The best dog-friendly campgrounds near Vail, Arizona

Looking to go camping near Vail, Arizona? Hipcamp has over 446 options for you to choose from. Whether you prefer tent camping, RV camping, or glamping, you'll find the perfect accommodation to suit your needs. With prices starting as low as $9 per night and an average price of $30 per night, camping is an affordable option for all. Check out some of the top campsites with rave reviews from fellow campers: El Pais Motel & Campgrounds (308 reviews), Dark Sky Camping and Glamping (115 reviews), Karla's Hummingbird Rd. Guest Ranch (110 reviews). These campsites offer popular amenities such as trash disposal, potable water, and toilets. And if you're into hiking, paddling, or whitewater paddling, you'll be thrilled with the variety of activities available in the area. So pack your bags, grab your gear, and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience near Vail, Arizona!

97% (2.6K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Vail

Looking to go camping near Vail, Arizona? Hipcamp has over 446 options for you to choose from. Whether you prefer tent camping, RV camping, or glamping, you'll find the perfect accommodation to suit your needs. With prices starting as low as $9 per night and an average price of $30 per night, camping is an affordable option for all. Check out some of the top campsites with rave reviews from fellow campers: El Pais Motel & Campgrounds (308 reviews), Dark Sky Camping and Glamping (115 reviews), Karla's Hummingbird Rd. Guest Ranch (110 reviews). These campsites offer popular amenities such as trash disposal, potable water, and toilets. And if you're into hiking, paddling, or whitewater paddling, you'll be thrilled with the variety of activities available in the area. So pack your bags, grab your gear, and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience near Vail, Arizona!

97% (2.6K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Vail

1. The Mountain View Spot!

100%

(69)

12mi from Vail · 1 site · RV

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

2. Gated Equestrian Retreat

100%

(2)

40mi from Vail · 1 site · RV

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.

3. Angel's Summerhaven Retreat

79%

(7)

29mi from Vail · 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.

4. Starry Desert Haven

45mi from Vail · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Come and explore these 40 acres of raw desert land. The property is completely off-grid, surrounded by beautiful mountains and the dark night sky is perfect for star gazing. This land is very special to me. There are 5 dogs on the property that may roam as well as wild horses and cattle. There are plenty of walking trails leading to different areas of the property, making it easy to stay on a trail and explore. Located about 45 minutes from Saguaro National Park and the Desert Museum; about 1 hour from downtown Tucson. This location is also on the way to Kitt Peak Observatory. The roads to get here can be a bit rough so 4x4 vehicle is recommended!

5. Wild Burro Desert Retreat

100%

(83)

38mi from Vail · 1 site · RV

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!

Public campgrounds near Vail

Kentucky Camp Cabin and Headquarters Building

20mi from Vail · 1 site · in Coronado National Forest

100%

(1)

Whitetail Campground

22mi from Vail · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · in Coronado National Forest

Horrible photo, but I forgot to take more. This was the supermoon rising over the campground. The sunrises were just ad stunning.

100%

(4)

Molino Campground

22mi from Vail · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Coronado National Forest

100%

(5)

Bog Springs Campground

23mi from Vail · 13 sites · Tents, RVs · in Coronado National Forest

100%

(3)

Kartchner Caverns Campground

23mi from Vail · 62 sites · Tents, RVs · in Kartchner Caverns State Park

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Jeff

5 days ago

30 ft travel trailer

29 nights at Wild Burro Desert Retreat

We truly enjoyed our 28 day stay here. Bob and Cindy were available when needed yet they did not interfere with our stay. The site gave us plenty of room as well as all the requirements for a full hook up. One word of caution would be to make sure and supervise your children walking about as it is a desert and many cacti in the area. They have placed some creatures throughout and finding them was a surprise. Do visit if you can and we will certainly do so again if in this area. Thanks Bob and Cindy for creating this awesome space.

M

Matt

November 2025

33 ft toy hauler

With kids

7 nights at Gated Equestrian Retreat

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.

J

Joshua

November 2025

21 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at The Mountain View Spot!

Great views and a very nice property with room to walk.

M

Michele

May 2025

24 ft Class C

1 night at The Mountain View Spot!

A great property for passing thru for the night. Nice location and we loved the gazebo for relaxing in the evening. Chris was very attentive and helpful and answered any questions we had!

L

Liana

May 2025

14 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wild Burro Desert Retreat

Lovely and quiet spot. Excellent amenities! Loved having water, electric and dump station. The saguaros were in bloom too!!

Ample room to park even the largest RV or trailer and room to back up or turn around. All with the view of the Catalina mountains right there.

R

Ron

April 2025

40 ft travel trailer

4 nights at The Mountain View Spot!

Lovely views and it was fun to watch the birds feeding while relaxing in the gazebo. Also fun hiking and mountain biking trails nearby also.

P

Pam

April 2025

18 ft travel trailer

With pets

9 nights at Wild Burro Desert Retreat

Bob and Cindy have a wonderful little spot that is convenient to so many things in Tucson. It’s like being in the wilderness but still having the amenities of the city. Cindy was very helpful. It’s extremely well maintained. I know some people complained about the dirt road but we did not find it that big of a deal. We hope that we get the opportunity to wander in that direction again and stay at the Wild Burro!

Toni

April 2025

20 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at The Mountain View Spot!

Cannot say enough positive things about Chris and the wonderful spot he and his wife provided. Close to conveniences such as markets, carb wash, laundromat, dining etc. yet feels like it’s country. Sitting under the gazebo and viewing all the birds thanks to the bird feeders being stocked regularly was such a plus for us. Even a rubbish bin was provided (fellow HipCampers; please do not abuse it by overfilling). One truly feels at home here. We hated to leave! Would definitely come again and happy to recommend!

Jocelyn

April 2025

21 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to The Mountain View Spot!

Lovely site! Woke to a bird song symphony and enjoyed having my coffee under the shade structure.

M

Mary

April 2025

16 ft travel trailer

With kids

2 nights at Wild Burro Desert Retreat

Beautiful, private setting. Bob and Cindy are amazing hosts! The welcome box was a wonderful addition. We will definitely stay here for future visits!

Bill

March 2025

20 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to The Mountain View Spot!

Great views, super close to Sagauro National Park Eastern district entrance. The host Chris was gracious and helpful in every way. I would recommend and return if fate takes me back this way.

Andrew

March 2025

16 ft travel trailer

With pets

7 nights at Wild Burro Desert Retreat

Great spot, peaceful, private and the area is beautiful. Right outside of city too

S

Sylvie

March 2025

32 ft Class A

With pets

2 nights at The Mountain View Spot!

Thank you !! nice place, near from Park, good hoste!!! Perfection ++

E

Ellen

March 2025

30 ft fifth wheel

With pets

9 nights at Wild Burro Desert Retreat

We loved staying at Wild Burro! Very quiet and peaceful. Quick access to 9+ miles of mountain biking or hiking in the Tortolita Perserve. 10 minute drive to grocery store and a few restaurants. As stated by other renters the road in is solid washboard, just take your time and you will be fine. The spot was easy to back into with our 30 ft 5 th wheel. If you are looking for a lovely spot with full hookups and amazing sunsets this is the place!

p

peter

March 2025

25 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Wild Burro Desert Retreat

We loved the sense of privacy, and solitude. The site is beautifully situated with thoughtful touches everywhere. The driveway faces west looking over the preserve down to the valley below. The spectacular sunsets were an un-expected treat. Make sure to look out for the information filled e mail from Cindy. The private dirt road was suffering from some serous washboarding so we just crept our way in.

J

Julie

March 2025

25 ft Class B

With pets

2 nights at Wild Burro Desert Retreat

We loved this space so much we stayed 2 more nights!

J

Julie

February 2025

25 ft Class B

3 nights at Wild Burro Desert Retreat

This is our favorite Hipcamp so far. The site was so clean and spacious, hook ups were perfect. We really love the desert and enjoyed the peace and quiet afforded by this special site. No other camp neighbors, Minimal vehicle traffic on the dirt road close to camp. Great communication with hosts. Thank you for sharing your beautiful land!!

B

Brian

February 2025

37 ft fifth wheel

5 nights at The Mountain View Spot!

We thoroughly enjoyed staying at Chris’s place. It’s very close to the East Saguaro NP, quiet, and spacious. And the bird feeders at the gazebo were a special treat! We would definitely stay here again!

P

Penny

February 2025

5 ft campervan

With pets

6 nights at Wild Burro Desert Retreat

This is one of the nicest hipcamps I've stayed at. It is peaceful, quiet, and very private. It was fun to walk along the path meandering around the property which is maintained in its natural lush desert state. They have added cute metal animal sculptures along the way. And there is a second picnic table off the path. The site is immaculate. They even rake the whole area including the path so there is no evidence of past visitors. It felt pristine. I did enjoy studying the ground and finding various animal footprints. They are located across the road from the Tortolita Nature Preserve with 9 miles of trail to hike and bike in. The site is also just a few miles from the Tortolita mountains and 10 mile from the Catalina mountains.

D

Diane

February 2025

20 ft campervan

2 nights at The Mountain View Spot!

This was a perfect place for us to sit & relax after a 5 day drive from the East coast . A perfectly flat parking spot with water , WiFi & electricity is just what we needed in order to plan our next move , The easy access to the Sagora SP was a perfect close location from this hip camp site . We also really appreciated the nice covered outside space that was surrounded with bird feeders that made the hanging time there very enjoyable . Thanks for the hospitality!!!