Camp Rucker Group Site

Star4.19
6 reviews
1192 W. Saddleview Road, Douglas, AZ, 85607, USA
Camp Rucker Group Site
$15.00 - $60.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Individual walk-in sites are available for $15 per night, with cash payment required on-site. Group site rates vary by size: $25 for up to 50 people,...
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Standard Site Fee$15.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$60.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$75.00

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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
520-364-3468

About this campground

Nestled deep in the rugged Chiricahua Mountains of southeastern Arizona, Camp Rucker Group Site beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness experience. This remote mountain sanctuary welcomes both large gatherings and solo travelers with well-appointed facilities including sturdy picnic tables, dedicated serving areas, campfire rings with grills, bear-proof storage, and clean vault toilets. As one visitor aptly described it, 'Camp Rucker sits in the beautiful and remote Chiricahua Mountains,' perfectly capturing the site's blend of accessibility and wild solitude.
Camp Rucker Group Site features group camping primarily, although individual walk-in camping is permitted when the site is not reserved by groups. Its facilities support tent camping, but there are no hookups for RVs, and no cabins or glamping accommodations are available.
Historical SignificanceThese mountains whisper stories of the Old West through weathered historical markers that chronicle the dramatic U.S. Army campaigns against the Chiricahua Apache. The site bears witness to tragedy as well—in the late 1800s, monsoon floods claimed the lives of Lt. Rucker and Lt. Henley in the very creek that now bears Rucker's name, forever linking this peaceful campground to the frontier's untamed past.
Weather and SeasonsThe mountain climate here dances between extremes, creating a dynamic camping experience throughout the year. Spring visitors in March enjoy pleasant daytime temperatures of 60-68°F, but nighttime plunges to a crisp 23°F demand warm sleeping bags and layered clothing. Summer brings bustling activity to the campground, while July's dramatic monsoon season transforms the typically gentle Rucker Creek into a rushing torrent, filling the canyon with the sound of cascading water.
ElevationPerched at 5,533 feet above sea level, Camp Rucker offers a refreshing escape from desert heat below. This mountain elevation creates an ideal microclimate where cool breezes sweep through camp and expansive vistas stretch across the surrounding peaks, providing natural air conditioning and breathtaking sunrise views.
Natural Features and SceneryAt 5,533 feet, Camp Rucker unfolds across sun-dappled meadows where majestic oaks, fragrant junipers, and graceful Arizona walnut trees create natural cathedral ceilings. The intermittent Rucker Creek meanders through camp, its seasonal waters adding a gentle soundtrack to your stay. Above it all, Monte Vista Peak and surrounding foothills paint an ever-changing canvas of shadows and light, creating picture-perfect moments from dawn to dusk.
Geological RegionThe Chiricahua Mountains cradle Camp Rucker in a landscape sculpted by ancient volcanic forces and patient erosion. At 5,533 feet, this southeastern Arizona wonderland showcases dramatic canyon walls clothed in oak and juniper forests, while intermittent creeks carve their stories into the rock. Monte Vista Peak stands sentinel over this geological masterpiece, where every trail reveals new perspectives on millions of years of Earth's artistry.
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Campsite details

AccessibilityNo explicit information regarding ADA-compliant facilities or other accessibility features is provided in authoritative sources or user reviews.
Sites SizeThe group campsite is spacious, capable of accommodating up to 100 people, as described in the fee structure.
Sites PrivacyThe campsite is situated in a grassy area with plenty of open space between trees such as oak, juniper, and Arizona walnut, providing shade but not full privacy.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesIndividuals camping in March should prepare for cold weather. Groups planning visits during holidays must reserve all applicable nights due to the site's minimum stay requirements.

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in at 11:00 AM Pacific Time.
Check-out
Check-out at 2:00 PM Pacific Time.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights.
Groups
The group camping site accommodates up to 100 people, as specified in the authoritative season fee information.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground features one spacious group campsite designed for 1-100+ individuals, with picnic tables, serving tables, and vault toilets.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen January 1 to December 31, 2025. Reservations for group sites begin June 25, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov for group sites.
Walk-in AvailabilityIndividual campsites operate on a walk-in basis for $15 per night, cash only.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before arrival with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations for group sites (within 14 calendar days) may result in forfeiting the first night's recreation use fee. Individual sites operate on a walk-in basis for $15 per night.

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
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Camp Rucker offers a variety of recreational opportunities that cater to history enthusiasts, wildlife observers, and hikers. Its location in the Chiricahua Mountains provides visitors scenic drives, access to trails in the wilderness, and proximity to historical and cultural landmarks.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are available via trails in the Chiricahua Wilderness area, accessible through scenic drives like the Rucker and Tex Canyon routes. No detailed trail difficulty levels or lengths are included.
Wildlife viewing
Visitors have opportunities for observing wildlife in the scenic Chiricahua Mountains area, though specific species or viewing spots are not detailed.
Cultural and Educational Programs
The site includes historical markers related to the U.S. Cavalry and Chiricahua Apache conflicts, as noted in user reviews. "Nice selection of historical markers," stated by a reviewer.
Winter Activities
No explicit mentions of winter recreation like skiing or snowshoeing.
Water Sports
No information on non-motorized water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding is provided.
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Campground rules

  • Pets are not allowed
  • Campfires are allowed but must comply with forest firewood policies to prevent spreading invasive species.

Hazards

General hazardsThe area is home to bears, underscoring the necessity for secure food storage. Rucker Creek may pose risks during monsoon season due to rapid water flow.

Weather forecast

60
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Humidity: 47%

Comfortable humidity levels

Wind: 3.4 mph

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Clear sky

7 day forecast

Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Good to know

Peak season datesJanuary 1, 2025 - December 31, 2025.
Trash and recyclingBear-proof trash containers are available on-site for secure waste disposal. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresRucker Creek runs intermittently near the campground and adds to its natural appeal.
Common complaintsNegative reviews criticized the site's closure during COVID, the poorly maintained toilets, and the challenging dirt road access. One user said, "The bathrooms were closed and dirty. Terrible experience." Another mentioned the lack of communication regarding refunds during closures.

Campground Map

1192 W. Saddleview Road, Douglas, AZ, 85607, USA
Driving directionsFrom Douglas, Arizona, take Leslie Canyon Road north to Rucker Canyon. Stay on the main road, which becomes Forest Road 74. Turn left on Forest Road 74E and left again to the Camp Rucker Group Site. From Tucson, Arizona, take I-10 east for 72 miles to U.S. 191. Turn right and drive 29 miles to the turnoff for Rucker Canyon. Turn left and continue 17 miles to the national forest boundary. Continue on FR 74, then turn left on FR 74E and left again to the Camp Rucker Group Site.
The site is accessed via unpaved roads, including Forest Road 74 and 74E, which may require high-clearance vehicles and 4-wheel drive. Some user reviews suggest the road leading to the site is rough and challenging, especially for long trailers. Seasonal closures and weather-related road conditions may apply.
Nearby places
Douglas, AZ (Distance: Approx. null
Travel Time: null)
Tucson, AZ (Distance: Approx. 118 miles
Travel Time: null)
Nearby supplies
No grocery or fuel services are available at the campground site itself, and visitors must bring their own drinking water and provisions due to the remote location. Closest supplies are located in Douglas, AZ.

Camper Reviews

4.2
6 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Camp Rucker Group Site is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews reflect a mixed sentiment. Positive reviews highlight the historical significance, scenic beauty, and cleanliness during certain visits. Negative reviews focus on closure issues, rough access roads, and dirty facilities during COVID-related shutdowns.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews

What Campers Love

Reviews emphasize the scenic beauty of the Chiricahua Mountains, secluded spots within Rucker Canyon, historical markers, and clean bathrooms during specific visits. "Our school had a fantastic...
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Based on 6 reviews

Common Concerns

Negative feedback includes closures not reflected on the website, dirty bathrooms, and difficulties in obtaining refunds. Complaints also mention the rough 20+ mile dirt road leading to the site.
Based on 6 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring sufficient water, as there is no potable water on-site. High-clearance or 4WD vehicles are recommended for navigating rough access roads. Pack bear-proof containers for food storage.
Based on 6 reviews

Seasonal Insights

March reviews note low traffic with daytime temperatures ranging from 60°F to 68°F and nighttime lows dipping to 23°F. Summer is reportedly the busy season, according to local forest service office...
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Based on 6 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. "Very little traffic in March though the local forest service office said that summer is the busy time." 2. "The kids loved that they could walk down and play in the water." 3. "The bathrooms were...
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Based on 6 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific reviews include complaints about closures and dirty facilities for Campsite 1, Loop: Camp Rucker Group Site.
Based on 6 reviews

Accessibility Features

No reviews specifically address accessibility features or experiences related to disabilities.
Based on 6 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No reviews specifically address pet policies or experiences involving pets.
Based on 6 reviews

Last updated November 24, 2025
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