Tucson's RV parks near Willow Canyon cater to travelers seeking desert accommodations with urban conveniences. Located in the Sonoran Desert at approximately 2,400 feet elevation, the area experiences mild winters with daytime temperatures averaging 65-75°F from November through March. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F, making winter months the peak season for RV visitors to Willow Canyon.
What to do
Visit the Pima Air and Space Museum: Located just minutes from Crazy Horse RV Park, this attraction showcases hundreds of aircraft. "The Pima Air and Space museum is one mile down the road," notes Nicholas Y., who found the location convenient during his extended stay.
Explore Saguaro National Park East: Cactus Country RV Park provides easy access to the iconic desert landscape. "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," reports HandL C.
Ride bikes on Tucson's trail network: The extensive paved paths throughout the region are ideal for cyclists. Kenneth L. at Rincon Country East says, "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."
What campers like
Heated pools and spas: Most parks maintain year-round swimming facilities. "The amenities at this place are great for the price. Nice pool, hot tub, laundry, bath & showers," notes Hannah T. about South Forty RV Ranch.
Winter weather conditions: The mild climate draws seasonal visitors. According to Thump C. at Rincon Country East RV Resort, it's "a nice place...mainly retirees escaping the snowy north," making it popular during colder months.
Organized activities and recreation: Many parks schedule regular events for guests. At Voyager RV Resort & Hotel, Michael C. found "swimming, tennis, pickleball, crafts, hobbies. A on site restaurant. There is a mix of perm and transient RVs. Many use golf carts. There is a 9 hole golf course here as well."
What you should know
Site dimensions and spacing: Most RV parks feature close quarters between units. According to Sam's review of Crazy Horse, "the sites are a tight squeeze with not much space. You are absolutely stacked in. It would be difficult in most sites to even park a second vehicle."
Age restrictions: Several parks limit occupancy to older adults. Hannah T. mentions about South Forty, "Apparently not the best place if you have kids though... not even sure if they 'allow' them."
Electricity costs: Some parks charge separately for power usage. Michael C. notes about Rincon Country West RV Resort: "For extended stays you will be responsible for your individual site Electric bill."
Urban noise levels: Being in city settings, many parks experience traffic sounds. Kathy H. describes Crazy Horse RV Park as "in a residential area so that makes for some dog barking from the outside neighborhood."
Tips for camping with families
Check age policies first: Many Willow Canyon area RV parks cater exclusively to adults. One reviewer noted about South Forty RV Ranch, "This park, along with many I found in the desert southwest, is an Adult Park Only, accepting residents of 55 years and older only."
Consider wildlife viewing opportunities: Some parks offer unexpected nature encounters. Ella N. from Rincon Country East RV Resort reported, "Love the Rincon parks in general even if it's just for a drive. Great wildlife! Tad poles in the wash with the biggest eyes I've ever seen!! A Gila monster just chilling."
Look for security features: Several parks offer gated access for safety. Thomas K. appreciated that Sentinel Peak RV Park "is gated which is nice!" This park also offers proximity to "a big grassy park less than 2 blocks away" for families with pets.
Tips from RVers
Parking assistance: Staff often help with site navigation. At South Forty RV Ranch, Sara H. noted, "Back-in, with camp host assistance as needed. As we left the camp host who guided us out this time offered to take any garbage off our hands!"
Electrical reliability concerns: Some visitors report power issues. HandL C. commented about Cactus Country, "The shore power 30 amp showed reverse polarity and a faulty ground, so we used the 50 amp with a dog bone. The last time we stayed, we were given the same site and the electric had not been repaired...after reporting it 3 weeks prior!"
Check laundry payment systems: Different parks use various methods. Nancy at Sentinel Peak provided contactless service during COVID restrictions: "We've actually not met in person because of social distancing and still was very attentive."
Site surface types: Most parks feature either concrete or gravel pads. Karen B. describes Cactus Country's "Pull through sites are very close together but level enough with gravel and a patio pad with table and fire pit."
