Whitetail Group Site

For Arizonans looking to host a memorable family reunion, a corporate retreat, or any large gathering in the great outdoors, the Whitetail Group Site on Mt. Lemmon is the ideal destination. Nestled high in the Santa Catalina Mountains within the Coronado National Forest, this campground provides a cool and refreshing escape from the intense desert heat of Tucson below. It’s a place specifically designed to accommodate large groups, with spacious sites that offer a blend of essential amenities and a serene forest setting. This is not a typical individual campsite; it's a dedicated space for communities to come together, create lasting memories, and enjoy the pristine natural beauty of Arizona's "sky islands."

The unique high-elevation location, at over 8,000 feet, makes the climate here vastly different from the desert floor. During the summer, when temperatures in Tucson are soaring, Whitetail offers a cool, crisp environment perfect for outdoor activities. The surrounding landscape is a classic example of a "sky island" ecosystem, with towering ponderosa pines, cool mountain air, and a rich variety of plants and wildlife. The ambiance is one of community and shared experience, while also allowing enough space for individual privacy. It’s a place where you can host a large gathering and still feel connected to the wild, a rare combination that makes this site so special for locals.

Reviews from past visitors consistently highlight the cleanliness of the sites and restrooms, the friendliness of the camp hosts, and the excellent amenities that are provided, making it an easy choice for a stress-free group outing. The focus on providing a great experience for all guests, including those with special needs, is a key part of the site's appeal.

Whitetail Group Site is conveniently located at 11200 Whitetail Rd, Mt Lemmon, AZ 85619, USA. To get there, you'll take the famous Catalina Highway, also known as the Sky Island Scenic Byway, a breathtaking drive that winds its way up the mountain from Tucson. This paved road makes the campground easily accessible for most vehicles, though some larger RVs may need to be mindful of the 22-foot vehicle limit for some sites. On-site parking is available, but carpooling is recommended, especially for very large groups, to maximize space.

The site's accessibility is a major advantage. It is located just 5 miles south of the small town of Summerhaven, near the summit of Mt. Lemmon, which provides easy access to additional amenities like the famous Cookie Cabin and other shops. This proximity allows for the perfect blend of remote wilderness and convenience. The sites are generally spacious and designed to accommodate numerous tents, with parking often located a short walk from the campsites themselves, ensuring a peaceful and less-congested camping area. Additionally, the site offers ADA accessibility, ensuring that everyone in your group can participate fully in the experience.

Services Offered

• Camping Fee: There is a fee for reserving a group campsite at Whitetail. The cost varies depending on the specific site and its capacity, which can accommodate anywhere from 35 to 90 people. It is highly recommended to reserve sites well in advance, as they are very popular and can be booked up to a year ahead.
• Amenities: The sites are equipped with numerous amenities to make group camping easy and comfortable. These include picnic tables, large fire pits, and grills. There are clean restrooms with running water and some sites even have electric outlets for small appliances.
• Tent Sites: While the campground is designed for groups, it features multiple tent pads within each group site. These pads are spread out, offering a degree of privacy for individual families or sub-groups within the larger party.
• On-Site Parking: Each group site comes with a designated number of parking spaces. There is also overflow parking available, but it is important to be mindful of the parking limits to ensure there is enough space for everyone.
• Pet-Friendly: Dogs are allowed at Whitetail Group Site, so you can bring your four-legged family members along. Always remember to keep pets on a leash and clean up after them to maintain a safe and clean environment for all.
• Good for Kids: The campground's open spaces and access to nature make it an excellent choice for kids. There's plenty of room to play, and the mountain environment provides a fantastic playground for young adventurers.

Features / Highlights

• Large Group Capacity: This is the primary highlight. Whitetail is one of the few places in Arizona specifically designed to host large groups, with sites accommodating up to 90 people.
• Cool Mountain Climate: Located at a high elevation, the campground offers a significant temperature drop from the Tucson valley, making it a perfect refuge from the summer heat.
• Well-Maintained Facilities: Past campers consistently praise the cleanliness and upkeep of the restrooms and the overall campsite, which is a major factor for a comfortable group experience.
• Accessibility: The site's ADA accessibility ensures that it is welcoming and usable for people of all physical abilities, a crucial feature for large, diverse groups.
• Proximity to Summerhaven: Being just a short drive from the small town of Summerhaven means groups have easy access to a variety of attractions, including the Mt. Lemmon SkyCenter Observatory and local eateries.

Contact Information

Address: 11200 Whitetail Rd, Mt Lemmon, AZ 85619, USAPhone: (520) 749-8700 or +1 520-749-8700

For reservations and the most up-to-date information, it is best to contact the Santa Catalina Ranger District or visit the official Recreation.gov website for the Coronado National Forest.

What is worth choosing

Whitetail Group Site is a top-tier choice for any large group in Arizona seeking a communal and comfortable camping experience. Its specialization in accommodating big parties sets it apart from other campgrounds. The combination of its cool mountain location, accessible features, and robust amenities—including electricity at some sites and clean, well-maintained restrooms—makes it a hassle-free and enjoyable destination for everyone, from children to seniors.

The scenic drive up Mt. Lemmon is an adventure in itself, and the destination at the top is a rewarding change of pace from the desert landscape. It's an opportunity for locals to experience a different side of Arizona, one of lush forests and fresh mountain air. The fact that it is a pet-friendly and kid-friendly environment means no family member is left behind. The sense of community and the joy of shared moments around a large fire pit under the starry sky make Whitetail Group Site more than just a place to camp; it's a setting for creating cherished memories. It is this unique combination of practicality, comfort, and breathtaking natural beauty that makes it the premier choice for group camping in Southern Arizona.

Whitetail Group Site

11200 Whitetail Rd, Mt Lemmon, AZ 85619, USA