Calabasas

Star4.31
12 reviews
303 Old Tucson Road, Nogales, AZ 85621, USA
Calabasas
$55.00 - $55.00 / night
Campsite Fees
A nightly fee of $55 is charged for group reservations. Additional fees apply for late cancellations and changes.
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$55.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$55.00

Share this campground
Recreation.gov
Provider
(520) 281-2296

About this campground

Nestled in the rolling hills of Coronado National Forest, Calabasas Group Campground beckons groups seeking an intimate escape in southern Arizona's high country. This secluded haven has become a cherished destination for winter weddings beneath ancient oaks and multi-generational family gatherings around crackling campfires. When desert temperatures soar elsewhere, Calabasas offers a refreshing retreat where privacy meets pristine natural beauty.
Calabasas Group Campground is tailored exclusively for group camping and does not support individual or primitive sites.
Historical SignificanceHistory whispers through the surrounding landscape, where centuries-old stories await discovery. A short drive leads to the haunting beauty of Tumacácori National Historical Park, where weathered adobe walls tell tales of Spanish missionaries and Native peoples. Nearby Tubac Presidio State Historic Park preserves Arizona's oldest European settlement, offering glimpses into frontier life when this land marked the edge of New Spain's vast empire.
Weather and SeasonsBlessed with crystalline skies 84% of the year, Calabasas enjoys a near-perfect winter climate that draws visitors from across the Southwest. While valley floors shiver, the campground basks in comfortable daytime temperatures averaging 62°F, with crisp nights dipping to 37°F—ideal for stargazing from your sleeping bag. The remarkably dry conditions, with just 0.16 inches of average rainfall and only occasional dustings of snow, mean your outdoor plans rarely face weather interruptions.
ElevationPerched at 4,000 feet where the Sonoran Desert surrenders to sky island forests, Calabasas occupies a sweet spot in Arizona's vertical landscape. This elevation gifts the campground with a rare blend of ecosystems—where desert dwellers mingle with mountain species, and temperatures remain comfortable even as the lowlands swelter in summer heat.
Natural Features and SceneryPicture your group's tents scattered across a gentle grassy valley, shaded by majestic oak trees that have stood sentinel for generations. Meandering pathways invite morning explorations to nearby hilltops, where panoramic vistas unfold across layer upon layer of mountain ranges fading into the horizon. This 4,000-foot perch creates a unique ecological crossroads where saguaro cacti give way to woodland groves, offering campers an extraordinary tapestry of Southwestern landscapes.
Geological RegionCalabasas sits within the magnificent Coronado National Forest, where dramatic 'sky islands' thrust upward from the desert floor like ancient monuments. These isolated mountain ranges create a vertical journey from 3,000 to 10,720 feet, fostering an astonishing diversity of life zones. From sun-baked desert scrub to cool mixed conifer forests, this geological wonderland represents millions of years of earth-building forces that have created one of North America's most biologically diverse regions.

Campsite details

AccessibilityNo details on specific accessibility features were provided.
Sites SizeDesigned for groups of up to 250; large and spacious with enough room for multiple RVs and camping setups.
Sites PrivacyThe site is private and secured by a gated entrance, but unauthorized access from new wildcat roads has created concerns about theft and vandalism.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCall ahead for gate code. Bring portable toilets for groups over 50. Carry a shovel for cleaning due to livestock intrusion.
Best CampsitesThe campsite is singular and designed for group use.

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in time not specified.
Check-out
Check-out time not specified.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights during any visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 250 guests allowed for group reservations.
Groups
The group site accommodates up to 250 people, with ample space for RVs and tents. The site’s gated nature ensures privacy.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground is spread out, consisting of 14 tables, 12 campfire rings, 3 barbecue grills, benches, parking area, and toilets. It is gated for security.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Peak season pricing applies from January 1 to December 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe area is closed to all but groups with reservations; walk-up availability is not permitted.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before the arrival date with fees: $10 cancellation fee, reservation fees, and additional penalties for late cancellations starting 14 calendar days before check-in.

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

Calabasas offers recreational opportunities focused on group gatherings and proximity to natural features such as Peña Blanca Lake. Activities include hiking, fishing, boating, picnicking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing.
Hiking
Hiking trails in the area cater to various skill levels and provide access to scenic views of valleys and mountains.
Fishing
Fishing at Peña Blanca Lake is popular, with species such as rainbow trout, bass, sunfish, crappie, and catfish available. However, mercury contamination in the lake limits fish consumption and leads to catch-and-release practices.
Biking
Mountain biking trails cater to outdoor enthusiasts, offering varied terrain near the campground.
Boating
Peña Blanca Lake supports boating activities year-round, with opportunities for birding and scenic exploration.
Wildlife viewing
The campground’s natural setting among oak trees and grassy valleys provides opportunities for wildlife observation.
Cultural and Educational Programs
Nearby attractions include Tumacácori National Historical Park and Tubac Presidio State Historic Park, offering educational experiences of Spanish colonial history.
Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned.
Water Sports
Boating at Peña Blanca Lake may include non-motorized water sports like kayaking and canoeing, but specifics are unavailable.

Campground rules

  • Pets are not allowed
  • Gas stoves and charcoal grills are allowed. Tree cutting for firewood is prohibited.
  • Quiet hours not specified.

Hazards

General hazardsWildlife hazards include bears and other animals; secure food properly. Livestock may enter the site due to fencing issues. The area has unauthorized access through wildcat roads, increasing concerns of theft and vandalism.
Active alertsNo current advisories reported.

Weather forecast

84
°F
Oct 10
Friday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%

Strong wind, exercise caution

Humidity: 38%

Comfortable humidity levels

Wind: 11.9 mph

Strong wind, exercise caution

Clear sky
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.

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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Emergency Services

Nearest medical facilities and supplies are in Nogales, AZ, approximately 30 minutes away.

Good to know

Peak season datesJanuary 1 through December 31.
Trash and recyclingTrash disposal issues were reported. One review mentioned the trash trailer being overfilled and difficult to use.
Proximity to water featuresNear Peña Blanca Lake, a 45-acre manmade lake offering fishing, boating, and birding opportunities.
Common complaintsMultiple reviews mention pit toilets as unclean, occasional livestock intrusion, and unauthorized access through wildcat roads.
HostNo explicit information about campground hosts.

Campground Map

303 Old Tucson Road, Nogales, AZ 85621, USA
Driving directionsFrom Tucson, Arizona, take I-19 south for about 56 miles. Exit onto AZ 289 (Exit 12). Turn right (west) onto AZ Highway 289 (Ruby Road) and continue to the Pe Blanca Recreational Area. From Nogales, Arizona, take I-19 north for about 4.4 miles. Exit onto AZ 289 (Exit 12). Turn left (west) onto AZ Highway 289 (Ruby Road) and continue to the Pena Blanca Recreational Area.
The campground is accessible via paved roads, located near Ruby Road and AZ Highway 289. It is gated and locked when not in use to ensure security.
Nearby places
Nogales, AZ (14 miles northwest, approximately 30-minute drive)
Tucson, AZ (67 miles south, approximately 1.5-hour drive)
Nearby supplies
Nogales, AZ, is the closest location for groceries, fuel, and camping supplies, approximately 30 minutes away.

Camper Reviews

4.3
12 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Calabasas is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Users generally appreciate the size, privacy, and natural beauty of Calabasas Group Campground. Concerns include poor maintenance of pit toilets, unauthorized access to the site, and livestock entering the campground.
Review Summaries
Based on 12 reviews

What Campers Love

Spacious group site; proximity to Peña Blanca Lake; gated entrance adds security; scenic surroundings.
Based on 12 reviews

Common Concerns

Pit toilets are described as 'gross' and poorly maintained; unauthorized access via wildcat roads; livestock entering the campsite; overfilled trash trailer.
Based on 12 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring portable toilets for groups exceeding 50 people; secure food due to local wildlife; call ahead for gate code.
Based on 12 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Winter is noted as a preferred season due to pleasant temperatures. Major holidays are often reserved a year in advance.
Based on 12 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'We annually come to this group area for an RV outing and enjoy our stay.' - IRA C 2. 'The campground is very nice situated in a small valley with some large oaks. It’s gated for security.' -...
Show more
Based on 12 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 1 is cited frequently in reviews, with mixed sentiments about size, privacy, and facilities.
Based on 12 reviews

Accessibility Features

No reviews specifically addressing accessibility features.
Based on 12 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No reviews specifically addressing pet experiences.
Based on 12 reviews

Last updated August 10, 2025

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