98% (2.8K) • 106 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Tucson
JJ's Big Town Get Away
1. JJ's Big Town Get Away
100%
(1)
10mi from Tucson · 1 site · Tent, RV
Nestled up against the foothills of the Catalina Mountain Range. Enjoy Great Views, and the silence of the Desert. This wonderful Spot is only minutes from the base of Mt. Lemmon. Saguaro East National Park. If you feel like walking you can walk along the neighborhood stream bed and enjoy some of the plants and animals that the Sonoran Desert has to offer.
The Hip Camp Spot is best for Vans, small travel trailers and even those who wish to pitch a tent. If you are adventurous you may even be able to ride a horse.
Electrical hookup
from
$15
/ night
Angel's Summerhaven Retreat
2. Angel's Summerhaven Retreat
79%
(7)
21mi from Tucson · 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.
Toilets
Campfires
from
$32
/ night
Sunset Saguaro Park Retreat-HIKING!
3. Sunset Saguaro Park Retreat-HIKING!
23mi from Tucson · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
🌵 Sunset Saguaro Retreat — Desert Glamping Bordering Saguaro National Park
Looking for a desert basecamp with big mountain views, towering saguaros, and skies full of stars? Welcome to Sunset Saguaro Retreat. Set right beside Saguaro National Park East, this site places you inside one of the most iconic desert landscapes in the Southwest. Tucson has been named National Geographic’s “Ultimate Star City” for its dark-sky protections, and you’ll experience those skies directly from camp. On clear nights, constellations pop and the Milky Way often shines overhead.
Exploring from here is easy. You can start your hike right from the property-no driving, no parking stress, no crowds. The national park is literally in the backyard, with 0–5 minute access to the Cactus Forest, Mica View, Freeman Homestead, and Desert Ecology trails just to name a few! Sunrise and sunset are especially stunning, with saguaros silhouetted against shifting sky colors and wildlife moving through the desert.
When you’re not out adventuring, stay and unwind. A deck with cozy chairs offers a perfect perch to watch the mountains light up at sunrise and glow at sunset. A fire pit makes for warm evening hangouts under a star-filled sky. On-property walking paths weave through native plants, some labeled for self-guided discovery. Benches at scenic viewpoints create quiet coffee, reading, and golden hour spots. Expect quail families, hummingbirds, cactus wrens, butterflies, and even Great Horned Owls who quietly hunt at dusk.
Want to venture farther? Classic Tucson outdoor experiences are close by: the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum (~25–30 min), Old Tucson (~20–30 min), Sabino Canyon (~30–35 min), and Catalina State Park (~30–35 min). Hike or explore during the day, then return “home” to peaceful desert nights.
This is glamping, not primitive camping. RVs are welcome! Full hookups including electric, water/plumbing, and septic make it easy to settle in for multi-night stays and explore without logistical hassle.
If you love hiking, national parks, photography, birding, stargazing, desert plants, or simply waking up somewhere quiet, Sunset Saguaro Retreat makes an ideal basecamp for experiencing the Sonoran Desert.
Toilets
Campfires
Full hookups
from
$75
/ night
Gated Equestrian Retreat
4. Gated Equestrian Retreat
100%
(5)
26mi from Tucson · 2 sites
Welcome to your peaceful getaway! Our gated equestrian retreat is situated adjacent to thousands of acres of State Trust Land, offering endless opportunities for horseback riding, hiking, and wildlife viewing.
We have 5 full RV hookups as well as plenty of space for dry camping. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, this property has it all.
Shopping and restaurants are just 10 minutes away, or you can enjoy the convenience of delivery right to your site.
The best part? Unmatched peace and quiet, stunning desert wildlife, and breathtaking sunsets you’ll never forget.
Please note that our business hours end at 5:00 p.m., and we have a strict policy regarding visitor arrivals after that time. As our staff leaves at the end of the business day, arrivals after 5:00 p.m. will not be permitted to enter the facility.
Full hookups
from
$50
/ night
SaguaroGlamp, near Saguaro NP
5. SaguaroGlamp, near Saguaro NP
88%
(8)
33mi from Tucson · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Experience the fascinating beauty of the Sonoran Desert—just 45 minutes from Tucson and only minutes from the entrance to Saguaro National Park. Our peaceful property is the perfect starting point for nature lovers and adventurers. Hiking and horseback trails begin right on site, leading through stunning desert landscapes filled with giant saguaro cacti, rock formations, and wide open views.
In the evening, enjoy breathtaking sunsets followed by crystal-clear night skies—far away from any light pollution. With a bit of luck, you may spot local wildlife such as deer, owls, coyotes, or rare desert birds.
Some of the region’s most popular attractions are just a short drive away: the world-renowned Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, the Western film town of Old Tucson, and the scenic Gates Pass overlook.
Upon request and for a small additional fee, we also offer guided desert experiences—from informative daytime tours to exciting nighttime scorpion hunts with UV lights. These tours offer a unique way to connect with the desert on a deeper level.
Whether you're camping, staying in your RV, or relaxing in one of our cozy casitas—this is where you'll find peace, nature, and the true spirit of the desert.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
$35
/ night
98% (2.8K) • 106 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Tucson
JJ's Big Town Get Away
1. JJ's Big Town Get Away
100%
(1)
10mi from Tucson · 1 site · Tent, RV
Nestled up against the foothills of the Catalina Mountain Range. Enjoy Great Views, and the silence of the Desert. This wonderful Spot is only minutes from the base of Mt. Lemmon. Saguaro East National Park. If you feel like walking you can walk along the neighborhood stream bed and enjoy some of the plants and animals that the Sonoran Desert has to offer.
The Hip Camp Spot is best for Vans, small travel trailers and even those who wish to pitch a tent. If you are adventurous you may even be able to ride a horse.
Electrical hookup
from
$15
/ night
Angel's Summerhaven Retreat
2. Angel's Summerhaven Retreat
79%
(7)
21mi from Tucson · 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.
Toilets
Campfires
from
$32
/ night
Sunset Saguaro Park Retreat-HIKING!
3. Sunset Saguaro Park Retreat-HIKING!
23mi from Tucson · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
🌵 Sunset Saguaro Retreat — Desert Glamping Bordering Saguaro National Park
Looking for a desert basecamp with big mountain views, towering saguaros, and skies full of stars? Welcome to Sunset Saguaro Retreat. Set right beside Saguaro National Park East, this site places you inside one of the most iconic desert landscapes in the Southwest. Tucson has been named National Geographic’s “Ultimate Star City” for its dark-sky protections, and you’ll experience those skies directly from camp. On clear nights, constellations pop and the Milky Way often shines overhead.
Exploring from here is easy. You can start your hike right from the property-no driving, no parking stress, no crowds. The national park is literally in the backyard, with 0–5 minute access to the Cactus Forest, Mica View, Freeman Homestead, and Desert Ecology trails just to name a few! Sunrise and sunset are especially stunning, with saguaros silhouetted against shifting sky colors and wildlife moving through the desert.
When you’re not out adventuring, stay and unwind. A deck with cozy chairs offers a perfect perch to watch the mountains light up at sunrise and glow at sunset. A fire pit makes for warm evening hangouts under a star-filled sky. On-property walking paths weave through native plants, some labeled for self-guided discovery. Benches at scenic viewpoints create quiet coffee, reading, and golden hour spots. Expect quail families, hummingbirds, cactus wrens, butterflies, and even Great Horned Owls who quietly hunt at dusk.
Want to venture farther? Classic Tucson outdoor experiences are close by: the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum (~25–30 min), Old Tucson (~20–30 min), Sabino Canyon (~30–35 min), and Catalina State Park (~30–35 min). Hike or explore during the day, then return “home” to peaceful desert nights.
This is glamping, not primitive camping. RVs are welcome! Full hookups including electric, water/plumbing, and septic make it easy to settle in for multi-night stays and explore without logistical hassle.
If you love hiking, national parks, photography, birding, stargazing, desert plants, or simply waking up somewhere quiet, Sunset Saguaro Retreat makes an ideal basecamp for experiencing the Sonoran Desert.
Toilets
Campfires
Full hookups
from
$75
/ night
Gated Equestrian Retreat
4. Gated Equestrian Retreat
100%
(5)
26mi from Tucson · 2 sites
Welcome to your peaceful getaway! Our gated equestrian retreat is situated adjacent to thousands of acres of State Trust Land, offering endless opportunities for horseback riding, hiking, and wildlife viewing.
We have 5 full RV hookups as well as plenty of space for dry camping. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, this property has it all.
Shopping and restaurants are just 10 minutes away, or you can enjoy the convenience of delivery right to your site.
The best part? Unmatched peace and quiet, stunning desert wildlife, and breathtaking sunsets you’ll never forget.
Please note that our business hours end at 5:00 p.m., and we have a strict policy regarding visitor arrivals after that time. As our staff leaves at the end of the business day, arrivals after 5:00 p.m. will not be permitted to enter the facility.
Full hookups
from
$50
/ night
SaguaroGlamp, near Saguaro NP
5. SaguaroGlamp, near Saguaro NP
88%
(8)
33mi from Tucson · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Experience the fascinating beauty of the Sonoran Desert—just 45 minutes from Tucson and only minutes from the entrance to Saguaro National Park. Our peaceful property is the perfect starting point for nature lovers and adventurers. Hiking and horseback trails begin right on site, leading through stunning desert landscapes filled with giant saguaro cacti, rock formations, and wide open views.
In the evening, enjoy breathtaking sunsets followed by crystal-clear night skies—far away from any light pollution. With a bit of luck, you may spot local wildlife such as deer, owls, coyotes, or rare desert birds.
Some of the region’s most popular attractions are just a short drive away: the world-renowned Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, the Western film town of Old Tucson, and the scenic Gates Pass overlook.
Upon request and for a small additional fee, we also offer guided desert experiences—from informative daytime tours to exciting nighttime scorpion hunts with UV lights. These tours offer a unique way to connect with the desert on a deeper level.
Whether you're camping, staying in your RV, or relaxing in one of our cozy casitas—this is where you'll find peace, nature, and the true spirit of the desert.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
$35
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Lizanne
2 days ago
37 ft Class A
With pets
This place was so cool! Loved the gated security and was so easy to get in and out. I loved the boondocking feel but still having full hookups. Felt secluded away but close to anything we needed and SO close to saguaro NP. The land was gorgeous to explore and man the sunsets every night were cherry on top. Can’t wait to come stay here again. Expect neighbors potentially but everyone was the absolute friendliest 🧡
See more
Stephanie
2 weeks ago
29 ft travel trailer
Great, safe place to have your tv. Hosts are very kind and accommodating. Beautiful scenery in a gated equestrian farm.
See more
E
Erika
2 weeks ago
19 ft campervan
As Janet's first hip camper we were pleased with the spot a nice wide open space with access to electricity and water. We could hear the birds chirp and even saw some bunnies. It was nice to be close to the hustle and bustle while still having a place to stay where we could get away and have some peace and quiet. Would definitely recommend staying if you have a chance.
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J
Joanne
January 2026
30 ft fifth wheel
With pets
Beautiful location on a large ranch just outside of Tucson. Anthony and Linda were wonderful hosts. Sites are a bit close together but everyone was friendly and respectful. We would definitely stay here again!
See moreM
Matt
November 2025
33 ft toy hauler
With kids
Sites are behind a gated entry, on the other end of 40 acres from the main property which makes this location feel like you are dry camping in the scenic desert. The land is natural and flat, lending the area to great views of the surrounding mountains once you are setup.
The sites were a bit too close but understandable given they've run full hookups to every site. Electric was solid, water pressure was plentiful, and no issues with the sewer connection. This made our 7 night stay very enjoyable, having the freedom of city water and easy dumping... with the scenery, quiet, and calm of dry camping way out in the desert.
Anthony and his wife were great hosts, met us when we arrived and showed us to our site... then we didn't see them for a few days until someone else arrived.
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