Most RV campgrounds near Vail, Arizona are situated between Tucson and Benson at elevations ranging from 2,700 to 3,200 feet, creating mild winter temperatures that attract seasonal campers from October through April. The region's combination of Sonoran Desert landscapes and mountain views creates distinct camping environments with varied cell service quality depending on proximity to Interstate 10.
What to do
Explore Saguaro National Park: The east section of Saguaro National Park is minutes away from Cactus Country RV Park - 55+. "This park is minutes away from the east section of Saguaro National Park. It may look and feel remote, but good shopping, restaurants and attractions are very close," notes reviewer HandL C.
Visit Pima Air and Space Museum: Located just 2 miles from Crazy Horse RV Park, this museum houses one of the world's largest aerospace collections. "The Pima Air and Space museum is within a couple of miles, and East Saguaro National Park is about 20 minutes away," shares reviewer Sam.
Try desert fishing: Several parks offer fishing opportunities despite the desert location. At Pato Blanco Lakes RV Resort, "They have pretty lakes stocked with fish for catch and release fishing. It is a true gem to find lakefront sites in the desert!"
Bike the trails: The region offers extensive cycling infrastructure. "The bike situation in Tucson is the finest we have encountered. Our electric bikes can run forever on the well paved trails all over the county," explains a visitor to Rincon Country East.
What campers like
Heated pools year-round: Outdoor swimming is available throughout winter at many parks. "The pool is nice and clean, and it is heated. There are nice chairs and tables in the pool area," notes a Crazy Horse RV Park visitor.
Resort-style activities: Voyager RV Resort & Hotel offers extensive amenities beyond basic camping. "They have swimming, tennis, pickleball, crafts, hobbies. A on site restaurant. There is a mix of perm and transient RV's. Many use golf carts. There is a 9 hole golf course here as well," reports Michael C.
Desert wildlife viewing: The natural surroundings provide opportunities for wildlife observation. "Great wildlife! Tad poles in the wash with the biggest eyes I've ever seen!! A Gila monster just chilling," shares Ella N. about her experience at Rincon Country East.
Weekly community events: Several parks organize regular social gatherings. "A couple times a week there is food carts and on Thursday is farmers market and craft things," mentions a visitor to Rincon Country West RV Resort.
What you should know
Age restrictions apply: Many RV parks near Vail enforce age policies. "Excellent 55+ resort. Too many things to do to list. All very well organized," notes Mike B. at Voyager RV Resort.
Limited RV site spacing: Expect close quarters at many facilities. "The sites are very close together. It is in a residential area so that makes for some dog barking from the outside neighborhood," reports Kathy H. about Crazy Horse RV Park.
Mixed-use developments: Several properties combine different accommodation types. "Most of Rincon Country West RV Resort is really for folks who are living them permanently or seasonally in their park model homes. Only in the far back corner is there really parking for JUST RVs," explains reviewer Reuben.
Electrical billing practices: Some parks charge separately for power. "For extended stays you will be responsible for your individual site Electric bill," notes Michael C. about Voyager RV Resort. Another reviewer reported paying "about $60 per month for us, in a 34 foot trailer, in the winter months where we were not running AC."
Tips for camping with families
Check age-appropriateness: While facilities are clean, some parks have limited child-focused amenities. "Aside from the pool, there isn't anything in the park for children to do," notes a Crazy Horse RV Park reviewer.
Consider noise levels: Traffic noise varies significantly between parks. "We were close to the airport. Has all hookups and close to a casino and plenty of good food," shares Tanner H. about Mission View 55+ RV Resort.
Look for parks with recreation halls: These provide indoor activities during hot days. "The park does have a nice recreational hall with a pool table, and they do some activities, including coffee and donuts twice weekly, a game day, bingo, and pizza and taco nights," reports Sam about Crazy Horse RV Park.
Scout walking accessibility: Some properties offer convenience to local attractions. "Dollar General, Circle K, Pilot, and a taco truck are all within walking distance. There is also a large community park within walking distance," notes a Crazy Horse visitor.
Tips from RVers
Consider park spacing policies: Some resorts maintain space between units during lower occupancy periods. "The grounds are very clean and it looks like campers are at least one space away from another," notes Debbie H. about Encore Valley Vista.
Test electrical hookups upon arrival: Occasional issues with hookups have been reported. "The shore power 30 amp showed reverse polarity and a faulty ground, so we used the 50 amp with a dog bone," warns HandL C. about Cactus Country RV Park.
Verify turn radius requirements: Navigation challenges exist at some parks. "Park staff does come and help you pull in during business hours," explains a Crazy Horse RV Park visitor discussing the tight turns.
Check laundry systems: Payment methods vary between parks. "The laundry facility has 8-10 each of washers and dryers, $2-$2.25 per wash, and $2 per dry. They do sell quarters in the office," notes a Crazy Horse reviewer.
