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Spencer Canyon Campground
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. Days and nights are cool even in summer at this high elevation. Trees and rocks throughout the campground enhance the privacy of the campsites.
These natural features also provide habitat for the wild animals. Among the more permanent residents of the area are Abert’s squirrels, which are commonly seen but quite uncommon in appearance with their silver-grey tails and tuft-tipped ears. Another frequently encountered creature here in the southwest mountains is the Steller’s jay. These bold birds are blue in color, but they’re not a true “blue jay.” Blue jays live farther east in North America. Steller’s jays are noisy and curious Westerners who will come right into your camp if you stray from it.
| Attractions: |
Facilities: |
| Cool forest setting |
60 single-unit sites (2 with barrier-free access) |
| Mountain atmosphere |
Tables and fire grills |
| Views through the trees |
Drinking water |
| Barrier-free access |
Toilets |
Notes:
- No hook-ups
- Tents, trailers to 22', and small motor homes permitted
- No group sites
- Pack and saddle stock are not permitted in campground
- The access road into Spencer Canyon Campground from the Catalina Highway is gated closed and not plowed during the winter.
- The Catalina Highway is paved and suitable for passenger cars, but it can be snow covered in winter when chains and/or 4-wheel drive may be required.
- A large area of nearby Pusch Ridge Wilderness is closed to dogs for the protection of desert bighorn sheep. Though dogs are allowed in the campground, you are not allowed to take them on hikes into the Wilderness.
For more information, contact the Santa Catalina Ranger District |
