About Cholla Campground — Saguaro National Park
The saguaro cactus — America's iconic columnar giant — grows only in the Sonoran Desert, and Saguaro National
Park protects the finest examples. Backpacking into the Rincon Mountains rewards hikers with sky island forests
of pine and fir above a sea of cactus, with Tucson's city lights glittering below at night.
Highlights
- Surrounded by the world's densest saguaro forests
- Sky island transition from desert to pine forest
- Mica Mountain summit views (8,666 ft)
- Rincon Peak for experienced hikers
- Winter wildflower blooms
Directions & How to Get There
From Tucson: Take I-10 E to Old Spanish Trail, then north to the Rincon Mountain District visitor center
(eastern unit). The western unit (Tucson Mountain District) has no camping but great saguaro viewing. From
Phoenix: Take I-10 S approximately 1.5 hours to Tucson.
Nearby Attractions
- Rincon Mountain Visitor Center (trailhead)
- Cactus Forest Loop Drive (8-mile scenic drive)
- Tucson city (15 mi from eastern unit)
- Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum (western unit area)
- Colossal Cave Mountain Park
Insider Tips
- Backcountry permits required — get them same-day at the visitor center (limited slots)
- Desert heat can be fatal in summer — only backpack October through April
- Saguaro cactus bloom in May is spectacular — white flowers at the top of each arm
- Bring electrolytes and far more water than you think you need
Best Time to Visit
Best months: November–March
Season: October–April
Access difficulty: Strenuous (hike-in backcountry)
What to Pack for Arizona Camping
- Navigation: downloaded offline maps, compass, and GPS device
- Water: at least 3 liters per person per day (more in desert parks)
- Food: bear canister or use provided bear boxes where required
- Shelter: 3-season tent, rain fly, and ground tarp
- Clothing: moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layer, waterproof shell
- First aid kit: including blister treatment, pain reliever, and any personal medications
- Sun protection: SPF 50 sunscreen, wide-brim hat, UV-blocking sunglasses
- Lighting: headlamp with extra batteries, lantern for camp
- Safety: whistle, emergency bivy, and knowledge of your emergency exit route