The best camping near Cactus Forest with climbing

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Climbers land in Cactus Forest for the rugged boulders, spiny saguaros, and wild desert air. Hipcamp lists over 560 climbing-friendly campsites in this area, with prices starting at $23 a night and an average around $40. You’ll find tent sites tucked among cacti, with basics like toilets, fire rings, and pet-friendly spots. After a day of working sandstone routes, cool off with a swim or watch jackrabbits dart through the brush. Tried-and-tested favorites include Desert Getaway in Avra Valley (90 reviews), Iron Quail Ranch (73 reviews), and “Field of Dreams” Mesa AZ (53 reviews). Expect quiet nights, clear stargazing, and plenty of routes to conquer before breakfast.

94% (322) 27 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Cactus Forest

Desert Getaway in Avra Valley

1. Desert Getaway in Avra Valley

100%
(129)
43mi from Cactus Forest · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
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!
Pets
Potable water
Full hookups
from 
$23
 / night
Iron Quail Ranch

2. Iron Quail Ranch

99%
(84)
48mi from Cactus Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Iron Quail Ranch is a modern off-grid regenerative 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$32
 / night
“Field of Dreams” Mesa AZ

3. “Field of Dreams” Mesa AZ

98%
(57)
36mi from Cactus Forest · 1 site · RV
We are Kevin and Tammii. We moved to Mesa in 2019 to build our own “Field of Dreams”. In developing our property we added a Hip-Camp site to our vision. We’ve enjoyed hosting people from all around the country. We’re can accommodate guests for up to three weeks and unable to offer monthly rates. We welcome families with up to two children. Pets are welcome, two or less, and we have a designated pet area for their use. There are two nice sitting areas, a laundry shed with washer, dryer, and drying rack. Internet access is also available. More about the “Field of Dreams”: Our site has a paved level concrete pad with 50 amp service, water, and septic. RVs are required to come with empty holding tanks because of the septic system. We can accommodate up to 43 feet in length RVs. There is a nice landscaped patio area with table, chairs, umbrella, and a privacy screen. There is also a propane fire pit available. Our site is close to Costco, Starbucks, local restaurants, grocery stores, pharmacies, and a mall. There is nearby mountain biking, hiking, and site seeing. We are 30 minutes from downtown Phoenix in a quiet residential area.
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$60
 / night
Tonto National Forest

4. Tonto National Forest

89%
(41)
1364 sites · Tonto Basin, Arizona
Hike, bike, and camp in Arizona’s largest and most diverse national forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Gila River View

5. Gila River View

100%
(5)
37mi from Cactus Forest · 2 sites · Lodging
Savor the sounds of nature along the Gila River without your phone distracting you! This is a hidden retreat behind a locked gate where you can relax and reset away from technology and people. Your main visitors will be our cattle, horses, and wildlife. Feel free to fish or swim at the Gila River 300 yards from the campsite. Enjoy a mesquite fire to sit around or even cook on! Wood is provided! Enjoy a beautiful overlooking view of the river! Escape from the hustle and bustle and recharge! We do currently have a rented camper on location but you won’t even notice each other. it’s away from the site and there’s plenty of space to enjoy.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$70
 / night
Santan Mountain Views

6. Santan Mountain Views

100%
(44)
26mi from Cactus Forest · 1 site · RV
We are happy to announce that we have upgraded our front gate. It is now set back farther off of the road and is 20 feet wide. Extra large rig friendly! We do short term bookings 29 days or less. No monthly rates, sorry! We are dog friendly, but PLEASE do not show up with dogs without indicating in your booking that you are bringing them. They MUST be kept on a leash at all times while here due to farm animals and wildlife on the property. Please respect and follow these requests so that others can enjoy bringing their dogs here in the future. :) Peaceful desert escape with beautiful views of the Santan Mountains on 3.5 acre mini-ranch. We are in a quiet residential neighborhood with dark starry skies at night. Flat, private area behind main residence with a large cover. You will have about 1 acre of space to yourself. Quiet, rural feel yet less than 5 minutes from shopping, dining and conveniences. Full hookups-- Filtered water, 50 amp electric, and septic. Room to set up temporary horse panels. Walking distance to Santan regional park for miles of hiking, biking or horseback riding. 2 miles from Horseshoe park. Less than a mile to Santan flats.
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$63
 / night
Pop-Inn Parking

7. Pop-Inn Parking

100%
(4)
37mi from Cactus Forest · 3 sites · RVs
RV pad with WATER and ELECTRIC available: Size: 12’x 45’ pad Water-connects to house faucet. Electric-50 amp, lower amps requires adapter NO DUMP ACCESS NO WIFI This RV pad is in a blocked off backyard that is adjacent an alleyway. The only entrance is through the alleyway, and RV resident parking available by pad in an enclosed area. Please message with any questions! 5 mile away from Chase Field/Downtown Phoenix 3 miles away from South Mountain Park
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$20
 / night
Angel's Summerhaven Retreat

8. Angel's Summerhaven Retreat

79%
(7)
48mi from Cactus Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
The main camping area is a flat area on the mountainside East of Summerhaven, with a steep approach (be prepared!). The view from the area is great, and the area has some pines, as do the neighboring properties. Turkey cross the property seasonally, as well as the occasional deer. This is a leave no trace site. The site is current undergoing enchancements, so there will be evidence of demolished boulders, landscaping, and fencing. The site is safe to traverse, but care should be taken to avoid rock and uneven terrain, fence posts, and so on. Usage of the site is at your own risk. Toilet and waste: A bucket toilet is provided, with composting bags. Toilet waste, as well as other waste, must be taken with you, when you leave; there is no trash service. There are sometimes dumpsters in town that can be used to dispose of waste. The bucket toilet consists of a bucket, bucket seat, funnel, and hose. The consumables are composting toilet bags, wood shavings/chips, and toilet paper. You do not need to use the funnel and hose, but may if you wish. At a minimum, place the bag into the bucket, with the bag edge over the edge of the bucket, and place the bucket seat onto the bucket. The bucket seat should firmly fit onto the bucket, and retain the bag. When your stay is complete, please make sure the seat and bucket are clean, as well as the funnel and hose, if you used them. Please make sure all supplies are returned to the Toilet Supplies container. Directions: The address is 12672 N Ray Ave. Make your way to the intersection of N Sabino Canyon Parkway and Retreat Rd. in Summerhaven, AZ. Head east up the steep Retreat Rd., and make the right onto Tucson Ave., followed by a quick left onto what Google says is Ray Ave. Make an immediate right onto N. Ray Ave, and follow the dirt road until a steep driveway on the left appears. This driveway (and the other entrance 100 ft further on) provide access to the land. If trying to park off the driveway, enter the first driveway entrance to drive forward onto the approach and park, or enter the second driveway and then back onto the approach and park. Once parked (See Parking for additional instructions), access the land from the driveway according to the images. Parking: WARNING: Do not park on the driveway itself. There is a half-moon driveway that provides a way to either drive forward or backward onto the approach. Park on the (1) dirt approach to the land, just off the steep driveway, or (2) on the half moon parking spot at the top of the driveway, or (3) at the bottom on Ray Ave, out of the way. If any vehicles are blocking vehicular access to the dirt approach to the land, please contact me. Recreation: The shops of Summerhaven are close. Marshall Gulch is a popular recreation area on the Arizona Trail, South of Summerhaven. There is also a lot of opportunity to hike and rock climb on the area. The area is not very suitable for RVs; it is not possible to bring an RV onto the property.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$32
 / night
Saguaro national monument west

9. Saguaro national monument west

98%
(28)
44mi from Cactus Forest · 1 site · RV
In the family for 30 years, owned by Tucson natives. Learn more about this land: At the foot of the Saguaro National Monument West, a true desert experience. Watch the incredible Sonoran sunsets and gaze at thousands of stars as you listen to the coyotes howl. This is a remote get away from it all experience! This site is only available for RV use. There are no shower or restroom facilities available. There are two RV sites available both have 50/30 amp systems with well water faucets and hookups to a septic system. The second site is only available to the primary renter at an additional cost. Hiking trails, and beautiful views. You can’t properly describe the beauty.
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$45
 / night
Palo Verde Basecamp

10. Palo Verde Basecamp

49mi from Cactus Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV
Back to BLM land with 360-degree mountain views and access! This level 1.5 acre parcel is nestled in Hidden Valley Estates at the base of the Palo Verde Mountains and soon to be home to The Palo Verde Regional Park. Gorgeous mountain views, and sunsets, close to paved roads, and close enough to Maricopa and Casa Grande for convenience but far enough away to avoid the hustle and bustle of city life. Plenty of room for horses and toys. No utilities, raw land, leave it as you found it. Nearby Skydiving - 5 min Downtown Maricopa - 15 min Harrahs Ak Chin Casino - 10 min Dwarf Car Museum - 15 min PHX airport - 60 min
Pets
from 
$36
 / night
Lush Desert Ranch

11. Lush Desert Ranch

94%
(9)
24mi from Cactus Forest · 1 site · RV
You will be staying on several acres of lush desert filled with all types of desert plants, rocks and wildlife with mountain views! Explore around the property to find geodes, lava, granite, marble, limestone and more! Wildlife abounds with everything from rattlesnakes to cattle! We have several washes to explore and are told we are in an area with the most diverse desert plants. We are in view and an hour from Mt Lemon or 45 min to Picacho Peak and 30 min to Catalina State Park, Walmart and restaurants and a theater.
Pets
from 
$36
 / night

Climbers land in Cactus Forest for the rugged boulders, spiny saguaros, and wild desert air. Hipcamp lists over 560 climbing-friendly campsites in this area, with prices starting at $23 a night and an average around $40. You’ll find tent sites tucked among cacti, with basics like toilets, fire rings, and pet-friendly spots. After a day of working sandstone routes, cool off with a swim or watch jackrabbits dart through the brush. Tried-and-tested favorites include Desert Getaway in Avra Valley (90 reviews), Iron Quail Ranch (73 reviews), and “Field of Dreams” Mesa AZ (53 reviews). Expect quiet nights, clear stargazing, and plenty of routes to conquer before breakfast.

94% (322) 27 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Cactus Forest

Desert Getaway in Avra Valley

1. Desert Getaway in Avra Valley

100%
(129)
43mi from Cactus Forest · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
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!
Pets
Potable water
Full hookups
from 
$23
 / night
Iron Quail Ranch

2. Iron Quail Ranch

99%
(84)
48mi from Cactus Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Iron Quail Ranch is a modern off-grid regenerative 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$32
 / night
“Field of Dreams” Mesa AZ

3. “Field of Dreams” Mesa AZ

98%
(57)
36mi from Cactus Forest · 1 site · RV
We are Kevin and Tammii. We moved to Mesa in 2019 to build our own “Field of Dreams”. In developing our property we added a Hip-Camp site to our vision. We’ve enjoyed hosting people from all around the country. We’re can accommodate guests for up to three weeks and unable to offer monthly rates. We welcome families with up to two children. Pets are welcome, two or less, and we have a designated pet area for their use. There are two nice sitting areas, a laundry shed with washer, dryer, and drying rack. Internet access is also available. More about the “Field of Dreams”: Our site has a paved level concrete pad with 50 amp service, water, and septic. RVs are required to come with empty holding tanks because of the septic system. We can accommodate up to 43 feet in length RVs. There is a nice landscaped patio area with table, chairs, umbrella, and a privacy screen. There is also a propane fire pit available. Our site is close to Costco, Starbucks, local restaurants, grocery stores, pharmacies, and a mall. There is nearby mountain biking, hiking, and site seeing. We are 30 minutes from downtown Phoenix in a quiet residential area.
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$60
 / night
Tonto National Forest

4. Tonto National Forest

89%
(41)
1364 sites · Tonto Basin, Arizona
Hike, bike, and camp in Arizona’s largest and most diverse national forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Gila River View

5. Gila River View

100%
(5)
37mi from Cactus Forest · 2 sites · Lodging
Savor the sounds of nature along the Gila River without your phone distracting you! This is a hidden retreat behind a locked gate where you can relax and reset away from technology and people. Your main visitors will be our cattle, horses, and wildlife. Feel free to fish or swim at the Gila River 300 yards from the campsite. Enjoy a mesquite fire to sit around or even cook on! Wood is provided! Enjoy a beautiful overlooking view of the river! Escape from the hustle and bustle and recharge! We do currently have a rented camper on location but you won’t even notice each other. it’s away from the site and there’s plenty of space to enjoy.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$70
 / night
Santan Mountain Views

6. Santan Mountain Views

100%
(44)
26mi from Cactus Forest · 1 site · RV
We are happy to announce that we have upgraded our front gate. It is now set back farther off of the road and is 20 feet wide. Extra large rig friendly! We do short term bookings 29 days or less. No monthly rates, sorry! We are dog friendly, but PLEASE do not show up with dogs without indicating in your booking that you are bringing them. They MUST be kept on a leash at all times while here due to farm animals and wildlife on the property. Please respect and follow these requests so that others can enjoy bringing their dogs here in the future. :) Peaceful desert escape with beautiful views of the Santan Mountains on 3.5 acre mini-ranch. We are in a quiet residential neighborhood with dark starry skies at night. Flat, private area behind main residence with a large cover. You will have about 1 acre of space to yourself. Quiet, rural feel yet less than 5 minutes from shopping, dining and conveniences. Full hookups-- Filtered water, 50 amp electric, and septic. Room to set up temporary horse panels. Walking distance to Santan regional park for miles of hiking, biking or horseback riding. 2 miles from Horseshoe park. Less than a mile to Santan flats.
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$63
 / night
Pop-Inn Parking

7. Pop-Inn Parking

100%
(4)
37mi from Cactus Forest · 3 sites · RVs
RV pad with WATER and ELECTRIC available: Size: 12’x 45’ pad Water-connects to house faucet. Electric-50 amp, lower amps requires adapter NO DUMP ACCESS NO WIFI This RV pad is in a blocked off backyard that is adjacent an alleyway. The only entrance is through the alleyway, and RV resident parking available by pad in an enclosed area. Please message with any questions! 5 mile away from Chase Field/Downtown Phoenix 3 miles away from South Mountain Park
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$20
 / night
Angel's Summerhaven Retreat

8. Angel's Summerhaven Retreat

79%
(7)
48mi from Cactus Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
The main camping area is a flat area on the mountainside East of Summerhaven, with a steep approach (be prepared!). The view from the area is great, and the area has some pines, as do the neighboring properties. Turkey cross the property seasonally, as well as the occasional deer. This is a leave no trace site. The site is current undergoing enchancements, so there will be evidence of demolished boulders, landscaping, and fencing. The site is safe to traverse, but care should be taken to avoid rock and uneven terrain, fence posts, and so on. Usage of the site is at your own risk. Toilet and waste: A bucket toilet is provided, with composting bags. Toilet waste, as well as other waste, must be taken with you, when you leave; there is no trash service. There are sometimes dumpsters in town that can be used to dispose of waste. The bucket toilet consists of a bucket, bucket seat, funnel, and hose. The consumables are composting toilet bags, wood shavings/chips, and toilet paper. You do not need to use the funnel and hose, but may if you wish. At a minimum, place the bag into the bucket, with the bag edge over the edge of the bucket, and place the bucket seat onto the bucket. The bucket seat should firmly fit onto the bucket, and retain the bag. When your stay is complete, please make sure the seat and bucket are clean, as well as the funnel and hose, if you used them. Please make sure all supplies are returned to the Toilet Supplies container. Directions: The address is 12672 N Ray Ave. Make your way to the intersection of N Sabino Canyon Parkway and Retreat Rd. in Summerhaven, AZ. Head east up the steep Retreat Rd., and make the right onto Tucson Ave., followed by a quick left onto what Google says is Ray Ave. Make an immediate right onto N. Ray Ave, and follow the dirt road until a steep driveway on the left appears. This driveway (and the other entrance 100 ft further on) provide access to the land. If trying to park off the driveway, enter the first driveway entrance to drive forward onto the approach and park, or enter the second driveway and then back onto the approach and park. Once parked (See Parking for additional instructions), access the land from the driveway according to the images. Parking: WARNING: Do not park on the driveway itself. There is a half-moon driveway that provides a way to either drive forward or backward onto the approach. Park on the (1) dirt approach to the land, just off the steep driveway, or (2) on the half moon parking spot at the top of the driveway, or (3) at the bottom on Ray Ave, out of the way. If any vehicles are blocking vehicular access to the dirt approach to the land, please contact me. Recreation: The shops of Summerhaven are close. Marshall Gulch is a popular recreation area on the Arizona Trail, South of Summerhaven. There is also a lot of opportunity to hike and rock climb on the area. The area is not very suitable for RVs; it is not possible to bring an RV onto the property.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$32
 / night
Saguaro national monument west

9. Saguaro national monument west

98%
(28)
44mi from Cactus Forest · 1 site · RV
In the family for 30 years, owned by Tucson natives. Learn more about this land: At the foot of the Saguaro National Monument West, a true desert experience. Watch the incredible Sonoran sunsets and gaze at thousands of stars as you listen to the coyotes howl. This is a remote get away from it all experience! This site is only available for RV use. There are no shower or restroom facilities available. There are two RV sites available both have 50/30 amp systems with well water faucets and hookups to a septic system. The second site is only available to the primary renter at an additional cost. Hiking trails, and beautiful views. You can’t properly describe the beauty.
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$45
 / night
Palo Verde Basecamp

10. Palo Verde Basecamp

49mi from Cactus Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV
Back to BLM land with 360-degree mountain views and access! This level 1.5 acre parcel is nestled in Hidden Valley Estates at the base of the Palo Verde Mountains and soon to be home to The Palo Verde Regional Park. Gorgeous mountain views, and sunsets, close to paved roads, and close enough to Maricopa and Casa Grande for convenience but far enough away to avoid the hustle and bustle of city life. Plenty of room for horses and toys. No utilities, raw land, leave it as you found it. Nearby Skydiving - 5 min Downtown Maricopa - 15 min Harrahs Ak Chin Casino - 10 min Dwarf Car Museum - 15 min PHX airport - 60 min
Pets
from 
$36
 / night
Lush Desert Ranch

11. Lush Desert Ranch

94%
(9)
24mi from Cactus Forest · 1 site · RV
You will be staying on several acres of lush desert filled with all types of desert plants, rocks and wildlife with mountain views! Explore around the property to find geodes, lava, granite, marble, limestone and more! Wildlife abounds with everything from rattlesnakes to cattle! We have several washes to explore and are told we are in an area with the most diverse desert plants. We are in view and an hour from Mt Lemon or 45 min to Picacho Peak and 30 min to Catalina State Park, Walmart and restaurants and a theater.
Pets
from 
$36
 / night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field