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Established Camping

Horseshoe Campground — Tonto National Forest

1 Review
CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Horseshoe Campground in Tonto National Forest is surrounded by rugged desert terrain with scattered vegetation. Temperatures can range from 40°F in winter to over 100°F in summer. Nearby attractions include Bartlett Lake and the Verde River, offering opportunities for water activities and exploration.

Fee Info

<p>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 may 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. If this option is available, you will need to first download the free Recreation.gov mobile app https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app prior to your arrival as some remote areas have limited or no cellular service. Camping passes can also be purchased at a Tonto Fee Machine Pass. $16 per site, per night. Nearest fee machine location is at the Cave Creek Ranger Station.</p>
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Location

Horseshoe Campground — Tonto National Forest is located in Arizona

Detail location of campground

Directions

This site is 23 miles northeast of Carefree. From Carefree, take Cave Creek Road turn right on Bartlett Dam Road and continue for 6 miles to the junction of FR 205 and FR 19. At this junction, FR 205 turns left and becomes an unmaintained unpaved road. Follow FR 205 for 10 miles towards Horseshoe Reservoir. At the junction of FR 205 and FR 205A, turn right and travel an additional __ mile to the site.__

Address

40202 N Cave Creek Rd
Scottsdale, AZ 85262

Coordinates

33.976938 N
111.716735 W

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Connectivity

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    No Coverage
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    Verizon
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    AT&T
    No Coverage

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Detours Nearby

LOCAL FAVORITES PRESENTED BYToyota Trucks
Box Bar Road Dispersed

Box Bar Road Dispersed

1 hr 18 min away

Cave Creek Group Site

Cave Creek Group Site

1 hr 39 min away

Drive Time

Presented byToyota Trucks

Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)

Features

For Campers

  • Toilets
  • Alcohol

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1 Review

Dennis A.The Dyrt PRO User
Reviewed Mar. 20, 2025

Horseshoe Camping

Great secluded campgrounds the best camp spot is 11 and 12 however it is kind of dirty people do leave things and don't take things to the garbage other than that it's a great place to fish to camp and not have a whole lot of people there there is no cell service so you're off the grid.

Month of VisitMarch
  • Spot number 11 Horseshoe campground
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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Horseshoe Campground located in Arizona?

Horseshoe Campground is located in the Tonto National Forest in Arizona. The campground can be accessed via Cave Creek Road, with the specific address being 40202 North Cave Creek Rd., Scottsdale, AZ 85262. It's situated at the intersection of N Cave Creek Road and Bartlett Dam Road in Scottsdale. The remote location offers a secluded camping experience away from urban areas, making it perfect for those seeking a quiet retreat in nature.

What facilities are available at Horseshoe Campground?

Horseshoe Campground offers basic facilities for a more primitive camping experience. The campground features designated campsites (with sites 11 and 12 noted as particularly desirable spots), and garbage disposal areas. The site is designed for those seeking a more rustic outdoor experience rather than a full-service campground. There are no modern amenities like electricity or running water, and no cell service is available, making it ideal for campers looking to disconnect and enjoy nature.

What do visitors say about Horseshoe Campground?

Visitors appreciate Horseshoe Campground for its seclusion and peaceful atmosphere. Campers highlight that it's rarely crowded, offering a genuine wilderness experience. Sites 11 and 12 are frequently mentioned as the most desirable camping spots. Some note that litter can be an issue, with previous visitors occasionally leaving trash behind. The campground is praised for its fishing opportunities and the chance to truly disconnect, as there's no cell service. Overall, it's described as a great place for those seeking solitude and a break from busy, populated campgrounds.

Can you camp at Horseshoe Reservoir in Arizona?

Yes, you can camp at Horseshoe Reservoir in Arizona at Horseshoe Campground. The campground offers a secluded camping experience near the reservoir, which is popular for fishing. It's an off-grid experience with no cell service, providing a true escape into nature. The campground is relatively uncrowded, allowing for a peaceful stay. For those interested in fishing, the reservoir offers good opportunities. Remember that facilities are basic, so come prepared with everything you'll need for your stay. Always check current conditions and regulations with Tonto National Forest before your trip.

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