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Gilbert Ray Campground Introduce

Nestled in the heart of Tucson Mountain Park, Gilbert Ray Campground offers a unique desert camping experience for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. This county-run campground is conveniently located near Saguaro National Park, making it an ideal base for exploring the stunning landscapes of southern Arizona.

The campground features electric sites with potable water available at the dump station and spigots scattered throughout the area. Each site is equipped with gravel pads of various sizes, ensuring a comfortable stay for both RV and tent campers. While fires are not allowed, charcoal grills are permitted, allowing you to enjoy a cookout under the stars.

Gilbert Ray Campground is known for its breathtaking desert and mountain views, providing a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. The campground is currently undergoing updates, with some loops already showcasing upgraded electric posts and leveled sites for improved convenience.

Although the campground does not offer showers, clean and well-maintained bathrooms are available for guests. The absence of fires is compensated by the opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the surrounding desert. Additionally, the campground is large enough to accommodate leisurely walks, though visitors with pets may wish for more dog-friendly trails in the area.

Reservations for Gilbert Ray Campground can be made exclusively online through Pima County's reservation system. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or an extended stay, this campground promises a memorable experience in the heart of the Sonoran Desert.

  • Electric sites with potable water access
  • Stunning desert and mountain views
  • Proximity to Saguaro National Park
  • Clean bathrooms (no showers)
  • Charcoal grills allowed (no fires)
  • Online reservations only

Customer Feedback:

Visitors have praised Gilbert Ray Campground for its serene environment and well-maintained facilities. Many appreciate the upgrades being made to the loops, ensuring a more comfortable stay. Guests also enjoy the spacious sites, which are perfect for walking pets and soaking in the natural beauty of the desert. While some note minor issues like uneven gravel pads, the overall experience remains highly positive, with many campers returning for repeat visits.

Location

Customer Reviews

4.0
491 reviews
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Jeff Harrits
Feb 04, 2025

2 nights, January 2025 - the second time we stayed here. We were in loop A, made through the reservation system. Most sites are pretty level, although our space, A27 had quite a drop-off from the blacktop to the gravel, with crumbling chunks of cement. There were a few other spots with similar conditions, but most sites appeared to be in good shape. Otherwise the campground was as nice as we remembered it. You have the desert and all it has to offer. We wish there was at least one "dog accessible" trail in the area, but at least the campground is large enough to ensure our dog could get a good walk. Two of the loops in the campground were getting updates. The one we were able to walk around was looking very nice with upgraded electric posts and to ensure the spots were level.

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Wendy Lambert
Dec 02, 2024

Great county run campground in Tucson mountain park and close to Saguaro national park. Electric sites with potable water available at dump station and spigots around the campground. Pretty desert and mountain views. Gravel sites of various sizes. Online reservations only at Pima County. Bathrooms but no showers. No fires allowed. Charcoal only.

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West Bielstein
Sep 20, 2024

Totally under-rated stay during September! We had a lovely experience visiting in mid-September, despite the heat, with only 2 other campers at the park during our 2 night stay. Met a fantastic couple, had amazing views, and $35/night is a steal. Looking forward to coming back when the whether is a little bit cooler. Even saw a Terrantula!

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BPM
Jan 02, 2025

Sites are too close together, giving no privacy. Tent here if you want to be surrounded by lorry-sized RVs making industrial noises all night. Also the light pollution from Tucson is too bad to really see the stars.

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Anar Tsog
Jan 04, 2025

The place is very nice but the system is not good. Came here for a day - only for campers. Walked around some sites that are available but can't reserve online. Very confusing and too many unnecessary restrictions.