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Harquahala Peak Observatory
Public Campground

Harquahala Peak Observatory

Salome, Arizona
5.0 (2 reviews)

Photos shown are stock images and may not represent the actual campground.

About Harquahala Peak Observatory

Harquahala Peak Observatory was built in 1920 by the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory to measure and record solar activity. Although deserted now, from 1920-1925 a hardy group of scientists lived and worked atop the highest mountain in southwestern Arizona (5,681-foot elevation). How these individuals lived, worked, and relaxed up on this peak, struggling with its seclusion and weather, represents an enlivened story of dedicated scientific pursuit and American inventiveness.Visit the Observ

Harquahala Peak Observatory sits high in the remote Arizona desert, offering RV campers an extraordinary escape from the everyday. At elevation, this public campground provides a serene setting where the night sky becomes the main attraction. The observatory location means you're in for exceptional stargazing opportunities, with minimal light pollution allowing you to witness constellations, planets, and the Milky Way in stunning clarity.

The landscape surrounding the campground is quintessentially Arizona desert, with dramatic rock formations, sparse vegetation, and sweeping vistas that stretch for miles. The terrain is rugged and genuine, appealing to travelers seeking authentic desert camping rather than developed resort-style amenities. The elevation provides relief from the intense summer heat of lower desert areas, making spring and fall visits particularly pleasant, though winter camping is also viable for those equipped for cooler temperatures.

This location draws a diverse crowd of visitors. Astronomy enthusiasts come specifically for the observatory and the dark skies that make celestial observation remarkable. Photographers find endless opportunities to capture desert landscapes and night sky imagery. Nature lovers appreciate the solitude and the chance to experience the Sonoran Desert's raw beauty without crowds or distractions. Those seeking digital detox find the remote location perfectly suited for unplugging and reconnecting with nature and their travel companions.

The surrounding area offers several points of interest for day trips. The Harquahala Valley contains fascinating geological formations and desert ecology. Nearby towns provide services and supplies, though visitors should plan accordingly given the remote location. The campground works well for extended stays or as a base camp for exploring the greater Arizona desert region.

This is an ideal destination for RV travelers who value clear skies, solitude, and the raw beauty of the desert landscape. It's perfect for those traveling in well-equipped RVs who appreciate outdoor recreation and want to experience Arizona's high desert environment from a unique vantage point.
5.0

Rating

2

Reviews

Park Details

Tips & Tricks

Book Early

Salome is popular during peak season. Reserve 2-4 weeks in advance for weekends and holidays.

Check-in Time

Most parks have check-in after 1:00 PM and check-out by 11:00 AM. Call ahead if you'll arrive late.

Local Weather

Arizona weather can change quickly. Pack layers and check the forecast for Salome.

Explore the Area

Don't miss local attractions near Salome. Ask the camp host for hidden gems and trails.

Harquahala Peak Observatory Reviews

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Brian May

Mar 23, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Brian May

There's not a whole lot here, but it's a nice drive and you can see for miles in every direction. It's about 10 miles from the staging area and the road is in good shape and looks to be regularly bladed. You could get a minivan up if the second half weren't so steep.

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Carrie VanWienen

Mar 23, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Carrie VanWienen

Nice spot to add for a day trip

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Jimmy Holloway

Mar 18, 2026

3.0

Google Review by Jimmy Holloway

55+ park that's about 65/35 resident vs overnighters. Great pool and wet area, restrooms/showers were clean and well kept. Great tile-work for a real resort feel. The laundry we just $1.50 a load! Dumpsters were all up front which for as big as this place is seemed odd. Plus they were on the verge of overflowing by the the time the service came to empty. Seemed to be all manner of amenities except... 55+ park that's about 65/35 resident vs overnighters. Great pool and wet area, restrooms/showers were clean and well kept. Great tile-work for a real resort feel. The laundry we just $1.50 a load! Dumpsters were all up front which for as big as this place is seemed odd. Plus they were on the verge of overflowing by the the time the service came to empty. Seemed to be all manner of amenities except a snack bar or store for sundries. Either being on site would have bumped this review up 2 stars. Sites were very clean and basically level. Couple of dog parks and adjacent to the state park with gates leading to trails around the Resort. I'd stay here again being mindful that stores are about 30 minutes away.

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Sally P

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Sally P

This is a great place. 55 and up. Friendly people. Clean buildings. ALOT of events and activities, bunco, Mexican train dominoes, sewing club, wood shop, workout room, library. Bring your own travel trailer or buy a tiny home. Only downside is traffic and train noise.

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Sally P

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Sally P

This is a great place. 55 and up. Friendly people. Clean buildings. ALOT of events and activities, bunco, Mexican train dominoes, sewing club, wood shop, workout room, library. Bring your own travel trailer or buy a tiny home. Only downside is traffic and train noise.

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Not The Brit Branson

Mar 18, 2026

4.0

Google Review by Not The Brit Branson

Nice clean park. It is along side of Interstate 10 and a very active rail line so it's a little noisy but if road and rail sounds don't bother you then it is a good park.

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Diane Vogel

Mar 18, 2026

3.0

Google Review by Diane Vogel

This 55+ site has an absolutely beautiful view with such nice people many of which live there full time or come back as snow birds annually. We loved meeting many of them. The trails for hiking & biking were very nice! Darla & Kelly were awesome! They did everything they could within their budget & confines to make activities fun. The church services with Frank & his wife were wonderful & we will... This 55+ site has an absolutely beautiful view with such nice people many of which live there full time or come back as snow birds annually. We loved meeting many of them. The trails for hiking & biking were very nice! Darla & Kelly were awesome! They did everything they could within their budget & confines to make activities fun. The church services with Frank & his wife were wonderful & we will miss them. The park is located in very noisy surroundings with interstate & railroad traffic which can not be avoided. We hope upper management or owners realize “keeping up” is critical if they want higher ratings in this competitive environment. While the pool & hot tub are nice, they are too small. The clubhouse is also too small for large events. The laundry room is ridiculously out of date. It’s very small & the same machines were broken for 2 months. Either fix or replace them! We were told there was shuffleboard there but when we arrived we found there was ONE lane with a crack right down the middle that hadn’t been used in years! The park needs a groundsman or maintenance person like ALL other 55+ “resorts” have!

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Diane Vogel

Mar 18, 2026

3.0

Google Review by Diane Vogel

This 55+ site has an absolutely beautiful view with such nice people many of which live there full time or come back as snow birds annually. We loved meeting many of them. The trails for hiking & biking were very nice! Darla & Kelly were awesome! They did everything they could within their budget & confines to make activities fun. The church services with Frank & his wife were wonderful & we will... This 55+ site has an absolutely beautiful view with such nice people many of which live there full time or come back as snow birds annually. We loved meeting many of them. The trails for hiking & biking were very nice! Darla & Kelly were awesome! They did everything they could within their budget & confines to make activities fun. The church services with Frank & his wife were wonderful & we will miss them. The park is located in very noisy surroundings with interstate & railroad traffic which can not be avoided. We hope upper management or owners realize “keeping up” is critical if they want higher ratings in this competitive environment. While the pool & hot tub are nice, they are too small. The clubhouse is also too small for large events. The laundry room is ridiculously out of date. It’s very small & the same machines were broken for 2 months. Either fix or replace them! We were told there was shuffleboard there but when we arrived we found there was ONE lane with a crack right down the middle that hadn’t been used in years! The park needs a groundsman or maintenance person like ALL other 55+ “resorts” have!

G
Jim Alexander

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Jim Alexander

This place is fantastic. Gorgeous surroundings, friendly people, and prices are great. If you have not stayed here you need to. You will not want to leave. If I could give more stars I would.

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Jim Alexander

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Jim Alexander

This place is fantastic. Gorgeous surroundings, friendly people, and prices are great. If you have not stayed here you need to. You will not want to leave. If I could give more stars I would.

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