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Established Camping

Alamo Canyon Primitive Campground — Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument

Warning 1 Alert is In Effect

There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!

Fire restrictions are currently in effect that prohibit charcoal fires, wood-burning camp stoves, and charcoal grills. Only gas or propane stoves are permitted.

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Alamo Canyon Primitive Campground, near Ajo, Arizona, is a cozy spot for those seeking a quiet escape in the heart of Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument. With just a handful of sites, it offers a more intimate camping experience surrounded by stunning desert landscapes and towering cacti.

This campground is perfect for tent campers and van enthusiasts, featuring vault toilets and trash bins, but be prepared—there's no drinking water or cell service here. Visitors have noted the peaceful atmosphere, with one camper describing it as “almost a backcountry experience,” making it ideal for those looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature.

The area is a great launching point for exploring the park's trails, including the scenic Alamo Canyon trail, which winds through beautiful desert flora. While the sites are close together, the surrounding shrubs provide a bit of privacy, and many appreciate the serene vibe. Just remember to snag a reservation ahead of time, as spots can fill up quickly. If you're after solitude and a taste of the wild, Alamo Canyon is a solid choice for your next camping adventure.

Fee Info

$16 per night, $8 per night with an Interagency Senior or Access Pass

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Location

Alamo Canyon Primitive Campground — Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument is located in Arizona

Detail location of campground

Directions

There is no road sign along the highway for the Alamo Canyon Road Alamo Canyon Road is located at milepost 65.5 on the east side of AZ State Route 85, on the north side of the concrete bridge that crosses Alamo Wash. Alamo Canyon Campground is located at the end of the Alamo Canyon Road. The road is a three-mile graded dirt road suitable for most cars. From the North (Phoenix): take I-10 East to AZ SR 85 south. Or, take I-10 east to AZ SR 347 south, to AZ 238 west, to AZ SR 85 south. From the East (Tucson): take AZ SR 86 to Why, then turn left on AZ SR 85, heading south. From the West (Yuma/California): follow I-8 to Gila Bend or I-10 to Buckeye, to AZ SR 85 south. From the South (Sonoyta, Mexico): travel north towards Lukeville, AZ on Mexico Rt. 2. Once across the border into the United States, continue north onto AZ SR 85.

Coordinates

32.072943 N
112.728093 W

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Connectivity

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    Some Coverage

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Detours Nearby

LOCAL FAVORITES PRESENTED BYToyota Trucks
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Kokopelli Gardens

2 hrs 6 min away

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2 hrs 17 min away

Drive Time

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Connectivity

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    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Reservable
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets

For Vehicles

  • Water Hookups

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Reviews

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4 Reviews

Reviewed Mar. 21, 2024

Quiet and peaceful

I love how out of the way this campground is and how small. The sites are kind of close together but there are shrubs so it’s mostly private.

I have SOS service on my phone.

Make your reservations before you get to the park. Unlike me. I was lucky to snag my spot.

Site2
Month of VisitMarch
Reviewed Dec. 6, 2023

Small CG for the tenters and vans

Small CG, only 4 sites. No RVs, TTs allowed. Vault toilet, trash bins, but no water and no cell signal. 3 miles of graded gravel road from hwy. $16/$8 senior. Need to pay at visitor center or online but with no cell signal... Guess a good spot for a Starlink neighbor! Sites are close together in a tight circle... Limited privacy.

Month of VisitDecember
  • Review photo of Alamo Canyon Primitive Campground — Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument by Greg L., December 6, 2023
  • Review photo of Alamo Canyon Primitive Campground — Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument by Greg L., December 6, 2023
  • Review photo of Alamo Canyon Primitive Campground — Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument by Greg L., December 6, 2023
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Dec. 4, 2021

Border Patrol parking lot

We were unable to camp due to high volume Border Patrol activity. Not sure if this is the norm but there were at least 15 border patrol vehicles parked throughout the small camping area. It took away the serenity of the place. We elected to camp at the Twin Peaks Campground for just $6/night more, which was uncrowded , offered ramada shade covering and showers.

Month of VisitNovember
Reviewed Jun. 26, 2020

almost a backcountry experience

Fair warning that I didnt actually get to stay at this campground, it was full already.  It has a very small amount of campsites, so not a place to count on without a reservation.  But if you are lucky enough to get a reservation, the campground looks great!  

When we checked out the campground, for future plans, (yet to be realized ;) ) it was a super quiet, almost secluded setting.  I think the noise level varies with who else is camping nearby, but I would imagine it is usually people looking for a more backcountry experience than they would get at a normal campground. We did not see water or fire pits. 

If you want a backcountry camping experience that is a little less daunting this is the place for you!  Lots to see in the park and then you can retreat back to your spot in nature! 

This campground is on my list of places to camp in Arizona on a future visit :)

Siten/a
Month of VisitSeptember

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Alamo Canyon Campground located and how do I access it?

Alamo Canyon Primitive Campground is located within Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument. To access the campground, you'll need to travel approximately 3 miles on a graded gravel road from the main highway. The road is maintained but primitive, making it accessible for most passenger vehicles. The campground is situated in a remote, scenic area of the monument, offering a more secluded experience than other camping options in the park.

What outdoor activities can I enjoy near Alamo Canyon Campground?

The area around Alamo Canyon Campground offers excellent hiking opportunities through the stunning desert landscape of Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument. The secluded location provides ideal conditions for stargazing due to minimal light pollution. Wildlife viewing is another popular activity, with opportunities to spot desert creatures in their natural habitat. The campground's remote setting makes it perfect for photography, nature appreciation, and experiencing the serene beauty of the Sonoran Desert. Nearby trails provide access to unique desert flora, including the monument's namesake organ pipe cacti.

What amenities are available at Alamo Canyon Campground?

Alamo Canyon Campground offers basic primitive amenities. The facility includes vault toilets and trash bins, but no water is available on site. There is no cell signal in the area, though some campers report having SOS service on their phones. The campground is small with only 4 sites that are relatively close together, though partially screened by natural vegetation. RVs and travel trailers are not permitted at this primitive campground.

Do I need reservations for Alamo Canyon Campground?

Yes, reservations are highly recommended for Alamo Canyon Campground. With only 4 sites available, the campground fills quickly and cannot be counted on for last-minute stays. Reservations should be made before arriving at the park. The camping fee is $16 per night, with a reduced rate of $8 for seniors. Payment must be made at the visitor center or online, which can be challenging since there's no cell signal at the campground. Plan ahead to secure your spot.