Rose Canyon Campground

State: Arizona

Open: Seasonal

Number of Sites: 74

Elevation: 7000

Free: No

Reservations: Yes - Check Recreation.gov for information

About: Campsites are spacious here, spread out among stands of big ponderosa pine and clumps of Gambel oak in a cool forest setting. During rainy seasons, Rose Creek meanders through the area to Rose Canyon Lake at the lower end of the campground. This six-acre lake is sheltered by trees, and offers a pleasant setting for a woodland walk, a lakeside time-out, or an afternoon of fishing for stocked trout. A one-mile trail leading around the lake provides access for anglers and walkers. Also, this trail is handicapped-accessible from a lower parking area to a floating dock near the dam.

This area is popular for day use as well as overnight camping. Two day-use group sites are available, one of which may be reserved by calling Recreation Gov, toll-free 1-877-444-6777 or visit them by linking to, http://www.recreation.gov

The area also provides access for woodland walks, wildlife watching, and fishing when the campground itself is closed for the season. Please remember, however, that in the off-season the gates will be closed and locked, so no garbage service is provided and no water is available. If you visit then, you’ll want to be sure to pack out everything you pack in.

Fees: See Forest Service website

Water: Yes

Restrooms: Yes

Directions: Northeast of Tucson, between mile markers 17 and 18 on the Catalina Highway.