Rustler Park: A Mountain Meadow Retreat
Discover a historic mountain escape in Rustler Park, Chiricahua Mountains: camping, hiking, birding, and wildflower meadows await!
Escape to Rustler Park, a scenic campground nestled high in the Chiricahua Mountains. Once a hideout for rustlers, this wildflower-filled meadow offers a cool respite, stunning views, and access to hiking trails within the Coronado National Forest.
A brief summary to Rustler Park
- 42D Forest Rd, San Simon, Arizona, 85632, US
- +1520-364-6800
- Visit website
Local tips
- Rustler Park is at a high elevation, so be prepared for cooler temperatures, especially at night, even during the summer months.
- Bring your binoculars! Rustler Park is an excellent location for birdwatching, with a diverse array of species to observe.
- Be aware of potential wildlife encounters, especially black bears. Utilize the provided bear boxes to store food and scented items securely.
- Check the Coronado National Forest website for current conditions and closures before your visit, as the park is typically closed during the winter months.
Getting There
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Driving
To reach Rustler Park from Portal, Arizona, head west on Portal Road, which becomes Forest Road 42. Continue on FR42 for approximately 13 miles to Onion Saddle. From Onion Saddle, turn south onto Forest Road 42D and drive about 2.5 miles to Rustler Park Campground. Note that FR42 and FR42D are gravel roads, and while suitable for most passenger vehicles, high-clearance vehicles are recommended. These roads are not plowed in winter and may be closed due to snow. There is a day-use fee of $8 per vehicle. Camping is $15 per night for a single site. You can purchase a pass online or on-site with cash or check.
Discover more about Rustler Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Chiricahua Mountains
10.1 km
Explore a sky island of rock formations, hiking trails, and diverse wildlife in southeastern Arizona's Chiricahua Mountains. A natural wonderland!
Geronimo Surrender Monument
27.1 km
Explore the Geronimo Surrender Monument in San Simon, Arizona, a historic landmark honoring the Apache leader's surrender and cultural significance.
Indian Bread Rocks Recreation Area
42.7 km
Explore the rugged beauty of Arizona's Dos Cabezas Mountains at Indian Bread Rocks Recreation Area.
Sulphur Springs Historical Marker
49.5 km
Explore the rich history of Cochise at the Sulphur Springs Historical Marker, a hidden gem that celebrates Arizona's heritage.
Cochise Spring
64.7 km
Discover the historical significance and natural beauty of Cochise Spring, a serene oasis in the heart of Arizona's Sky Islands, perfect for nature lovers and history buffs.
Hot Well Dunes Recreation Area
70.3 km
Explore Arizona's Hot Well Dunes: Ride the sands, soak in hot springs, and camp under the stars in this unique desert recreation area.
Dragoon Springs stagecoach stop
70.8 km
Discover the rich history of the Old West at the Dragoon Springs Stagecoach Stop, a significant landmark in Arizona's captivating landscape.
White House Ruins
71.6 km
Explore the historic White House Ruins in Dragoon, Arizona, and step back in time to experience the rugged beauty of the Old West.
Historical Marker
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E Allen St
77.2 km
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Wyatt Earp’s Oriental Saloon & Theater
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Boothill Graveyard
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Greenway Manor
78.1 km
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Calumet & Arizona Guest House
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The Shady Dell
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Unmissable attractions to see
Barfoot Park
1.6 km
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Greenhouse Trail Basin Loop Trailhead
5.5 km
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Chiricahua Wilderness
5.9 km
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John Hands Waterfall
6.1 km
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Saulsberry Trail Trailhead
6.9 km
Explore the scenic trails of the Chiricahua Mountains from Saulsberry Trail Trailhead, a perfect starting point for hiking and nature enthusiasts in Arizona.
Silver Peak Trail Top Out
7.6 km
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Pole Bridge Canyon Natural Area
8.2 km
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Balanced Rock Trail
10.6 km
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Big Balanced Rock
10.8 km
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Heart of Rocks Loop
11.0 km
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Duck on a Rock
11.1 km
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Cave Creek Visitor Info Center
11.1 km
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Inspiration Point
11.2 km
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Ed Riggs Trail
11.9 km
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Sarah Deming Trailhead
12.0 km
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Essential places to dine
Godfather's Pizza Express
71.7 km
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The Thirsty Lizard Bar + Grill + Events
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Discover great food, local brews, and vibrant events at The Thirsty Lizard Bar + Grill + Events in McNeal - perfect for tourists seeking authentic experiences.
Dot’s Diner
78.3 km
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Bisbee Breakfast Club
78.4 km
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Mornings Cafe
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The Copper Pig
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The Feedlot Diner
78.5 km
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Po’ Boys to Geaux
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Good 2 Go
78.7 km
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Little Caesars Pizza
78.7 km
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Ballpark Brewing Company
78.8 km
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Lazy KJ Ranch BBQ
79.0 km
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Bisbee's Table
79.0 km
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Bisbee Coffee Company Cafe & Roasters
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The Grass Stop Smoothie Bar
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Portal Peak Lodge Store & Cafe
13.2 km
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Tom's Bird Feeders & Reptile Supplies
16.3 km
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Mustang Mall
39.2 km
Explore Mustang Mall in Pearce, Arizona for unique finds and essential supplies, all in a charming shopping environment.
Elfrida Emporium
44.9 km
Discover unique handcrafted treasures at Elfrida Emporium, the ultimate gift shop celebrating local artistry in the heart of Elfrida.
Bonita Bean Co
49.2 km
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Tara Things
50.8 km
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D K Prickly Pear Emporium
51.1 km
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REYNAS CHAPARRAL LLC
58.9 km
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Holiday Arts
61.2 km
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Amarillo by Morning
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Buffalo Sisters Trading Post
64.9 km
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Starlet Boutique
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The Friendly Bookstore
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Willcox Traders
65.0 km
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Apple Annie's Country Store
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar Boot Ranch LLC
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DreamCatcher Inn at Chiricahua
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Sonoran Wines / Vineyards
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Tirrito Farm
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Big Tex BBQ
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Isabel's South of the Border
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Coronado Vineyards
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The Gadsden Hotel
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Hitching Post Saloon
78.5 km
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Chiricahua Community Health Center
78.7 km
Explore health and wellness at Chiricahua Community Health Center, a cornerstone of community care in Bisbee, Arizona.
Gene’s Place
78.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Bisbee at Gene’s Place, a local bar offering craft drinks, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Bisbee Social Club
79.2 km
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Pages Palace
96.1 km
Discover the historical charm and vibrant atmosphere at Pages Palace in Benson, Arizona, where every visit is a new experience.
The Horseshoe
96.2 km
Discover the flavors of Benson at The Horseshoe, where delicious local cuisine meets warm hospitality in a charming atmosphere.
Benson City Grille
96.3 km
Experience authentic American cuisine at Benson City Grille in Benson, Arizona, where every meal is crafted with care and local flavors.
