About This Park
Overview
Cactus Ramada 1 is a reservable group picnic site within the extremely popular Sabino Canyon Recreation Area at the edge of Tucson, Arizona. The facility is accessible and can accommodate up to 45 people. Groups can picnic, hike and ride horseback in this desert oasis of Coronado National Forest.
Recreation
Hikers are drawn to Sabino Canyon for its beauty, scenery and challenge. Three popular trails begin at the recreation area and offer access to the dramatic landscape of the Santa Catalina Front Range, famous for its deep canyons and soaring ridges. A sunset hike reveals the lights of Tucson framed by the black silhouette of surrounding mountains.
The self-guided Desert Nature Trail at the Sabino Canyon Visitor Center provides an excellent way to get to know the plants that have adapted to living in this demanding environment.
Several area trails can also be used for mountain biking and horseback riding.
Facilities
The group site can accommodate up to 45 people. Amenities include a vault restroom, picnic shelter, four accessible picnic tables, one serving table, two bear-proof trash cans, two grills and a campfire circle.
Access to Cactus Ramada 1 is through the use of the Sabino Canyon shuttle service or by foot travel 1/3-mile to the Cactus Picnic Area from the parking area.
There are also many individual first-come, first-served picnic sites scattered throughout area. A visitor center and bookstore are nearby.
Natural Features
The recreation area is located along Sabino Creek at an elevation of 2,800 feet in the foot of the Santa Catalina Mountains. For many who come to visit the Southwest, this area provides their first close encounter with the Sonoran Desert and the fascinating variety of plants and animals that make it their home.
Winter temperatures are pleasant, and springtime brings the desert to life with numerous flowering cacti and desert wildflowers.
Nearby Attractions
The recreation area or visitor center can be used as a home base for exploring scenic and natural areas of Sabino Canyon. The city of Tucson is just a short drive away and has many attractions and amenities. Other notable places nearby include Saguaro National Park and Colossal Cave.
Quick Information
- Type: Federal Park
- Network: Federal – Other
- Price Range: $15-35
- Rating: 5 / 5
Amenities
Contact & Location
5700 N. Sabino Canyon Road
Tucson, AZ 85750
Phone: 520-749-8700
Book This Park
Sites are dry camping only, so come with a full tank and plan accordingly — the trade-off is a quieter, more natural experience. Sitting at elevation brings cooler temperatures, thinner air, and the kind of sweeping views that make the drive worthwhile. Facilities are basic — bring what you need and expect a more self-sufficient camping experience.