Showers Point Group Site
4.7622 reviewsCORONADO
Showers Point Group Site
$114.00 - $114.00 / 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$114.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Group site fees are seasonal and apply only during the peak season from April 11 to October 24 each year. Fees are $114 per night regardless of the site chosen.
About this campground
Perched high in the Coronado National Forest, Showers Point Group Site beckons adventurers seeking refuge from desert heat in a pristine mountain sanctuary. This coveted group camping destination welcomes parties of up to 25 guests into its embrace of towering ponderosa pines and rustling Gambel oaks. Here, well-appointed campsites blend seamlessly with the natural landscape, while scenic overlooks reveal breathtaking vistas that stretch for miles. The crisp mountain air and meticulously maintained facilities create an ideal basecamp for groups looking to forge lasting memories in Arizona's sky island wilderness.
Showers Point Group Site is a group tent-only campground. It accommodates up to 25 guests per site, with three distinct sites spread across a spacious area.
Weather and SeasonsAt this lofty elevation, Mother Nature paints each season with dramatic brushstrokes. Summer transforms Showers Point into a cool mountain haven, offering sweet relief when valley temperatures soar—perfect for those seeking comfortable camping without the swelter. As autumn arrives, the weather becomes delightfully unpredictable, with crisp mornings giving way to sun-drenched afternoons. Winter occasionally draws a curtain of snow across the landscape, temporarily closing access but leaving behind a wonderland that awaits spring's return.
ElevationAt a breathtaking 7,700 feet above sea level, Showers Point exists in a realm where the air grows thin and the world below seems to fall away. This remarkable elevation creates a unique microclimate where temperatures drop by 20-30 degrees compared to the desert floor, fostering an ecosystem rich with mountain species rarely found in Southern Arizona. Here, visitors discover a botanical wonderland where desert gives way to forest, and every breath of pine-scented air reminds you just how far you've climbed.
Natural Features and SceneryThe Santa Catalina Mountains cradle Showers Point in a landscape that seems painted by the gods themselves. Majestic ponderosa pines stretch skyward, their vanilla-scented bark catching golden light, while graceful Gambel oaks dance in mountain breezes. From carefully positioned overlooks, the dramatic depths of Palisade Canyon plunge before you, while the Santa Cruz Valley unfolds like an ancient tapestry far below. This is nature's amphitheater, where every sunrise and sunset becomes a spectacular performance played out against towering peaks and endless Arizona skies.
Geological RegionRising like an emerald island from an ocean of desert, Showers Point sits atop one of the Coronado National Forest's famed 'sky islands'—the magnificent Santa Catalina Mountains. These geological marvels thrust dramatically skyward from the Sonoran Desert floor, creating vertical worlds where ecosystems change with every thousand feet of elevation. At 7,700 feet, this biological crossroads supports an astonishing diversity of life, from desert refugees seeking cooler climes to mountain species at the southern edge of their range. It's a living laboratory where geology and biology intertwine, offering visitors a front-row seat to one of nature's most fascinating phenomena.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features include paved access roads and spacious campsites. However, there are limitations, such as the lack of a sidewalk extending fully to the handicap site, as mentioned in user reviews: "Would be nice to have the sidewalk actually go all the way to the handicap site."
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as spacious and leveled, suitable for group camping up to 25 guests per site.
Sites PrivacySites are well spread out, offering privacy for groups. One reviewer noted, "The tent pads are spaced out and private."
Total Campsites3 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring carts or equipment to ease transportation between parking areas and campsites. Groups needing extra storage should prepare to use vehicles for overflow storage.
Best CampsitesSpecific site numbers such as 2GRP and 3GRP are highlighted for their spaciousness and amenities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Reserved sites will be held until check-out time (12 PM) the day following your arrival.
Check-out
Check-out time is by 12 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay for groups is 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 25 guests per group site.
Groups
Each group site accommodates up to 25 guests and is equipped with leveled tent pads, picnic shelters, and water faucets. Users have noted the sites' spaciousness and privacy.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThree group sites are well spread out with large tent pads and picnic shelters.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from April 11 to October 24 for reservations; closed out of season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo first-come, first-served availability is noted; reservations are required.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies, along with forfeiture of the first night's fee for cancellations made less than 14 days before the reservation start date.
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
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Showers Point Group Site offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The Palisade Trail, accessible near the campground, provides opportunities for backcountry hiking. Fishing is available at nearby Rose Canyon Lake, which requires a day-use fee. Wildlife viewing is also popular in the area, with diverse flora and fauna supported by the forest's unique elevation range.
Hiking
The Palisade Trail begins near the campground and offers a backcountry hiking experience. The trail descends the southwestern slopes of the Santa Catalina Mountains toward the popular Sabino Canyon Recreation Area. Visitors have described the hiking opportunities as scenic and rewarding, although trail difficulty levels are not specified.Fishing
Fishing is available at the nearby Rose Canyon Lake, a six-acre lake that requires a day-use fee. Details about the types of fish present are not provided.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is popular in the area, partly due to the diverse ecosystems supported by the Coronado National Forest's range in elevation. Specific species commonly seen are not mentioned.Winter Activities
Winter accessibility is limited as the road to the campground is closed during winter. No specific winter activities are mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports, such as kayaking or paddleboarding, are not available at this location.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire restrictions may be imposed at any time due to weather conditions. Fires must be contained within designated rings.
- Quiet hours are not specifically noted.
Hazards
General hazardsBears and other wildlife inhabit the area; visitors must secure food and dispose of trash properly.
Weather forecast
57
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 70%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 5.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
Call Santa Catalina Ranger District at 520-749-8700 for information on nearby facilities.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 11 - October 24
Trash and recyclingTrash disposal facilities are available, and users are reminded to secure all food and trash to prevent attracting wildlife. However, recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresNearby Rose Canyon Lake offers fishing opportunities, though a day-use fee is required.
Common complaintsCommon issues from user reviews include the distance between parking and campsites, insufficient bear boxes for large groups, no electricity despite listed descriptions, and limited wheelchair accessibility in some areas.
HostHosts are praised for their friendliness, cleanliness, and helpfulness. Notable hosts mentioned include Ken and Roger, who provide excellent service.
Campground Map
CORONADO
Driving directionsFrom Tucson, Arizona, go northeast on Catalina Highway approximately 30 miles from Tucson until just before Milepost 20. Turn left on Organization Ridge Road and travel 1.2 miles to Showers Point.
The road into the campground off Organization Ridge Road is paved. Organization Ridge Road is an all-weather gravel road and closed in winter.Nearby supplies
No official notes on supplies available nearby
visitors are encouraged to bring their own essentials.
Camper Reviews
4.8
22 reviews
Showers Point Group Site is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Showers Point Group Site are overwhelmingly positive, emphasizing cleanliness, the beauty of the natural surroundings, and the helpfulness of the camp hosts. Multiple reviews praise the site as one of the cleanest and best-maintained campgrounds they have visited. Common themes include the attentiveness of staff, well-kept facilities, and the scenic environment.
Review Summaries
Based on 22 reviews
What Campers Love
- Exceptionally clean vault toilets and facilities.
- Spacious and private group sites.
- Friendly and helpful camp hosts.
- Beautiful natural surroundings and cool mountain air.
- Availability of...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
- Lack of electricity, which led to inconvenience for some visitors expecting electrical hookups.
- Distance between parking areas and campsites, making it challenging to carry gear.
- Limited...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
- Bring a cart or dolly to transport gear from parking areas to campsites.
- Do not rely on electrical appliances, as there are no electricity hookups.
- Utilize bear-proof food storage to avoid...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Visitors generally prefer the warmer months from spring to fall when the campground is accessible. Winter closures limit access, and no winter-specific activities are noted.
Based on 22 reviewsCamper Quotes
- "Cleanest vault toilets I have ever seen." - Cathy Parker
- "Hosts are always friendly and offer firewood for purchase." - Jonathan Redhouse
- "The common ramada has multiple BBQ grills, sturdy...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
- Site 2GRP: Well-maintained but criticized for the inconvenient distance from the parking area.
- Site 3GRP: Highly rated for its amenities but noted for a lack of paved access paths to the...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility is adequate but has limitations. Some pathways do not extend fully to designated handicap sites, reducing convenience.
Based on 22 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are mentioned in user reviews as being part of large groups, but there is no explicit information about pet policies.
Based on 22 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025