Camp at Picacho Peak State Park

Drive about 30 minutes west on I-10 from Tucson, AZ to the Picacho Peak Rd. Exit and follow the signs south to the park entrance. The campgrounds are about a half mile inside the main gate to the right.

You can either make a reservation at Pichacho Peak State Park or arrive the day of and pay. Even when the office is closed, there is an honor-system pay box that is followed up by the camp manager. Pick an open spot and set up if after hours, all for $30 a night.

The benefits to camping here versus visiting is that you get access to half of the park after hours from the road that wraps all the way around to the Sunset Trail at the western end of the park. This is a great way to experience the milkyway or the stars as Picacho Peak blocks the light pollution from Tucson to the southeast.

In the evening about two hours before sunset, take the Sunset Trail from the western end of the road. The last two miles are steep and have a cable railing to get to the peak, so the rangers recommend using gloves. Once the sun sets, just head back and your campsite is waiting.

Checkout the Hunter Trail Adventure for an epic sunrise hike!