Grass Shack

About

Grass Shack sits at 5,300 feet in the Saguaro Wilderness, offering three backcountry campsites beneath large oaks and junipers. Chimenea Creek, the largest watershed in the Rincon Mountains, runs through the campground and provides water most of the year. The shaded riparian setting makes this one of the more comfortable wilderness camps in the park. The approach from Camino Loma Alta covers 10 miles with 2,200 feet of elevation gain, climbing through and above the saguaro forests. The route offers exceptional southern views and the campground is often unaffected by winter storms. Cell service is inconsistent; hikers may need to climb 0.5-1 mile to find signal. Each site accommodates up to 6 people and includes tent pads and a bear box for food storage. A vault toilet serves the campground. Campfires are strictly prohibited due to the fragile riparian ecosystem and surrounding grasslands susceptible to wildfire; gas stoves are encouraged.

Directions

Access from Camino Loma Alta trailhead. The 10-mile hike gains 2,200 feet of elevation climbing through the Rincon Mountains.