Rose Canyon Campground

For Arizonans seeking a spectacular mountain escape from the desert heat, Rose Canyon Campground is a premier destination. Located on the scenic Catalina Highway near the summit of Mt. Lemmon, this campground has a long-standing reputation as a beautiful and meticulously maintained place to camp. At a refreshing elevation of 7,000 feet, it offers a cool, forested setting that provides a welcome respite, especially during the hot summer months. With its clean facilities, dedicated staff, and stunning natural beauty centered around the six-acre Rose Canyon Lake, this campground is an ideal spot for a relaxing and memorable trip. It’s a place where families can create lasting memories, and adventurers can find a perfect base for exploring the Santa Catalina Mountains.

The atmosphere at Rose Canyon is one of tranquility and meticulous care. A customer review praised the campground for its long-standing beauty and went on to express gratitude to the staff, saying, "The campsites are meticulously cleaned, the restrooms are spotless, and they are only too happy to help in any way to make sure you enjoy your stay." This dedication to maintenance and customer service is a significant part of the experience. The presence of helpful hosts, like Shane and Vicki mentioned in another review, adds a layer of reassurance and hospitality. This commitment to a clean and well-managed environment allows visitors to truly relax and focus on enjoying the great outdoors. The campground offers a blend of shaded sites among ponderosa pines and oak trees, and open areas, giving it a varied and visually appealing layout.

Rose Canyon Campground is conveniently located on Catalina Highway, Mt Lemmon, AZ 85619, USA. Situated just 17 miles northeast of Tucson, its accessibility is a major advantage for residents of Southern Arizona. The entire drive to the campground is on the Catalina Highway, also known as the General Hitchcock Highway, a renowned scenic byway that is paved and well-maintained. This makes the journey to the campground a beautiful experience in itself, with incredible views as you ascend from the desert floor to the high-elevation forest.

The campground offers excellent accessibility for a wide range of visitors. There is a wheelchair accessible entrance and a wheelchair accessible parking lot, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the natural beauty of the area. On-site parking is available at each campsite, making it easy to unload gear and set up camp. While the campground is popular and sites can fill up, both first-come, first-served sites and reservable sites are available, offering flexibility for different travel styles.

Rose Canyon Campground provides a range of services designed to make your camping experience comfortable and enjoyable.

• RV and Tent Camping: The campground accommodates both RVs and tents, with some sites specifically for RVs up to 22 feet in length. The sites are spacious and well-spaced, allowing for privacy and comfort. There are no hookups available for RVs, so all rigs must be self-contained.
• Running Water and Restrooms: The campground has running water available and provides public restrooms. A customer review specifically noted the "spotless" and "well maintained" bathrooms, which is a significant highlight for campers. Some restrooms are vault toilets.
• On-site services: As mentioned in a customer review, there is a small store by the lake where you can purchase essentials like ice and other camping supplies. This is a great convenience, especially for those who may have forgotten a last-minute item.
• Barbecue Grills and Picnic Tables: Every campsite is equipped with a barbecue grill and a picnic table, providing a perfect setup for outdoor cooking and dining.
• On-site Parking: Each campsite has dedicated on-site parking, which simplifies the process of setting up and breaking down camp.
• Dogs Allowed: The campground is a pet-friendly location, allowing dogs to join in the adventure. Pets must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet while at the campground.

The campground is full of features and highlights that make it a favorite among local campers.

• Rose Canyon Lake: The centerpiece of the campground is the six-acre Rose Canyon Lake, which is stocked with trout. While swimming and boating are not permitted, the lake is a popular spot for fishing and provides a serene backdrop for picnics and relaxation. A one-mile trail circles the lake, perfect for a peaceful walk.
• Picnics: Rose Canyon is known for its beautiful picnic areas. With picnic shelters available for group reservations, it’s a perfect spot for day trips and family gatherings.
• Hiking: The area offers extensive hiking opportunities. The one-mile trail around the lake is a great option for an easy, scenic walk. The campground also provides a great jumping-off point for exploring the many trails on Mt. Lemmon, with options for all skill levels.
• Kid-Friendly: Rose Canyon is noted as being good for kids, with a safe, natural environment for them to explore. The combination of easy, "kid-friendly hikes" and the fun of fishing at the lake makes it an excellent choice for a family getaway.
• Shade: Campers should consider bringing shade tents, as a customer review mentioned that "some sites don’t have a lot" of natural shade. This is a good tip for planning your visit and ensuring comfort.

For reservations and general inquiries, here is the contact information for Rose Canyon Campground.

Address: Catalina Hwy, Mt Lemmon, AZ 85619, USA

Phone: (520) 749-8700

Mobile Phone: +1 520-749-8700

Choosing Rose Canyon Campground is a decision to prioritize a top-quality, well-maintained camping experience in one of Arizona’s most beautiful and accessible locations. What makes this campground so special and worth choosing is the consistent praise for its cleanliness and the dedication of its staff. The reviews highlight that the campsites are "meticulously cleaned" and the restrooms are "spotless," which is a huge comfort for any camper. The friendly and accommodating nature of the camp hosts, as noted in customer feedback, "actually add to the experience," making visitors feel welcome and cared for.

The presence of Rose Canyon Lake provides a unique amenity, offering a beautiful setting for fishing and peaceful reflection. The extensive hiking opportunities, from simple lakeside strolls to more challenging mountain treks, mean there is something for every level of outdoor enthusiast. The campground’s family-friendly atmosphere, with kid-friendly hikes and a safe environment, makes it an excellent choice for a family outing. The fact that it is accessible, offers RV and tent sites, and allows dogs makes it a versatile option for a wide range of campers. Rose Canyon Campground is not just a place to stay; it is a meticulously cared-for mountain retreat that promises a relaxing and rewarding escape from the desert heat.

Rose Canyon Campground

Catalina Hwy, Mt Lemmon, AZ 85619, USA