Established Camping
Lower Tonto Creek
Lower Tonto Creek, near Kohl's Ranch, Arizona, is a solid spot for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors without too much fuss. This campground offers a straightforward camping experience with designated sites, making it easy to set up your tent and kick back by the fire.
The area is surrounded by beautiful pine trees, providing a nice shady retreat from the Arizona sun. Visitors have mentioned the close proximity to Tonto Creek, which is perfect for a refreshing dip or some leisurely fishing. As one camper noted, “It’s a great way to beat the heat in the pine trees, relax, lounge in the water, and forget about the time!”
While the campground is conveniently located near Highway 260, which means you might hear some road noise, many appreciate the spacious sites and ample parking. The amenities include a place for campfires and clean restroom facilities, making it a comfortable choice for families and friends alike. Plus, dogs are welcome, so you can bring your furry friends along for the adventure.
For those eager to explore, the nearby Horton Creek Trail offers some great hiking opportunities. Whether you're casting a line for trout or just soaking in the scenery, Lower Tonto Creek has a laid-back vibe that makes it a great getaway.
Description
Overview
The Lower Tonto Creek Campground is tucked away right next to the main highway just south of where the Tonto and Horton Creeks merge. Families may enjoy fishing at both Tonto and Horton Creeks or pass time hiking through nearby Horton Creek Trail or Derrick Trail. The Lower Tonto Creek Campground has a large open-space parking lot and paved walkway makes it accessible with only a light hike to the creek. This location is available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Visitors are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a site. Once on-site, you will be able to pay for your campsite(s) by scanning a QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app, and the Scan and Pay feature. You will need to first download the free Recreation.gov mobile app https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app prior to your arrival as this area has limited or no cellular service. There is no adjacent parking spot to any camp site. Walk-in access only to all campsites (paved sidewalk is provided). Map to campground here. Please note: This campground is right next to Hwy 260 and receives a considerable amount of traffic noise and light throughout the day & night.
Recreation
The union of Tonto and Horton Creeks is at the north end of the Upper Tonto Creek campground. Fishing in both creeks is a popular sport. The trailheads for Horton Creek Trail 285 and Derrick Trail 33 are located in the Upper Tonto Creek campground. Both of these trails access the Highline National Recreation Trail (#31
Natural Features
Located just South of where the Tonto and Horton Creeks merge. Campsites are dotted along a paved sidewalk surrounded by tall Pines, situated just next to Tonto Creek. Please note: This campground is right next to Hwy 260 and receives a considerable amount of traffic noise and light throughout the day & night.
Location
Lower Tonto Creek is located in Arizona
Directions
This site is 15 miles northeast of Payson. From Payson, travel 15 miles east on State Hwy. 260. Just east of mile marker 269 at Kohls Ranch, turn left (north) on Forest Road (FR) 289.
Coordinates
34.332549 N
111.097312 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GGood Coverage
VerizonNo Coverage
AT&TLTESome Coverage
Detours Nearby
Little Green Valley - NF405A Dispersed
4 min away
Mogollon Rimn Dispersed, AZ FR 9350
24 min away
Drive Time
- 1 hr 45 min from Phoenix, AZ
- 1 hr 46 min from Prescott Valley, AZ
- 1 hr 56 min from Flagstaff, AZ
- 3 hrs 3 min from Tucson, AZ
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GGood Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Water Hookups
