Best Campgrounds near Tonto Basin, AZ

Camping near Tonto Basin, Arizona, offers a mix of stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a place to park your RV, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do:

• Hiking: There are numerous trails for all skill levels. For example, at Lost Dutchman State Park Campground, one reviewer mentioned, "Lace up your boots and conquer one of the park's diverse hiking trails. From challenging climbs to scenic strolls, there's a path for every level."
• Off-Roading: If you enjoy off-roading, check out the trails near Usery Mountain Regional Park. A camper shared, "There are mountain bike trails connected to this campground that were very fun!"
• Fishing and Swimming: Many campgrounds are near lakes and rivers. At Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground, a visitor noted, "Beautiful views of the lake, plenty to do."

What campers like:

• Scenic Views: Campers rave about the breathtaking scenery. One happy camper at Houston Mesa Campground said, "The campground's proximity to swimming holes, hiking trails, and the charming town of Payson provides endless opportunities for exploration."
• Clean Facilities: Clean restrooms and well-maintained sites are a big plus. A reviewer at McDowell Mountain Regional Park mentioned, "The bathrooms are immaculate, and the staff is friendly and helpful."
• Spacious Campsites: Many campgrounds offer ample space between sites. A camper at Aspen Campground noted, "Sites well spaced out, friendly hosts, close enough to the lake."

What you should know:

• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping, have no amenities. A reviewer warned, "No toilets, no trash, no water hookups."
• Cell Service: Be prepared for limited cell service in certain areas. A visitor at Usery Mountain Regional Park mentioned, "While Verizon service isn't optimal, it's manageable."
• Road Conditions: Some access roads can be rough. A camper at Carr Lake Campground shared, "The main road is a good well-maintained dirt/gravel road. Once you turn off, it is a bit rough."

Tips for camping with families:

• Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with nearby trails and lakes. A family at Christopher Creek enjoyed, "The creek is beautiful and cold. We love it and will be back!"
• Safety First: Always pack out your trash. One camper at Christopher Creek reminded others, "If you are camping where there aren’t amenities like trash cans, be prepared to pack out your own trash."
• Plan for Crowds: Weekends can get busy. A visitor at Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground noted, "Busy on weekends and empty during the week."

Tips from RVers:

• Check Hookups: Make sure the campground has the right hookups for your RV. A reviewer at Verde Ranch RV Resort mentioned, "Very nice pool, great dog park with dog pee pads of turf all over the park."
• Be Prepared for Noise: Some campgrounds are near highways. A visitor at Verde Ranch RV Resort said, "Be prepared for some road noise from the nearby I-17 freeway."
• Level Sites: Look for campgrounds with level sites. A camper at Verde Ranch RV Resort noted, "Sites tight, extremely close to one another."

Camping near Tonto Basin, Arizona, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just be sure to plan ahead and enjoy the beautiful surroundings!