Mount Lemmon's camping areas near Willow Canyon sit at elevations between 7,000-8,000 feet, creating a mountainous forest environment distinct from Tucson's desert lowlands. The transition zone between desert scrub and alpine forest creates unique biodiversity with both cacti and pine trees visible within short distances. Summer temperatures typically range 15-20 degrees cooler than Tucson, making higher-elevation sites popular refuges during hot months.
What to do
Hiking nearby trails: Spencer Canyon Campground provides access to several mountain trails, with the campground located at 7,900 feet elevation. "I've camped here several times. There are many trails to choose from not too far from your camp (read up on hiking in high elevations though before you venture out)," notes one Spencer Canyon Campground visitor.
Visit Summerhaven: The small mountain community sits about 6 miles from Spencer Canyon. "It is only 22 miles from Tucson and less than 6 miles from the mountaintop hamlet of Summerhaven," reports a camper. Another mentions, "If you want a break from camp food you can jet up to summerhaven it's not that far and grab lunch."
Cave tours: Plan a day trip to Kartchner Caverns State Park Campground, located about 80 miles southeast. "We reserved and did the Rotunda/Throne Tour. It was very cool and our 1st cave tour. I would suggest reading the rules for tours before reserving," shares one visitor. Access to the cavern is strictly controlled regarding what you can bring.
What campers like
Mountain climate: The high elevation creates significantly cooler temperatures. "This is the highest National Forest campground on Mount Lemmon and your best bet for cooler temps during the summer," reports a camper at Spencer Canyon Campground.
Natural surroundings: Campers appreciate the forest environment. "Love Spencer Canyon! Great place for a chill camping weekend. Lots of space, not too close to other sites, and the bathroom reading on bees is superb," writes one visitor. Another notes, "Beautiful campground nested in the trees on Mount Lemmon. Great escape from Phoenix."
Group camping options: White Tail Group Site accommodates larger gatherings. "This campground boasts several group sites, complete with plenty of parking, large gazebos with multiple grills for your group gatherings, and tent pads scattered throughout," explains a camper at Empire Ranch. "The tent pads are not close together, giving you the privacy you need to retreat to your tent but still close to the amenities of the group site."
What you should know
Limited RV access: Many mountain sites restrict larger vehicles. At Spencer Canyon, "Parking can be limited with only a few of the sites having adequate parking for trailers up to 22 feet. Your best bet for a good site for the weekend is to get there on Thursday or early Friday," advises a camper.
Wildlife precautions: "Make sure to lock up your food I had a skunk visitor," warns one General Hitchcock Campground visitor. Another camper mentions, "DO NOT feed the bears, please; for their safety. Seriously; they'll get euthanized."
Weather considerations: Mountain weather varies throughout the year. A camper at General Hitchcock Campground reports, "I went with a couple of friends if you go prepared with winter gear you won't be cold." Another notes, "There must have been a shooting range nearby because there were shooting noises from midnight to 3am."
Yurt camping options: While traditional yurt camping in Willow Canyon, Arizona is limited, some private facilities near Tucson offer yurt-style accommodations. Palo Verde Estates includes yurt camping options among their 162 sites, providing a middle ground between tent camping and cabin rentals.
Tips for camping with families
Best family-friendly sites: Tucson Lazydays KOA offers comprehensive facilities for families. "Your kids will never complain of boredom here. There is an unlimited amount of activities to keep them occupied. Laundry room and showers were clean. RV sites were spacious in my opinion," notes one visitor.
Safety considerations: Some campgrounds have terrain challenges. "This campground is small, with tent sites tucked away between pine trees. A vaulted bathroom is at the center of the parking lot," explains a camper about General Hitchcock. Another advises choosing your Spencer Canyon site carefully "if you want to pitch your tent on a flat, level plot."
Educational opportunities: Kartchner Caverns offers learning experiences. One visitor explains, "Kartchner Cave is walking distance with a great observation center even if you don't take a tour into the caves." Another notes wildlife cautions: "Watch your step, we came across a Diamond Back Rattle Snake about 4 feet from our picnic bench."
Tips from RVers
RV-friendly alternatives: When mountain sites won't accommodate larger rigs, consider Cactus Country RV Park. "This is a well maintained facility. Friendly people. Close to Tucson. Cable and wifi. Pet friendly. Sites are close together but when we visited, we were spaced well," reports a camper.
Hookup information: Check electrical systems before setting up. "The shore power 30 amp showed reverse polarity and a faulty ground, so we used the 50 amp with a dog bone," reports one RVer. For dry camping options, "BLM off of W Valencia Rd" provides accessibility for larger vehicles: "Good spot, level ground, lots of room. Any size camper will work."
Mountain driving caution: The scenic Mount Lemmon Highway requires careful navigation. "The drive up Mt. Lemmon highway is 35 MPH the cops hiding around the corners writing tickets would be glad to remind you or you can take my word for it. This road is also very popular for cyclists so make sure you keep your eyes on the road, they come out of nowhere."
