & electric hookups," making it a comfortable base for exploring the caverns.

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers at Gilbert Ray Campground rave about the beautiful desert environment. One review stated, "Gilbert Ray campground integrates the beautiful desert environment seamlessly with the campsites."
  • Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A visitor at Kartchner Caverns State Park Campground mentioned, "Clean restrooms, nice showers, friendly camp hosts," highlighting the well-maintained amenities.
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Campers often enjoy the peacefulness of places like Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area. One camper noted, "Great little gas station close with water and propane refill stations," indicating convenience without the noise of a busy campground.

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area, have no drinking water or electric hookups. A reviewer cautioned, "Don't go if it rained that day! Clay mud all over," so be prepared for the conditions.
  • Crowded During Peak Times: Popular spots can get busy, especially during weekends. A camper at Spencer Canyon Campground mentioned, "The campsites are a little too close together for my taste," so plan accordingly.
  • Wildlife Encounters: While wildlife is a highlight, it can also be a concern. One camper at Kartchner Caverns State Park Campground warned, "Watch your step, we came across a Diamond Back Rattle Snake about 4 feet from our picnic bench."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like Tucson - Lazydays KOA, which offers amenities like a pool and playground. A reviewer said, "The staff was great and the customer service was great."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. One camper at Patagonia Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "Awesome park with plenty to do, hiking and boating," which can keep kids entertained.
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having food on hand is essential. A visitor at Cieneguita Dispersed Camping Area enjoyed the peacefulness, stating, "I saw one other camper here, but never heard them," indicating a good environment for family bonding.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Tucson - Lazydays KOA noted, "We maneuvered to get our 10’ sewer hose to fit between our two dump valves," highlighting the importance of knowing your rig's dimensions.
  • Look for Full Hookups: Campgrounds like Kartchner Caverns State Park Campground offer full hookups, which can make your stay more comfortable. One visitor appreciated, "The campground has paved roads, showers, dump station, water & electric hookups."
  • Plan for Noise: Some areas can be noisy, especially near roads. A camper at Gilbert Ray Campground mentioned, "Only issue with the site was traffic noise," so consider this when choosing your spot.

Camping near Tubac, Arizona, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. With a little planning, you can enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the desert.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Tubac, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, Tubac, AZ offers a wide range of camping options, with 124 campgrounds and RV parks near Tubac, AZ and 33 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Tubac, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Tubac, AZ is Patagonia Lake State Park Campground with a 4.1-star rating from 33 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Tubac, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 33 free dispersed camping spots near Tubac, AZ.