Gilbert Ray Campground

2 nights, January 2025 - the second time we stayed here. We were in loop A, made through the reservation system. Most sites are pretty level, although our space, A27 had quite a drop-off from the blacktop to the gravel, with crumbling chunks of cement. There were a few other spots with similar conditions, but most sites appeared to be in good shape. Otherwise the campground was as nice as we remembered it. You have the desert and all it has to offer. We wish there was at least one "dog accessible" trail in the area, but at least the campground is large enough to ensure our dog could get a good walk. Two of the loops in the campground were getting updates. The one we were able to walk around was looking very nice with upgraded electric posts and to ensure the spots were level.

Great county run campground in Tucson mountain park and close to Saguaro national park. Electric sites with potable water available at dump station and spigots around the campground. Pretty desert and mountain views. Gravel sites of various sizes. Online reservations only at Pima County. Bathrooms but no showers. No fires allowed. Charcoal only.

Totally under-rated stay during September! We had a lovely experience visiting in mid-September, despite the heat, with only 2 other campers at the park during our 2 night stay. Met a fantastic couple, had amazing views, and $35/night is a steal. Looking forward to coming back when the whether is a little bit cooler. Even saw a Terrantula!

The location is absolutely gorgeous. Right in the Saguaro cactus and overall it's just beautiful. We arrived after dark to find that our reserved campsite was occupied. There was nothing indicating that any of the sites were reserved or first come first serve. No camp hosts anywhere. That was a bummer. We had reserved two nights but ditched it after the first night.

Read the reservation rules, because they are different than everywhere else. First, let me say I did not...probably because I have camped city and state and federal campgrounds throughout the US and have never experienced a policy like this....EVER. If you are going to book the Gilbert Ray Campground, you better make sure you show up, no matter what. Don't get sick, have a relative die or have vehicle issues, because if you cancel outside of two weeks, they will take 50% of your money and if you are inside of that, they will keep all of it.🤑🤑🤑 When I cancelled seven days prior, they were polite enough to call and ask me if I was sure I wanted to cancel, to which I answered, I HAD to cancel. The nice lady basically said, she was sorry, but they were going to keep my and she would send the rules if I would like. I declined. What really upsets me is this is the busy season. Someone will take the slot and pay for it, and Pima County will keep my money. I would totally understand a short notice cancelation of 72 hours, but Pima County is flat taking advantage of people's misfortune. Shame on them!

I've wanted to camp here for years. Finally did January 2024. It was as wonderful as I expected. Close to Tucson, Desert Museum, Old Tucson, hiking trails, a nice office, clean bathrooms , and stunning sunsets. I look forward to returning.

Sites are too close together, giving no privacy. Tent here if you want to be surrounded by lorry-sized RVs making industrial noises all night. Also the light pollution from Tucson is too bad to really see the stars.

The place is very nice but the system is not good. Came here for a day - only for campers. Walked around some sites that are available but can't reserve online. Very confusing and too many unnecessary restrictions.