San Rafael State Natural Area RV & Campground Guide
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San Rafael State Natural Area offers you a spectacular view of a landscape filled with native grasses, rolling hills, and cottonwood trees. Located about 15 miles south of Patagonia and 75 miles south of Tucson, this natural area is home to many species of animals and plants. The Huachuca Water Umbel is endangered, but it thrives in this region. You can also get a glimpse of the many bobcats, mule deer, antelope, cougars, coyotes, and native birds that are unique to the region.
The focal point of this natural area is the San Rafael Ranch, which was constructed in the late 1800s and operated until 1999. Winter has an average high of 67°F, spring averages 83°F, summer reaches 93°F on average, and fall temperatures usually average 75°F.
Spring 54-100 F
Summer 61-100 F
Fall 43-85 F
Winter 42-75 F
RV Resorts & Campsites in San Rafael State Natural Area
Camping is not permitted in the San Rafael State Natural Area, but you can find several RV parks in the surrounding area. With an RV, it's much easier to explore the region of the San Rafael Valley and southern Arizona — you'll be able to relax and sleep in your own accommodations at the end of the day.
If you don't have an RV, there are plenty of options to hit the road. The RVshare platform features everything from campervans to luxury motorhomes. In addition to that, RVshare wants to make your trip more convenient with 24/7 roadside assistance and nationwide insurance.
CT RV Resort
Located near the Saguaro National Park and Mica Mountains, the CT RV Resort is a great place to relax and enjoy some quiet time. This park features large RV pads that can accommodate a wide range of rigs. CT RV Resort offers bigger discounts for longer-term visitors.
• Water hookup: Yes
• Electrical hookup: Yes
• Sewer hookup: Yes
• Pet-friendly: Yes
• Other amenities: Full hookups, swimming pool, and putting green
Patagonia Lake State Park
The campground at Patagonia Lake State Park is very large, and you can rent some spaces for the night. If you are looking for a little isolation, you might want to reserve a spot that is only accessible by boat.
• Water hookup: Yes
• Electrical hookup: Yes
• Sewer hookup: Yes
• Wi-Fi: Yes
• Pet-friendly: Yes
• Other amenities: Bathrooms, laundry facilities, and boat rentals
Butterfield RV Resort & Observatory
You've probably dreamed about spending a night under the stars. You'll have a great chance to observe them at the Butterfield RV Resort & Observatory. This is a family-owned park that features a private observatory on the premises. All guests are welcomed to use it to view the night sky. If you are not big into astronomy, there is an on-site putting green too.
• Water hookup: Yes
• Electrical hookup: Yes
• Sewer hookup: Yes
• Pet-friendly: Yes
• Other amenities: Observatory, clubhouse, and putting green
What to Do at
San Rafael State Natural Area
Inside San Rafael State Natural Area
If you're looking to reconnect to nature, then San Rafael State Natural Area is the place for you. This spot is a wonderful area to see the untapped natural environment. San Rafael State Natural Area is not completely opened to the public, but you can travel the roads to see the landscape of the area. While some of the activities are limited, you are welcome to explore the dirt roads or grab your camera and capture those beautiful sights.
How to Get to
San Rafael State Natural Area
By Car
The closest major city to the San Rafael State Natural Area is Tucson. If you're traveling from that area, head on I-10E and take Exit 260 toward Nogales. You'll be traveling on I-19 E for 55 miles. Take Exit 12 toward Nogales Ranger Station. You'll want to follow AZ-82 E towards the San Rafael State Natural Area. Once you reach San Rafael Valley Road (Fr 58), you will turn right on the road to lead you into the preserved area.
Entering San Rafael State Natural Area
The San Rafael State Natural Area is currently not open to the public. However, you can travel through Forest Service road 58 to see the landscape. There are no fees to travel this dirt road.
San Rafael State Natural Area N/A : $0.0
If you are looking for a place to escape from it all, then you'll want to visit the San Rafael State Natural Area. This landscape is a wonderful space to explore with an RV rental from RVshare. You don't have to worry about finding a hotel room when you're traveling via a recreational vehicle. You can head into nature and set up your own place to kick back at the end of the day. During or after your adventure, be sure to send your stories and pictures to [email protected]. Your vacation might even be featured on the RVshare blog or social media channels.
Frequently Asked Questions About San Rafael State Natural Area
Summer is an ideal time of the year to visit the San Rafael Natural Area. This occurs between June and September. You can take advantage of warm weather activities during these months.
San Rafael Natural Area experiences seasonal temperature variations. The average high temperature is 67 degrees Fahrenheit in winter, 83 degrees Fahrenheit in spring, 93 degrees Fahrenheit in summer, and 75 degrees Fahrenheit in the fall.
In this park, rare species like the Mexican garter snake, Huachuca tiger salamander, Gila topminnow, Sprague's pipit, and Baird's sparrow can be found. In addition, many prairie-specific birds, along with mule deer, antelope, bobcats, cougars, and coyotes, can be seen.
The San Rafael State Natural Area doesn't allow camping, but several RV parks are nearby. The campgrounds in the area allow pets and have electricity, dump stations, and water hookups.
Pets are welcome at San Rafael State Natural Area. There are pet-friendly trails in the park. A leash is required to keep the pet in control. You're responsible for cleaning up after your pet.
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