Molino
4.7026 reviews5700 N Sabino Canyon Rd, Tucson, AZ, 85750, USA
Molino
$20.00 - $100.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$100.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Individual campsite fees are $20 per night. Group camping is $100 per night. A 50% discount is available for holders of passes like the America the Beautiful and Golden Age cards. Additional reservation fees may apply ($8-$9 for online/contact center bookings, $3 in-person).
About this campground
Nestled at 4,500 feet in the heart of the Santa Catalina Mountains, Molino Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic Arizona mountain experience. This hidden gem offers both spontaneous first-come, first-served sites for the wandering soul and a spacious group area perfect for gathering under starlit skies. Here, where the legendary Arizona Trail winds through ancient oak groves, visitors discover a perfect basecamp for mountain biking adventures, scenic hikes, and peaceful moments beside the seasonal waters of Molino Creek.
Molino Campground accommodates various camping preferences, including tent camping, RV camping, and group camping. Primitive camping is available, but no cabin or glamping options are offered.
Historical SignificanceMolino Campground serves as a gateway to the legendary Arizona Trail, an epic 800-mile pathway threading from the Mexican border to the Utah state line. This historic route has carried countless adventurers through some of the Southwest's most spectacular wilderness areas, connecting modern explorers with centuries of travel traditions across these ancient lands.
Weather and SeasonsWinter transforms Molino into a sun-drenched paradise, with crisp 35°F mornings giving way to perfectly mild 61°F afternoons—ideal for exploring without breaking a sweat. Spring awakens the mountainside in a spectacular display of desert wildflowers, painting the landscape in vibrant yellows, purples, and reds. When summer's intense heat arrives, the campground takes its seasonal slumber, reopening in fall when golden light bathes the cooling mountains and the desert prepares for its winter transformation.
ElevationPerched at 4,500 feet where the Sonoran Desert meets the sky, Molino Campground offers a refreshing escape from the valley heat below. This sweet spot elevation creates a unique microclimate where desert and mountain ecosystems intertwine, treating campers to cool, pine-scented mornings and comfortable afternoons beneath the shade of towering oaks.
Natural Features and SceneryA tapestry of high desert oak scrub blankets the rugged hillsides surrounding each campsite, creating intimate natural rooms beneath the spreading canopy. When winter rains and spring snowmelt arrive, Molino Creek springs to life, its gentle murmur providing nature's soundtrack. Majestic cottonwoods line the creek bed while stately Arizona live oaks and hardy mesquites dot the landscape, their branches offering shelter to diverse wildlife and creating ever-changing patterns of light and shadow throughout the day.
Geological RegionThe campground rests within a remarkable high desert oak scrub ecosystem, where the dramatic slopes of the Santa Catalina Mountains create a stunning backdrop of weathered granite peaks and boulder-strewn ridges. This unique geological setting, carved by millennia of seasonal floods through Molino Creek, showcases nature's artistry in layers of ancient rock formations. Giant cottonwoods mark the creek's path through this rugged terrain, while resilient Arizona live oaks and twisted mesquites cling to the hillsides, their roots anchored deep in the mountain's mineral-rich soils.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe group camping area includes one fully accessible tent pad and paved walkways. Spot #26 is specifically noted as wheelchair-accessible, allowing for easy rolling access.
Sites SizeIndividual campsite sizes vary, with group camping sites accommodating up to 100 people.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are spread out to provide privacy, and the group camping area is described as spacious.
Total Campsites37 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose campsites for privacy and shade. Spots near restrooms but far enough to minimize noise are recommended.
Best CampsitesSpot #26 is fully wheelchair accessible. Other highly rated sites include #28 for proximity to restrooms and good shade.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 nights during a visit. Total stay limit is 14 nights within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Up to 6 guests per campsite for individual sites
- the group site accommodates up to 100 people.
Groups
The group camping area can accommodate up to 100 people and includes six cleared tent pads and one accessible tent site. Amenities at the group site include picnic shelters, grills, food storage lockers, and serving tables.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is spread out with individual and group sites. Individual sites are well-spaced for privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonMolino Campground is open in late fall, winter, and early spring. It is closed during late spring and summer (approximately May through October).
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online, through the mobile app, or by calling the contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served campsites are available for individual camping. Group sites must be reserved in advance.
Cancellation PolicyChanges to reservations incur a $10 fee. Cancellations made one day prior to individual campsite check-in result in a $10 fee and forfeiture of the first night’s fee. Group site cancellations within 14 days of arrival incur a $10 fee and forfeiture of the first night’s fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Molino Campground offers a wide range of activities, including hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. The Arizona Trail passes directly through the campground, providing opportunities for hiking and horseback riding. Mountain biking trails are accessible, but user reviews have highlighted that trail markings could be improved. Wildlife such as deer are commonly spotted, adding to the natural experience.
Hiking
Hiking trails include connections to the Arizona Trail and the Molino Trail, which leads to the Pusch Ridge Wilderness. Trails vary in difficulty, but some user reviews suggest trail signage could be improved.Biking
Mountain biking is popular at Molino Campground, with accessible trails crossing the campground. Some trails connect to larger networks such as the Arizona Trail.Wildlife viewing
Campers frequently spot wildlife such as deer. One reviewer mentioned deer coming close to the campsites, enhancing the wildlife viewing experience.Winter Activities
Winter camping is possible due to favorable weather conditions during late fall, winter, and early spring. Snowmelt and flowing washes create unique seasonal opportunities.Water Sports
Water sports are not available due to the absence of large bodies of water in the area.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Open fires are allowed in designated fire pits. Firewood is not provided, and tree cutting is prohibited.
- Quiet hours are Evening hours (exact times not specified).
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife such as bears and deer are present. Food must be stored securely in lockers or hard-sided vehicles. Extreme weather events such as snow and ice may affect access.
Active alertsSeasonal closures may occur due to weather conditions or conservation efforts.
Weather forecast
81
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 53%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 17.6 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Overcast
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
Nearest emergency services include hospitals, police stations, and ranger offices located in Tucson, AZ, approximately 15-20 minutes away.
Good to know
Peak season datesNovember 1 through December 31 for non-peak season pricing.
Trash and recyclingTrash bins are available on-site. Recycling facilities are not mentioned in the provided data.
Proximity to water featuresMolino Creek, which flows during rain or snowmelt, runs through the campground.
Common complaintsLack of drinking water, spotty cell coverage, and faded trail markers. Occasional rodent presence noted by users.
HostWally, the campground host, is frequently praised for his friendliness and helpfulness. He maintains clean restroom facilities and assists campers.
Campground Map
5700 N Sabino Canyon Rd, Tucson, AZ, 85750, USA
Driving directionsFrom Tucson, Arizona, take Catalina Highway off Tanque Verde Road in Tucson. Drive 4.2 miles northeast to the Coronado National Forest boundary and continue 5.7 miles to the campground. The campground is between mileposts 5 and 6. All campsites are adjacent to paved roads.
Molino Campground is accessible via paved roads leading directly to the campsite area. Catalina Highway provides convenient year-round access, except during extreme weather conditions when closures may occur.Nearby places
Tucson, AZ - approximately 10 miles, 15-20 minutes by car.
Nearby supplies
Safeway, Subway, and other stores are around 15-20 minutes down the hill in Tucson, AZ.
Camper Reviews
4.7
26 reviews
Molino is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User sentiment is generally positive, with an average rating of 4.69 overall and 4.54 specifically for campground experiences. Clean facilities, scenic views, and proximity to trails are frequently praised.
Review Summaries
Based on 26 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviews highlight clean and well-maintained vault toilets, scenic mountain views, spacious campsites, and the helpfulness of the camp host. Wildlife sightings, including deer, add to the camping...
Based on 26 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Frequent complaints include the lack of potable water and the absence of electrical hookups. Some trails are noted as poorly marked, requiring close attention to signage.
Based on 26 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend arriving early to secure RV or van-capable sites, bringing flashlights for nighttime navigation, and ensuring all food is stored securely to avoid attracting wildlife. Some...
Based on 26 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter camping is especially recommended due to pleasant weather conditions and fewer crowds. Summer conditions may be less favorable due to heat.
Based on 26 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "Stayed in spot 28—good access to the bathroom but not too close. Good shade and level for tent setup." (Doug Roberts) 2. "Spot 26 is fully wheelchair accessible—you can roll right into the camp."...
Based on 26 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Spot #26 is noted for being wheelchair-accessible. Spot #28 is praised for its shade and proximity to the bathroom without being too close.
Based on 26 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features receive positive feedback, particularly the fully wheelchair-accessible spot (#26). Paved walkways add convenience for campers with mobility challenges.
Based on 26 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are mentioned positively, as one reviewer noted it’s a good area for walking dogs.
Based on 26 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025