Is Camp Rucker Group Site first-come first-served or reservation?

Camp Rucker Group Site 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 Camp Rucker Group Site before I book?

Yes! Camp Rucker Group Site has 6 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 Camp Rucker Group Site?

Camp Rucker Group Site 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 Camp Rucker Group Site?

Camp Rucker Group Site does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Camp Rucker Group Site have?

Camp Rucker Group Site 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 Camp Rucker Group Site?

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

What amenities are available at Camp Rucker Group Site?

Camp Rucker Group Site offers: Restrooms. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Camp Rucker Group Site?

Popular activities at Camp Rucker Group Site include Hiking, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Camp Rucker Group Site

3.98

29 reviews

1192 W. Saddleview Road, Douglas, AZ, 85607, USA

Top 12% in AZSpring

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

5,533 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

Book on Coronado National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

5,533 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

Book on Coronado National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Camp Rucker Group Site

No fees available

Campsite Fees

Group Site Fee$60.00

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520-364-3468

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Campground Map

1192 W. Saddleview Road, Douglas, AZ, 85607, USA

Camp Rucker Group Site

1192 W. Saddleview Road, Douglas, AZ, 85607, USA

Nearby places

Douglas, AZ (Distance: Approx. null

Travel Time: null)

Tucson, AZ (Distance: Approx. 118 miles

Travel Time: null)

Driving directionsFrom Douglas, Arizona, take Leslie Canyon Road north to Rucker Canyon. Stay on the main road, which becomes Forest Road 74. Turn left on Forest Road 74E and left again to the Camp Rucker Group Site. From Tucson, Arizona, take I-10 east for 72 miles to U.S. 191. Turn right and drive 29 miles to the turnoff for Rucker Canyon. Turn left and continue 17 miles to the national forest boundary. Continue on FR 74, then turn left on FR 74E and left again to the Camp Rucker Group Site.

Weather at Camp Rucker Group Site

Best Time to Camp at Camp Rucker Group Site

Best season: spring. Spring offers the most comfortable weather for hiking and wildlife viewing — expect daytime highs roughly 60–75°F (March is often 60–68°F) with chilly nights that can drop into the 20s–30s°F, so layers and a warm sleeping bag are essential. Creeks and seeps are more likely to be flowing after winter runoff, wildflowers and migrating birds are most active, and trails are at their best before monsoon storms arrive. Crowds are generally moderate (less busy than summer holiday weekends), making it a Peak months: April, May, October, November

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.5 / 5

Top 12% in AZ

Spring (Mar–May) called the best camping window; daytime highs 60–75°F and reliable conditions.

Planning Tips

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

About Camp Rucker Group Site

Camp Rucker Group Site sits in the Chiricahua Mountains of Coronado National Forest, a mid-elevation canyon retreat near Douglas, Arizona. Managed by the Forest Service, this small group campground serves school outings, scout troops, and family gatherings seeking seclusion in Rucker Canyon. Visitors hike forested trails, watch for wildlife, and explore historical markers in a landscape known for scenic beauty and spring wildflowers.

Camp Rucker Group Site features group camping primarily, although individual walk-in camping is permitted when the site is not reserved by groups. Its facilities support tent camping, but there are no hookups for RVs, and no cabins or glamping accommodations are available.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: spring. Spring offers the most comfortable weather for hiking and wildlife viewing — expect daytime highs roughly 60–75°F (March is often 60–68°F) with chilly nights that can drop into the 20s–30s°F, so layers and a warm sleeping bag are essential. Creeks and seeps are more likely to be flowing after winter runoff, wildflowers and migrating birds are most active, and trails are at their best before monsoon storms arrive. Crowds are generally moderate (less busy than summer holiday weekends), making it a Peak months: April, May, October, November

Elevation5533 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campsite occupies a grassy clearing shaded by oak, juniper, and Arizona walnut trees, with Monte Vista Peak rising above the surrounding canyon walls. Rucker Creek runs intermittently through the area, flowing more reliably after winter runoff and transforming during July monsoon storms. The volcanic geology creates dramatic canyon topography, though the actual campsite layout is open rather than secluded. At this elevation, the forest transitions between woodland species adapted to the high desert. The trees provide scattered shade but don't create dense cover. You'll have open sky overhead in most spots.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodge accommodations or similar lodging options are mentioned in authoritative sources.

Programs & ActivitiesThe site includes historical markers related to the U.S. Cavalry and Chiricahua Apache conflicts, as noted in user reviews. "Nice selection of historical markers," stated by a reviewer.

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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights.

Groups

The group camping site accommodates up to 100 people, as specified in the authoritative season fee information.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov for group sites.

AccessibilityNo explicit information regarding ADA-compliant facilities or other accessibility features is provided in authoritative sources or user reviews.

Site SizeThe group campsite is spacious, capable of accommodating up to 100 people, as described in the fee structure.

PrivacyThe campsite is situated in a grassy area with plenty of open space between trees such as oak, juniper, and Arizona walnut, providing shade but not full privacy.

Total Campsites1 campsites

Recommended SitesIndividuals camping in March should prepare for cold weather. Groups planning visits during holidays must reserve all applicable nights due to the site's minimum stay requirements.

Need help booking Camp Rucker Group Site?

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Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

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Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

Camp Rucker Group Site offers amenities specifically suited for group camping and individual walk-in camping. The facilities include eight picnic tables, two large serving tables, campfire rings with grills, bear-proof trash containers, and vault toilets. Notably, it lacks hookups for water, electricity, or sewer systems. "No drinking water available; please bring your own," as stated in the authoritative source. Additionally, there is no cell phone service available at the site, which could impact connectivity for visitors.

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Group Sites

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

Camp Rucker offers a variety of recreational opportunities that cater to history enthusiasts, wildlife observers, and hikers. Its location in the Chiricahua Mountains provides visitors scenic drives, access to trails in the wilderness, and proximity to historical and cultural landmarks.

Hiking

Wildlife viewing

Cultural and Educational Programs

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

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

4.0

29 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Camp Rucker Group Site has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews reflect a mixed sentiment. Positive reviews highlight the historical significance, scenic beauty, and cleanliness during certain visits. Negative reviews focus on closure issues, rough access roads, and dirty facilities during COVID-related shutdowns.

Review Summaries

Based on 29 reviews

What Campers Love

Reviews emphasize the scenic beauty of the Chiricahua Mountains, secluded spots within Rucker Canyon, historical markers, and clean bathrooms during specific visits. "Our school had a fantastic...

Based on 29 reviews

Common Concerns

Negative feedback includes closures not reflected on the website, dirty bathrooms, and difficulties in obtaining refunds. Complaints also mention the rough 20+ mile dirt road leading to the site.

Based on 29 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific reviews include complaints about closures and dirty facilities for Campsite 1, Loop: Camp Rucker Group Site.

Based on 29 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring sufficient water, as there is no potable water on-site. High-clearance or 4WD vehicles are recommended for navigating rough access roads. Pack bear-proof containers for food storage.

Based on 29 reviews

Seasonal Insights

March reviews note low traffic with daytime temperatures ranging from 60°F to 68°F and nighttime lows dipping to 23°F. Summer is reportedly the busy season, according to local forest service office...

Based on 29 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. "Very little traffic in March though the local forest service office said that summer is the busy time." 2. "The kids loved that they could walk down and play in the water." 3. "The bathrooms were...

Based on 29 reviews

Accessibility Features

No reviews specifically address accessibility features or experiences related to disabilities.

Based on 29 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No reviews specifically address pet policies or experiences involving pets.

Based on 29 reviews

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Nearby Campgrounds

Less Visited

3.9

(12)

Walnut Grove Campground

Walnut Grove Campground sits along Rucker Creek in the Chiricahua Mountains at 5,533 feet, offering 10 sites on grassy ground shaded by oak, juniper, and Arizona walnut trees. The campground spreads below Monte Vista Peak in a scenic canyon setting. Formerly known as Camp Rucker Group Site, it's now configured as individual sites, some large enough for good-sized trailers. Reviewers appreciate the spacious layout and clean vault toilets, though toilet paper sometimes runs out and free-range cows occasionally wander through.