RV snowbird heaven – Catalina State Park, Tucson

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CatalinaSP_site_JulianneGCrane

RV Snowbirds from North America flock to Arizona each winter.

One place many RVers check out is Catalina State Park. Just about everyone who goes there, raves about the park’s unique location–just a few miles north of Tucson, yet with easy access to wilderness.

“Catalina State Park sits at the base of the majestic Santa Catalina Mountains,” states the park’s web site. “The park is a haven for desert plants and wildlife and nearly 5,000 saguaros. The 5,500 acres of foothills, canyons and streams invites camping, picnicking and bird watching — more than 150 species of birds call the park home. The park provides miles of equestrian, birding, hiking, and biking trails which wind through the park and into the Coronado National Forest at elevations near 3,000 feet.”

Spread across “mesquite flats in the shadow of rugged Pusch Ridge,” two campground are designed to accommodate tent and recreation vehicle camping.

“Overnight camping is available in 120 sites electric and water sites. Each campsite has a picnic table and BBQ grill. Roads and parking slips are paved. Campgrounds have modern flush restrooms with free hot showers. RV dump stations are available in the park. No limit on RV length. Stay limit is 14 nights. Campgrounds are open all year.”

Strongly suggest making reservations online or call Arizona State Parks Reservation Desk at 1-877-MY PARKS (697-2757)

Cost:
Entrance to the park for day use is $7 per vehicle (1-4 adults). If camping, no day use fee is charged.

Camping fees
CatalinaCampground A (non-electric) = $20/night
Campground A (electric) = $30/night
Campground B (all electric) = $30/night
Ringtail Campground (overflow Jan. 1-Mar. 31) = $15/night
Equestrian camping = $20/night

Always check with the Park for up-to-date information: Catalina State Park, 11570 N. Oracle Rd., Tucson, AZ 85737

Julianne G. Crane

Photo: Jimmy Smith unloading bicycles at our dry camping site (A-17) in Catalina State Park with view of Pusch Ridge. (Julianne G. Crane)

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