Douglas Spring
Open year-round for permitted backcountry camping. Reservations required through Recreation.gov. Water is seasonal; check current conditions before departing. Maximum stay is 5 consecutive nights at this campground, 10 nights total in the wilderness.
Flood Watch issued October 29 at 10:44AM MST until November 2 at 5:00AM MST by NWS Tucson AZ
* WHAT...Flooding caused by excessive rainfall is possible. * WHERE...A portion of Southeast Arizona, including the following areas, Baboquivari Mountains, Catalina and Rincon Mountains, Dragoon and Mule and Huachuca and Santa Rita Mountains, Galiuro and Pinaleno Mountains, South Central Pinal County, Southeast Pinal County, Tohono O'odham Nation, Tucson Metro Area, Upper Gila River Valley, Upper San Pedro River Valley, Upper Santa Cruz River Valley/Altar Valley and White Mountains of Graham and Greenlee Counties. * WHEN...From Saturday evening through early Monday morning. * IMPACTS...Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Flooding may occur in poor drainage and urban areas. Low-water crossings may be flooded. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - A strong weather system approaching the area will bring widespread to numerous showers Sunday, November 1. Moderate to locally heavy rainfall with rainfall totals 0.5 to 1 inch possible in the valleys and 1 to 2+ inches possible in the mountains. - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood
About
Douglas Spring is a remote wilderness campground nestled at 4,800 feet in the Saguaro Wilderness of Saguaro National Park's Rincon Mountain District. As the lowest-elevation backcountry campground in the park, it offers a more accessible option during winter months when higher camps may see snow. The 6.5-mile hike from the Douglas Spring trailhead gains approximately 1,800 feet of elevation, passing through classic Sonoran Desert terrain with rewarding views down toward Tanque Verde Falls. The campground has three designated sites, each limited to six people. A vault toilet serves the area, but water availability is strictly seasonal from a drainage about 50 feet east of the campsites. Hikers should check current water reports and plan to carry at least one gallon per person per day. Mesquite and juniper trees provide some shade during warmer months. Campfires are prohibited due to the fire-prone grasslands and lack of firewood; bring a backpacking stove for cooking. Pets are not allowed on any park trails. Permits are required and must be reserved in advance through Recreation.gov. Cell service is unreliable. Vehicle break-ins have been reported at the trailhead, so secure valuables or arrange alternative transportation.
Directions
From Tucson, head east on Speedway Boulevard, which becomes the Douglas Spring Trail access road. The Douglas Spring trailhead is located at the eastern end of Speedway within the Rincon Mountain District. From the trailhead, hike 6.5 miles on the Douglas Spring Trail, gaining approximately 1,800 feet of elevation to reach the campground.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | No |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | No |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $8 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (520) 733-5153 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
Photos
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