Catalina Camping

Catalina State Park, nestled at the base of Arizona's Santa Catalina Mountains, offers a diverse camping experience suitable for tent campers, RV enthusiasts, and equestrians.

Campsites and Amenities

The park features 120 campsites equipped with electric and water hookups. Each site includes a picnic table and BBQ grill, with paved roads and parking slips for easy access. Modern restrooms with hot showers and RV dump stations are available for campers' convenience. Notably, there are no length restrictions for RVs, accommodating even the largest models. To maintain air quality and safety, wood fires are prohibited; however, campers may use charcoal, firelogs (such as Duraflame), or propane for cooking and warmth.

Equestrian Camping

For visitors traveling with horses, the park offers an equestrian camping area on a first-come, first-served basis. This area includes 16 corrals, mounting/dismounting steps, hitching posts, picnic tables, BBQ grills, and vault toilets. While water is available, there are no electric hookups in this section. Equestrian camping fees are $25 per vehicle per night.

Group Camping

Catalina State Park provides four group camping areas—Flycatcher, Gila Monster, Granite, and Ringtail—each equipped with picnic tables, restrooms with showers, fire pits, BBQ grills, and large ramadas. These areas require reservations and have varying minimum group size requirements. Fees are $20 per night per vehicle or $7 per vehicle for day use.

Reservations and Fees

Campsite reservations can be made online or by calling the Arizona State Parks Reservation Desk at 1-877-MY PARKS (697-2757). A non-refundable reservation fee of $3.60 applies per site. Check-in time is 2 p.m., and check-out is at 12 noon. Arrivals before 12 noon on the day of check-in will incur the park entrance fee. Additional vehicles at a campsite are subject to a $15 per night fee, though this does not apply to towed vehicles used for transportation.

Activities and Experiences

The park boasts a variety of trails suitable for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, offering opportunities to explore the rich desert landscape and observe local wildlife, including over 150 species of birds. The Visitor Center provides educational exhibits and a gift shop for souvenirs. Additionally, the park hosts events such as the "Music in the Mountains" concert series and guided bird walks.

Important Considerations

Campers should be aware of potential flash flooding, especially during significant rain events, as some areas may become hazardous. Staying informed about weather conditions and park advisories is crucial for a safe experience. Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash at all times. While dogs are permitted on park trails and in the campground, they are not allowed in the surrounding Pusch Ridge Wilderness, including areas like Romero Pools.

Catalina State Park offers a comprehensive outdoor experience, blending comfortable camping facilities with the natural beauty and adventure opportunities of the Arizona desert.