The best cabin rentals in Catalina State Park, AZ
98% (23)
Wild beauty + the comforts of (your RV) home at the foot of the majestic Santa Catalina Mountains.
98% (23)
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Catalina State Park adventure.
Top-rated campsites near Catalina State Park
Saguaro Sky Ranch and Retreat
1. Saguaro Sky Ranch and Retreat
100%
(52)
14mi from Catalina State Park · 6 sites · Tents, Lodging
Tucked away on 8 1/2 acres of pristine Sonoran desert by Saguaro National Park West in Tucson, Arizona, Saguaro Sky Ranch and Retreat feels like the kind of low-key getaway you hear about from someone who knows all the best spots. You pull in, take one look around, and immediately settle into the quiet desert air, open space, towering Saguaros and easy pace that makes everything feel slower in the best way. You spend your time unwinding by the pool, sitting by a fire pit, enjoying the ambiance of the pond and waterfall, looking at the 360 degree city and mountain views, stretching out under the sun, meandering the trails, walking the labyrinths and enjoying those simple moments that somehow feel better here. The grounds are calm, the setting is scenic, and the whole place gives you that relaxed, unplugged feeling you keep chasing on weekend escapes. There is a comfortable, no-rush atmosphere that makes it easy to stay awhile, whether you are there for a quick break or a longer reset. It’s easy to enjoy, feels worth the trip, and has that friendly, laid-back energy that makes the stay even better. You leave already thinking about the next time you need a peaceful Arizona escape.
Suburban property with two vintage trailer sites, a Western Bunkhouse and several tent sites scattered over the 8 1/2 acres. Five minutes to shopping and entertainment, easy access to 1-10.. Saguaro National Monument West is within walking distance for easy hiking access. Tucson Mountain foothills. Gorgeous city and Mountain views.
Access to unheated pool and lush desert with over a hundred saguaros, trails, seating areas, zen garden, labyrinth, fish pond, and miniature horses.
Monthly rentals have a reduced rate on all sites.
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El Pais Motel & Campgrounds
2. El Pais Motel & Campgrounds
99%
(574)
19mi from Catalina State Park · 15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
El Pais is a family owned and operated motel and campground located in southern Tucson. We embrace the mid-century era with an awesome design, stimulating artwork, and fun amenities. If you're looking for a place to have an amazing experience by pitching a tent, living your best van life, or enjoying a full hookup RV experience you won't be disappointed. So come and book with us here at the world famous El Pais Motel & Campgrounds.
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Full hookups
Mesquite Haven
3. Mesquite Haven
98%
(21)
25mi from Catalina State Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Escape to Mesquite Haven, a peaceful off-grid campground nestled on five scenic acres on Tucson’s west side. Surrounded by mesquite trees, stunning desert sunsets, and incredible stargazing skies (we’re part of the Dark Sky program), this is the perfect place to unwind, explore, or simply breathe. You can see Picture Rocks from the property!
We’re just 15 minutes from Saguaro National Park, the Desert Museum, and Old Tucson Theme Park, with endless opportunities for hiking, biking, caving, and even skiing on Mt. Lemmon. Whether you’re seeking adventure or a quiet retreat, we’re happy to help plan your perfect stay.
What You’ll Find:
Our campground sits on half of our property—designed for comfort while staying close to nature. Choose from spacious pull-through sites with raised pads for tents, van camping, pop-ups, or Class B trailers up to 16 feet. Prefer something cozier? Book one of our two bunkhouses (full/twin or twin/twin beds) or enjoy our unique glamping tent furnished with late-1800s pieces.
The campground is off-grid. What that entails:
Rain water catchment with filtered water pumps for the shower and sink.
Solar power for the charging stations to charge your phones or laptop.
Propane usage: hot water heater for the shower, BBQ and firepits.
Nature All Around:
Listen to horses, ducks, peacocks, owls, and coyotes as you relax under the stars. Spot rabbits, hawks, eagles, lizards, and more. This is true desert living—beautiful, wild, and serene.
Good to Know:
The final ¼ mile to the property is a dirt road that can be bumpy or muddy after rain. Some areas have uneven ground, so bring sturdy shoes. Pets are welcome—just keep them leashed and off the furniture.
Bring a cooler with ice for your food and drinks.
Nearby Essentials:
• Gas: Speedway – 11 miles
• Dollar General: 4.3 miles
• Safeway (Silverbell): 16.5 miles
We’re also working on adding a small on-site shop for forgotten items.
Mesquite Haven offers the perfect balance of rustic charm and simple comfort. Whether you’re here to explore Tucson or gaze at the stars, we can’t wait to welcome you.
P.S. You can also check out our website MESQUITEHAVEN.COM for other useful information, like, things to do, photos and a blog.
See you soon.
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SaguaroGlamp, near Saguaro NP
4. SaguaroGlamp, near Saguaro NP
89%
(9)
32mi from Catalina State Park · 8 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.
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Campfires
Ranchito Paraiso - Peaceful Oasis
5. Ranchito Paraiso - Peaceful Oasis
100%
(5)
47mi from Catalina State Park · 1 site
Imagine pulling through the gate into Ranchito Paraiso - a desert paradise, seemingly remote, but just minutes from the town of Benson. First, you will feel calm and peaceful.
To the left, you will see an abundance of giant Mesquite trees and Kassandra - a lovingly renovated spacious RV nicknamed the Micro Mansion. Farther along, is the rustic elegance of Kasita Morada, the purple house. On your right, you will see the corrals for our sweet donkeys, Miss Fiona, Haiku, and Isla Preciosa, hanging out with their sidekick goats, Harley and Quinn.
We live in a ranching community, so neighbors are few (there is a KOA across the north side of our unpaved road). You will love the stars and the moon and the quiet here at the Ranchito. It is a wonderful getaway surrounded by mountain views. The sunsets are magical and sunrises provide beauty and hope. The Ranchito is an artsy retreat with quirky yet elegant accommodations and a wonderful space to breathe, create, write, binge on Netflix, or just take a break to enjoy a cup of coffee or glass of wine and bird watch. The donkeys and goats love our guests, and will patiently stand by for a brush, a cuddle, and a compliment while you sip your favorite beverage.
You will be within 15 minutes to Kartchner caverns. Tombstone is 20 mins, whereas Bisbee, AZ vineyards and Tucson are about 40 mins away. The Ranchito is 3/4 mile north of I-10 and one mile from the Amtrak line that runs between LA and Texas. San Pedro golf course is a few hundred yards away, with delicious food and a dog-friendly patio.
Even though the grocery store is two miles away, you will feel remote. Elegant glamping is available in a lovingly renovated RV named Kassandra and a custom DIY tiny home (Kasita Morada). Guests find both units quite stunning and well-equipped.
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Shafir
June 2026
1 night at Mesquite Haven
Very sweet hosts who put a lot of effort behind their property. Everything is as advertised. The remoteness is special.
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Danielle
May 2026
With pets
This place has some quirks but the CHARM is overwhelming and I absolutely loved staying here!! Toni is amazing and so so sweet and accommodating. We needed a place to bring our small pack of rescue pups while visiting Tucson and this was perfect for us. We cannot wait to come back and would highly recommend booking with her when you are traveling through Tucson! And if you do - make sure to tell her Danielle sent you :)
See moreLucas
March 2026
1 night at Mesquite Haven
The place is awesome and Jennifer was an amazing host. Very much enjoyed the stay here and will be booking it again anytime we are in Tucson area.
See moreCyn
February 2026
Weekend Trip to Mesquite Haven
Had a really great stay in The Cannonball. The little cabin was super cute and cozy, and Jennifer gave us a mini tour when we arrived which was such a nice touch. She was very reachable the whole time and genuinely warm and hospitable.
The paths around the property are really well lit, which made walking around at night easy.
Everything was clean, peaceful, and quiet. The only sounds we heard were wildlife, which made it feel even more relaxing.
We also really appreciated having access to a toilet, sink, and shower. That made the stay way more comfortable. The only small thing is the cabin could use a bit more insulation for warmth, but the host mentioned they’re already working on a solution for constant heat flow.
And the stargazing out there is AMAZING.
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Justin
December 2025
With pets
Great spot! This spot was a cute and cozy little bit of extra comfort for me and my dogs while on the road. Very friendly
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JENNIFER
November 2025
Weekend Trip to Mesquite Haven
We stayed in one of their two bunkhouses.. Super cozy, kind of car culture themed.. The other one was more Western.. Close by, they have The Barn.. A simple kitchen and bathroom, available for everyone on the property to use.. ALL utensils, supplies, and grille tools. Super thoughtful! We opted for a couple of the Add-Ons.. Jen took very good attention to our requests! Next time, we're TOTALLY staying in the Tombstone Rose. We were really impressed with the property.. Did some local spots, ajen suggested.. They really have thought about almost everything! Thanks for the experience! We'll be back!
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Chelsea
October 2025
1 night at SaguaroGlamp, near Saguaro NP
A gem of a place that I can’t recommend enough! A friend and I stayed here for a night in our transition from Sedona to Tucson and absolutely loved it. Conny and her family are the kindest people and so knowledgeable about the area. The casitas are gorgeous- well decorated and with cozy amenities. Will be coming back to stay again.
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Maura
September 2025
With pets
Staying in the casita was the perfect setup for our getaway with our dogs! Visiting the desert with pets can be really hard, since the heat can be overwhelming and they aren’t allowed in many of the areas of the national park. Conny’s air conditioned Casita space was so perfect for us! We were able to keep the dogs safely inside for the hottest parts of the day, then hiked with them off leash through the acres and acres of BLM land that surrounds the property. I think this is one of the best ways to experience the desert, and I would highly recommend it to anyone traveling with dogs. The land is beautiful and close enough to the national park that you get to experience all the wonder of the saguaros and the animals from the ranch. Be mindful of the distance from town though! The closest grocery store is 45 minutes away, and the road coming in can be difficult at night.
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Joe
August 2025
1 night at SaguaroGlamp, near Saguaro NP
The ranch was beautiful and the Casita we stayed in was extraordinary. One of the best places we have stayed. Would definitely book again if we are ever in the area. The sunset and Sunrise from the property was breathtaking.
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Ruth
August 2025
With pets
Our family wanted to enjoy some quiet time in nature and this ranch turned out to be a perfect choice. In less than one hour from Tucson, we were in the middle of over 50 acres of wild dessert. Our room was in a private courtyard attached to the main house. It was comfortable, immaculate and provided superb views of the dessert. We spotted a roadrunner, quail, woodpeckers, spiders, millipedes and the Sonoran Toad. We also enjoyed star gazing and night photography.
Our gracious hostess Cornelia quickly responded to our questions before our arrival. Getting there requires driving on an unpaved road for the last five miles. Our car was not equipped for this but Cornelia picked us up at the entrance to the farm. She and her family were warm and helpful and added to our Comfy, laid- back holiday at Casita Alpina.
See moreEthan
March 2025
Weekend Trip to El Pais Motel & Campgrounds
Just as described. Fun and eclectic room, very easy access to Saguaro NP.
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Claire
March 2025
With kids
This is one of the best places I have ever stayed. The animals are so friendly, and the host goes out of her way to be accommodating and kind. My teenage boys loved the animals and looked forward to seeing them every day. My kids usually want to sleep in, but they were motivated to get up if I told them the animals were out! The house itself is really cute and comfortable, and the location is less than five minutes from the interstate.
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Martin
April 2024
With pets
This was a wonderful place to stay. The accommodations were beautiful and exceptionally clean. The bathroom and the shower were perfect.
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Derby
December 2023
With pets
Good host communication & thoughtful details make this stay memorable. Welcome hug from Kareva & quick tour of spaces. With permission, interacted with animals & fed apples to donkeys. They are super curious! Kept pup greetings calm with use of safety gates. Appreciated! Fenced property for on-leash dog to explore, being aware of loose sanctuary animals. Found a piggy sleeping in sun & the stunning feathers of Peacock George. Animals visited us several times. Expect a dusty desert outdoor experience.
Lotsa clean amenties inside tho, like slippers & curtains for night privacy at doors to bathroom areas; warm shower water, space heater, bright skylight. Comfortable sleep/lounge area to unwind & rest. Kitchen loaded with useful items & huge window to view animals grazing. Thanks for the veg-pizza & crust crisper gadget. Nice surprise.
Kareva: give the animals hugs from us & enjoy the carrots & apples we brought them. ciao!
See moreReviews for Catalina State Park Campgrounds
98%
23 ratings · 4 reviews
Recommends
· October 2018
I have stayed in this park off and on for over a year. It is my favorite desert. I love the staff, the prices..EVERYTHING!!
Recommends
· April 2018
Stop at Peace, Love, Juice in Tucson for a smoothie befire you head to the park for a hike. Easy hikes, great scenery, good people. I live in a van and paid the day ise fee to hike and use their shower facilities. Very nice showers and bayhroom facilities. Big RV campground has firewood if it’s a cold night. The rangers, hosts, and other staff were all very friendly, well-informed, and easy to talk to. My dog and I enjoyed the day we spent here. We did not soend the night but did drive theough all campgrounds which were nice. The overflow area is a lot like Quartzite.
July 2017
I swear, they have the cleanest bathrooms and showers I have ever seen...anywhere!
Recommends
· June 2017
They have a power strip that they allow campers to use for cell phone charging. Don't be rude and use it for blow drying and curling your hair or they'll put it away. It's not something that the campground provides but the rangers understand that you may need a charged phone for emergencies. Also, deer, ravens, and the most beloved and endangered fox come through the campground. The ravens are very intellectual so the rangers advise you bring a hard cooler since the ravens have learned to open styrofoam. Don't leave stuff out, even a deck of cards are fair game for those rascals. While you're picking up your cards they swoop in and pilfer your camp.
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