Rustler Park Campground

Closed — Closed for the season. Reopens around April 1, 2026. The access road (FR 42D) closes with the first snow and is not plowed during winter.

About

Rustler Park Campground sits at 8,500 feet elevation in the Chiricahua Mountains, surrounded by Douglas-fir and ponderosa pine. The wildflower-carpeted meadow at its center comes alive with seasonal blooms, providing a stunning backdrop for camping. Around the turn of the century, rustlers used this remote location to hide stolen livestock while altered brands healed. Since the Horseshoe II fire in 2011, the campground has been rebuilt with some sites featuring shade canopies. The campground offers 21 single-family sites and one group site, all first-come, first-served. Campsites are purposefully scattered along access roads kept out of the meadow to protect fragile plants and soils. Each site includes concrete tables and ground-level grills. The trailhead to the Chiricahua Crest Trail is located at the campground entrance, providing access to the Chiricahua Wilderness and other hiking destinations. Black bears are frequently spotted in the area, and bear boxes are provided at each site. Access requires driving Forest Roads 42 and 42D, gravel roads suitable for two-wheel drive passenger vehicles, though high-clearance vehicles are recommended. The roads are not plowed in winter and close following early or late season snowstorms.

Directions

From Tucson, take I-10 east 81 miles to AZ 186 south for 23 miles. Turn left on AZ 181 east for 3 miles, then right on Forest Road 42 south. Continue 12 miles to FR 42D, turn right at Onion Saddle, and drive 2.5 miles to the campground. High-clearance vehicles recommended for the gravel forest roads.

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