Camping at Gilbert Ray Campground in Tucson Mountain Park

Located just 13 miles west of Tucson, Gilbert Ray Campground is a unique camping destination set in the breathtaking Tucson Mountain Park, known for its serene desert landscapes and stunning views of the Sonoran Desert. This campground is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking an accessible and peaceful retreat. With towering saguaro cacti, vibrant sunsets, and diverse wildlife, it’s an ideal spot for seeing the natural beauty of southern Arizona up close.

Adventure Guide To Camping at Gilbert Ray Campground in Tucson Mountain Park

Campsite Features & Amenities:
Gilbert Ray Campground offers 130 individual campsites, each equipped with a picnic table and 30-amp electrical hookups, perfect for both tent and RV campers. Restrooms with flush toilets are available, though there are no showers. The absence of large city lights creates optimal conditions for stargazing, making this a must-visit destination for astronomy enthusiasts. Each site is thoughtfully positioned to offer privacy and views of the mountains or desert.
Proximity to Nearby Attractions:
This campground provides easy access to Saguaro National Park (West), which is only a 5-minute drive away. You can hike iconic trails such as the Valley View Overlook Trail, which offers panoramic vistas of the desert. For an immersive experience, visit the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, located just 2 miles south—it’s a family-friendly way to learn about desert wildlife and ecosystems.
Unique Desert Flora and Fauna:
The surrounding desert is teeming with life, from Gila woodpeckers perched on saguaros to coyotes and javelinas roaming in the twilight hours. Spring visitors may be treated to blooming desert wildflowers, including ocotillo blossoms and prickly pear blooms, adding vibrant colors to the rugged landscape.

Visitor Tips

Best Time To Visit:
October through April offers cooler, more comfortable temperatures for camping. Avoid the peak summer heat, as temperatures can exceed 100°F.
What to Bring:
Pack sunscreen, plenty of water, layered clothing for chilly nights, and binoculars for wildlife viewing or stargazing.
Driving Directions:
From downtown Tucson, take I-10 west to Speedway Blvd and head west for about 13 miles. Expect a 30-minute drive.

Adventure Map

Reviews

West Bielstein4 months ago

Totally under-rated stay during September! We had a lovely experience visiting in mid-September, despite the heat, with only 2 other campers at the park during our 2 night stay. Met a fantastic couple, had amazing views, and $35/night is a steal. Looking forward to coming back when the whether is a little bit cooler. Even saw a Terrantula!

Wendy Lamberta month ago

Great county run campground in Tucson mountain park and close to Saguaro national park. Electric sites with potable water available at dump station and spigots around the campground. Pretty desert and mountain views. Gravel sites of various sizes. Online reservations only at Pima County. Bathrooms but no showers. No fires allowed. Charcoal only.

Anar Tsog2 weeks ago

The place is very nice but the system is not good. Came here for a day - only for campers. Walked around some sites that are available but can't reserve online. Very confusing and too many unnecessary restrictions.

BPM3 weeks ago

Sites are too close together, giving no privacy. Tent here if you want to be surrounded by lorry-sized RVs making industrial noises all night. Also the light pollution from Tucson is too bad to really see the stars.

Nicole Mills4 months ago

The location is absolutely gorgeous. Right in the Saguaro cactus and overall it's just beautiful. We arrived after dark to find that our reserved campsite was occupied. There was nothing indicating that any of the sites were reserved or first come first serve. No camp hosts anywhere. That was a bummer. We had reserved two nights but ditched it after the first night.