We’re going cactus camping in the desert on the Cascabel Road in Arizona. My vehicle is a 1999 Chevrolet Express 2500 with a Quigley 4×4 conversion. The Cascabel Road runs north from Benson, Arizona towards Oracle, Arizona.
Cascabel Road | Arizona
Details
- Location: Southeast Arizona
- Distance: 66 miles
- Conditions: pavement, graded gravel road
- Gas/Food/Lodging: Benson, AZ – Oracle, AZ
- Camping: private property, some BLM and State Trust land nearby
- Land Management: private property, some BLM and State Trust land nearby
The Cascabel Road in Arizona is a scenic backcountry drive through the Sonoran desert to the east of Tucson. The 66 mile road travels between Benson, Arizona to the south and Oracle, Arizona to the north.
A Long Drive Through the Desert
The Cascabel Road is an easy drive through the desert on an unpaved gravel road with views of the San Pedro River Valley to the west.
The Changing Landscape
Large saguaro cactus and a variety of other cacti appear as you drive north from Benson, Arizona.
Camping with Cactus
Hanging and jumping cholla cactus are in the area. They will easily find away to attach themselves to your shoes and clothing when you go cactus camping in the desert.
A Steep Hill to Climb
We decided to drive off-road onto the top of a hill in the distance. The Quigley four wheel drive made the ascent very easy.
A Perfect Camping Spot
Our camping location is a large, flat rock outcrop with beautiful views of the surrounding desert and mountains in the distance.
Sunset in the Desert
The desert sunset can be a real treat while camping in a location like this on the Cascabel Road.
Kermit Chairs
Lantern Stand
Camping Lights in the Night
Our LED “twinkle lights” on the van are powered by the van’s solar system and lithium battery. These, along with a Coleman lantern, provide a nice ambience in the nightime.
Sunrise Light
Morning Coffee
Leaving Camp
