Camp Rucker Group Site
4.196 reviews1192 W. Saddleview Road, Douglas, AZ, 85607, USA
Quick Facts
5,533 ftPrice
$15 - $60/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
1 campsites
Season
Open January 1 to De...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Not Allowed
Quick Facts
5,533 ftPrice
$15 - $60/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
1 campsites
Season
Open January 1 to De...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Not Allowed
Camp Rucker Group Site
$15.00 - $60.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Individual walk-in sites are available for $15 per night, with cash payment required on-site. Group site rates vary by size: $25 for up to 50 people,...
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Standard Site Fee$15.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$60.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$75.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider520-364-3468
What Campers Say
4.19
Satisfactory
Based on 6 reviews
20 Google reviews
Most mentioned
viewsclean
"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."
Fees & Passes at Camp Rucker Group Site
$15 - $60/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Group Site
For large groups
Stay Limit: Maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights.
Cancellation: Reservations can be canceled anytime before arrival with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations ...
Prices verified December 7, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Coronado National Forest website.
Best Time to Camp at Camp Rucker Group Site
The mountain climate here dances between extremes, creating a dynamic camping experience throughout the year. Spring visitors in March enjoy pleasant daytime temperatures of 60-68°F, but nighttime plunges to a crisp 23°F demand warm sleeping bags and layered clothing. Summer brings bustling activity to the campground, while July's dramatic monsoon season transforms the typically gentle Rucker Creek into a rushing torrent, filling the canyon with the sound of cascading water.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm days. Most facilities open. Reserve ahead.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: January 1, 2025 - December 31, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open January 1 to December 31, 2025. Reservations for group sites begin June 25, 2025.
About Camp Rucker Group Site
Nestled deep in the rugged Chiricahua Mountains of southeastern Arizona, Camp Rucker Group Site beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness experience. This remote mountain sanctuary welcomes both large gatherings and solo travelers with well-appointed facilities including sturdy picnic tables, dedicated serving areas, campfire rings with grills, bear-proof storage, and clean vault toilets. As one visitor aptly described it, 'Camp Rucker sits in the beautiful and remote Chiricahua Mountains,' perfectly capturing the site's blend of accessibility and wild solitude.
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.
Historical SignificanceThese mountains whisper stories of the Old West through weathered historical markers that chronicle the dramatic U.S. Army campaigns against the Chiricahua Apache. The site bears witness to tragedy as well—in the late 1800s, monsoon floods claimed the lives of Lt. Rucker and Lt. Henley in the very creek that now bears Rucker's name, forever linking this peaceful campground to the frontier's untamed past.
Weather and SeasonsThe mountain climate here dances between extremes, creating a dynamic camping experience throughout the year. Spring visitors in March enjoy pleasant daytime temperatures of 60-68°F, but nighttime plunges to a crisp 23°F demand warm sleeping bags and layered clothing. Summer brings bustling activity to the campground, while July's dramatic monsoon season transforms the typically gentle Rucker Creek into a rushing torrent, filling the canyon with the sound of cascading water.
ElevationPerched at 5,533 feet above sea level, Camp Rucker offers a refreshing escape from desert heat below. This mountain elevation creates an ideal microclimate where cool breezes sweep through camp and expansive vistas stretch across the surrounding peaks, providing natural air conditioning and breathtaking sunrise views.
Natural Features and SceneryAt 5,533 feet, Camp Rucker unfolds across sun-dappled meadows where majestic oaks, fragrant junipers, and graceful Arizona walnut trees create natural cathedral ceilings. The intermittent Rucker Creek meanders through camp, its seasonal waters adding a gentle soundtrack to your stay. Above it all, Monte Vista Peak and surrounding foothills paint an ever-changing canvas of shadows and light, creating picture-perfect moments from dawn to dusk.
Geological RegionThe Chiricahua Mountains cradle Camp Rucker in a landscape sculpted by ancient volcanic forces and patient erosion. At 5,533 feet, this southeastern Arizona wonderland showcases dramatic canyon walls clothed in oak and juniper forests, while intermittent creeks carve their stories into the rock. Monte Vista Peak stands sentinel over this geological masterpiece, where every trail reveals new perspectives on millions of years of Earth's artistry.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityNo explicit information regarding ADA-compliant facilities or other accessibility features is provided in authoritative sources or user reviews.
Sites SizeThe group campsite is spacious, capable of accommodating up to 100 people, as described in the fee structure.
Sites 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 CampsitesIndividuals 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.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in at 11:00 AM Pacific Time.
Check-out
Check-out at 2:00 PM Pacific Time.
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 are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features one spacious group campsite designed for 1-100+ individuals, with picnic tables, serving tables, and vault toilets.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen January 1 to December 31, 2025. Reservations for group sites begin June 25, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov for group sites.
Walk-in AvailabilityIndividual campsites operate on a walk-in basis for $15 per night, cash only.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before arrival with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations for group sites (within 14 calendar days) may result in forfeiting the first night's recreation use fee. Individual sites operate on a walk-in basis for $15 per night.
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
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
Hiking opportunities are available via trails in the Chiricahua Wilderness area, accessible through scenic drives like the Rucker and Tex Canyon routes. No detailed trail difficulty levels or lengths are included.Wildlife viewing
Visitors have opportunities for observing wildlife in the scenic Chiricahua Mountains area, though specific species or viewing spots are not detailed.Cultural and Educational Programs
The 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.Winter Activities
No explicit mentions of winter recreation like skiing or snowshoeing.Water Sports
No information on non-motorized water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding is provided.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed but must comply with forest firewood policies to prevent spreading invasive species.
Hazards
General hazardsThe area is home to bears, underscoring the necessity for secure food storage. Rucker Creek may pose risks during monsoon season due to rapid water flow.
Weather at Camp Rucker Group Site
47
°F
Dec 8
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 19%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 0.5 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Reveal forecast
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1, 2025 - December 31, 2025.
Trash and recyclingBear-proof trash containers are available on-site for secure waste disposal. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresRucker Creek runs intermittently near the campground and adds to its natural appeal.
Common complaintsNegative reviews criticized the site's closure during COVID, the poorly maintained toilets, and the challenging dirt road access. One user said, "The bathrooms were closed and dirty. Terrible experience." Another mentioned the lack of communication regarding refunds during closures.
Campground Map
1192 W. Saddleview Road, Douglas, AZ, 85607, USA
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.
The site is accessed via unpaved roads, including Forest Road 74 and 74E, which may require high-clearance vehicles and 4-wheel drive. Some user reviews suggest the road leading to the site is rough and challenging, especially for long trailers. Seasonal closures and weather-related road conditions may apply.Nearby places
Douglas, AZ (Distance: Approx. null
Travel Time: null)
Tucson, AZ (Distance: Approx. 118 miles
Travel Time: null)
Nearby supplies
No grocery or fuel services are available at the campground site itself, and visitors must bring their own drinking water and provisions due to the remote location. Closest supplies are located in Douglas, AZ.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.2
6 reviews
Camp Rucker Group Site is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% 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 6 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 6 reviewsShow more
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 6 reviewsPro 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 6 reviewsSeasonal 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 6 reviewsShow more
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 6 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews include complaints about closures and dirty facilities for Campsite 1, Loop: Camp Rucker Group Site.
Based on 6 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility features or experiences related to disabilities.
Based on 6 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically address pet policies or experiences involving pets.
Based on 6 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated December 7, 2025
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