Where else do you weave your way around desert roads and set up in the midst of giant Saguaro cacti? This is a special location, minutes from the Saguaro National Park West (there is no camping in the park itself) and nicely planted, with shrubs and cacti separating a lot of the sites. It's first-come, first-served. We called a couple of days ahead and they advised us that around 11.30 is the best time to arrive, as check-out is 11 am (we camped in March, in a 26' travel trailer). The ranger wasn't there when we arrived but a friendly volunteer noted our name and requirements, and then those of others who arrived after us, so there was a fair system. We were assigned a large site on C-loop, which was gravel and probably the least level spot we've ever had (you may be able to see from our photo how low our tongue was that night!). There were some rocks lying around, and we soon twigged that these were needed to stop our wheels rolling (despite a scissor lock, jacks down, and chocks in). Other than that, we loved the site. We had a good degree of privacy, a nice picnic table, and there were lots of birds in the campground (it's a great birding area). It is quite pricey for a site with no water hook-ups (there is electric at the RV spots) and no showers. There are flushing toilets, which are clean, but no showers, which is unusual for $20 a night. There is an area where you can fill your tank with fresh water, and there are two dump stations, which makes checking out speedier. It's also worth noting that in our site and our neighbours, the electric was on the other side to normal, which caused both of us some issues in having to manoeuvre so as to stretch the wire under the trailer. We got there in the end, just be aware. There isn't any wifi that we were aware of but we got 4G on our AT&T cell. You are paying for the location and the experience, and in that respect it is definitely worth it. We only stayed one night but because of our arrival time and the proximity to the National Park, we had time to get in a really good hike and get a good feel for the area, which is stunning. It's important to note the directions on the website, as there is another route you could take in but the roads are windy and hilly, so larger rigs might struggle (not if you follow the directions given - we had not problem). We spoke to a lot of people who return here every year. The park has a 7 day limit policy, so you don't have any long-termers and there is a nice feeling about it. We would happily return if we were back near Tucson.
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Gilbert Ray Campground sits amid dense saguaro desert just minutes from Saguaro National Park West and Tucson. Reviewers consistently note scenic, well‑kept grounds, a mix of tent-only and large-RV sites, and electrical hookups (15/30/50) with water spigots in loops plus dump and fill stations. Hosts are generally described as friendly and helpful, though occasional complaints about interactions appear. Trails leave directly from the campground, but there are practical tradeoffs: no showers, some uneven or awkwardly laid-out sites, slow/low-pressure water fills, and a narrow, rough final approach road. Be mindful of nocturnal wildlife (rattlesnakes, pack rats) when camping.
Our summary of 549 traveler reviews.
✅ Amenities & Features
Back-inBathroomsBikingCounty ParkDesertDirtDogsDump StationElectricEquestrianFamily FriendlyFirepitsFirst Come First ServedHikingMountainsOpenParkPartial HookupPetsPrimitivePublic ParkPull-thruRegional ParkRuralScenicShowersTentsTouristTrailsVideoWalking Trail
📖 About This Campground
Gilbert Ray Campground in Tucson Mountain Park area of Tucson Arizona offers camping on a first-come, first-served basis with a limit of stay seven days. Located in a scenic desert setting this park is best suited to smaller RVs and tent campers due to winding roads and smallish sites. Multiple trails depart from the campground for biking and hiking... just avoid the cacti!
Gilbert Ray Campground, located in Tucson Mountain Park, Arizona, is a picturesque camping destination that offers a unique and enriching experience for outdoor enthusiasts. Nestled within the Sonoran Desert, this campground provides visitors with a tranquil setting, stunning desert views, and a wide range of recreational opportunities.
One of the standout features of Gilbert Ray Campground is its natural beauty. Surrounded by towering saguaro cacti and stunning desert landscapes, campers are treated to a visually captivating environment. The campground offers spacious and well-maintained sites, some of which provide electrical hookups. Each site comes with a picnic table and fire ring, allowing campers to enjoy outdoor meals and cozy evenings around the campfire.
The campground's location within Tucson Mountain Park opens up a world of outdoor exploration. Hiking trails wind through the park, offering opportunities to immerse oneself in the unique flora and fauna of the Sonoran Desert. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls or challenging hikes, with trails suitable for all levels of experience. Wildlife spotting is also a popular activity, with the chance to encounter desert-dwelling creatures such as javelinas, roadrunners, and desert tortoises.
For those interested in history and culture, Gilbert Ray Campground is located near several notable attractions. The nearby Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum provides a fascinating educational experience, showcasing the diverse plant and animal life of the region. Mission San Xavier del Bac, a historic Spanish mission, offers a glimpse into the area's rich cultural heritage. Visitors can also explore the vibrant city of Tucson, which offers a range of dining, shopping, and entertainment options.
One of the unique aspects of Gilbert Ray Campground is its commitment to preserving the natural environment. The campground operates on solar power and promotes sustainable practices, including recycling and water conservation. This dedication to eco-friendly initiatives enhances the camping experience, allowing visitors to connect with nature while minimizing their impact on the environment.
Amenities at Gilbert Ray Campground include clean restroom facilities, hot showers, and a dump station for RVs. While the campground does not offer hookups for water and sewer, it provides a serene and rustic camping experience that allows campers to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and embrace the tranquility of the desert.
In summary, Gilbert Ray Campground in Tucson Mountain Park is an exceptional camping destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural exploration. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat, an opportunity to connect with nature, or a chance to immerse yourself in the rich desert landscape, this campground provides all that and more. From the stunning desert views to the nearby attractions and commitment to environmental sustainability, Gilbert Ray Campground offers an unforgettable camping experience in the heart of the Sonoran Desert.
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