U.S. Forest Service · Catalina Highway Scenic Area · AZ

Spencer Canyon Campground

20251024 SCRD Santa Catalina Spencer Canyon Campground (6)

Photo · USDA Forest Service

OpenSeason 04-01 – 10-31

First-comeAccess

The place

This mountain campground is located at the head of a shallow, forested canyon a short distance off the Catalina Highway . Spencer Canyon faces the city of Tucson and the Santa Cruz Valley, both of which are visible as a distant panorama through openings in the forest canopy. Spencer Canyon Campground has 66 sites. Each site has a concrete table, firepit, B-B-Q and bear box for food storage. A beautiful night view of Tucson can be seen from several sites. Spencer is rugged, rustic in layout and close to the hamlet of Summerhaven. Each camping area has clean, stocked vault toilets. Campground hosts live on site. Keep reading

Firewood may be purchased from the hosts. The Catalina Highway is paved, but it can be snow covered in winter when chains and/or 4-wheel drive may be required.

SRC · USFS Enterprise Data Warehouse · 2026-08-24

No reservation needed

First come,
first servedArrive early — popular areas fill by afternoon

SRC · Rules verified against recreation.gov · 2026-08-24

Fees

Camping fee is$28.00 per night for single sites. No more than 6 people per numbered site, including children and visitors. Double Family site is $44.00. Extra vehicle is $11.00 per night per site. No more than two vehicles per site. Extra persons, walk-ins, and bicycles are $1.00 each. Firewood is $8.00 per bundle/bag. The Interagency Senior and Access Pass is good for a 50% discount on camping fee only. Payable with cash or check.

SRC · USFS Enterprise Data Warehouse · 2026-08-24

Who runs it

Operated by Vista Recreation, a private concessionaire, under permit from the agency.

SRC · Operator link · 2026-08-24

Your representative

This campground sits in AZ-06. This member’s public-lands record →

SRC · U.S. Census TIGER · MTJP Scorecard