Best Camping near Willow Canyon, AZ

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Willow Canyon, AZ is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Willow Canyon, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Camping Sites Near Willow Canyon, AZ (140)

    Camper-submitted photo from Catalina State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Catalina State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Catalina State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Catalina State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Catalina State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Catalina State Park Campground

    1. Catalina State Park Campground

    60 Reviews
    255 Photos
    461 Saves
    Oro Valley, Arizona

    Catalina State Park camping is available in 120 electric and water sites. Each campsite has a picnic table and BBQ grill. Roads and parking slips are paved. Campgrounds have modern flush restrooms with hot showers, and RV dump stations are available in the park. There is no limit on the length of RVs at this park, but reservations are limited to 14 consecutive nights. Campgrounds are open all year. Catalina State Park sits at the base of the majestic Santa Catalina Mountains. The park is a haven for desert plants and wildlife and nearly 5,000 saguaros. The 5,500 acres of foothills, canyons and streams invites camping, picnicking and bird watching — more than 150 species of birds call the park home. The park provides miles of equestrian, birding, hiking, and biking trails which wind through the park and into the Coronado National Forest at elevations near 3,000 feet. The park is located within minutes of the Tucson metropolitan area. This scenic desert park also offers equestrian trails and an equestrian center provides a staging area for trail riders with plenty of trailer parking. Bring along your curiosity and your sense of adventure as you take in the beautiful mountain backdrop, desert wildflowers, cacti and wildlife.

    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $35 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Tucson - Lazydays KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Tucson - Lazydays KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Tucson - Lazydays KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Tucson - Lazydays KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Tucson - Lazydays KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Tucson - Lazydays KOA

    2. Tucson - Lazydays KOA

    48 Reviews
    140 Photos
    93 Saves
    Tucson, Arizona

    Tucson/Lazydays KOA Resort is your desert oasis, featuring beautiful fruit trees abundant throughout the park, with plenty of good times to be had. The campground offers Pull-thru RV Sites with full 30/50-amp hookups, grassy luxury sites and NEW RV Sites with a Patio and a fireplace! No RV? No problem. Stay in one of the NEW two-bedroom Deluxe Cabins with queen beds. Whether you want to relax by one of the two pools, soak in the hot tubs, play a round on our nine hole putting green, or join in the fun activities, this KOA has something for everyone to enjoy. The completed installation of the two PowerParasols® solar shade structures now allows guest to camp, gather and even barbeque under a patented structure that produces clean solar energy. The structures shade more than two acres of the campground, giving visitors room to park RVs on 30 covered RV sites. Check out our NEW resort style activity park! Providing ample shade and sport courts to bring recreation, relaxation, family and friends together. Lazydays, a full-service RV dealership with a service department, is located next door. Other campground amenities include a bar& grill, meeting rooms, fitness center, three off-leash dog parks and complimentary Wi-Fi. Camping in Arizona is a breeze at the Tucson/Lazydays KOA. Pool: Open all year. Max pull thru: 73 feet.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Gilbert Ray Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Gilbert Ray Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Gilbert Ray Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Gilbert Ray Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Gilbert Ray Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Gilbert Ray Campground

    3. Gilbert Ray Campground

    67 Reviews
    234 Photos
    439 Saves
    Cortaro, Arizona

    Next time you need a break in your busy life consider cool weather camping at Tucson Mountain Park's beautiful Gilbert Ray Campground, located on the west side of the Tucson Mountains, a convenient 13 miles from Tucson. RV campers should access the park by way of Ajo Highway to Kinney Road and follow the signs to the campground.

    The campground has 130 RV sites with individual 30-amp electrical hook-ups. The campground has 5 sites that are designated tent only, however tenters are welcome to camp in an RV site but are asked not to use the electrical hook-ups. It has centrally located water, picnic tables, modern restrooms, and an RV dumping station. Shower facilities are not available. There are handicap bathrooms.

    There is a seven-day length of stay limit. The park's peak season is January 1st through March 31st. Camping fees are $10.00 per night for tents and $20.00 per night for trailers and RVs. Senior Pass/Golden Age Pass NOT valid. Due to limited tent sites you can tent in a RV site, however, during peak season the RV campsite fee applies. Wood fires are prohibited.

    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $10 - $75 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Rose Canyon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rose Canyon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rose Canyon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rose Canyon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rose Canyon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rose Canyon Campground

    4. Rose Canyon Campground

    20 Reviews
    55 Photos
    187 Saves
    Willow Canyon, Arizona

    Overview

    Rose Canyon Campground is just 17 miles northeast of Tucson, Arizona, off the Catalina Highway Scenic Drive near the summit of Mt. Lemmon. This area is popular for day use as well as overnight camping. With a high elevation, forested setting, two group picnic areas and opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing and fishing, Rose Canyon offers a great summer respite from the city.

    Recreation

    The lake is sheltered by trees and offers a pleasant setting for a walk in the woods, relaxing on the shore or spending an afternoon fishing for stocked trout. A one-mile trail around the lake is convenient for anglers and hikers. The trail is accessible from the lower parking area to a floating dock near a dam. The surrounding national forest boasts a variety of hiking and mountain biking trails, including several that traverse the 9,157-foot Mt. Lemmon.

    Natural Features

    The campground sits high on the slopes of the Santa Catalina Mountains, at an elevation of 7,000 feet. Because of its elevation, it can be much cooler than the lower-elevation campgrounds in the area. The campsites are spacious and spread out among stands of large ponderosa pines and clusters of Gambel oak. During the summer rainy season, Rose Creek meanders through the area to the six-acre Rose Canyon Lake at the lower end of the campground. The Coronado National Forest covers 1.78 million acres of southeastern Arizona and southwestern New Mexico. Elevations range from 3,000 to 10,720 feet in 12 widely scattered mountain ranges, or "sky islands," that rise dramatically from the desert floor, supporting biologically diverse plant communities.

    Nearby Attractions

    Catalina Highway, also known as General Hitchcock Highway and Sky Island Scenic Byway, is the only paved road that leads to the upper reaches of Mt. Lemmon and the Santa Catalina Range. It is one of the most scenic highways in the southwest and is a popular day trip. Other notable attractions include Saguaro National Park, Sabino Canyon and Colossal Cave.

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (520) 576-1325.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $97 - $157 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Spencer Canyon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Spencer Canyon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Spencer Canyon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Spencer Canyon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Spencer Canyon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Spencer Canyon Campground

    5. Spencer Canyon Campground

    17 Reviews
    74 Photos
    244 Saves
    Mount Lemmon, Arizona

    This area of Mt Lemmon camping is located at the head of a shallow, forested canyon a short distance off the Catalina Highway. Spencer Canyon faces the city of Tucson and the Santa Cruz Valley, both of which are visible as a distant panorama through openings in the forest canopy. Spencer Canyon Campground has 66 sites. Each site has a concrete table, firepit, B-B-Q and bear box for food storage. A beautiful night view of Tucson can be seen from several sites. Spencer is rugged, rustic in layout and close to the hamlet of Summerhaven. Each camping area has clean, stocked vault toilets. Campground hosts live on site. Firewood may be purchased from the hosts. The Catalina Highway is paved, but it can be snow covered in winter when chains and/or 4-wheel drive may be required.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $22 - $36 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Redington Pass - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Redington Pass - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Redington Pass - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Redington Pass - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Redington Pass - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Redington Pass - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area

    7. Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area

    27 Reviews
    66 Photos
    211 Saves
    Cortaro, Arizona

    Camping on public lands away from developed recreation facilities is referred to as dispersed camping. Most of the remainder of public lands are open to dispersed camping, as long as it does not conflict with other authorized uses or in areas posted "closed to camping," or in some way adversely affects wildlife species or natural resources. Dispersed camping is allowed on public land for a period not to exceed 14 days within a 28 consecutive day period. The 28 day period begins when a camper initially occupies a specific location on public lands. The 14 day limit may be reached either through a number of separate visits or through 14 days of continuous overnight occupation during the 28 day period. After the 14th day of occupation, the camper must move outside of a 25 mile radius of the previous location until the 29th day since the initial occupation. The purpose of this special rule is to prevent damage to sensitive resources caused by continual use of any particular areas. In addition, campers must not leave any personal property unattended for more than 10 days (12 months in Alaska). Campsite Selection Dispersed camp sites are located along most secondary roads and may not be marked. Popular locations can be recognized by the telltale flat disturbed area that has been used as a camp site before. Not all flat spots are sites. If possible, please use existing sites to avoid creating new disturbances. To further protect your public lands, campers must not dispose of any refuse, hazardous materials, sewage, or in any manner pollute the surrounding area.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Molino Basin Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Molino Basin Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Molino Basin Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Molino Basin Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Molino Basin Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Molino Basin Campground

    8. Molino Basin Campground

    8 Reviews
    21 Photos
    135 Saves
    Willow Canyon, Arizona

    Overview

    Visitors are drawn to Molino Campground for its group camping area, scenic mountain surroundings and hiking and mountain biking opportunities. While most other campgrounds in the Catalina Mountains are closed in winter, Molino Campground and its picnic area are open in late fall, winter and early spring. The pleasant winter weather at this elevation makes it a great time to visit. Molino Basin is conveniently located 5.5 miles from the base of Mt. Lemmon on the Catalina Highway, and about 10 miles northeast of Tucson.

    Recreation

    Hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding are popular activities. The Arizona Trail, which extends from Mexico to Utah, passes through the campground, and the Molino Trail leads to the Pusch Ridge Wilderness (hiking and horseback riding only). A variety of additional trails, including some on 9,157' Mt. Lemmon, are available in the area for those who wish to venture away from the campground for the day.

    Natural Features

    Campsites sit amid a high desert oak scrub ecosystem at an elevation of 4,500 feet on the slopes of the Santa Catalina Mountains. Along the banks of Molino Creek, which flows during and immediately after rain or snowmelt, species such as cottonwood, Arizona live oak and mesquite provide a scenic setting. Views are dominated by rugged, rocky hills. Colorful wildflowers bloom in spring.

    Nearby Attractions

    Catalina Highway (also known as General Hitchcock Highway and Sky Island Scenic Byway), the only paved road that leads to the upper reaches of Mt. Lemmon and the Santa Catalina Range, is one of the most scenic highways in the Southwest and definitely worth a day trip. Other notable attractions include Saguaro National Park, Sabino Canyon, Colossal Cave and the city of Tucson.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $100 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Cactus Forest Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Cactus Forest Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Cactus Forest Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Cactus Forest Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Cactus Forest Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Cactus Forest Dispersed

    9. Cactus Forest Dispersed

    27 Reviews
    122 Photos
    256 Saves
    Marana, Arizona

    Location is near Park Link Drive - S. Cattle Tanks Road BLM

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Kartchner Caverns State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kartchner Caverns State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kartchner Caverns State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kartchner Caverns State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kartchner Caverns State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kartchner Caverns State Park Campground

    10. Kartchner Caverns State Park Campground

    43 Reviews
    131 Photos
    165 Saves
    Benson, Arizona

    All campsites at Kartchner feature electric hookups and water. Your camping fee includes use of the shower/restroom, water, electrical and dump station facilities.

    All campsites have a table, hose bib and power post. Each back-in site power post is 110 volt AC with a 30 amp RV connection and a 20 amp receptacle. Each pull-through site power post has a 220 volt 50 amp AC & an 110 volt 30 amp AC RV connection and a 20 AMP GFI receptacle. Sites vary in length from 35’ for the shortest back in sites to 60’ in the pull through sites; all sites are single width. Sites have ample room on the side areas for pull out units.

    There are three handicapped designated sites (one is a pull through site), 12 pull-through sites and 43 other sites of varying sizes. Handicapped designated sites have paved access to the site and adjacent restroom, a paved pad, and wheelchair accessible table.

    Waste bins and shower/restroom facilities are located on the upper west end of each campground. Restroom buildings have bottled water vending machines and dishwashing sinks located on the rear east side.

    Important Note: At this park, the entrance gate is closed nightly at 10 p.m. The two-loop campground is located off of the main road past the Discovery Center on the southwest end of the park. Camping fees are payable with cash, Visa or Mastercard at the Contact Station the day of arrival, or at the Discovery Center the following day. Fees must be paid daily or in advance and there is a 14-day stay limit.

    Access card keys for camper after-hours entering the park are administered by the four Campground Hosts.

    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $30 - $99 / night

Showing results 1-10 of 140 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Willow Canyon

Recent Reviews in Willow Canyon

716 Reviews of 140 Willow Canyon Campgrounds


  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Pipeline Road BLM Camping
    Nov. 14, 2024

    Pipeline Road BLM Camping

    I like it!

    Dispersed BLM camping folks the main road in has a pretty good little drop-down I wouldn't take a big rig past the first area on the right there's some pretty good dips in the main road going further back that big bridge are not going to like nor long trailers if you're at a vehicle you'll be all right. Not really a area you want to be in if there's going to be a lot of rain and there are cattle.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Bigelow Dispersed
    Nov. 11, 2024

    Mount Bigelow Dispersed

    Cold night, frozen road

    We got to the parking area about 7:40 PM on November 10th. Started up the road to the campsite about 2 miles further up the mountain but at about 1/2 mile the road was so icy that we lost traction. Snow on the ground by the road, lots of deer tracks in the snow. Ended up backing down the road to spend the night in the parking lot, sleeping in the van.

  • patty W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Justin's Diamond J RV Park
    Nov. 11, 2024

    Justin's Diamond J RV Park

    The Nicest People

    I love Tucson. The big plus about this park (other than the really nice people) is that is borders park land and there are SO many acres and miles of trails right out of the campground. The grounds and the surrounding desert have an abundance of interesting succulents and cacti and gorgeous mountains all around. Most of the folks here are long termers- we only stayed for 4 days. The sites for short termers are by the road and not the best, just gravel sites with full hookups, but sufficient for our needs. No picnic tables. No public toilets. Laundry facilities and a gathering room.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Encore Valley Vista
    Nov. 9, 2024

    Encore Valley Vista

    Great Stay

    Such a nice Campground. The host was friendly, and helpful. The grounds are very clean and it looks like campers are at least one space away from another. We stayed here and traveled to Tombstone, Tucson Botanical Gardens, and Old Tucson. All an easy drive away. I would definitely stay here again.

  • Robbie B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Colossal Cave Mountain Park
    Nov. 8, 2024

    Colossal Cave Mountain Park

    Great spot just off Arizon Trail

    Nice spot just off the AZT, stayed while on a bike trip on the trail. Camped in the La Selvilla section in the back of the canyon. Plenty of room and spots are not too tight and most had shade trees. All had flat tent pad, table and fire ring. There is a group spot with a pavilion that has running water, and pit toilets. Verizon was one bar, got a few calls out but text would not work. They do lock the gate at 4:00, so once in, you are there for the night. Only one other group when we were there. Would go back for sure.

  • Scarlett D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Kokopelli Gardens
    Nov. 1, 2024

    Kokopelli Gardens

    Amazing place

    The campgrounds are surrounded by coyote song throughout the night. Hardly any light pollution and the hosts are incredible!!! Sinks with drinkable water. Showers. They provide a tote full of goodies like plates and what not. There's a pen type area for the dogs to play in. And Tim and Victoria are so sweet!!! Highly recommend.

  • ron R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area
    Oct. 31, 2024

    Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area

    Very easy access many spots to camp

    Very easy access relatively close to shopping. Out of the way. However there is a light to moderate amount of garbage. It is near a highway and you do hear traffic. Extremely easy to access and there are many spots and the land is pretty full of campers some look like their full-timers or permanent the sign does say 14 day limit. I saw two tent campers as well. There are two or three entrances all on the same road and the camping area is cordoned off with a metal cable so the land cannot be used as a drive-thru or pass through area. The weather is moderate in the 70s during the day down to the lower 50s at night I got here the day before Halloween.

  • D
    Camper-submitted photo from Catalina State Park Campground
    Oct. 14, 2024

    Catalina State Park Campground

    Beautiful Mountain View’s

    Would recommend this campground. Clean lots of trails to hike or bike. No sewer hookup but does have electric and water. Campground was full but still very quiet. I have already reserved again next month

  • Mateo S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Caballo Loco Ranch and RV Park
    Oct. 8, 2024

    Caballo Loco Ranch and RV Park

    Beautiful views from the remote wilderness

    I have lived here for 10 months now, and love the place. Like any campground, there are malcontents that will complain about little things like not being pampered or catered to. The reality is that this is a relatively remote place where you absolutely must be self-sufficient to a large degree. There has not been full-time management until recently, but the new management team are very attentive and reasonable. Since the ranch has been under new management many of the so-called bad influences have left. If you love natural beauty, privacy, and solitude, and are willing to make some sacrifices of comfort, this is the perfect place.

  • Pol G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Gilbert Ray Campground
    Oct. 2, 2024

    Gilbert Ray Campground

    Quiet and Well Maintained

    I came here at the beginning of September 2024 and stayed for one night only. My spot has Shore Power (15,30,50), but you need to fill up your water tank before parking your trailer. If you select a site near a water source, that's fine, which I did. All roads are one way, and that's why they called a loop. I stayed at Loop A. Make sure you make your reservation online before going there. I bet this campground is packed in wintertime. By the way, their office is closed during off-season. If you arrive during this period, you'll help yourself locate your campground number. And you can just go online and pay your fees.

  • Cory
    Camper-submitted photo from Caballo Loco Ranch and RV Park
    Sep. 6, 2024

    Caballo Loco Ranch and RV Park

    Very disorganized and people and volunteers there aren't very nice

     Upon entering it was dirty and restrooms not clean. I never received info they claimed was sent, so went on a hunch. It was dirty, dogs off leash and poop everywhere. Trash disposal area was unclean attracting insects and bugs and wildlife. People living there were not nice or clean. Staff was not friendly either. We decided to leave early. Found place 20 miles away that is wonderful by comparison. Advise trying elsewhere.

  • Ryan D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Clark Peak Dispersed Campsite
    Sep. 2, 2024

    Clark Peak Dispersed Campsite

    Great free campsite with a view

    Found a beautiful dispersed camping spot beneath the Aspens and Ponderosas on the north side of FR803 about a mile west of the Riggs Flat Lake Campground. There’s a great overlook to the east looking out toward Pima and Safford.

  • yen
    Camper-submitted photo from Casino Del Sol
    Aug. 30, 2024

    Casino Del Sol

    good casino!

    Я недавно прочитал статью, и хотел бы порекомендовать Super Mario Bros.: The Missing Lands. Эта игра поразила меня своим уникальным подходом к казино-геймплею. Если вы ищете что-то новенькое, эта игра определенно стоит вашего внимания. В ней отлично сочетаются элементы классического казино и захватывающие приключения, которые привлекают внимание и создают неповторимую атмосферу. Вы не только наслаждаетесь игрой, но и получаете шанс на реальные выигрыши. Ознакомьтесь с новостями здесь: news.ivest.kz/180268486-gayd-ob-kazino-v-kazahstane. Надеюсь, вам понравится!).

  • Cass G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Reddington Pass Dispersed
    Jul. 27, 2024

    Reddington Pass Dispersed

    Rough Road, Off Grid

    I’ve camped at Redington Pass a few times throughout the years. It’s a fun trail if you like a challenge of off roading. I wouldn’t recommend larger trailers or RVs to travel too far up the trail, we’ve seen them get stuck trying to turn around. The road is rough but if you don’t mind driving slow over the holes and bumps then no big deal.

    Easy to find, follow Tanque Verde Rd all the way East until it turns into Redington Road, this then leads to a dirt road with TONS of dispersed camping pull offs with established fire rings. The further east you travel on the pass the less people you have to camp next to. The camping sites closer to the entrance get packed on the weekends.

    The further you go you’ll run out of service, no bathrooms, no water hook ups, nothing, just dispersed wild camping!

  • Joe H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Caballo Loco Ranch and RV Park
    Jul. 22, 2024

    Caballo Loco Ranch and RV Park

    Wolf's in sheep's clothing, Beware

    Place is a nightmare. Have police report from requiring police to escort due to harassment from disturbed owners. Dog was bitten by pit bull, owner did nothing but blame me and call me mentally ill. Very sick thing. Horrible road, brown water and a homeless camp setting. Go for a drive through first. And rules aren't followed. Owners Michelle and Jim even harassed the police officer, which caused me to make multiple trips to Colorado to leave. I walked away from a home, ATV and 5th wheel just to get away from these people. It's like hell on earth with demonic people.... Good luck should you go, you'll need it. Owner also posted a response comment with lies calling me names etc. These are sick evil people who will harm you, caution. Check police report from April 17th with sheriff dept.

  • David T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Catalina State Park Campground
    Jun. 30, 2024

    Catalina State Park Campground

    Adventures

    Had a quick stay here but was still able to see some. It’s AZ so it’s always hot, just prepare for that. The hiking trails and history are amazing here. Showers and bathrooms well maintained. It did rain pretty good as we were rolling in so the ants were…insane. They were everywhere.

  • andrea K.
    Camper-submitted photo from El Pais Motel and Campgrounds
    Jun. 29, 2024

    El Pais Motel and Campgrounds

    Long Story

    I stayed about 2 weeks. Nice place. Excellent price. Except... I returned one day to find my stuff had been rearranged. Maybe their free range chickens got into it. That's fine. A few days later my stuff was rearranged again. Maybe they were worried about it getting damp. Nice thought. My last night I returned to find my assigned spot had shrunk to where I could barely fit. I managed to get backed in and had to figure out how to get my driver's door open without hitting the car next to me. Then I had to figure out how to get the side doors open to get my dogs out and to load my stuff. I had no choice but to make it work. I delayed making this review because I did like the place but the rearranging of my stuff twice and shrinking my spot with zero communication really bothers me.

  • David T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Kartchner Caverns State Park Campground
    Jun. 18, 2024

    Kartchner Caverns State Park Campground

    Quiet getaway

    -This was a great little spot! There is no light pollution besides maybe a neighbor that forgot to turn off their lights. -Kartchner Cave is walking distance with a great observation center even if you don’t take a tour into the caves. -Couple stores within 20miles for any forgotten items. -Spots a very large and spaced well. -Restrooms/showers well maintained *Shower water pressure is less than desired. -Visited Tombstone, AZ as well. About a 30min drive. **Watch your step, we came across a Diamond Back Rattle Snake about 4 feet from our picnic bench. ***It’s Arizona, summer times will be hot, our temp in June was 108.

  • michael D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Needles Eye Ranch
    Jun. 11, 2024

    Needles Eye Ranch

    Remote and Rough Road

    There is State Trust land just off the main road. Free camping. I drove up this road for about a mile and camped. It was tight and had a ton of rough loose rocks. I was driving a Tacoma(not Lifted) and stopped about a mile in because the road got so bad. I hiked about another half mile back and came accross this amazing view of the valley. The Gila river has been busy back there carving some deep canyons.  I did not have signal.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Gardner Canyon Rd Dispersed
    Jun. 3, 2024

    Gardner Canyon Rd Dispersed

    Pretty Area, no amenities

    Great area of you plan to have everything with you. There is a ranch up the road along the way to the end of the road towards the top. Great place to hang out and enjoy the quiet. Take a drive up the road. Onyx Cave isn’t far.

  • Matthew B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bobcat Rustic Campsites — Picacho Peak State Park
    May. 24, 2024

    Bobcat Rustic Campsites — Picacho Peak State Park

    Nice Spot to Stay and Explore the Area

    A cool spot to camp amongst the Saguaros. Close enough to Tucson, Saguaro NP, Phoenix, and all the other surrounding attractions for day trips. We stayed at a rustic (non-elec) site for 2 weeks. Road noise from I-10 and train traffic is noticeable outside, but imperceptible inside the van. Surprisingly (to us) green with grass and flowers in late February-early March.

    Facilities: Showers and bathrooms were okay, no other water except for host sites, nice trails

    Cell Service: Good enough Verizon and T-mobile to work remotely

    Starlink: While we didn't need to use it, all sites are open to the sky if you needed to 

    Solar: All sites are open to the sky for good solar



Guide to Willow Canyon

Camping near Willow Canyon, Arizona, offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the stunning desert landscapes. With several campgrounds in the area, each with its unique features, you can find the perfect spot for your outdoor adventure.

What to do:

  • Explore Saguaro National Park: This park is just a stone's throw away and is famous for its towering saguaro cacti. One camper mentioned, "The proximity to the national park & easy to ride in for hikes or exploring!" at Gilbert Ray Campground.
  • Hiking Trails: There are numerous trails around the campgrounds. A visitor at Catalina State Park Campground said, "The hiking trails and history are amazing here."
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. One camper noted, "I came across 6 rattlesnakes... packs of coyotes rolling through at night," while staying at Cactus Forest Dispersed.

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful landscapes. A review from Catalina State Park Campground highlights, "It provides scenery and views comparable to $400 a night resorts."
  • Privacy: Many sites offer a sense of seclusion. A visitor at Cactus Forest Dispersed mentioned, "Remote, private, and free but accessible."
  • Clean Facilities: Campgrounds like Spencer Canyon Campground are praised for their cleanliness, with one camper stating, "This campground has some of the cleanest vault toilets I’ve ever seen!"

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy due to nearby roads or shooting ranges. A camper at Cactus Forest Dispersed noted, "There is a shooting area down the road, a highway in the distance, and some helicopters/planes noise wise."
  • Limited Amenities: Many sites, especially dispersed ones, lack facilities. A review from Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area states, "There are no toilets, no trash, and no water hookups."
  • Access Roads: Some campgrounds have rough access roads. A visitor at Redington Pass - Dispersed Camping mentioned, "The GPS coordinates of this site are way off."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for sites with amenities like picnic tables and restrooms. A camper at Tucson - Lazydays KOA said, "The staff was great and the customer service was great."
  • Plan Activities: Bring games or plan hikes to keep kids entertained. One family at Molino Basin Campground enjoyed the "great views of the mountains" and found it a good location for recreation.
  • Safety First: Keep an eye on kids, especially around cacti. A camper at Cactus Forest Dispersed warned, "Watch out for jumping cholla cactus."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at Gilbert Ray Campground mentioned, "Our rig is about 38 feet total."
  • Use Amenities Wisely: Take advantage of dump stations and water spigots. A camper at Catalina State Park Campground appreciated the "several drinking water spigots around the loop."
  • Be Prepared for Weather: Temperatures can drop at night, so pack accordingly. A review from Spencer Canyon Campground advised, "The mountain can get very cold and windy at night."

Camping near Willow Canyon, Arizona, offers a mix of adventure and relaxation. With the right preparation, you can enjoy everything this beautiful area has to offer!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Willow Canyon, AZ?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Willow Canyon, AZ offers a wide range of camping options, with 140 campgrounds and RV parks near Willow Canyon, AZ and 33 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Willow Canyon, AZ?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Willow Canyon, AZ is Catalina State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 60 reviews.

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

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

  • What parks are near Willow Canyon, AZ?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 parks near Willow Canyon, AZ that allow camping, notably Saguaro National Park and Coronado National Forest.