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Gilbert Ray (Pima County Park)
Overview
Gilbert Ray Campground offers a quintessential desert experience located within the stunning 20,000-acre Tucson Mountain Park. Unlike modern paved resorts, this Pima County gem provides a rustic atmosphere where the landscape remains the primary focus. Surrounded by thousands of giant saguaro cacti and rugged volcanic peaks, visitors can experience the raw beauty of the Sonoran Desert while remaining close to city conveniences. It is a place where the natural environment is preserved, offering a peaceful retreat for those looking to disconnect.
Location & Surroundings
Situated on the western edge of Tucson, Arizona, the park feels worlds away from the urban bustle. The campground is tucked into a valley where the sunsets paint the sky in vibrant hues of purple and orange. Because of its proximity to local research facilities and strict dark-sky ordinances, the nighttime views are spectacular, making it a premier destination for those who enjoy stargazing from their rig. The Tucson Mountains provide a dramatic backdrop that changes character as the desert light shifts throughout the day.
Amenities & Park Features
This facility features 130 designated RV sites, many of which provide 30-amp or 50-amp electrical hookups. While individual sites do not offer private water or sewer connections, the park maintains several centrally located water stations and a convenient dump station for guest use. The sites are generally level and gravel-based, accommodating a variety of rig sizes. Restroom facilities are available throughout the loops, though the park lacks on-site showers, emphasizing a more traditional and self-contained camping style.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Adventure is never far away, as the park is located just minutes from the Saguaro National Park West entrance. Guests are also within a short drive of the world-renowned Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, which combines a zoo, botanical garden, and natural history museum into one immersive experience. For those looking to stay active, the surrounding area is crisscrossed with miles of hiking, mountain biking, and equestrian trails that showcase the unique local ecology and provide stunning overlooks of the Avra Valley.
Who This Park Is Best For
Gilbert Ray is ideal for the traveler who prioritizes scenic tranquility and natural immersion over high-end resort amenities like pools or clubhouses. It is a perfect fit for photographers, hikers, and birdwatchers who want to wake up in the heart of the desert. If you appreciate a quiet, dark-sky environment and are comfortable utilizing your RV's onboard systems, this park offers one of the most authentic and affordable Arizona desert experiences available to modern travelers.
Amenities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Andrew B
Limiting to 40 ft total between truck and trailer is extreme and not reasonable by any measure. Stated they have "hair pin turns" which is not true on loop A at all. I understand massive Class A's not coming in, however; not being able to bring in a 25 foot TT and Truck is over the top.
Paul W
This county owned campground is quite nice, with lots of sites, but they now have a new policy that disallows tow vehicles and campers in excess of 40 feet, total in length. Inquire before you come here.
Michael McLeod
This is a great campground. So quiet. The flora is incredible. Cholla’s, prickly pear, of course saguaro’s, and ocotillo will surround your campsite. The road in is winding and hilly so take it slow. No water or septic at your site but there were 4 or 5 dump stations and water spigots all over. Less than 10 minutes to Saguaro National Parks entrance. A little expensive at $35/night but still worth it for a short stay.
Will Fishburn
Caution when booking campground. They will only refund 50% of the cost if you cancel before 14 days. I lost $125 and didn't even stay there. I canceled more than a month in advance because of change in plans. This is absolutely criminal. If you are staying it is a nice place and the desert museum is great.
C Rains
Sites are very small, our 16 ft trailer and the truck filled it up. We did not understand that they do NOT have a place to shower. It would be a great winter camp, late August not so much!