Tubac Presidio State Historic Park RV & Campground Guide
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Tubac Presidio State Historic Park, located in the city of Tubac in Santa Cruz County, Arizona, is the site of the oldest Spanish presidio in the state. It dates back to 1752 when San Ignacio de Tubac established the site that was manned by cavalrymen to protect settlers from local inhabitants, specifically the Apaches and Seris. Today, visitors are treated to well-preserved ruins of a time long past that lie near the cities of Amado to the north and Tumacacori-Carmen to the south.
If you're going in the summertime, be aware that the high temperatures can surpass 100 degrees from June through September with the lows dipping down to the high-50s to the mid- to high-60s. The most moderate times of the year to explore the ruins are in the spring and fall when the temperature peaks around the 80s. Also, keep in mind that the rainy season in this part of the state takes place during the end of July and continues into August, and the rainfall is intense and can cause flooding.
Spring 42-98 F
Summer 59-69 F
Fall 32-83 F
Winter 32-74 F
RV Resorts & Campsites in Tubac Presidio State Historic Park
Due to the rainy season and sometimes sweltering temperatures, visiting this area in an RV is an optimal idea as you can kick on the AC when the heat gets to be too much or rev up the heater when the temperatures drop below the 50s, which is common in the spring, winter and fall. If you don't have a recreational vehicle of your own, you can turn to RVshare for the perfect rental.
De Anza RV Resort
De Anza RV Resort is close to Tubac Village and lots of local attractions, including Tubac Presidio State Historic Park and Madera Canyon. It's located in Amado, which is near Tucson, and the daily rates start at $34 and increase depending on the season with fall being the most expensive.
• Water hookup: Yes (potable water is available)
• Electrical hookup: Yes
• Sewer hookup: Yes
• Wi-Fi: Yes
• Pet-friendly: Yes
• Other amenities: Clubhouse, billiards room, sewing room, community garden
Mountain View RV Ranch
Mountain View RV Ranch is located in Amado at the bottom of Elephant Head Mountain and provides guests with gorgeous mountain views. The RV sites are landscaped with beautiful trees, and many amenities are available.
• Water hookup: Yes
• Electrical hookup: Yes
• Sewer hookup: Yes
• Wi-Fi: Yes
• Pet-friendly: Yes
• Other amenities: Heated pool, horseshoe pit, dog walk area, general store
Universal Ranch RV Village
Universal Ranch RV Village in Arivaca is near many local attractions, such as ghost towns. The restaurant is widely praised as being friendly and having delicious food.
• Water hookup: Yes
• Electrical hookup: Yes
• Sewer hookup: No
• Wi-Fi: Yes
• Pet-friendly: Yes
• Other amenities: Showers, laundry, restaurant, horseshoes
What to Do at
Tubac Presidio State Historic Park
Inside Tubac Presidio State Historic Park
The trail at Tubac Presidio is actually the trailhead for the larger Anza Trail, and it is not a loop but goes straight to the Tumacácori National Historical Park. There are various museums and old buildings on-site that bring this location to life, including the Tubac Presidio Museum, the Tubac Presidio Archaeological Site, the 1885 Territorial Schoolhouse, Otero Hall and the Rojas House. Quite a few different species of birds can be spotted with one of the most interesting being the iconic roadrunner. There also are eight impressive gardens at the Tubac Presidio that feature flowers, succulents, herbs and vegetables.
How to Get to
Tubac Presidio State Historic Park
Interstate 19 is the only major highway near Tubac Presidio State Historic Park. Whether you're coming from the north or the south, you'll take Exit 34 from I-19 to the I-19 Frontage Road. The I-19 Frontage Road will lead you to Tubac Road, which will take you directly to the park.
By Car
Entering Tubac Presidio State Historic Park
The park is open every day of the year (except Christmas Day) from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Tubac Presidio State Historic Park Adults (14+) : $7.0
Tubac Presidio State Historic Park Children (7-13) : $2.0
Tubac Presidio State Historic Park Children (0-6) : $0.0
If you're looking for a blast from the past, then you'll love Tubac Presidio State Historic Park, where hundreds of years of history unfold before your eyes. You're guaranteed to want to snap loads of photos, and when you do, please send some of them to [email protected]. RVshare may upload them onto its travel blog or post them somewhere on its social channels.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tubac Presidio State Historic Park
Nearby Tucson experiences some of the hottest weather in all of Arizona. Therefore, the best time to visit Tubac Presidio State Historic Park is during the period from October to March, when the weather is slightly more bearable.
Summer highs regularly top 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Even in the fall, the temperature is well into the 90s. Winter highs are in the high 60s, which is just right. The lows are rarely below freezing.
Javelina and mule deer cross the hiking trails all the time. Those campers old enough to remember Saturday morning cartoons will get a chuckle from seeing coyotes and roadrunners, too.
No, there are no RV campsites at Tubac Presidio State Historic Park. There are several resorts, dude ranches, and RV campgrounds nearby, however, and the camping options in the park range from primitive to glamping spots.
Pets are welcome at Tubac Presidio State Historic Park. They must be on a leash no more than 6 feet long. They are allowed only in the visitor center and in the picnic area.