The best camping in Catalina State Park, AZ

·
98% (23)

Wild beauty + the comforts of (your RV) home at the foot of the majestic Santa Catalina Mountains.  

The best camping in Catalina State Park, AZ

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
Freedom in the Catalinas

2. Freedom in the Catalinas

94%
(33)
4.4mi from Catalina State Park · 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
The site during the golden hour.

5. Wild Burro Desert Retreat

100%
(82)
9.5mi from Catalina State Park · 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
View from the back of the fire ring.

10. La Hacienda Chuparosa

96%
(135)
12mi from Catalina State Park · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Tucson, AZ
When my husband and I were dating in NY we confessed our mutual desire to get back "home" to the west. It made me fall in love with him even faster. So when we married we moved to Washington DC knowing that in time we would make it west. 5 years later, when the traffic and the politics has taken its toll, we made a trip to Tucson and fell in love with this charming property that exudes all the beauty and grace of the Sonoran Desert. We looked at each other as we walked around looking at the stunning Mtn. Views and the mesquite fence and knew we were finally "home." I've always adored the SW Hummingbirds and wanted to name the property La Hacienda Chuparosa. When we moved in, for the first week, every morning a hummingbird was sipping nectar from one of our plants in the front yard. We knew it was meant to be. So we added a couple of horses to our dream, built some stalls, and now are ready to welcome you to La Hacienda Chuparosa. We know you will find the same magic here that we do.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night
RV pad is tucked into the property, allowing you and your group privacy.

11. Roadrunner Tucson Birds and Cacti

100%
(14)
13mi from Catalina State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Tucson, AZ
This one spot private RV pad is minutes from downtown Tucson, the UofA and one block from the River "Loop" Bike Path. It's within walking distance to superb local eats and The Mercado. The entrance gate is 12.5’ wide and is a drive in or back in site. This is an off street fenced and gated site that is easy to access, and is also secure, and private. Your rig must be fully self-contained as there are No restrooms, showers, or laundry available on site. Include RV size/type in request. TENT Campers MUST have their own portable toilets. Travel nurses are welcome. Easy access from the Freeway and Downtown Tucson. This is an off street fenced and gated site that is easy to access, and is also secure, and private. Distances to hospitals in Tucson: St. Mary's Hospital 0.7 miles, St. Joe's Hospital 7.8 miles, Banner UMC 2.5 miles, Banner UMC South Campus 5.1 miles, Tucson Medical Center 6.6 miles, NW Hospital 6.2, miles away from this address. The space: There are full hook ups for electricity, potable water, sewer, and a provided fire pit. Property is in the city and at night you are still able to stargaze. This is a great spot for birders, cacti enthusiasts, and cyclists. Guests will have access to their own xeriscape garden. Be on the lookout for colorful birds. The pad has a 30 amp/120 volt RV box and a 20 amp/120 volt GFCI receptacle. No converters are available at this time. No generator use allowed anytime. The space can accommodate the small Class A’s. The site is 40’ long. If your combination RV/ Tow Vehicle is longer than that then there is off street parking directly in front of the entry gate. This is a pull in or back in site only and not a pull through. ADA sidewalks outside. Other things to note: This is a local residential neighborhood so no loud music or partying- quiet hours begin at 10p. Children must be supervised at all times. Dog owners must clean up after their pets- trash bin and bags are provided. Animal companions can be unleashed if kept within your enclosed area. No barking dogs left unattended in the fenced area. There is cacti in the garden so it recommended to wear shoes when outside. No restrooms available. Near several grocery stores, bus routes routes, and laundry mat in less than 1 mile.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$53
 / night
Weary Traveler Haven

16. Weary Traveler Haven

98%
(51)
19mi from Catalina State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Marana, AZ
All weary travelers welcome to our quiet desert haven! With 360 degrees of beautiful views! Our tent site includes a deck platform with securement hooks to assemble your tent on and stay safely elevated off the ground. RVs welcome! We can currently accommodate up to a 36ft travel trailer or horse trailer with living quarters. This is a dry camp area. There is a portable toilet with sink for campers to utilize. We also have an Inverter as a rental option to provide power for an RVer if so desired. We can also fill Fresh Water Tanks for use while camping. We are currently working on a dump station. Also to ensure that we keep our little slice of heaven beautiful, please pack out what you pack in. Please do not leave trash or food at the campsites or leave food unsecured this will attract wildlife which will surely make your camping trip interesting. Our property is surrounded with views of Mount Lemmon, the Tortolita Mountain Park, Black Mountain, Newman Peak, and Picacho Peak. Come enjoy the prolific wildflowers of the desert bloom this spring! Campers can enjoy a warm beautiful sunset and star gazing in the evening, with views of the hazy band of the Milky Way and shooting stars next to the fire pit provided at each site. This is a safe place to get off the road for a bit, or to take a break from the busy/noisy city life, to relax and unwind in nature! Dogs are welcome, but please pick up after your pet! There is also a Round Pen provided for travelers with up to 2 horses with a fill station for water. Feed will be intermittently available to purchase for those in need. Nearby attractions: -Catalina State Park. -Tucson Mountain Park -Saguaro National Park -Oracle State Park -Picacho Peak State Park -Restaurants and groceries within a 25 min radius: -Cadillac Chaparral -The Patio Cafe -River Bottom Grill -Ore House -Lupes -Bub's Grub -Access to state land 1 mile from property for endless desert fun with Miles and Miles of ATV/UTV, Dirt Bike, and Mountain Bike trails! -And Much more......
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$20
 / night
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.

17. The Mountain View Spot!

100%
(69)
19mi from Catalina State Park · 1 site · RV · Tucson, AZ
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.
Pets
Potable water
Trash
from 
$71
 / night
Magical Mushroom

18. Camp Saguaro

100%
(665)
21mi from Catalina State Park · 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
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.

19. Iron Quail Ranch

99%
(83)
24mi from Catalina State Park · 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
98% (23)

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Freedom in the Catalinas

94%
(33)
4.4mi from Catalina State Park · 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

Wild Burro Desert Retreat

100%
(82)
9.5mi from Catalina State Park · 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

La Hacienda Chuparosa

96%
(135)
12mi from Catalina State Park · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Tucson, AZ
When my husband and I were dating in NY we confessed our mutual desire to get back "home" to the west. It made me fall in love with him even faster. So when we married we moved to Washington DC knowing that in time we would make it west. 5 years later, when the traffic and the politics has taken its toll, we made a trip to Tucson and fell in love with this charming property that exudes all the beauty and grace of the Sonoran Desert. We looked at each other as we walked around looking at the stunning Mtn. Views and the mesquite fence and knew we were finally "home." I've always adored the SW Hummingbirds and wanted to name the property La Hacienda Chuparosa. When we moved in, for the first week, every morning a hummingbird was sipping nectar from one of our plants in the front yard. We knew it was meant to be. So we added a couple of horses to our dream, built some stalls, and now are ready to welcome you to La Hacienda Chuparosa. We know you will find the same magic here that we do.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night

Roadrunner Tucson Birds and Cacti

100%
(14)
13mi from Catalina State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Tucson, AZ
This one spot private RV pad is minutes from downtown Tucson, the UofA and one block from the River "Loop" Bike Path. It's within walking distance to superb local eats and The Mercado. The entrance gate is 12.5’ wide and is a drive in or back in site. This is an off street fenced and gated site that is easy to access, and is also secure, and private. Your rig must be fully self-contained as there are No restrooms, showers, or laundry available on site. Include RV size/type in request. TENT Campers MUST have their own portable toilets. Travel nurses are welcome. Easy access from the Freeway and Downtown Tucson. This is an off street fenced and gated site that is easy to access, and is also secure, and private. Distances to hospitals in Tucson: St. Mary's Hospital 0.7 miles, St. Joe's Hospital 7.8 miles, Banner UMC 2.5 miles, Banner UMC South Campus 5.1 miles, Tucson Medical Center 6.6 miles, NW Hospital 6.2, miles away from this address. The space: There are full hook ups for electricity, potable water, sewer, and a provided fire pit. Property is in the city and at night you are still able to stargaze. This is a great spot for birders, cacti enthusiasts, and cyclists. Guests will have access to their own xeriscape garden. Be on the lookout for colorful birds. The pad has a 30 amp/120 volt RV box and a 20 amp/120 volt GFCI receptacle. No converters are available at this time. No generator use allowed anytime. The space can accommodate the small Class A’s. The site is 40’ long. If your combination RV/ Tow Vehicle is longer than that then there is off street parking directly in front of the entry gate. This is a pull in or back in site only and not a pull through. ADA sidewalks outside. Other things to note: This is a local residential neighborhood so no loud music or partying- quiet hours begin at 10p. Children must be supervised at all times. Dog owners must clean up after their pets- trash bin and bags are provided. Animal companions can be unleashed if kept within your enclosed area. No barking dogs left unattended in the fenced area. There is cacti in the garden so it recommended to wear shoes when outside. No restrooms available. Near several grocery stores, bus routes routes, and laundry mat in less than 1 mile.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$53
 / night

Other options near Catalina State Park

The best camping in Catalina State Park, AZ guide

Overview

About

The desert's always blooming at this state park north of Houston. Head to the Canyon Loop Trail for a pleasant, easy hike. You'll have to cross four streams, so be prepared to get wet!

If you're a birder, this park is your haven. More than 150 species of birds call the park home, and there are dedicated birding trails. You may also see bighorn sheep on the nature trails.

Check in at the visitor center to see what special activities are coming up. Geology walks, birding walks, history walks to the Romero ruin, and presentations on local reptiles are all on the calendar.

Want to ride your horse outside the ring? This park has an equestrian center with plenty of trailer parking and equestrian trails.

120 fully equipped campsites (power and water) await you here. There are no restrictions on the lengths of RVs, so bring in your giant luxury vehicle and get ready for fun. Overnight fees are modest, and every campsite has a BBQ grill.

When to go

The best times to visit Catalina State Park are during the cooler months from October to April, when the desert climate is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak. Summer visits can be challenging due to the intense heat, making early morning or late afternoon the ideal times for exploration to avoid the midday sun.

Know before you go

  • Check weather forecasts before your visit, as the park is subject to seasonal monsoons and extreme heat.
  • Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat to protect against the Arizona sun.
  • Stay on designated trails to preserve the park's delicate desert ecosystem and for your safety.
  • Wildlife is abundant; enjoy observing from a distance and do not feed the animals.
  • Accessibility varies throughout the park; contact the park office for specific information on accessible trails and facilities.
98%
23 ratings · 4 reviews

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