The best camping near Saguaro National Park

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

The Sonoran Desert sets the stage for exploring the iconic saguaro cactus.

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Community favorites near Saguaro National Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Saguaro National Park

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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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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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Desert Getaway in Avra Valley

4 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Avra Valley, AZ

This serene beautiful space was a portion of a property owned by a dear friend of ours who lost his battle with cancer in early 2021. As were his wishes, we have created various rental spaces in which we donate the proceeds to St. Jude's Children's Hospital and several local animal shelters. Learn more about this land: Welcome to Avra Valley, a well-kept secret escape just west of Tucson, Arizona. “The Henry” campsite is surrounded by natural desert plantings as well as gorgeous Eucalyptus trees which are on a drip watering system. The private designated acre offers electrical, water and sewer hookup for a single RV. This is a beautiful desert getaway convenient located close to the Saguaro National Park, Tucson Mountain Park, Gates Pass, and the Ironwood National Forest. Some local amenities include a Speedway Gas Station, Dollar General, restaurant/bar and a general store all within a 5 minute drive. Come disconnect and enjoy!

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GLAMP CAMP STAY at INFINITY RANCH

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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The Mountain View Spot!

1 site · RV4 acres · Tucson, AZ

Large RV parking space located just minutes away from Saguaro National Park! Take in the majestic views of the Catalina and Rincon mountains while being surrounded by abundant Hummingbirds, songbirds and desert wildlife in a quiet rural neighborhood. Located along a very popular biking route with easy access to all the amenities you'll need. There is a 220V 50 amp plug and a 110v 20 amp plug with fresh water available on site. Learn more about this land: Park your RV, Travel Trailer or Van on a large concrete pad with amazing views of the Catalina and Rincon Mountains! Minutes away from Saguaro National Park East and several hiking and biking trails. Abundant desert wildlife with hummingbirds, songbirds and even some resident Gila monsters. Plenty of space to enter and turn around on the property. The property is open and not fenced. There is abundant wildlife in the area so it's best to keep your furry friends on a leash if possible. Well behaved or trained pets may be ok off leash.

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Singing Winds Lane

2 sites · Lodging2 acres · Tucson, AZ

Located by the southwest corner of Tucson mountain park, this spot is at the back of a small neighborhood (at the end of a dead-end road). The back of the property, where the camping is, opens up to miles of desert / mountains and a great spot to have a gathering (Music and parties OK) or as a quiet spot to relax and listen to the coyotes. Hiking trails start just 20 feet away from the tent! 10 minute drive to Saguaro national Park and the Desert Museum, 30 minutes to downtown. 2 sites: • RV Site with queen bed, kitchen, shower • 10’ x 10’ canvas tent with comfy queen bed. Plenty of space for additional tents / vans / RV BBQ grill / table / chairs / fire pit

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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.

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Thousand Oaks

2 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Patagonia, AZ

The home was built by my parents in ‘82. My Mom was an avid hiker and outdoors person. She collected and planted agave pups in the yard and tended to them over the years. Because they’re watered and the pups are removed each spring they continue to grow to mammoth size. Once they bloom the plant dies. 3 have bloomed, producing 40’ stalks. Agave Americana.Learn more about this land: Nestled in a canyon full of giant oak trees , you’ll be amazed that you’re in southern Arizona. The dirt road is ideal for walks and bicycle rides. The property is 4 miles from the town of patagonia, just 2 miles in from highway 82. Patagonia lake state park is 9 miles away. There is a hammock & picnic table in the upper yard surrounded by mammoth agave plants and oaks. There is much info online for visitors to this area including There are 2 sites available but I prefer not to rent them simultaneously, unless the groups are together since they’re very close together. ( not much privacy). THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Patagonia - 2021 (with Photos) -available at trip advisor online Look up Sky Islands Arizona - Discover Patagonia, Sonoita & Elgin Disclosure: I am a drummer and often have practice and rehearsals in my home. The basement is approx. 300 yards from the campsite. There may be heard a thump thump in the distance at times. Rehearsals never last after 8:30 pm Also I have 2 elderly cats that lounge around outside, usually pretty far from the site but free to wander during the day. (If you have a dog that adamantly chases cats with killer instinct , this could become a problem. )

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TerraSol in Patagonia, Arizona

6 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Patagonia, AZ

TerraSol is a hostel-style camping spot for hikers, cyclists, birders, and van/small RV travelers. Our fun, friendly atmosphere and thoughtful amenities make TerraSol your perfect rest stop or base camp where you can recharge for your adventure — just 1/2 mile from town. Camp under majestic mesquite trees, with Sky Islands mountain peaks all around. Prepare meals in the camp kitchen, then choose your spot to relax: morning sunroom, shaded deck, fire circle, or gazebo. Or lounge around your campsite with picnic table and chairs. Look forward to WiFi, hot shower, insulated tent pads, and extra blankets, plus loaner bikes to get to town. And popcorn! TerraSol is on the Arizona Trail Patagonia access route, the Sky Islands Odyssey bikepacking loops, and several inspiring gravel biking day routes. Several nearby hiking/walking trails draw birders from around the world. There's plenty to enjoy in Patagonia itself, too. Grab a hearty breakfast, explore unique shops, and learn about our history at our historic schoolhouse museum. Dinner, drinks and live music are all evening possibilities. Happy planning for your Patagonia adventure. Hope to see you at TerraSol!

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Bucin Bronc Court

3 sites · RVs1 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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Iron Quail Ranch

2 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · Marana, AZ

Iron Quail Ranch is a modern off-grid homestead and meat goat ranch. The ranch lies in the center of Avra Valley, Arizona on historic farm and ranch land which has gradually been managed to return to its natural state of mesquites, ironwoods, cacti, and natural grasses. The ranch sits beautifully positioned between Saguaro National Park and Ironwood Forest National Monument. At Iron Quail Ranch we offer you a private and secure RV or tent campsite on 15 acres adjoining over 200,000 acres of public lands. There are unobstructed views of Saguaro National Park (West) and a private entrance into Ironwood Forest National Monument. There is abundant wildlife thriving in the riparian watershed on the property. There is easy access to both National parks from the property via ATV/UTV, car/truck, or even horseback. The level campsites can fit everyone from a tent camper up to 40-foot RVs. There is good cell phone reception on all major carriers at the property. Potable water, a sewer dump station, an outdoor kitchen, and a modern outhouse are available on the property. 120v electric charging stations are also available to recharge your small portable electronic devices.

The best camping near Saguaro National Park guide

Overview

About

The massive Saguaro cactus only grows in a small section of the Sonoran Desert in Southern Arizona. Saguaro National Park provides a prime spot for appreciating this iconic symbol of the Wild West. Two units are located outside the city of Tucson, offering hiking trails and scenic desert drives. The National Park Service offers 21 campsites spread across 6 campgrounds in the Saguaro Wilderness Area in the Rincon Mountains. Nearby public lands and state parks offer various camping options outside of the national park, and many private RV parks can be found in the greater Tucson region.

Notable campgrounds

Best for backcountry camping: Within the park, primitive campsites in the Saguaro Wilderness Area are scenic. These tent sites require campers to hike in, with several miles of hiking and several feet of elevation gain involved.
Best for RVers: Campers will find electric hookups and both tent and RV sites at nearby Catalina State Park, Kartchner Caverns State Park, and the Gilbert Ray Campground in Tucson Mountain Park.
Best for boondocking: Free dispersed camping is allowed in the surrounding Coronado National Forest.

Tips for snagging a campsite

The Saguaro Wilderness Area campsites are for tent camping only; RVs and other vehicles cannot reach these camping areas.
NPS backcountry camping permits are required for camping in the Saguaro Wilderness Area.
Campsites at Arizona State Parks may be booked by phone or online up to a year in advance.
Dispersed camping in Coronado National Forest is first-come-first-served. Some areas see a lot of traffic and have limited openings.

When to go

If you visit Saguaro National Park in the summer, prepare for extreme heat, with temperatures potentially topping 110 degrees. Evenings are much cooler, as are higher elevations, so hikers should always bring layers of clothing. Carrying sunscreen and plenty of water is essential. Spring and fall are much more moderate, though evening temperatures drop quickly. Wildflowers bloom March through May, adding color to the desert landscapes. This year-round park can be appreciated in the winter, with high temperatures in the 60s and freezes rarely occurring.

Know before you go

The cactus gardens outside of the park visitors centers offer an introduction to the flora and fauna of the Sonoran Desert.
Camping spots at higher elevations may have different weather conditions; plan accordingly.
Restrooms and water sources are not available at campgrounds in the park.
Campfires are not allowed at Douglas Spring Campground or Grass Shack Campground.