Molino Basin Campground

For Tucson locals and Arizonans alike, the Catalina Highway—also known as the Sky Island Scenic Byway—is a gateway to a unique high-desert and mountain experience. Just a short drive up this iconic road lies Molino Basin Campground, a popular and accessible camping destination that provides a perfect escape from city life. This campground offers a rare blend of convenience and natural beauty, allowing you to enjoy a peaceful camping trip without traveling too far from home. Nestled at a moderate elevation on the slopes of the Santa Catalina Mountains, it provides a welcome temperature change and a stunning backdrop of rugged hills and desert vegetation. It's an excellent spot for families, new campers, and seasoned outdoors enthusiasts who appreciate a simple, clean, and beautiful place to relax and connect with nature.

Molino Basin Campground is located at Catalina Hwy, Tucson, AZ 85749, USA, placing it just a few miles up the Catalina Highway from the base of the mountains. This prime location is one of its biggest advantages. It is far enough from the city to feel like a true wilderness escape, yet close enough for a spontaneous weekend trip. Its accessibility makes it a favorite among Tucson residents looking for a quick, convenient getaway. The campground features on-site parking and is generally easy to reach via a paved road. However, it’s worth noting that the layout is primarily designed for tent campers, with many sites offering a "park-at-site-but-not-in-site" setup, which is ideal for a more classic tent camping experience. While there are a few sites suitable for RVs, they are limited, and it's best to be prepared for a first-come, first-served situation. The wheelchair-accessible parking lot is a welcome feature that ensures ease of access for all visitors.

Molino Basin Campground provides a straightforward and well-maintained set of services focused on the essentials of camping. It is a more primitive camping experience, so visitors should plan accordingly, but the core amenities are kept in excellent condition.

• Tent and RV Sites: The campground offers a mix of tent sites and a few designated "RV only" sites. The sites are spread out, providing a good amount of space and privacy between campers.
• Public Restrooms: The restrooms are consistently praised in reviews for being very clean and well-maintained, a significant plus for any public campground. It is important to note that these are pit or vault toilets.
• Camping Fee: There is a fee for camping at this site. Visitors should be prepared to pay upon arrival, as it operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Picnic Tables and Grills: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a barbecue grill, making meal preparation and outdoor dining convenient and enjoyable.
• On-site Parking: Dedicated parking is available, including a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, which makes setting up camp and exploring the area easier.

The features and highlights of Molino Basin Campground are what truly make it a special place. The beauty of the location and the recreational opportunities are its main draws.

• Hiking Opportunities: The campground provides direct access to excellent hiking trails. It is a great starting point for exploring the trails of the Coronado National Forest. As noted by a visitor, the trails are perfect for kids and first-time hikers, with easy sections that allow for short, enjoyable walks.
• Seasonal Beauty and Wildlife: The area is known for its beautiful flora and fauna. Visitors have reported seeing wildlife such as deer and a variety of birds, including bluebirds. The landscape changes with the seasons, offering lush greenery after rains or stunning views during the cooler months.
• Proximity to Other Attractions: Being on the Catalina Highway, the campground is a perfect starting point for a scenic drive up to Mount Lemmon. It provides a convenient basecamp to explore higher-elevation areas while staying in a lower, more temperate zone.
• Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere: Despite its accessibility, the campground is generally peaceful. The sites are well-spaced, which contributes to a sense of privacy and tranquility.
• Dogs Allowed: The campground is pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry friends along for the adventure, as long as they are on a leash.

For specific information or to inquire about the campground, you can contact the Coronado National Forest, which manages the site. As the campground is on a first-come, first-served basis, calling ahead for availability is not an option. However, the Forest Service can provide information on current conditions and any alerts.

Address: Catalina Hwy, Tucson, AZ 85749, USA

Phone: (520) 749-8700

When considering your next camping trip, Molino Basin Campground is an excellent choice for several key reasons. What makes it worth choosing is its ideal location, which provides a convenient and beautiful escape for Tucson-area residents. It offers a true camping experience with basic, well-maintained amenities without the hassle of a long drive. The peaceful environment, combined with the a good distance between sites, allows for a private and relaxing stay. Its appeal is broad, catering to families with children, who can enjoy the easy hiking trails and opportunities to spot wildlife, as well as experienced campers who appreciate the simplicity and natural beauty. The fact that it’s a first-come, first-served campground adds to its authentic feel and can often mean that you'll find a spot even when other nearby campgrounds are full. For an accessible, clean, and truly enjoyable camping experience in the heart of the Santa Catalina Mountains, Molino Basin Campground is a top recommendation for anyone in Arizona looking for a perfect blend of convenience and nature.

Molino Basin Campground

Catalina Hwy, Tucson, AZ 85749, USA