The best camping near Cactus Forest with wildlife watching

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Looking to go camping near Cactus Forest, Arizona? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 426 options in the area, you're sure to find the perfect campsite for your adventure. Whether you're into traditional camping or prefer glamping, Hipcamp has got you covered. Check out some of our top campsites like El Pais Motel & Campgrounds (308 reviews), Dark Sky Camping and Glamping (115 reviews), and Southern Arizona Guest Ranch (105 reviews). Enjoy popular amenities like potable water, campfires, and trash disposal while engaging in activities such as surfing, climbing, and whitewater paddling. Plus, with an average price per night of $30 and options as low as $9, camping has never been more affordable. Start planning your outdoor getaway today!

94% (1K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Magical Mushroom

1. Camp Saguaro

100%
(671)
50mi from Cactus Forest · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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. Our friendly hosts can help you plan a great day, some of them even have their Certified Tourism Amabssador credentials. Please note: We are tobacco-free, medicinal herbs are legal and ok as long as children are not around. 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) 2.00 wash/2.00 dry. 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
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
Desert Getaway in Avra Valley

2. Desert Getaway in Avra Valley

100%
(127)
36mi from Cactus Forest · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · 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!
Pets
Potable water
from 
$23
 / night
Freedom in the Catalinas

3. Freedom in the Catalinas

94%
(33)
42mi from Cactus Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV · Catalina, AZ
Escape to the days when you are with your favorite people and pets, free from everyday obligations and surrounded by beautiful desert, open spaces and fresh air! This Acre has a ramada w/table & chairs, fire pit, lots of privacy, septic & water hookup. Great for solar power enthusiasts! (No electric) Excellent hiking, biking, riding, etc. near Catalina State Park, State Trust land, Zipline in Oracle, Baby Jesus Trail, Rail X Ranch Rd., Willow Springs Rd, Park Links Rd, Charouleau Gap, Pima Pistol Club, and about 3 miles to shopping and restaurants. It’s perfect for an RV that's 30' or less, bumper tow trailers that are 24' max and 5th wheels that are 26' and under. …Avoid crowds and take time to get away … …Life’s better when you add fresh air, warm campfire, bright stars and s’mores …RV spot on 1 acre near Catalina, Oro Valley & Saddlebrook and 20-30 min to Tucson. …Easy access to shopping, dining, hiking & biking and Catalina State Park We are happy to answer any questions you may have and send additional pictures. We will also consider nightly stays depending on season.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$28
 / night
NEW for 2025!  Campsite Kitt is a spacious pull-through site with a hard covered 12x10 covered pavilion, picnic table, fire pit, trash can and a 12x12 tent pad.   The site can accommodate an RV or a tent.  This site gets it's name from Kitt Peak observatory  which can be seen in the far background of this photo.

7. Iron Quail Ranch

99%
(83)
48mi from Cactus Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Picture Rocks, AZ
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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$32
 / night
                                          SITE 3 
                                   TENTS ONLY
SITE AMENITIES:
-BBQ
-Firepit
-Campfire wood
-Mesquite cooking wood for BBQ

9. The Garden of Peden

83%
(60)
44mi from Cactus Forest · 3 sites · Tents · Tucson, AZ
We welcome visitors into a biodynamic and developmental environment where they will be exposed to a circus for their senses and provided with a fresh perspective. Our commitment to quality products, exceptional services and incomparable customer care keep our community and beloved travelers coming back again and again. We never stop improving, and are continuing to expand our offerings based on how we can best serve humanity and future generations. Our addition of a Little Free Library adds to the essential educational aspect we desire, and fuels the community spirit at the heart of it all. Come visit and relax while reading amongst fllora and fauna. We hope the ambience will encourage our visitors to slow down, relax and remember that there is always time to enjoy the little things in life. May all your days be wonder-filled and full of adventure. It is out there.Learn more about this land:A nature retreat full of bunnies, birds, lizards and more. Get hands on if you desire with plants and animals during your stay, and endulge in star gazing at night where the milky way is visible in the sky. We provide respite from city noise and light pollution. You'll find solace for the soul within the Garden of Peden. There is a little free library for guests to enjoy and plenty of room to relax and read if one wishes. Chickens are coming soon so that guests can help themselves to the fresh eggs they provide.
Pets
Campfires
Trash
from 
$11
 / night
“Field of Dreams” Mesa AZ

13. “Field of Dreams” Mesa AZ

98%
(55)
36mi from Cactus Forest · 1 site · RV · Mesa, AZ
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
Potable water
Trash
from 
$60
 / night
Santan Mountain Views

16. Santan Mountain Views

100%
(43)
26mi from Cactus Forest · 1 site · RV · Queen Creek, AZ
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
Potable water
Trash
from 
$72
 / night
The site during the golden hour.

17. Wild Burro Desert Retreat

100%
(82)
37mi from Cactus Forest · 1 site · RV · Marana, AZ
We are empty-nesters enjoying our retirement years on our 5 beautiful acres in Marana, AZ. We are conveniently located just 7.7 miles (15 minutes) east of I-10.' *Please note: We do not allow tent, truck, or car camping. All guests must have a self contained, trailer, RV, or camper van with a working toilet. We have full hook ups with a 30 amp electrical service. We enjoy traveling in our trailer and have recently determined that we would love to provide a convenient, beautiful and peaceful camping experience for others! We have beautiful mountain views and are adjacent to the Tortolita Preserve. (2,400 acres) The reserve offers trails for hiking, biking, or horseback riding. We have cleared a portion of our land, far enough away from our home, in order for our guests to experience a taste of desert beauty and privacy. If you enjoy wildlife, know that it is very likely you will see cottontail rabbits, jack rabbits, javelina, and more. You may wish to visit the Ritz Carlton - Dove Mountain which is just a short 6.3 miles up the hill. There, you can enjoy a delicious meal and/or the best of golfing. Dove Mountain Brewing is 2.7 miles down the hill and offers locally handcrafted beer! Enjoy the best beer and grilled food while playing darts or watching your favorite sports team on TV. The best thing about our property is the feeling of being secluded yet having everything else nearby. There is certainly no shortage of things to do and no shortage of desert beauty here at the Wild Burro Desert Retreat! PLEASE NOTE: We do not allow tent camping nor camping in trucks or cars. All guests must have a self contained trailer or RV. Thank you!
Pets
Potable water
Trash
from 
$45
 / night

Looking to go camping near Cactus Forest, Arizona? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 426 options in the area, you're sure to find the perfect campsite for your adventure. Whether you're into traditional camping or prefer glamping, Hipcamp has got you covered. Check out some of our top campsites like El Pais Motel & Campgrounds (308 reviews), Dark Sky Camping and Glamping (115 reviews), and Southern Arizona Guest Ranch (105 reviews). Enjoy popular amenities like potable water, campfires, and trash disposal while engaging in activities such as surfing, climbing, and whitewater paddling. Plus, with an average price per night of $30 and options as low as $9, camping has never been more affordable. Start planning your outdoor getaway today!

94% (1K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Magical Mushroom

1. Camp Saguaro

100%
(671)
50mi from Cactus Forest · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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. Our friendly hosts can help you plan a great day, some of them even have their Certified Tourism Amabssador credentials. Please note: We are tobacco-free, medicinal herbs are legal and ok as long as children are not around. 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) 2.00 wash/2.00 dry. 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
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
Desert Getaway in Avra Valley

2. Desert Getaway in Avra Valley

100%
(127)
36mi from Cactus Forest · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · 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!
Pets
Potable water
from 
$23
 / night
Freedom in the Catalinas

3. Freedom in the Catalinas

94%
(33)
42mi from Cactus Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV · Catalina, AZ
Escape to the days when you are with your favorite people and pets, free from everyday obligations and surrounded by beautiful desert, open spaces and fresh air! This Acre has a ramada w/table & chairs, fire pit, lots of privacy, septic & water hookup. Great for solar power enthusiasts! (No electric) Excellent hiking, biking, riding, etc. near Catalina State Park, State Trust land, Zipline in Oracle, Baby Jesus Trail, Rail X Ranch Rd., Willow Springs Rd, Park Links Rd, Charouleau Gap, Pima Pistol Club, and about 3 miles to shopping and restaurants. It’s perfect for an RV that's 30' or less, bumper tow trailers that are 24' max and 5th wheels that are 26' and under. …Avoid crowds and take time to get away … …Life’s better when you add fresh air, warm campfire, bright stars and s’mores …RV spot on 1 acre near Catalina, Oro Valley & Saddlebrook and 20-30 min to Tucson. …Easy access to shopping, dining, hiking & biking and Catalina State Park We are happy to answer any questions you may have and send additional pictures. We will also consider nightly stays depending on season.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$28
 / night
NEW for 2025!  Campsite Kitt is a spacious pull-through site with a hard covered 12x10 covered pavilion, picnic table, fire pit, trash can and a 12x12 tent pad.   The site can accommodate an RV or a tent.  This site gets it's name from Kitt Peak observatory  which can be seen in the far background of this photo.

7. Iron Quail Ranch

99%
(83)
48mi from Cactus Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Picture Rocks, AZ
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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$32
 / night
                                          SITE 3 
                                   TENTS ONLY
SITE AMENITIES:
-BBQ
-Firepit
-Campfire wood
-Mesquite cooking wood for BBQ

9. The Garden of Peden

83%
(60)
44mi from Cactus Forest · 3 sites · Tents · Tucson, AZ
We welcome visitors into a biodynamic and developmental environment where they will be exposed to a circus for their senses and provided with a fresh perspective. Our commitment to quality products, exceptional services and incomparable customer care keep our community and beloved travelers coming back again and again. We never stop improving, and are continuing to expand our offerings based on how we can best serve humanity and future generations. Our addition of a Little Free Library adds to the essential educational aspect we desire, and fuels the community spirit at the heart of it all. Come visit and relax while reading amongst fllora and fauna. We hope the ambience will encourage our visitors to slow down, relax and remember that there is always time to enjoy the little things in life. May all your days be wonder-filled and full of adventure. It is out there.Learn more about this land:A nature retreat full of bunnies, birds, lizards and more. Get hands on if you desire with plants and animals during your stay, and endulge in star gazing at night where the milky way is visible in the sky. We provide respite from city noise and light pollution. You'll find solace for the soul within the Garden of Peden. There is a little free library for guests to enjoy and plenty of room to relax and read if one wishes. Chickens are coming soon so that guests can help themselves to the fresh eggs they provide.
Pets
Campfires
Trash
from 
$11
 / night
“Field of Dreams” Mesa AZ

13. “Field of Dreams” Mesa AZ

98%
(55)
36mi from Cactus Forest · 1 site · RV · Mesa, AZ
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
Potable water
Trash
from 
$60
 / night
Santan Mountain Views

16. Santan Mountain Views

100%
(43)
26mi from Cactus Forest · 1 site · RV · Queen Creek, AZ
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
Potable water
Trash
from 
$72
 / night
The site during the golden hour.

17. Wild Burro Desert Retreat

100%
(82)
37mi from Cactus Forest · 1 site · RV · Marana, AZ
We are empty-nesters enjoying our retirement years on our 5 beautiful acres in Marana, AZ. We are conveniently located just 7.7 miles (15 minutes) east of I-10.' *Please note: We do not allow tent, truck, or car camping. All guests must have a self contained, trailer, RV, or camper van with a working toilet. We have full hook ups with a 30 amp electrical service. We enjoy traveling in our trailer and have recently determined that we would love to provide a convenient, beautiful and peaceful camping experience for others! We have beautiful mountain views and are adjacent to the Tortolita Preserve. (2,400 acres) The reserve offers trails for hiking, biking, or horseback riding. We have cleared a portion of our land, far enough away from our home, in order for our guests to experience a taste of desert beauty and privacy. If you enjoy wildlife, know that it is very likely you will see cottontail rabbits, jack rabbits, javelina, and more. You may wish to visit the Ritz Carlton - Dove Mountain which is just a short 6.3 miles up the hill. There, you can enjoy a delicious meal and/or the best of golfing. Dove Mountain Brewing is 2.7 miles down the hill and offers locally handcrafted beer! Enjoy the best beer and grilled food while playing darts or watching your favorite sports team on TV. The best thing about our property is the feeling of being secluded yet having everything else nearby. There is certainly no shortage of things to do and no shortage of desert beauty here at the Wild Burro Desert Retreat! PLEASE NOTE: We do not allow tent camping nor camping in trucks or cars. All guests must have a self contained trailer or RV. Thank you!
Pets
Potable water
Trash
from 
$45
 / night

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Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by 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