Explore Free Camping Options in Santa Catalina Ranger District: Top Sites & Tips
Explore the majestic Santa Catalina Ranger District in the Coronado National Forest, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking diverse camping options. Spanning over 800,000 acres, this stunning district boasts breathtaking scenery, from towering mountains to scenic canyons, making it perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and stargazing. Popular campgrounds like Molino Basin and Spencer Canyon offer well-managed sites with amenities, while the tranquil sites at Campground at the Edge of the World provide a more rugged experience amidst stunning vistas. For those looking to camp on a budget, free camping options are available at designated sites such as Madera Canyon and the Catalina Highway. With an elevation ranging from 3,000 to 9,000 feet, visitors can enjoy a diverse climate and a unique range of flora and fauna. Whether you’re seeking the comfort of established campgrounds or the solitude of dispersed camping, the Santa Catalina Ranger District promises an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
Catalina Campground is part of Catalina State Park in Arizona (just 9 min east of Oro Valley, AZ) with an elevation of 2,668 feet. There are a total of 147 campsites including 8 tent-only sites. The campground is open all year. 139 sites can accommodate RVs and trailers between 25 and 155 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 12 months in advance. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring with grill. 117 sites have electric and water hookups. 8 sites have water hookups. Fees range from $15.00 to $30.00. Some amenities include shower, dump station, restroom, ramada, telescope, gift shop, horse stable, flush toilets. Activities include biking, horseback riding, hiking trails.
Rose Canyon Campground is located in the Santa Catalina Ranger District, Coronado National Forest (52 min northeast of Catalina Foothills, AZ) with an elevation of 7,273 feet. There are a total of 32 campsites including 24 tent-only sites. The campground is normally open from mid April to the end of October. 6 sites can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 22 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Fees range from $24.00 to $95.00. Some amenities include general store, amphitheater. Activities include fishing.
Showers Point Group Site Campground is located in the Santa Catalina Ranger District, Coronado National Forest (59 min northeast of Catalina Foothills, AZ) with an elevation of 7,793 feet. There are a total of 3 campsites which are all tent-only sites. The campground is normally open from mid April to the end of October. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Prices start at $95.00 per night. Activities include fishing.
Whitetail Campground is located in the Santa Catalina Ranger District, Coronado National Forest (1 hr northeast of Catalina Foothills, AZ) with an elevation of 8,105 feet. There are a total of 5 campsites. The campground is normally open from mid April to the end of October. Sites can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 26 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. All sites have electric hookups. Fees range from $125.00 to $165.00. Activities include hiking trails.
map icon in the lower right corner.
*Earn our 
Show your commitment in keeping our forests healthy and protecting our public lands by earning the Leave No Trace badge.