How much does camping cost at Portal Bunkhouse?

Camping fees at Portal Bunkhouse range from $100/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Portal Bunkhouse first-come first-served or reservation?

Portal Bunkhouse accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Portal Bunkhouse before I book?

Yes! Portal Bunkhouse has 5 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Portal Bunkhouse?

Portal Bunkhouse is open January 01 to December 31. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Portal Bunkhouse?

Yes, Portal Bunkhouse has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

Is there cell service at Portal Bunkhouse?

Cell phone service at Portal Bunkhouse is generally available. Cell service is available. Coverage may vary by carrier and exact location within the campground.

How many campsites does Portal Bunkhouse have?

Portal Bunkhouse has 1 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Portal Bunkhouse?

Pets are not allowed at Portal Bunkhouse. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Portal Bunkhouse?

Portal Bunkhouse offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Portal Bunkhouse?

Popular activities at Portal Bunkhouse include Hiking. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Portal Bunkhouse

4.37

91 reviews

DOUGLAS RANGER DISTRICT, 1192 W SADDLEVIEW ROAD, Douglas, AZ 85607, USA

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

5,000 ft

Price

$100/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open January 1 - Dec...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

No Pets

Showers

Book on Douglas Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

5,000 ft

Price

$100/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open January 1 - Dec...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

No Pets

Showers

Book on Douglas Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

Portal Bunkhouse

$100.00 - $100.00 / night

Campsite Fees

CABIN ELECTRIC: $100.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No paid fee categories listed.

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Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

(520) 364-3468

I manage this campground

Plan a trip to Portal Bunkhouse

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Campground Map

DOUGLAS RANGER DISTRICT, 1192 W SADDLEVIEW ROAD, Douglas, AZ 85607, USA

Portal Bunkhouse

DOUGLAS RANGER DISTRICT, 1192 W SADDLEVIEW ROAD, Douglas, AZ 85607, USA

Nearby places

Portal, AZ: 1 mile west

Douglas, AZ: approximately 54 miles

Tucson, AZ: approximately 139 miles.

Weather at Portal Bunkhouse

Current alerts(12)

A cabin manual with information about the facilities, well as area recreational information, is located inside the cabin.
Access to the bunkhouse is via a driveway on the west side of the facility, accessible by passenger car. Access to the cabin is a combination lock located on the left-side front door. The combination for the lock is provided once a reservation is made.
Cell phone coverage is usually available in the area, but may be unreliable in the cabin.
Cleaning service is NOT provided. Before leaving, renters are expected to clean the cabin; this includes washing dishes, sweeping floors, wiping down countertops, cleaning the bathroom & shower, and removing ALL trash.

Best Time to Camp at Portal Bunkhouse

Best season: fall. Fall offers the most reliable, comfortable weather at 5,000 ft in Portal: after the summer monsoons the canyon settles into clear, stable days (daytime highs generally 60–80°F) and cool nights (40s–50s), ideal for long hikes and multi-day outings. Migratory birds and raptors pass through in strong numbers and the canyon’s cliffs and riparian corridors are at their most active, making birding and wildlife viewing especially rewarding. Crowds are typically lighter than in spring and the risk of an Peak months: October, November, April, March

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Fall described as most reliable: clear days, pleasant highs and excellent migration/raptor viewing.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: January 01 to December 31. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open January 1 - December 31.

About Portal Bunkhouse

Portal Bunkhouse sits in the Chiricahua Mountains at 5,000 feet, operated by the Douglas Ranger District in Coronado National Forest. This historic cabin serves as a base camp for exploring Cave Creek Canyon's riparian corridors and high-desert trails. The bunkhouse offers flush toilets, hot showers, and potable water in a remote mountain setting known for birding and fall raptor migration.

The Portal Bunkhouse offers a rustic cabin experience with modern conveniences, suitable for small groups or families. It does not support tent or RV camping.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall offers the most reliable, comfortable weather at 5,000 ft in Portal: after the summer monsoons the canyon settles into clear, stable days (daytime highs generally 60–80°F) and cool nights (40s–50s), ideal for long hikes and multi-day outings. Migratory birds and raptors pass through in strong numbers and the canyon’s cliffs and riparian corridors are at their most active, making birding and wildlife viewing especially rewarding. Crowds are typically lighter than in spring and the risk of an Peak months: October, November, April, March

Elevation5000 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryCave Creek Canyon cuts through the Chiricahua Mountains with year-round streams, towering volcanic cliffs, and rock spires that glow amber in morning light. The canyon sits at a biological crossroads where tropical species push north and mountain species descend into protected corridors, creating exceptional diversity. White-tailed deer graze in meadows, rare birds move through sycamore groves, and mountain lions and bears pass through. The elevation moderates desert heat while supporting riparian vegetation rare in southeastern Arizona.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe bunkhouse provides a rustic but well-furnished lodging option with modern conveniences like electricity and running water. It accommodates up to four people, making it suitable for small groups or families.

Programs & ActivitiesNo information is provided about cultural or educational programs.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum 14 consecutive nights per visit.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Up to 4 guests permitted.

Tents

Tents are not allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online, mobile app, contact center, or in-person.

AccessibilityThe cabin access includes a driveway suitable for passenger vehicles and is equipped with basic amenities. However, accessibility for individuals with disabilities is not explicitly mentioned.

Site SizeThe bunkhouse is designed to accommodate up to four people, featuring a twin-over-double bunk bed and an additional single bed.

PrivacyThe bunkhouse is located next to the Visitor Information Center, which results in some foot traffic and less privacy. One reviewer noted, 'The path from the Visitor Center to the Silver Peak Trail/Nature Trail also goes directly behind the cabin.

Total Campsites1 campsites

Recommended SitesBring extra lighting, blankets for winter stays, and folding chairs for porch use.

Need help booking Portal Bunkhouse?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Pets are NOT permitted inside or outside the cabin. Unfortunately, due to a history of pet owners inadequately cleaning up after their pets, pets are no longer allowed.

Showers

Potable water

Flush toilets

Picnic tables

Lodging and accommodations

Cabin Lodging

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

Visitors can engage in a range of activities in and around the Portal Bunkhouse, including hiking, bird watching, rock climbing, and wildlife viewing. The area is particularly known for its dramatic rock formations and diverse wildlife.

Hiking

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Trash & RecyclingGuests must haul out their trash as no trash pick-up is provided. One reviewer noted, 'Toilet paper, trash bags, and trash pick-up are not provided. Guests are expected to haul out their trash.'

Cell CoverageCell phone coverage is generally available in the area but may be unreliable inside the cabin. One reviewer mentioned, 'Out of three cell phones (all on Verizon), only one was able to make and receive calls.'

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

From Booking Sources

4.4

91 reviews

Recommended

Portal Bunkhouse is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

Reviews are mixed, with some visitors praising the unique and scenic location as well as the cabin's rustic charm, while others criticize poor maintenance and cleanliness. Overall, the bunkhouse is highly appreciated for its proximity to hiking trails and wildlife.

Review Summaries

Based on 91 reviews

What Campers Love

Visitors highlight the spectacular location, great hiking trails, and charming historic feel of the cabin. For example, one reviewer noted, 'The location could not be better. Tons of hiking in the...

Based on 91 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include cleanliness issues, insufficient lighting, and poorly functioning heaters. One reviewer stated, 'The cabin was dirty and hot. The mattress pad was covered in mouse poop.'...

Based on 91 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific reviews focus on the Portal Bunkhouse. Many reviewers highlight its historic charm and well-equipped kitchen but criticize its cleanliness and maintenance. For example, one reviewer...

Based on 91 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend bringing extra cleaning supplies, space heaters, and additional lighting for the kitchen. One reviewer advised, 'Bring headlamps or a lantern. Handy in emergencies, going outside...

Based on 91 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Winter visitors frequently note insufficient heating and cold indoor temperatures. Summer visitors praise birding activities but occasionally mention the lack of air conditioning. Spring and fall...

Based on 91 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'The moon rose between the huge spires across the street as the twilight shone on the rocks. Beautiful.' (5-star review) 2. 'The cabin has so much potential. It needs a good cleaning and a little...

Based on 91 reviews