Mescal Road Camp

For Arizonans who crave a rugged, self-sufficient camping experience away from the crowds and conveniences of developed campgrounds, Mescal Road Camp offers the perfect solution. This isn't your typical RV park with manicured lawns and hookups; it's a genuine dispersed camping opportunity in the beautiful high desert of the Coronado National Forest. Located near the historic town of Mescal, this site allows you to truly immerse yourself in the natural landscape, where the silence is broken only by the sounds of the desert. It is an ideal spot for those with a fully equipped vehicle, a desire for solitude, and a commitment to practicing "Leave No Trace" principles. If you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy a vast, open sky full of stars, Mescal Road Camp provides a raw and authentic camping experience.

Mescal Road Camp is located at 2H8G+Q2, Mescal, AZ 85602, USA. It is situated on Mescal Road, which is also Forest Road 35, near the historic town of Mescal. This location places it just off Interstate 10, making it relatively accessible for local Arizona residents. From Tucson, it's a straightforward drive east on I-10 to Exit 297, which leads you to Mescal Road. The road is generally passable for passenger vehicles, though it becomes rockier and more rugged as you venture further in. Its location in the high desert offers a change of scenery from the lower elevations, with temperatures ranging from a comfortable 40°F in winter to over 100°F in summer, so planning for the weather is essential. The primary accessibility is via on-site parking at designated dispersed camping spots. While it's easy to get to, the remote feel of the area means you'll need to be self-sufficient and prepared for a genuine wilderness experience.

As a dispersed camping area, Mescal Road Camp provides minimal services. The key to enjoying this location is to be fully prepared and self-reliant. The site is a "boondocking" destination, meaning there are no developed amenities.

• On-site Parking: The primary service provided is a designated place for you to park your vehicle and set up camp. There are no designated campsites, but rather open areas where you can find a spot.
• No Water: There is no running water available at this site. Campers must pack in all the water they will need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.
• No Restrooms: The site does not have public restrooms or vault toilets. It is imperative that campers follow "Leave No Trace" principles for human waste disposal.
• No Trash Service: This is a pack-in, pack-out site. All trash and waste must be carried out with you to be disposed of properly elsewhere.
• Permits: It's important to note that camping on Arizona State Trust land, which may include parts of this area, requires a permit. Visitors should check with the Arizona State Land Department to ensure they have the proper permits for their recreational activities.

The features and highlights of Mescal Road Camp are all about the natural environment and the unique opportunities it presents. It's a place for adventurers and those who appreciate the raw beauty of the desert.

• Proximity to Saguaro National Park: The area is located near the Rincon Mountain Wilderness and Saguaro National Park. This provides incredible opportunities for hiking and exploring the diverse desert terrain and iconic saguaro cacti.
• Hiking and Off-Roading: The Mescal Road itself is a scenic byway and a great place for off-roading, with opportunities for both hiking and vehicle-based exploration. Nearby trails like the Miller Creek Trail offer excellent views of the Rincon Mountains.
• Historical Location: The area is known for its proximity to the historic Mescal movie set, which was used for famous films like "Tombstone" and "The Quick and the Dead." While the set is not open to the public, the drive to the camp passes by it, offering a glimpse into cinematic history.
• Stargazing: With no light pollution from nearby cities, Mescal Road Camp offers a fantastic opportunity for stargazing. The night sky becomes a breathtaking canvas of stars, a stark contrast to the city lights of Tucson.
• Wildlife Viewing: The quiet environment and remote location make it an ideal place for wildlife viewing, from desert birds to larger animals that inhabit the area.

Since Mescal Road Camp is a dispersed camping area and not a managed campground, there is no direct contact number. However, for information on the area, including road conditions and regulations, you should contact the managing authority, which is the Coronado National Forest.

Address: 2H8G+Q2, Mescal, AZ 85602, USA

For general inquiries, contacting the Santa Catalina Ranger District of the Coronado National Forest is recommended. Their phone number is (520) 749-8700.

Choosing to camp at Mescal Road Camp is a decision to embrace a true wilderness experience. What makes it worth choosing is its escape from the developed world and its authenticity. For Arizonans who already have the necessary gear and a self-sufficient mindset, this location provides a peaceful, private, and free alternative to crowded campgrounds. The lack of services is its greatest asset, as it ensures that only those who truly want a rustic experience will visit, which helps to preserve the quiet, natural environment. The scenic beauty, opportunities for hiking, and the incredible dark skies for stargazing are all major draws. While it’s not for everyone, for the seasoned boondocker or the adventurous family looking to teach their kids about responsible camping, Mescal Road Camp is a prime choice. Its unique location near historic movie sets and beautiful national park lands adds a layer of interest that makes it more than just a place to sleep; it's a destination for true exploration and connection with the Arizona landscape.

Mescal Road Camp

2H8G+Q2, Mescal, AZ 85602, USA