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Molino Basin Campground

While most other campgrounds in the Catalina District are closed in winter and open in summer, Molino Campground and Picnic Area has a season that is just the opposite. Because it is located lower on the slopes of the Santa Catalina Mountains, Molino is open during the late fall, winter, and early spring. The weather here is pleasantly mild then, and any of those seasons is a good time to visit.

Campsites are located in savannah -- desert grassland dotted with oaks. Along the banks of Molino Creek, which flows only during and immediately after rain or snowmelt, species such as cottonwood, Arizona live oak, and mesquite provide a scenic setting for the campsites they shelter. Views are dominated by nearby rugged, rocky hills.

A new group campsite was opened in 2004, which has a covered ramada, tent pads, restroom, picnic tables, grills, and a group fire ring with benches. This site is also wheelchair accessible.


 The Basics

Location: Northeast of Tucson, between mile markers 5 and 6 on the Catalina Highway.
Operator: National Forest Service
Total Sites: 37 Sites
Pet Policy: Pets must be restrained or on a leash.
Reservation Info: Reservations required for groups
Reservations not accepted for single sites
Elevation: 4,500 Feet
Season: October 20 - April 25
Activities: Hiking
Scenic mountain surroundings
Access to the Arizona Trail
Popular mountain biking area
Price: $10
Single Site: $10
(10 people, 2 vehicles)
Phone: 520-749-8700

 Amenities


  • Vault Toilets

  • Cooking Grills
  • Fire Rings
  • Picnic Tables

  • Group Sites Available
  • Pets Allowed
  • Reservations Accepted
Trailers and RVs under 22' permitted
NO Drinking Water

Amenity list above may not be complete.

 Directions

Take the Catalina Highway off Tanque Verde Road in Tucson. Drive 4.2 miles to the Forest boundary and continue 5.7 miles to the campground. All campsites are adjacent to paved roads and are accessible by two-wheel drive low-clearance vehicles, such as the family sedan.



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