Best Campgrounds near Tucson, AZ

Tucson, AZ is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Tucson is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Camping Sites Near Tucson, Arizona (157)

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 157 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Tucson, AZ

815 Reviews of 157 Tucson Campgrounds



Guide to Tucson

Camping near Tucson, Arizona, offers a unique blend of stunning desert landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking an RV, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking: There are numerous trails around the campgrounds. For example, at Gilbert Ray Campground, campers enjoy easy access to hiking trails. One reviewer mentioned, "Good accessibility to the NP," highlighting the proximity to nature.
  • Birdwatching: At Patagonia Lake State Park Campground, birdwatching is a popular activity. A visitor noted, "I do really like the birdwatching area outside the visitor center."
  • Exploring Caves: The Kartchner Caverns State Park Campground is great for those interested in caves. One camper shared, "Kartchner Cave is walking distance with a great observation center."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. At Catalina State Park Campground, one reviewer said, "It provides scenery and views comparable to $400 a night resorts."
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds, like Spencer Canyon Campground, are praised for their cleanliness. A visitor remarked, "The bathrooms are clean, and fire pits are great."
  • Privacy: Campers appreciate the space between sites. At Cactus Forest Dispersed, one reviewer noted, "Remote, private, and free but accessible."

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy. A camper at Picacho Peak State Park Campground mentioned, "You can hear road noise from I-10, but you get used to it."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds offer full amenities. For instance, Gilbert Ray Campground has no showers, which some campers found inconvenient.
  • Wildlife Caution: Campers should be aware of local wildlife. One visitor at Kartchner Caverns State Park Campground warned, "Watch your step, we came across a Diamond Back Rattle Snake."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with amenities for kids. Tucson - Lazydays KOA offers a pool and playground, making it a hit with families. A reviewer said, "The staff was great and the customer service was great."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. At Catalina State Park Campground, one camper enjoyed, "Hiking trails and history are amazing here."
  • Pack Snacks: Keep everyone happy with snacks on hand. A visitor at Patagonia Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "Good campground for fishermen and bird watchers."

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."
  • Use Online Reservations: Many campgrounds fill up quickly. A visitor at Spencer Canyon Campground advised, "Get there early and be rewarded."
  • Be Prepared for Weather Changes: The mountains can get chilly. One camper at Spencer Canyon Campground warned, "The mountain can get very cold and windy at night."

Camping sites near Tucson, AZ, offer a variety of experiences, from serene nature to family-friendly amenities. Whether you're a seasoned camper or a newbie, there's something for everyone in this beautiful desert landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Tucson, AZ?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Tucson, AZ offers a wide range of camping options, with 157 campgrounds and RV parks near Tucson, AZ and 42 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Tucson, AZ?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Tucson, AZ is Gilbert Ray Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 72 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Tucson, AZ?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 42 free dispersed camping spots near Tucson, AZ.

  • What parks are near Tucson, AZ?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 parks near Tucson, AZ that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.