Open
— Open year-round for reservations via Recreation.gov. Backcountry permit required. This is a hike-in only campground requiring a minimum 4.4-mile hike into the Saguaro Wilderness. Access is generally from the Turkey Creek Trailhead on the east side, which requires high clearance 4WD vehicle and may be impassable after heavy rain. Maximum stay is 10 days total, with no more than 5 consecutive days at any one campground.
About
Spud Rock Spring stands as the most remote and isolated wilderness campground in Saguaro National Park, perched at 7,400 feet elevation on the east side of the Rincon Mountains. This backcountry destination offers three primitive campsites nestled under the cool shade of pines and aspens, a dramatic change from the saguaro-studded desert thousands of feet below. The campground is part of the Saguaro Wilderness, a 57,930-acre preserve designated by Congress in 1976 to protect the largest roadless sky island in southeastern Arizona.
Access to Spud Rock Spring is challenging and requires serious preparation. The campground is hike-in only, typically accessed from Turkey Creek Trailhead via Forest Service lands. The final stretch of road to the trailhead requires a vehicle with high clearance and 4-wheel drive, and the road can become impassable after rain. Hikers must be prepared with orienteering skills, as the remote location and rugged terrain demand self-sufficiency. The elevation gain and distance make this a strenuous undertaking suitable only for experienced backpackers.
Water availability at Spud Rock Spring is seasonal and may be unreliable, particularly during dry periods. All water must be treated or filtered before consumption. Backpackers should start with at least one gallon of water per person per day. The campground provides a composting pit toilet, though it is rarely serviced. Each campsite accommodates a maximum of 6 people. While fires may be allowed using only dead and downed wood, gas stoves are encouraged. The high elevation brings cooler temperatures year-round, with winter snowfall common and summer highs much more moderate than the desert floor below.
Directions
Access typically via Turkey Creek Trailhead on the east side of the Rincon Mountains through Coronado National Forest. From I-10, take exit 297 north. The road is paved for 2 miles, then graded gravel. At Miller Creek turnoff (16 miles from I-10), continue 0.5 miles to Forest Service Route 4408 and turn left. The final 1.6 miles to Turkey Creek Trailhead requires high clearance 4WD vehicle. Road may be impassable after rain. Hike from trailhead into Saguaro Wilderness to reach campground.
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