Open

Open year-round. Wilderness permits required and must be reserved in advance via Recreation.gov. Water sources are highly seasonal and often dry during spring, summer, and fall. The 2020 Rincon Mountain fires left some trail hazards; stay on established trails in burned areas.

Flood Watch issued October 29 at 10:44AM MST until November 2 at 5:00AM MST by NWS Tucson AZ

10:44 AM — October 30th, 6:00 AM

* 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

Juniper Basin sits at 6,000 feet in the Saguaro Wilderness, offering a high-elevation escape from the Sonoran Desert floor. The approach via Tanque Verde Ridge Trail covers 6.9 miles with 3,000 feet of elevation gain, transitioning through distinct life zones from desert scrub through oak savanna into pine-juniper woodland. The three designated campsites each include a bear box for food storage, stone fire ring, and tent pad. Water availability is the primary planning consideration. Sources near the sites are highly seasonal and typically dry during spring, summer, and fall. Backpackers should carry all water needed or confirm current conditions with the Rincon Mountain Visitor Center before departing. Campfires are permitted using only dead and downed wood. Maximum stay is 10 days with no more than 5 consecutive nights at this location. Wilderness permits are mandatory and must be reserved in advance through Recreation.gov. Sites accommodate a maximum of 6 people each. Pets are prohibited in all wilderness areas of Saguaro National Park. The 2020 fires in the Rincon Mountains left some trail sections with hazards including unstable trees and hidden stump holes; hikers should stay on trail and exercise caution in burned areas.

Directions

From the Rincon Mountain Visitor Center in Tucson, access the Tanque Verde Ridge Trailhead at the Javelina Picnic Area. The trail climbs 6.9 miles with 3,000 feet of elevation gain to reach Juniper Basin. This is a hike-in only campground with no vehicle access.

Amenities

Water No
Fires Allowed Yes
Toilets Yes
Dump Station No
Wifi No
Pets Allowed No
Showers No
Electric Hookups —
Water Hookups —
Sewer Hookups —
Camp Store No
Price $4 - $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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