Tubac Presidio State Historic Park RV & Campground Guide
Arizona
- Home
- State Parks
- Arizona
- Tubac Presidio State Historic Park
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.
Outside Tubac Presidio State Historic Park
Tubac Presidio State Historic Park can eat up a lot of time with all the things to do there. When you've had your fill, check out some of the other attractions in the area.
Restaurants
The Goods
This is an American and Mexican establishment where you can get breakfast bowls; tacos; and a variety of sandwiches, soups and salads for lunch. It also serves smoothies, cocktails, local beer and wine.
Type: American and Mexican
Location: Tubac, AZ
Elvira's
This place specializes in fine Mexican dining. It is close to the Tubac Presidio and features well-crafted Mexican plates as well as fine tequila and wines.
Type: Mexican
Location: Tubac, AZ
Wisdom's DOS
Wisdom's is a family-run eatery in Tubac that has been providing delicious Mexican food in the area for years. You'll enjoy its take on classic Mexican dishes, including tacos, burritos and enchiladas. Tequila, beer and wine are also served.
Type: Mexican
Location: Tubac, AZ
Tubac Jack's
This eatery in Tubac specializes in hearty American dishes. At Tubac Jack's, classic Americana food with a Southwestern flair is served. Whatever you order, you can wash it down with the selection of beer, wine and cocktails.
Type: Americana
Location: Tubac, AZ
Melio's Trattoria
Melio's specializes in fine Italian dining near the Tubac Presidio. If pasta, pizzas and antipasti are calling you, head over to Melio's for a treat.
Type: Italian
Location: Tubac, AZ
Shopping
La Entrada de Tubac
Its translation means "The Entrance to Tubac." It's a retail, art and restaurant area all rolled into a village-like setting that features a variety of goods, food and art fashioned in the old-world style. Over a dozen tenants sell their wares in this unique setting in Tubac.
Location: Tubac, AZ
La Paloma de Tubac
This shop in Tubac features a wide array of Mexican art at great prices. It features classic Talavera pottery selections and more.
Location: Tubac, AZ
The Country Shop
The Country Shop has a grand selection of Talavera and other types of pottery as well as bags, tiles and much more.
Location: Tubac, AZ
Sightseeing
Tumacácori Mission National Historical Park
This is a national historic park that is a grouping of three Spanish mission communities built in the 17th and 18th centuries. They represent some of the first Western settlements ever constructed in the United States. There's also a museum on-site.
Location: Tumacácori, AZ
Historic Hacienda de la Canoa
This historic landmark in Green Valley features a centuries-old hacienda. Many well-maintained and restored buildings are on-site. You can also go on guided walks and tours and observe wildlife.
Location: Green Valley, AZ
Madera Canyon
The canyon is a premier bird-watching area. Many species use the area to rest during their long yearly migrations. While there, you may catch a glimpse of the 15 species of hummingbirds or spy one of the 36 species of wood warbler. In total, 256 species have been documented there. Camping is allowed.
Location: 32 miles from Tubac.
Titan Missile Museum
This museum in Sahuarita was once home to an active ICBM missile. An actual missile is still on-site, but it's inactive. There are both underground and aboveground facilities consisting of a control room, tunnels and the silo to name but a few of the sites.
Location: Sahuarita, AZ
Kitt Peak National Observatory
Kitt Peak is a world-class observatory that has three major nighttime telescopes (among dozens) that are dedicated solely for public viewing.
Location: Near Tuscon, AZ
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.