Grass Shack

Grass Shack is not your typical drive-up campground; it's a primitive, backcountry campsite located deep within the wilderness of Saguaro National Park's Rincon Mountain District. This is a destination for true adventurers and backpackers who are prepared for a challenging hike to be rewarded with solitude and stunning natural beauty. The campground is situated at an elevation of approximately 5,200 feet, providing a welcome change of scenery and temperature from the desert floor below. It serves as a vital resting point for those exploring the extensive trail system in the park, including a section of the famous Arizona Trail.

The surrounding landscape is a captivating mix of ecological zones. As you ascend, the terrain transitions from the iconic saguaro-filled desert into cooler, more shaded areas with sycamore and oak trees. These shady groves provide a lush, riparian environment that feels a world away from the arid lowlands. The presence of seasonal water sources, often found in pools along the streambeds, adds to the unique character of this wilderness camp. It's a place where you truly disconnect from modern life and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the Arizona wilderness, from the rustling of leaves to the calls of local wildlife.

Access to Grass Shack Campground is exclusively by foot. There are no roads leading to the site, and it is not open to vehicles of any kind, including RVs. The primary access point is from the Loma Alta trailhead, which requires a substantial hike of roughly 10 miles with a significant elevation gain. Another popular, though slightly shorter, route is from the Douglas Spring trailhead, a 6.5-mile hike with a challenging 1,800 feet of elevation gain. The difficulty of the trek is part of what makes the destination so special, as it ensures a quiet and uncrowded experience.

The trail itself is a highlight, offering breathtaking views as you climb through the diverse ecosystems. It's important for hikers to be prepared for the physical demands of the journey, including carrying all necessary gear and water. The trails are rocky and can be strenuous, but the scenery and the feeling of accomplishment are well worth the effort. Since this is a backcountry site, a wilderness permit is required for all overnight stays, which can be reserved through Recreation.gov.

Grass Shack Campground is located in Vail, AZ 85641, USA, within the boundaries of Saguaro National Park. Due to its backcountry nature, there is no physical street address for GPS navigation to the campsite itself. Instead, you will navigate to one of the trailheads that provide access, such as the Loma Alta trailhead.

Services Offered

• Running Water: The campground is located near a creek bed with seasonal water, but this water is not potable. Visitors must bring a water filter to treat the water before use. It is crucial to check the water report from the Saguaro National Park Visitor Center before your trip, as the creek can be dry during certain times of the year.
• Drop Toilets: A clean, drop-style toilet (outhouse) is available at the campground, which is a valuable amenity in the backcountry and helps maintain the pristine environment.
• Bear Boxes: To protect your food and other scented items from local wildlife, including black bears, and to comply with park regulations, bear boxes are provided at the campsites. All food, garbage, and toiletries must be stored in these boxes.
• Tent-Only Camping: This is a wilderness campground designated for tent camping only. There are no provisions for car camping, RVs, or trailers.

Features / Highlights

• Authentic Backcountry Experience: Grass Shack offers a genuine wilderness escape, far from the conveniences and crowds of front-country campgrounds. It's an opportunity to truly rough it and connect with nature on a deeper level.
• Stunning Riparian Oasis: The campground is nestled in a rare riparian ecosystem for the region, with large sycamore and oak trees providing abundant shade and a cool, tranquil atmosphere.
• Access to the Arizona Trail: The campground is a key stop along a section of the Arizona National Scenic Trail, making it a popular destination for long-distance hikers and those looking to experience a portion of this famous route.
• Unique Geological Setting: Situated in the Rincon Mountains, the hike to Grass Shack provides incredible views of the unique desert-to-mountain transition, showcasing the rugged beauty of the region's topography.
• Wildlife Viewing: The remote nature of the campground increases the chances of spotting local wildlife in their natural habitat, including deer and various bird species.

Contact Information

Address: Vail, AZ 85641, USAPhone: (520) 733-5100 or +1 520-733-5100

For information on wilderness permits and current trail conditions, it is highly recommended to contact Saguaro National Park directly at the number provided.

What is worth choosing

Choosing Grass Shack Campground is about more than just a place to pitch a tent; it's about embracing a challenging but profoundly rewarding adventure. This is the ideal destination for seasoned backpackers and anyone in Arizona who craves a complete escape from urban life. The fact that you have to earn your spot by hiking makes the experience all the more meaningful. The seclusion you find here is unparalleled, offering a quiet and peaceful environment that is a stark contrast to the often-crowded front-country sites.

The unique natural setting, with its shady trees and seasonal creek, is a huge draw. It's a place where you can feel the changes in the landscape as you hike, moving from the hot, prickly desert to a cool, shaded oasis. The presence of basic amenities like a pit toilet and bear boxes also adds a layer of safety and convenience that is rare for a primitive backcountry site.

For Arizonans who have explored many of the state's more accessible camping spots, Grass Shack offers a new level of challenge and discovery. It's a place to push your limits, enjoy stunning views, and experience the true wildness of Saguaro National Park. The memories of the hike and the solitude of the campsite will undoubtedly stay with you long after your return, making it an experience well worth the effort.

Grass Shack

Vail, AZ 85641, USA