Arizona / Pima County / Saguaro National Park - Rincon Mountain District / Saguaro National Park / Saguaro Wilderness

Juniper Basin

Open — Open year-round. Backcountry permits required and available through Recreation.gov. Water sources are seasonal and often unavailable, especially during summer, spring, and fall.

About

Juniper Basin campground sits at 6,000 feet elevation in the oak woodlands of Saguaro National Park's Rincon Mountain District. Accessing this remote wilderness site requires a strenuous 6.9-mile hike up Tanque Verde Ridge, gaining 3,000 feet of elevation through dramatically changing habitats from desert scrub to oak savanna and pine-juniper woodlands. The campground offers 3 designated campsites with exceptional views of the surrounding wilderness. Water availability is highly seasonal, with sources west of site 1 only flowing reliably in winter and early spring. During summer, fall, and much of spring, the area is typically dry, requiring backpackers to carry all water needs. Campfires are permitted within designated areas when conditions allow. This is a true wilderness experience for fit, experienced backpackers seeking solitude in the Sonoran Desert's sky islands.

Directions

Accessible only by hiking 6.9 miles up Tanque Verde Ridge Trail with 3,000 feet of elevation gain. Trailhead located in the Rincon Mountain District of Saguaro National Park.

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