State: Arizona
Open: Seasonal
Number of Sites: 37
Elevation: 4396
County: Pima
Free: No
Reservations: Yes - Check Recreation.gov for information
About: 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. Make reservations online at www.recreation.gov.
Fees: na
Water: None
Restrooms: Vault Toilets
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.