Kohls Ranch camping areas provide elevated pine forest settings 15-20 minutes east of Payson at approximately 5,500 feet elevation. Summer temperatures typically range 20-25 degrees cooler than Phoenix, with July monsoon storms creating afternoon rainfall patterns. Dispersed camping options remain accessible throughout most of the year except during winter snow events when forest roads become impassable.
What to do
Hiking Horton Creek Trail: Located directly across from Upper Tonto Creek Campground, this popular route offers accessible terrain for day hikes. "Great campsites walking distance to Horton Creeek trail, has fire ring, table, and level tent area for easy set up," notes Liza C. The trail provides a moderate climbing experience through shaded terrain.
Fishing at nearby lakes: Aspen Campground provides access to productive fishing waters. "The trout fishing here is top notch. The lake is stocked during the summer almost everyweek but the hold overs in the spring can get pretty huge!" shares Shaun S. Anglers should obtain Arizona fishing licenses before arrival.
Exploring the Mogollon Rim: The area features extensive forest service roads offering scenic drives and viewpoints. "Deep on the 300rd you'll find campsites that haven't been used in years. We found the perfect on right on the cliff of the mogollon rim," reports Bill F. from Aspen Campground. The rim drops approximately 2,000 feet and stretches over 200 miles across Arizona.
What campers like
Moderate summer temperatures: The higher elevation provides significant relief from valley heat. "Always a great place to stay in the summer. Usually about 25 degrees cooler in then Phoenix. Close to lakes and creeks along with hiking trails," explains "Z-Man" about Aspen Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The forest setting offers chances to see local fauna. "Elk wander through the campgrounds in early mornings and evenings. Beautiful place," writes Sharon F. Local animals frequently visit water sources during dawn and dusk hours.
Well-maintained facilities: Ponderosa Campground receives positive feedback for upkeep. "Campground is very clean, with drinking water and well maintained toilets/trash facilities. The camp hosts are very diligent about quiet hours so you can rest assured that the nights will be peaceful," notes Penny A. Many campgrounds feature vault toilets that receive regular maintenance.
What you should know
Bear activity requires precautions: Food storage becomes critical for safety. "There is a lot of bear activity in the area due to the creek so have to be careful and no leave anything out," warns Penny A. about Christopher Creek Campground. Most established campgrounds provide bear boxes at sites.
Weather patterns change quickly: Summer brings predictable afternoon storms. "It rained and stormed each day. There were running streams all around, but no mud. Beautiful forest, lots of hiking or strolling paths," shares Bev M. after staying at Ponderosa Campground. Campers should pack rain gear even during dry forecasts.
Water sources fluctuate seasonally: Creek levels depend on recent rainfall. "The creek was dry while we were here, due to a dry summer, but there's a little waterfall behind the sites during rainier weather," explains Susanne C. about Sharp Creek Campground. Water availability affects both recreation and practical needs.
Tips for camping with families
Look for educational opportunities: Natural surroundings provide learning experiences. "I have been coming here since i was a kid, my parents made sure we come here every year in the summer to enjoy cooler Arizona weather. Now the tradition lives on while my siblings and i bring our families and kids to build new memories. The best part is catching crawdads with our home made fishing poles," shares Jennifer A. about Christopher Creek.
Choose campgrounds with amenities: Facilities matter for comfortable family stays. "Clean, well maintained. Helpful camphosts. Very large sites and lots of first come first served as well as reservable spaces," notes Sharon F. about Aspen Campground. Many established sites include picnic tables and fire rings.
Consider spacing between sites: Some locations offer more privacy than others. "I've been to this area a lot of times as a kid and decided to take my kid up here. It still a great area. Its quiet and very clean. The bathrooms are cleaned daily and are very nice," reports Matt M. about his experience at Aspen Campground.
Tips from RVers
Check specific vehicle restrictions: Little Green Valley has access limitations. "Roads are a bit bumpy, and they have some shallow water crossings. RVs and campers can make it in with relative ease," advises Jessalyn C. Many forest roads require high clearance during wet conditions.
Dumping facilities location: "No hookups they have places to fill water and to dump. Restrooms and showers nice a clean," notes Norman C. about Houston Mesa campground. Most camping areas charge fees for dumping services, typically $7-10 per use.
Cell service considerations: Coverage varies significantly. "Only improvement I can think of it to lay down better paths to walk around the campsite. People generally tend to walk through your site and most of the ground was sand/dirt. Would have been nice to have more grass or greenery," mentions Penny A. about Christopher Creek. RVers requiring connectivity should research coverage maps before arrival.
