Best Camping in and near Chiricahua National Monument

100% (10 reviews)

An offbeat wonderland of hoodoos and balanced rocks in a seldom-visited corner of Arizona.

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Stay at a public campground in Chiricahua National Monument

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Bonita Canyon Campground

26 sites · RVs, Tents In Chiricahua National Monument

Top-rated campgrounds near Chiricahua National Monument

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18+ Artists' Nature Retreat

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

Come stay a while on our earth-building based-artists' retreat homestead! We host people with all sorts of passions, and provide a space for growth, creativity, and memory making! Owned and operated by a nationally renowned artist and earth-building expert, Richard Ward, and managed by longtime nomad and entrepreneur Thea Margaret. There are thousands of opportunities to tour, learn, create, and get your hands dirty! The Homestead is directly next to hundreds of acres of BLM land, full of hills with an astounding history, hiking trails on ancient coral reefs, and wildlife abound! Speaking of historic, we are very conveniently situated between the old mining towns of Tombstone, Bisbee, and Sierra Vista, Arizona! See where and how the wild west was forged! Explore the Homestead, the land, or the towns! And come home to safety and comfort in one of our various sites. There is something for everyone here! Our available sites include the micro-home cottage, a developed primitive campsite designed for solitude, and tent / RV / Van sites within our community. Micro-Home cottage: From a touring tiny home on wheels to a remodeled tiny cob cottage, this space has all of the amenities travelers need for comfort, relaxation, and adventure! It comes with a comfortable, full-sized bed with a memory foam mattress, an outdoor kitchen, a refrigerator, seating area, and incredible views. Improved tent sites: Includes a platform to pitch your tent, access to camp kitchen, and a communal fire pit. "Primitive" tent site: Is secluded from the rest of the commune, nestled among the creosote and Ocotillo with stunning night skies, mountain views, and wildlife viewing opportunities galore! You have the option of visiting the main property or not see anyone at all during your stay. All sites include access to our shower house with on-demand hot water, community space with Wi-Fi and a composting commode and some pretty stellar views of its own. Laundry facilities, firewood and water fill-ups are available on the property as add-ons. ______ THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU BOOK • We are 2 miles down a dirt road. The road is passable by standard clearance 2-wheel drive vehicles (Civic, Prius, etc). It is not recommended for low-clearance vehicles or trailers over 16 ft as it can be tight and a bit rocky. • We are a nudist/naturalist/clothing-optional friendly community. There is no requirement to participate, but please know that others may and to be respectful of everyone. • Pets that are people and animal-friendly are welcome. Our dogs are friendly with other animals and are often off-leash outside. They may bark, but are friendly. For people with pets, do be mindful that we are off-grid in the wild of the desert and have every creature imaginable wild on the property. Including Coyotes, Javelina, Rattle Snakes, Scorpions, Bob Cats and more. You are responsible for the care and cleanup of your pets. • We are an 18+ property and can not host children. • We are a pack-in-pack-out leave no trace campground! We do not have septic or flush toilets on the property. We use a composting toilet system and do require any self-contained units to have black and grey water tanks. Please plan on taking all of your trash with you. • For our shower, laundry, and kitchen facilities we ask that you only use biodegradable soaps to protect our plants and trees. If you do not have biodegradable soaps we can provide them for you. • We offer paid private classes for you and your group covering everything from nature plant walks, to pottery and ceramics, to off grid building and education. If you are interested in learning more about off-grid living send us a message and we can let you know what we have available during your stay.

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The Desert Oasis Campground

22 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres · Mc Neal, AZ

At A "MILD" 4200 Feet Above Sea Level, the campground is on an Arizona desert oasis. For those who love the outdoors, the campground has a panoramic view of the Mule, Swiss Helm, Perillo, Chiricahua, and Dragoon mountains and is located just outside the quaint, historic city of Bisbee, Arizona. In winter, the dry desert air makes it feel a few degrees warmer than the thermometer indicates. Located on a 120-acre ranch we are pet friendly and have over 3 miles of hiking trails. Our accommodations also include camping cabins and RV rentals. For your enjoyment, we have a large well-equipped recreation center with a tv lounge, darts, ping-pong table, and pool table. The Clubhouse also comes equipped with bathrooms and a shower.

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Smugglers' Roost

10 sites · RVs49 acres · Animas, NM

Smugglers' Roost is located in Animas, NM, situated at the site of the infamous Clanton Gang’s hideout along Smuggler’s Trail. The community is positioned along the original Butterfield Overland Stagecoach Winter Route; a short two hour drive from Las Cruces , New Mexico or just 2.5-hours from either El Paso, Texas or Tucson, Arizona. We are located in the Middle of Everywhere, surrounded by wealth of wide-ranging activities and natural amenities which include extraordinary, yet uncrowded state and national recreation areas, caves, mines, ghost towns, museums, historic locations, native sites, observatories, local wineries and micro-breweries. Learn more about this land: Bring your RV and join us at Smugglers' Roost for our warm sunny days and starlit nights! We are a pioneering community which serves as a hub for exploration, creativity, trade and most of all... the passionate celebration of life! We offer 228 Full Hook-up RV Sites with 50-amp electric, water, commercial septic and free high-speed Wi-Fi. Pull-throughs are available and there's plenty of room to spread out! Smugglers' Roost is located in Animas, NM, situated at the site of the infamous Clanton Gang’s hideout along Smuggler’s Trail. The community is positioned along the original Butterfield Overland Stagecoach Winter Route; a short two hour drive from Las Cruces , New Mexico or just 2.5-hours from either El Paso, Texas or Tucson, Arizona. We are located in the Middle of Everywhere, surrounded by a treasure trove of wide-ranging activities and natural amenities which include extraordinary, yet uncrowded state and national recreation areas, caves, mines, ghost towns, museums, historic locations, native sites, observatories, local wineries and micro-breweries. BIRD WITH US! We offer an onsite birding station and three additional affiliated and nationally acclaimed birding sites, including one at the mouth of the famed Cave Creek Canyon in Portal, AZ only a short drive away. EXPLORE THE UNIVERSE! Our dead-dark night skies are nothing short of awe-inspiring, so come explore with our onsite star guides with telescopes!

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Birds and Barrels Vineyards

6 sites · RVs, Tents50 acres · Willcox, AZ

Chad and Monica moved from the metro phoenix area to Willcox Arizona in the summer of 2015 with the goal of starting a vineyard and winery and living a simpler life in the country. Since moving to Willcox they have cleared 50 acres and planted over 6000 grape vines with more to plant coming soon. They fell in love with the spectacular views, the wildlife and the people. With spectacular sunrises and sunsets and clear night skies its a beautiful place to live and visit. With a working vineyard and winery you can walk from your camp and buy a bottle of wine or just enjoy a glass on the large deck located at the tasting room that over looks the grain field and silos, orchards and vineyards. There is incredible history that surrounds the area including: Cochise and Geronimo's battle grounds against the US Calvery, the Butterfield Stagecoach routes and pony express trails, The battle of the OK Coral with the Earp Brothers nearby. Birds and Barrels Vineyards is located within one of the only two American Viticulture Areas(AVA's) in Arizona. With over a dozen other wineries within a short drive, it makes for a enjoyable experience with family and friends.Learn more about this land:Located in the heart of Arizona Wine Country, the campsites over look the vineyard to the west and is surrounded by orchards and grain fields. Spectacular views of the Chiricahua's and Dos Cabezas Mountains. At 4300 feet cool evenings and warm days can be expected. Beautiful sunsets in the afternoons with crystal clear skies at night for star gazing abound. Hiking and biking are near by. Lots of Western History all around the area. Plenty of bird watching and wildlife to view. Within walking distance of the onsite winery /tasting room with many others near by.

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The Rocking T

8 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Elfrida, AZ

Hi, I am a city girl and he is a country boy. We talked about getting land for a long time, to start a ranch. In 2020 we did just that. We are constantly improving and expanding our ranch. Making it more enjoyable for everyone. I hope that you will come for a bit and enjoy it with us. Pet the animals and enjoy the landscape. And enjoy all the famous sights in the area. With tons of areas for bird watching, and hikes. The old western Tombstone, 30 minutes away. Benson, an hour away. and Bisbee. Dragoons, Mountains, The border. And so much more.

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Vineyard Hipcamp

10 sites · RVs, Tents36 acres · Mc Neal, AZ

Our first introduction to the wine and vineyard industry came when a now fellow colleague greeted us wearing a t-shirt, shorts and flip-flops. Thoroughly enjoying the idea of wearing this “work suit” every day, High Lonesome Vineyard went from a concept to reality. Located only 20 miles east of Tombstone, Arizona and 8 miles southwest of Elfrida, Arizona, High Lonesome Vineyard consists of approximately 36 acres of rich sandy loam in a fertile valley surrounded by mountains on all directions. And at an elevation of about 4,300 feet, the area experiences a four-season climate with summer temperatures seldom exceeding 100 degrees. Hikers, bird watchers and nature loving folks come to this area every year just for the warm summer breezes and clear night skies. This area also boasts of spectacular views of the early morning rising sun and incredible sunsets. Come enjoy rustic camping here in the Vineyard Hipcamp area and experience the awesomeness that southeastern Arizona has to offer.Learn more about this land:Come camp next to a working vineyard with exceptional views of the desert sky. You pick your spot as long as it is not directly in the vineyard, and enjoy the peaceful and tranquil sounds of the desert wildlife. High Lonesome Vineyard is located about 20 miles southeast of Tombstone, Arizona and 8 miles west of Elfrida, Arizona. You can easily commute to Tombstone to see the legends of the old west or drive on over to Elfrida/Gleeson area and see the old mining ghost towns. If active mining is your thing, visit Bisbee which is only 25 minutes away. Also, with a working cattle ranch nearby, take the opportunity to visit and see the daily workings of one of southeast Arizona's biggest ranches. A visit to the ranch is for a nominal fee and subject to availability. Wine tastings are also available for a small fee in addition to the camping fee. We have 6 German Shepherds that do what they do as guard dogs, bark when alerted. We take extra steps to keep the dogs quite for you at night during your stay, but its a high probability they will bark at you.

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Coyotes Howling

8 sites · Lodging, Tents9 acres · AZ

From sunrises over the Swisshelm Mountains to sunsets over the Mule Mountains, this location, consisting of a 9 acre lot in the Tombstone Ranch Estates is pristine and has not been abused. There are no abandoned ranch houses, mobile homes, cars/trucks…. no garbage at all. For anybody who knows Cochise County very well, that is not the case in a lot of areas. This Hipcamp consists of 2 26 ft tipi's and 6 campsites. It is on Drifters Way...turning west off of Frontier Road going S or N. Frontier runs into Davis Road going N. If you hit Davis Road you missed Drifters Way.

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Original Back 40

4 sites · RVs, Tents47 acres · Willcox, AZ

Beautiful high desert hops farm. Breath taking sky, sunrise and sunsets views. Mountain vistas in every direction Learn more about this land: Beautiful high desert with unlimited sunrise, sunset and stars. Near Willcox, Arizona's wine country with wine festivals, tasting rooms. Stay for the rodeo, or the short drive to visit the Chiricahua and Pinleno Mountains. We grow hops, goji Berries, and exotic bamboos, enjoy sharing our land with us. Currently our Bathroom is not functioning, so only appropriate if you have on board facilities.

50%

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Recharge at Quiet time Hill

17 sites · RVs, Tents26 acres · Willcox, AZ

Welcome to Quiet Time Hill 🌵 At Quiet Time Hill, we are dedicated to fostering the development of a sustainable and self-sufficient community. By employing regenerative practices in agriculture and livestock farming, we ensure a harmonious coexistence with Mother Nature. Furthermore, as we embark on this exciting journey, it's important to note that Quiet Time Hill is still in the process of development. We are channeling all the proceeds earned towards the growth and transformation of the charming Quiet Time Hill, which will soon blossom into the vibrant Naboria Village. By supporting us, you will play a vital role in bringing our vision to life and making a positive impact on both the local community and the environment. Together, we can create a haven where sustainable living and the beauty of nature seamlessly intertwine.

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Cold Bore Ranch

8 sites · Lodging36 acres · Cochise, AZ

Learn more about this land:6 RV full hook up spaces, a 1 Br Casita, lots of tent camping area, covered pens and turn outs for 20 to 40 horses. Round Pen and arenas, tack House, great water, great trails, great Arizona rarified air

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Harry and Barbara’s Windmill

3 sites · Lodging20 acres · Mc Neal, AZ

We purchased our 20 acre homestead 12 years ago. It had 100 year old windmill and we named the property ‘Windmill’. All structures were abandoned and unlivable at that time , the land had been overgrazed for decades. The saving grace was the water well, which produces sweet ,clear abundant 75 degree water so we new it was thermal spring water. Since buying the property we concentrated on restoring the land first ,bringing it back to its native beauty. Year round vegetable garden, honeybees, orchard and small vineyard followed suit. The adobe home and outbuildings and Sandhill (Crane) casita are restored with all recycle materials from the property. The 1.5 mile nature trail through grassland yucca mesquite landscape provides solitude and 360 degree views Sand over 150 mile view shed of the sky islands in US and Mexico. Along with our four children, this property is the joy of our lives.Learn more about this land:Flat, well maintained, Paved road accesses our 20 acre private wildlife sanctuary. Boundary of Chihuahua and upper Sonoran deserts , 4100 feet, high desert, yucca , mesquite, grasslands. One of the top migratory birding regions in North America. Excellent windmill pumped water and a 1.5 mile walking nature trail. Heated and cooled casita (sleeps 2). Outdoor hot shower, compost toilet, outdoor fire pit and tables, games include corn hole and bocci at your door. Expansive views of 7 Sky Island mountain ranges and dark sky celestial wonder. Adjacent to globally significant Whitewater Draw wildlife refuge. 15 miles to historic Bisbee Arizona . Great climate.

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RV sites, mountain view!

6 sites · RVs20 acres · Pearce, AZ

Learn more about this land:Tombstone Tombstone is famous for cowboy lore. The 12,000 foot Courthouse holds a treasure trove of authentic cowboy history and information about its rich past as a silver mining town.Bird WatchingThere are several nearby areas popular for bird watching like the Ash & Miller Canyons, the Environmental Operations Park, Garden Canyon, Las Cienegas National Conservation Area, Ramsey Canyon Preserve and more.HikingThe dessert contains a wide variety of natural wonders. There are caverns, mountains, waterfalls, land bridges and more simply waiting to be explored. Popular destinations include Kartchner Caverns, Carr House, Chiricahua National Monument, Coronado National Monument, Garden Canyon and more.Horseback RidingOf all the area attractions, we are most knowledgeable about horseback riding trails in Cochise County. Bring your own horses and we can point you in the right area to ride in nearby parks such as Catalina State Park, Saguaro National Park, Coronado National Forest and more.Mountain BikingThe Huachuca Mountains in the Coronado National Forest offers a wide variety of mountain biking trails. Many trails are open for all uses including hiking, biking and equestrians.MuseumsHistory comes alive in the various museums on Native American History, Mining Towns, Military Forts and Train Depots. Popular destinations include: Benson Museum, Border Air Museum, Garden Canyon, Rex Allen Museum, US Army Military Intelligence Museum and more.Wine TastingsThere are several vineyards in the area. Taste wines made with local and imported grapes.

The best camping near Chiricahua National Monument guide

Overview

About

Set in the Chiricahua Mountains in southeastern Arizona, Chiricahua National Monument encompasses a large swath of volcanic rocks carved into an array of pinnacles and spires. Nearly 400 species of birds call the mountains home, making it a hot spot for birdwatching. The 4-mile Echo Canyon Loop hike is a must-do, winding its way through some of the park’s most amazing formations, including a series of cave-like passages called the “Grottoes” and a narrow slot canyon called “Wall Street.” Visit as a day trip from Tucson, try a Hipcamp nearby, or stay overnight in the park’s only campground, Bonita Canyon Campground.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Chiricahua National Monument only has 26 campsites so reservations are strongly recommended.
Reservations can be made up to six months ahead of time online.
Park campsites are best suited for tents, small RVs, and trailers. Vehicle length is limited to 29 feet.

When to go

Chiricahua National Monument and the Bonita Canyon Campground are open year-round. Spring and fall are the best seasons for camping, hiking, and sightseeing. Summers are hot, but thanks to the park’s high elevation, it’s notably cooler than in the nearby desert cities of Tucson and Phoenix. Monsoon rains and thunderstorms are common in July, August, and September. Flash flooding may occasionally close park roads and campsites. Winters are cool but pleasant with daytime temperatures often reaching 50° to 60°F.

Know before you go

Chiricahua National Monument is free to visit with no entrance fee required.
Campground restrooms have flush toilets and sinks but no hot water or showers. Drinking water is available.
No water, electricity, or sewer hookups are available at Bonita Canyon Campground. The nearest dump station is in Wilcox, Arizona.
Cellular service is extremely limited in the park, but free public wifi is available at the visitor center.
Vehicles over 24 feet in length are not allowed on the park’s scenic drive. Also, make sure you arrive with a full tank of gas—the closest gas station is located in Sunizona, 25 miles southwest of the park visitor center.