The best camping near Coronado National Forest

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Coronado National Forest adventure.

78% (40 reviews)

If you think southern Arizona is nothing but parched desert, think again.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Coronado National Forest

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Coronado National Forest

Peppersauce Campground

1 site · RV, Tent In Coronado National Forest

Cactus Ramada Campground (No. 2)

1 site · RV, Tent In Coronado National Forest

Stockton Pass Campground

1 site · RV, Tent In Coronado National Forest

On the road from Portal, a half mile from the campground.

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(2)

Stewart Campground

12 sites · RVs, Tents In Coronado National Forest

White Rock Campground

15 sites · RVs, Tents In Coronado National Forest

Spencer Canyon Campground

60 sites · RVs, Tents In Coronado National Forest

West Turkey Creek Campground

1 site · RV, Tent In Coronado National Forest

Peloncillo Mountains Campground

1 site In Coronado National Forest

A lower dispersed spot. All camps are large, some more private than others. The lower spots are protected, higher spots exposed. the elevation here makes for cool relief from the hot desert summer, but cold winter camping (by Tucson standards) think snow.

67%

(3)

Mt. Bigelow Campground

1 site · RV, Tent In Coronado National Forest

100%

(1)

Parker Canyon Lake

1 site · RV, Tent In Coronado National Forest

Ramsey Vista Campground

8 sites · RVs, Tents In Coronado National Forest

from

$10

/ night

Treasure Park Campground

1 site · RV, Tent In Coronado National Forest

Lower Twilight Group Campground

1 site · RV, Tent In Coronado National Forest

Shannon Campground

11 sites · RVs, Tents In Coronado National Forest

from

$10

/ night

Hospital Flat Campground

20 sites In Coronado National Forest

from

$10

/ night

Reef Townsite Group Campground

1 site · RV, Tent In Coronado National Forest

Treasure Park North Group Campground

1 site · RV, Tent In Coronado National Forest

Cypress Park Campground

14 sites · RVs, Tents In Coronado National Forest

from

$10

/ night

Rucker Forest Camp

26 sites · RVs, Tents In Coronado National Forest

from

$10

/ night

Rustler Park Campground

22 sites · RVs, Tents In Coronado National Forest

from

$10

/ night

Cunningham Campground

10 sites · RVs, Tents In Coronado National Forest

from

$10

/ night

Riggs Flat Campground

31 sites · RVs, Tents In Coronado National Forest

from

$10

/ night

Sycamore Campground

7 sites · RVs, Tents In Coronado National Forest

from

$10

/ night

Calabasas Campground

1 site · RV, Tent In Coronado National Forest

Camp Rucker Group Campground

1 site · RV, Tent In Coronado National Forest

Half Moon Ranch Campground

1 site In Coronado National Forest

Kent Springs Cabin

1 site In Coronado National Forest

Kentucky Camp Cabin and Headquarters Building

1 site In Coronado National Forest

Horrible photo, but I forgot to take more. This was the supermoon rising over the campground. The sunrises were just ad stunning.

100%

(4)

Molino Campground

1 site · RV, Tent In Coronado National Forest

Palisades Ranger Residence Cabin

1 site In Coronado National Forest

Portal Bunkhouse Campground

1 site In Coronado National Forest

Rock Bluff Group Campground

1 site · RV, Tent In Coronado National Forest

Rose Canyon Campground

30 sites · RVs, Tents In Coronado National Forest

Showers Point Group Campground

3 sites In Coronado National Forest

100%

(1)

Sunny Flat Campground

13 sites · RVs, Tents In Coronado National Forest

Cochise Stronghold Campground

26 sites · RVs, Tents In Coronado National Forest

Bog Springs Campground

13 sites · RVs, Tents In Coronado National Forest

from

$10

/ night

Upper Arcadia Campground

19 sites · RVs, Tents In Coronado National Forest

from

$10

/ night

Herb Martyr Campground

1 site · RV, Tent In Coronado National Forest

100%

(1)

Kentucky Camp Dispersed Camping Area

1 site In Coronado National Forest

Arivaca Lake Campground

1 site · RV, Tent In Coronado National Forest

Camping on the edge of an old foundation. Pretty steep drop at this spot, there is another large spot close to here that's a little less 'on the edge'
Larger spot has two fire rings, more tree cover

Incinerator Ridge Campground

1 site · RV, Tent In Coronado National Forest

Clark Peak Corrals Campground

1 site · RV, Tent In Coronado National Forest

Soldier Creek Campground

12 sites · RVs, Tents In Coronado National Forest

Lakeview Campground

65 sites · RVs, Tents In Coronado National Forest

General Hitchcock Campground

11 sites · RVs, Tents In Coronado National Forest

from

$10

/ night

Whitetail Campground

5 sites · RVs, Tents In Coronado National Forest

100%

(1)

Gordon Hirabayashi Campground

12 sites · RVs, Tents In Coronado National Forest

Idlewilde Campground

9 sites · RVs, Tents In Coronado National Forest

from

$10

/ night

Top-rated campgrounds near Coronado National Forest

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Camp Saguaro

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents7 acres · Tucson, AZ

Camp Saguaro is nestled in a unique and rural area on the west side of Tucson, Arizona. With the Saguaro National Park Visitor Center, Tucson Mountain Park, and Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum all within four miles, there is plenty of opportunity to explore the outdoors. Tucson Mountain Park and Saguaro National Park boast hundreds of miles of hiking trails, and non-motorized mountain bikes are permitted on the trails in Tucson Mountain Park. Let us be your base camp for desert exploration whether it's hiking, riding, birdwatching, and learning. Come to Camp Saguaro and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the desert. What to expect: We are in a rural neighborhood where most parcels are 1-3 acres, we have seven acres. It's quiet around here but along with the natural sounds of the desert like yipping coyotes, and woodpeckers pecking, you may hear a horse, dog, or chicken. While we are on the outskirts of Tucson, we are not completely remote. We have carved our sites out of the natural layout of the desert. There are many kinds of cactus in our area in addition to the magnificent Saguaro, and uneven areas when walking. We keep it as natural as possible. We have a small "Mercantile" on property. This is our office, but we also have items you may have forgotten, and souvenirs made by local artists. Also available is firewood, and ice is for sale for your convenience. We have a small Laundry Shack (two washers, two dryers). You'll need cash for these things, we do not take any other form of payment at this time. Camp Saguaro is tobacco-free. Local attractions: Saguaro National Park- 2.3 miles or 2.6 miles to an entrance, 3.7 miles to the visitor center Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum-3.9 miles Tucson Mountain Park-2.5 miles Old Tucson Studios (over 400 movies have been filmed here)-7.1 miles King's Canyon Trailhead-3.8 miles Necessities: Gasoline-Speedway 5.7 miles Propane-Wagon Wheel 5.8 miles, West Ajo Feeds 12 miles Hardware-Picture Rocks Hardware 5.6 miles Groceries-Fry's Cortaro Road 14 miles

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(88)

Epic Private 300 Acre Saguaro Park

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents300 acres · Tucson, AZ

🌵 Escape to a 300 acre Private Nature Preserve: Exclusive Private Camping in Tucson, Arizona 🌄 Embark on an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Sonoran Desert with our exclusive Private Nature Camping Sites at Infinity Ranch. Rediscovered after 34 years this gated wonderland stood untouched for 3 decades now open for you to enjoy. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Sierrta Mountain Chain, where rugged landscapes meet starlit skies, and the serenity of nature becomes your personal sanctuary. 🏕️ Secluded Oasis Hidden Yet Close To City Life Discover the magic of our carefully curated private camping sites, nestled behind 7000 acres of Arizona State Trust Land in the outskirts of Tucson . Yet, just 30 to 50 minutes from major tourist venues like: Old Tucson Studios, Pima Air and Space Museum, Arizona Sonoran Desert Museum, Casino Del Sol, Kitt Peak National Observatory, and many others. This hidden gem offers an intimate escape for those seeking solace in nature's embrace without trekking to far from access to modern amenities. Settle into your campsite surrounded by the enchanting saguaros and mesquite trees that paint the landscape. 🌅 Sunrise Serenity, Sunset Spectacle Awaken to the gentle hues of the sunrise as the desert comes alive with a symphony of colors. Your private camping experience allows you to savor the tranquility of the morning, sipping a steaming cup of coffee or tea while the desert flora welcomes a new day. As the sun begins its descent, witness the breathtaking transformation of the horizon and create in harmony your own personal exclusive sunset ceremony, painting the sky in hues of pink, orange, and gold. Get your camera ready for that Insta Pic. Oh and no worries High Speed Data Cellular Service is available from your preferred carrier.... YEP IN THE MIDDLE OF A SECLUDED PRIVATE NATURE PRESERVE YOUR PHONE WORKS! 🔥 Campfire Tales and Stargazing Delight As the evening unfolds, gather around a your crackling campfire to share stories under the vast desert sky, lose yourself in a mesmerizing stargazing experience. With minimal light pollution, Infinity Ranch's night sky becomes a canvas of celestial wonders, inviting you to marvel at the cosmos like never before. Rated between a Class 2 Truly Dark Sky and a Class 3 Rual Dark Sky on the Bortle Scale 🚀 Tailored Adventures and Guided Exploration Customize your camping adventure with a range of outdoor activities, from hiking through saguaro-studded trails, challenging mountain biking, small off-road ATVs allowed, birdwatching, desert survival skills, history and mining tours, nature photography and STAR GAZING. Our experienced guides are on hand to ensure you make the most of your desert expedition, providing insights into the unique flora, fauna, geological and massive mineral diversity (Fluorite, 3 Types Of Quartz and more) that call Infinity Ranch home. 🌟 Unplug and Reconnect Escape the demands of modern life and embrace the simplicity of nature. Our private camping sites at Infinity Ranch provide you a unique private opportunity to unplug, unwind, and reconnect with yourself and your loved ones. Immerse yourself in the rhythm of the desert, where each moment is a precious gift waiting to be discovered. 🌿 Book Your Private Nature Camping Experience Today Launch on your adventure with our exclusive private camping sites in Tucson, Arizona at Infinity Ranch. Limited 4 slots available for Tent, Primative or Self Contained Camper/RV (Up To 24 Ft) Power can be provided for an extra fee of $ 25.00 per day. Potable Water Can Be Provided for a $10 fee. Reserve your spot now and create memories that will last a lifetime. Nature is calling – will you answer?

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Dark Sky Camping and Glamping

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents763 acres · Tucson, AZ

We moved to this property after a year of searching for the perfect piece of land. We wanted to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy nature. The more we fell in love with the peace and quiet of the desert, the fresh air, and the breathtaking view of the stars at night, the more we wanted to share our oasis with others. We love camping and wanted to be surrounded by others who love it as much as we do! We know some people prefer pitching a tent and complete solitude while others prefer a getaway with a really comfy bed and all the comforts of home! Whether you prefer to camp and would like hundreds of acres to yourselves or you would prefer to glamp in our private 80-acre tiny house village, we are here for you! Choose your adventure! Learn more about this land: Our land is surrounded by gorgeous mountain views and natural desert landscape. With plenty of surrounding vacant land and walking paths to explore, you will never get bored of the scenery. Get away from neighbors and stretch out as you'll have acres all to yourself. As if the daytime views aren't breathtaking enough, the sunsets light up the sky in cotton candy to bright tangerine hues and magnify the beauty of the mountains. The night sky sparkles with stars and constellations as we are a dark sky community with very minimal light pollution for miles. The sounds of the desert and wildlife help you to get the deepest sleep as there is very little man made noise in our area. You can hike, dirt bike, bring your off-road vehicles, explore our property and rock hound for as many quartz as you can carry! You may even catch a glimpse of some wild horses, cows, bulls, birds, hawks, jackrabbits, and roadrunners! Nearby attractions include Keeylocko Cowtown (self proclaimed historic town just acres away with a old western vibe and bar), Kitt Peak Observatory, Saguaro National Park, Old Tucson, and Downtown Tucson. If you are new to camping, we can also help provide you with some of the necessities you may have forgotten for a small additional fee (chairs, water, tents, blankets etc). We encourage you to ditch your phone and enjoy nature while you are here. You wont want to miss these views! ** Please let us know if you do not have 4-wheel drive and will be towing a trailer, if you have large RV, or a car that doesn’t manage well on dirt roads. We have multiple campsites with different accessibility and want to help you find the perfect spot for your vehicle!

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La Hacienda Chuparosa

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents4 acres · Tucson, AZ

When my husband and I were dating in NY we confessed our mutual desire to get back "home" to the west. It made me fall in love with him even faster. So when we married we moved to Washington DC knowing that in time we would make it west. 5 years later, when the traffic and the politics has taken its toll, we made a trip to Tucson and fell in love with this charming property that exudes all the beauty and grace of the Sonoran Desert. We looked at each other as we walked around looking at the stunning Mtn. Views and the mesquite fence and knew we were finally "home." I've always adored the SW Hummingbirds and wanted to name the property La Hacienda Chuparosa. When we moved in, for the first week, every morning a hummingbird was sipping nectar from one of our plants in the front yard. We knew it was meant to be. So we added a couple of horses to our dream, built some stalls, and now are ready to welcome you to La Hacienda Chuparosa. We know you will find the same magic here that we do.

95%

(19)

18+ Artists' Nature Retreat

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents24 acres · Tombstone, AZ

Welcome to Our Earth-Building Artists' Retreat! Imagine a creative escape that's just a stone's throw away from the stunning landscapes of Arizona's wild desert. Our homestead is nestled right next to hundreds of acres of breathtaking BLM land. Here, awe-inspiring hills tell tales of ancient coral reefs full of desert wildlife and amazing night sky. History buffs rejoice, you're smack dab in the middle of the legendary mining towns of Tombstone, Bisbee, and Sierra Vista! Explore as you wish—be it the homestead's vibrant heart or the quirky charm of nearby towns. Our magical retreat offers cozy camping spots with amenities like a shower house featuring on-demand hot water—perfect after a day of adventuring. You'll also have access to our community space decked out with Wi-Fi and a composting commode. Need extra comforts? We also offer firewood and water-fill ups for a small extra fee! A Few Considerations Before Booking: Getting Here: Your journey begins with a scenic drive, we live 5-10 minutes down a dirt road. It’s been freshly graded, so standard cars like a trusty Civic or Prius will do just fine. That said, this route isn’t ideal for very low-clearance vehicles, those uneasy about dirt roads, or trailers/RVs over 20 ft. Off-Grid Adventure: Since we're living that sustainable off-grid dream, we work with what we call a composting "outhouse" rather than a traditional septic system. If this rustic charm doesn’t sit well with you, we might not be the ideal fit. Pet & Wildlife Lovers: We embrace friendly furry companions! Just bear in mind, the desert is home to critters galore—everything from coyotes to bobcats. Keep a watchful eye on your pets and please make sure you clean up after your pets. Adult-Only Zone: We cater to an 18+ crowd—so it's a peaceful haven sans kids. Eco-Friendly Practices: We encourage bringing biodegradable soaps to protect our trees and vegetation, we do provide biodegradable soaps if needed. Workshops Galore: Eager to learn something new? Snag a spot in one of our private classes with topics spanning from wild plant walks to pottery classes, and a homestead tour. Message us to see what's on offer during your visit! Pottery classes need to be booked at least a week in advance so we can prepare clay.

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Karla's Hummingbird Guest Ranch

11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents8 acres · Huachuca City, AZ

Welcome to Karla's Hummingbird Guest Ranch! My private horse property is located in the Sky Islands area of South Eastern Arizona. I have 2 horses and lots of local birds hang out here. I offer 2 full hook-up spaces, one space is covered. Power is 50 AMPS! An RV must be under 12' to fit under the cover. I offer 4 dry camping options. You can book the new Tent Cabana-The Shady Rest- listing or you can dry camp by booking through my Tent and Vehicle Camping listing. There are no exact designated spaces for tent/vehicle camping. You can choose where you prefer to camp. I also have the Pool House, an indoor option with a power outlet, and it's close to the pool and restroom area. And if you want to hang out with the horses you can camp in the barn. There are 2 24 x 24 stalls available across from the horses, inside of the barn. The stalls are 1/2 covered and have rubber mats to camp on. The stalls have wood sides and are lined with welded horse panels. Your dog can run loose inside the stalls, as long as it likes horses and won't bark all night. The Shady Rest is weather-proof. The other cabana has a shade fabric top and it has a fire pit. There is a restroom/breakfast room off the pool area. This fall/winter I am offering 2 guest rooms which are located inside of my house. One room is off the pool, the Tropical Room, the other room faces the front gardens, the Garden Room. Those room share a full guest bath, laundry, entrance door and coffee and coffee cake breakfast. Limit 2 people per room. I also have walking trails here. This is my private property, you and your gear are safe and secure. You can leave your campsite and go exploring, no one will bother your stuff. I have WiFi and great cell service here. You must arrive by dark. My gates will be closed at dark. You may have coffee with my horses if you like. There is a place to sit in the barn. They will munch hay and look at you. If you would like to feed them just ask me and I will show you what they can have. You may also sit by the arena and watch horses. Please feel free to walk around and enjoy the property! At night you will hear coyotes, you might see javilina. I've seen a bobcat a few times. There are lots of birds and some rabbits. I share it with the local wildlife. I am located just over an hour away from Tucson and 25 minutes off the 10. My place is 10 minutes from Coronado National Forest. The property is tranquil, peaceful, and quiet. We have beautiful sunsets and views all around. I supply the music, the resident Cactus Wrens, quail and assorted songbirds will sing to you all day long. You will see a lot of quail and other birds on the property. There are 2 varieties of quail who visit daily. And you will see Desert Cardinals, Cactus Wrens, Curved Billed Thrashers and all the song birds. My neighbours and I all have 4 acres minimum so no one is super close by. You can come here, walk or bike around, and walk your pets without being bothered by other dogs. This is a very safe and comfortable place for solo campers and families to enjoy! My ranch has a friendly, family-style vibe. This is staying at your friend's place. (unless your friends are losers.) Dry campers- Off the pool area there is a clean restroom in my back garage and a sink with hot water. There is a clean refrigerator, microwave and coffee maker available for your use. Each tent, and/or a place where people sleep is a campsite....in other words you can't book 1 tent camping site and then add your friends who come in their vehicle and set up a campsite. That is 2 campsites Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times when using the pool area. This included going to and from the restroom. Important! Please don't post any photos of my place on my listing or in your review. I can't remove them. I don't need photos of Tombstone or your dog on my listing. Thank you!

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Sanctuary at Sonoita Creek

4 sites · RVs1 acre · Patagonia, AZ

Sanctuary at Sonoita Creek was created as a place to enjoy the unique treasures of Patagonia, AZ. We wanted to provide a haven for people who value the outdoors to gather and take advantage of the recreational opportunities in our area. We offer three RV full hookup RV sites. We also have two vintage trailers that are available through Airbnb. We're walking distance to the Tucson Audubon's Paton Center for Hummingbirds and the Sonoita Creek Nature Conservancy. We're also walking distance to restaurants and shopping in the Town of Patagonia. Patagonia Lake is only 8 miles away.

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Rancho Relaxo

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents4 acres · Tucson, AZ

4+ acres in SW Tucson allow for fresh desert air and quiet starry nights

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Bucin Bronc Court

5 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Tucson, AZ

Welcome Hipcamp Vanlifers, this location has three spots to accommodate Vans and class b motorhomes up to 20 ft in length, you'll have access to a free shower room, toilet room, and laundry facility. Access to picnic area and gas barbecue grill. Close to freeway access. Great place to park, relax, clean up, do some laundry, and get out and enjoy the Tucson winter weather. Sabino Canyon is about a 30 minute drive north and is a must see. It's also a great location for those of you coming to town for the Gem Show.

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Crested Saguaro Ranchita

3 sites · Lodging, Tents4 acres · Tucson, AZ

Our four acre property has a small guest studio and two dry campsites. Belmont Road is a mile long dirt road, but passable with any car or bicycle. The area is considered suburban ranch, so other homes on 3-4 acre lots are visible. Our land abuts Saguaro National Park West, 1/4 mile past the Belmont Trailhead. It is the only camping area on the readily accessible eastern side of Saguaro NP's west unit.

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Tucson Saguaro sky

10 sites · Lodging8 acres · Tucson, AZ

Four sites on the property scattered over the 8 acres. Close to shopping and entertainment, easy access to 1-10. 5 minutes east of Saguaro National Monument West. Tucson Mountain foothills. Gorgeous city and Mountain views. Access to unheard pool and 8 acres of lush desert with trails, seating areas, zen garden and labyrinth Monthly rentals have a reduced rate on all sites.

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Rancho del Nido RV Horse Camp

5 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Sonoita, AZ

This exceptional property lies surrounded by scenic mountains as far as the eye can see. Averages 13 degrees cooler than the lower desert of nearby Tucson because of its 5000ft elevation. When you ride out on the Empire Ranch you feel miles away from anything and a 100 years back in time.Learn more about this land:Rancho del Nido Stables RV Horse Camp & Boarding - this ranch will become your "Little Piece of Heaven"! This exceptional property lies surrounded by scenic mountains as far as the eye can see. Averages 13 degrees cooler than the lower desert of nearby Tucson because of its 5000ft elevation. When you ride out on the Empire Ranch, you will feel miles away from anything and a 100 years back in time.Beautiful views of high desert grasslands with mountains all around. Each RV site includes a pen for your horse. Arenas on-site. Endless trail riding on Empire Ranch.

The best camping near Coronado National Forest guide

Overview

About

Remember the term sky island. Here in southeastern Arizona and southwestern New Mexico, mountains seemingly come out of nowhere to dominate an otherwise flat landscape. Discover the five distinct areas of this national forest, all of which have their own sky islands.

Start your wanderings at Sabino Canyon. Steep rock cliffs and unique desert vegetation follow Sabino Creek, which maintains water year-round. Keep a sharp eye out for desert wildlife adapted for high heat and low humidity. Gila monsters may sun themselves on rocks, while bobcats sip from the creek's water.

Discover Miller Peak, the highest peak in the Huachuca Mountains. Wilderness surrounding the area comprises vertical cliffs and deep canyons. Follow an 11.5-mile, moderately hard trail to the top of the mountain. The mountain rises 3,500 feet above the countryside.

Campgrounds abound here. Choose year-round campsites from 3,000 feet to 9,000 feet above sea level.