Saguaro National Park Wilderness Permits
4.45165 reviews3693 S Old Spanish Trail, Tucson, AZ 85730
Saguaro National Park Wilderness Permits
$8.00 - $8.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$8.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$8.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping use fee is $8 per site per night. Reservation fees vary depending on booking method: $8 online, $9 via contact center, $3 in-person.
About this campground
Deep in the Sonoran Desert, Saguaro National Park beckons adventurous souls to six secluded wilderness campgrounds accessible only by foot. These remote sanctuaries await those willing to trek between 4.4 and 10 miles through stunning desert landscapes. Each primitive campground rewards hikers with essential amenities including vault or composting toilets, protective bear boxes, and seasonal water sources—everything needed for an authentic backcountry experience beneath Arizona's starlit skies.
Saguaro Wilderness campgrounds are primitive with minimal amenities. They cater to backpackers seeking remote and natural settings.
Historical SignificanceSince its designation as the Saguaro Wilderness in 1976, this protected landscape has served as a living museum of the Sonoran Desert's natural heritage. Among its treasures lies Manning Camp, where weathered structures whisper stories of early settlers and the enduring relationship between humans and this remarkable desert ecosystem.
Weather and SeasonsThe park's dramatic elevation changes create a symphony of microclimates throughout the year. Summer transforms lower elevations into a sun-baked landscape where temperatures soar past 100°F, while mountain campgrounds offer refreshing relief. Winter dusts the higher reaches with snow, creating a magical contrast to the desert below. Spring and fall emerge as the golden seasons, painting the landscape with perfect temperatures and wildflower blooms. From July through September, afternoon monsoons roll across the mountains, bringing dramatic lightning shows and the sweet scent of desert rain.
ElevationYour journey through Saguaro's campgrounds takes you on a vertical odyssey from Douglas Spring's desert perch at 4,800 feet to Manning Camp's pine-scented haven at 8,000 feet—a remarkable 3,200-foot elevation gain that showcases nature's incredible diversity.
Natural Features and SceneryThe majestic Rincon Mountains cradle a world of contrasts where towering saguaro cacti give way to rolling grasslands, and eventually to fragrant ponderosa pine forests. Each campground offers its own window into this ecological tapestry, from sunset-painted desert vistas to cool mountain meadows where silence is broken only by the whisper of wind through ancient trees. Here, solitude isn't just found—it envelops you completely.
Geological RegionRising like an island from the surrounding desert sea, the park sits within southeastern Arizona's remarkable Sky Island region. This geological wonderland compresses entire continents' worth of ecosystems into a single mountain range, where you can journey from Mexico's Sonoran Desert to Canada's conifer forests in just a day's hike through the spectacular Rincon Mountains.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campgrounds are not vehicle-accessible and require a strenuous hike, making them unsuitable for individuals with limited mobility.
Sites SizeCampsite sizes vary, with some offering shade under oaks or pines.
Sites PrivacySites are fairly secluded, offering a quiet backcountry experience. Some campgrounds have multiple sites close together, but overall privacy is good.
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose Manning Camp for reliable water and shade; Grass Shack offers oak tree cover and seasonal creek access. Douglas Springs is recommended for its proximity to trailheads.
Best CampsitesPopular campsites include Manning Camp for its consistent water source and Juniper Basin for its scenic views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 12:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 10 nights per visit, with no more than 5 consecutive nights at one campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum group size per single campsite is 6 persons.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampgrounds are primitive with designated individual sites ranging from 2 to 6 per location.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Reservations are block-released monthly.
Reservation PlatformsReservations managed through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability; all sites require prior reservation.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations before arrival incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations (within one day of check-in) forfeit the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Primary activities include hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring diverse ecosystems. The strenuous trails lead to unique natural environments, from desert scrub to alpine forests.
Hiking
The area offers hikes ranging in difficulty, including ascents to Rincon Peak and Manning Camp. Trails vary from 4.4 miles to over 13 miles, with significant elevation gains.Wildlife viewing
Campers frequently observe diverse wildlife, including deer, wild turkeys, and occasionally mountain lions. Birdwatchers may spot Mexican jays and canyon towhees.Winter Activities
Winter hiking is possible but requires preparation for snow and low temperatures at higher elevations.Water Sports
No water sports are supported due to the scarcity of water sources in the area.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are prohibited at Douglas Spring and Grass Shack. Deadwood fires are allowed at Juniper Basin. Gas stoves are encouraged across all sites.
- Quiet hours are enforced overnight.
Hazards
General hazardsWater scarcity, steep terrain, and extreme weather are common hazards. Flash floods and lightning are risks during monsoon season.
Active alertsNo public access to Madrona Trailhead. Seasonal advisories for water availability and monsoon storms.
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 54%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 11.7 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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 are in Tucson, including hospitals and police stations. The visitor center offers first aid and emergency assistance.
Good to know
Peak season datesYear-round peak pricing of $8 per night.
Trash and recyclingUsers are required to pack out all trash. Bear-proof containers are provided at campsites for food and scented items.
Proximity to water featuresCampgrounds are near intermittent streams or springs. Manning Camp has a reliable year-round spring.
Common complaintsChallenges include overgrown trails, water scarcity, difficult trail navigation, and limited occupancy.
Campground Map
3693 S Old Spanish Trail, Tucson, AZ 85730
Driving directionsFive trailheads lead into the Saguaro Wilderness: Douglas Spring, Tanque Verde Ridge, Miller Creek, Turkey Creek, and Italian Spring. The Douglas Spring Trailhead is accessible 24 hours a day at the east end of Speedway Boulevard. Tanque Verde Ridge Trailhead is located within the Javelina Picnic Area, accessible daily from 7:00 AM to sunset. Miller Creek and Turkey Creek Trailheads require access via USFS Route #35, with the Turkey Creek Trailhead needing high-clearance or 4-wheel-drive vehicles for the last 1.6 miles. Italian Spring Trailhead is the most challenging to access, involving unmaintained gravel roads requiring high clearance and 4-wheel-drive for the additional 2.6 miles beyond USFS Route #37.
Access varies from paved roads to challenging gravel or unmaintained routes. Italian Spring Trailhead is particularly difficult, requiring high clearance and 4-wheel-drive.Nearby places
Tucson (approx. 15 miles, 30 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Tucson.
Camper Reviews
4.5
165 reviews
Saguaro National Park Wilderness Permits is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the unique and challenging backcountry experience offered at Saguaro Wilderness campgrounds. While most appreciate the beauty and seclusion, some report issues with trail maintenance and water availability.
Review Summaries
Based on 165 reviews
What Campers Love
Several users praised the stunning views, diverse ecosystems, and peaceful solitude of the campgrounds. Manning Camp was frequently highlighted for its reliable water and clean facilities.
Based on 165 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include poorly maintained trails, limited water information, and unclear signage. Some users also noted issues with vault toilet cleanliness.
Based on 165 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Hikers are advised to carry sufficient water, as availability is seasonal and unpredictable. Leaving trail markers for others is encouraged. Campers suggested starting hikes early to avoid extreme...
Based on 165 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter sees low temperatures and occasional snow, making higher elevations challenging but rewarding. Summers are extremely hot, and spring/fall are considered the best times for hiking due to milder...
Based on 165 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Grass Shack is a great campsite. Views of Rincon Mountain were exceptional." "The camping at Spud Rock was amazing, but the spring was dry as a bone." "Douglas Spring Camp had water and even spotty...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Manning Camp: Reliable water and spacious sites. Grass Shack: Beautiful views and shade. Douglas Spring: Accessible but occasionally crowded. Juniper Basin: Scenic but fewer bear boxes.
Based on 165 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically mentioned accessibility features. The strenuous hikes make these campgrounds inaccessible for individuals with mobility challenges.
Based on 165 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are not permitted in the Saguaro Wilderness area.
Based on 165 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025