Half Moon Ranch
4.4238 reviews1192 W. Saddlewood Road, Douglas, AZ 85625, USA
Half Moon Ranch
$150.00 - $150.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Cabin rental costs $150.00 per night. Reservation fee may be additional depending on method used (e.g., $8 online or $9 through contact center).
About this campground
Tucked away in the dramatic Dragoon Mountains, Half Moon Ranch beckons adventurers to a secluded ranch-style retreat where towering granite walls create nature's ultimate playground. This hidden gem in East Cochise Stronghold transforms camping into an immersive canyon experience, where world-class rock climbing routes share the landscape with meandering trails perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback adventures. Here, where history whispers through the wind-carved rocks, visitors discover a rare blend of rugged beauty and Old West mystique.
Half Moon Ranch provides unique lodging options in the form of a ranch-style house rather than traditional tent or RV camping.
Historical SignificanceThese sacred canyons once sheltered the legendary Apache Chief Cochise and his people, who found refuge among the labyrinth of granite formations and hidden passages. Every trail tells a story of resilience and freedom, where Native American heritage runs as deep as the canyon walls themselves. Walking these paths connects modern visitors to centuries of human history etched into the very stones.
Weather and SeasonsWinter wraps the canyon in crisp mountain air, with comfortable daytime temperatures hovering around 57°F before dropping to a cozy 33°F under star-filled nights—perfect for campfire gatherings. Come summer, the legendary monsoon season transforms the landscape with dramatic afternoon thunderstorms, filling the air with the sweet scent of desert rain and painting the sky in spectacular displays of lightning and color.
ElevationPerched at 5,000 feet where the desert meets the sky, Half Moon Ranch enjoys a goldilocks climate that outdoor enthusiasts dream about. This perfect elevation creates an oasis of moderate temperatures year-round, where the thin mountain air invigorates morning hikes and cool evenings invite stargazing sessions that seem to bring the cosmos within arm's reach.
Natural Features and SceneryMassive granite spires pierce the azure sky while gravity-defying balanced boulders create a natural sculpture garden that captivates photographers and climbers alike. This vertical wonderland, carved by millennia of wind and water, provides sanctuary for diverse wildlife—from soaring hawks to elusive javelinas. Desert wildflowers splash color across the rocky canvas each spring, while ancient oaks and junipers offer shade in secret grottos.
Geological RegionRising from the Coronado National Forest like a fortress of stone, the Dragoon Mountains represent one of Arizona's most spectacular 'sky islands'—isolated mountain ranges that harbor incredible biodiversity. These rugged granite formations tell a geological story millions of years in the making, where volcanic forces and erosion collaborated to create a climber's paradise of spires, domes, and seemingly impossible balanced rocks. This unique ecosystem supports an astonishing variety of plant and animal life found nowhere else in the surrounding desert.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features for disabled guests are not specified, but the cabin is recommended for families and groups due to its spacious layout.
Sites SizeStandard-sized ranch house accommodating groups up to 10 people.
Sites PrivacyThe site is secluded and offers privacy due to its remote location and surrounding natural features.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring your own cleaning supplies, propane tank, and additional bedding. Avoid summer months due to high heat.
Best CampsitesOnly one campsite available, which is the cabin itself.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out by 11:00 AM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 nights within rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 10 guests allowed per reservation.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin with attached barn and corrals for up to six horses.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round from January 1 to December 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot available; cabin rental is by reservation only.
Cancellation PolicyStandard $10 cancellation fee applies, plus forfeiture of the first night's fee if cancelled fewer than 14 days before arrival for cabin reservations. Late cancellations may incur additional penalties.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Half Moon Ranch offers diverse recreational opportunities, including hiking, horseback riding, rock climbing, mountain biking, and birding. The surrounding Cochise Stronghold is renowned for its granite spires and cliffs, making it a rock climbing paradise. Wildlife viewing and historical exploration are also popular.
Hiking
Hiking trails in the area are accessible and provide stunning views of the Dragoon Mountains and Cochise Stronghold. Trails vary in length and difficulty, with one reviewer mentioning, 'Had a great hike up the Stronghold.'Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Biking
Mountain biking opportunities are abundant, taking advantage of the rugged terrain surrounding the ranch.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife sightings are frequent, with species such as deer, Cardinals, and quail mentioned in user reviews. A reviewer noted, 'Kind of cool watching four pairs of Cardinals bouncing around the hackberry trees and courting each other.'Cultural and Educational Programs
Nearby Cochise Stronghold Campground offers interpretive tales and historical exploration related to Apache Chief Cochise and the area's cultural and natural history.Winter Activities
Less emphasis on winter activities; however, the cabin's wood stove makes it suitable for colder months.Water Sports
No water sports opportunities mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Indoor fireplace not maintained for use. Outdoor fire pits are available for cooking.
- Quiet hours are No explicit quiet hours mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include scorpions, snakes, and insects due to the desert environment. Wildlife such as bears and deer may be present.
Active alertsNone mentioned.
Weather forecast
91
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 19%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 10.4 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Douglas Ranger District, located in Douglas, Arizona (approximately 17 miles west).
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1, 2025 - December 31, 2025.
Trash and recyclingGuests must remove all trash, and there are no dedicated trash or recycling facilities on-site. Bear boxes are available but often full; guests are advised to pack out all trash.
Proximity to water featuresA small pond on the property attracts wildlife; nearby streams provide additional water features.
Common complaintsReviews frequently mention cleanliness issues, plumbing problems, and broken amenities such as the outdoor grill.
HostCaretaker Donnie manages multiple properties and may be unavailable for immediate assistance.
Campground Map
1192 W. Saddlewood Road, Douglas, AZ 85625, USA
Driving directionsFrom Tucson: Take I-10 east to Exit #318 (Dragoon Road). Turn right onto Dragoon Road and travel for approximately 10 miles through the village of Dragoon to the Cochise Stronghold Road. Turn right on Cochise Stronghold Road and travel for approximately 6 miles to Ironwood Road. The paved road dead ends at Ironwood Road. Turn right, and travel for approximately 3 miles to the first creek crossing. The entrance to the Half Moon Ranch is on the left just beyond the crossing.
The access road leading into the cabin is passable by passenger car, but high clearance vehicles are recommended.Nearby places
Douglas (approximately 17 miles west), Sunsites (approximately 9 miles west), Tucson (approximately 1.5 hours east)
Nearby supplies
Supplies available in the town of Sunsites, approximately 9 miles west.
Camper Reviews
4.4
38 reviews
Half Moon Ranch is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the cabin's stunning location, spacious design, and diverse amenities. However, cleanliness and maintenance issues are recurring themes.
Review Summaries
Based on 38 reviews
What Campers Love
Guests praise the cabin's spaciousness, privacy, and proximity to recreational activities. Comments include, 'The cabin is very inviting, roomy, with both baths functioning well' and 'The beds are...
Based on 38 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints focus on cleanliness, unresponsive management, and maintenance issues, such as plumbing problems and unusable grills. One guest remarked, 'We ended up becoming their cleaning crew...
Based on 38 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Guests advise cleaning the cabin upon arrival, bringing additional cleaning supplies, and being prepared for occasional maintenance issues. Another tip includes visiting during fall, winter, or...
Based on 38 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The cabin is most suitable during cooler months, as summer temperatures can make it uncomfortably warm. Guests recommend visiting in fall, winter, or spring for the best experience.
Based on 38 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Amazing!! Half Moon Ranch, and the surrounding Cochise Stronghold, is a magical, magical place." - Becki Ross. "Kind of cool watching four pairs of Cardinals bouncing around the hackberry trees and...
Based on 38 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
The cabin loop, Half Moon Ranch, is praised for its spacious design and scenic views. However, maintenance issues like plumbing and cleanliness detract from some guests' experiences.
Based on 38 reviewsAccessibility Features
Reviews do not specifically mention accessibility features, but the cabin’s spacious layout could accommodate families and groups.
Based on 38 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are not allowed inside or outside the cabin due to previous issues with cleanliness and wildlife disturbances.
Based on 38 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025