4 campgrounds with availability next weekend
Houston Mesa Campground features spacious horse sites with two large corrals per site, accommodating trailers of various sizes. Each equestrian campsite includes a fire pit and picnic table, with water locations distributed throughout the grounds. The campground provides easy access to trails, though some riders note the terrain can be somewhat rocky. Bathroom facilities are clean and well-maintained, with pay showers available at the main non-horse campground across the street. The campground remains consistently clean and well-cared for, with helpful and friendly staff enhancing the overall experience.
Frazier Horse Campground in Tonto National Forest and Round Valley Remuda offer additional options for equestrians in the Tonto Basin area. Round Valley Remuda provides electric hookups, water, and a dump station for RVs, along with horse stalls for rent. Trail access varies by location, with some campgrounds connecting directly to riding paths while others require short drives to trailheads. Most horse-friendly sites in the region accommodate large trailers and provide adequate space for equine guests. The Payson area offers particularly good access to trails and swimming holes, making Houston Mesa a popular base for riders exploring the region. Seasonal considerations affect camping experiences, with some facilities closing during winter months.
"It kind of poked off the main loop away from other neighbors which is why we picked it, very close to the mtb trail and easy access to the trail leading to siphon draw. Very little shade."
"One of my favorite trails in Arizona."
Available next weekend
from $35 - $99 / night
"If you want to be more secluded keep following the shore line NW, however the more you travel the more ground clearance you’ll need so bring a vehicle with a little off road abilities of you want to be"
"Winter and spring, lake levels are low, which provides access to Camp near the water. I was able to find a relatively flat spot for my 38' fifth wheel."
"We wanted to get close to the water but that was not what we ended up doing. We had to drive to take our kayaks to the water. There was an old cost ramp there but is was completely unusable."
"A water spigot was nearby with great water. We were fortunate to have inherited a host named Larry who was there for a few months because Covid prevented him from traveling to Europe. "
Available next weekend
from $25 - $50 / night
"All paved driving and campsite parking except equestrian area no hookups they have places to fill water and to dump. Restrooms and showers nice a clean."
"Each horse site has two large corrals, a fire pit, and picnic table. There is water locations around the campground as well as bathrooms."
Available next weekend
from $22 - $170 / night
"Outstanding layout, great hosts, spectacular location. "
"Campsite 6 is the first one on the right, across from the Camp Host site, and as close to the entrance has you’re gonna get."
"It IS a pretty nice though with tons of hiking/biking and I think equestrian trails."
"Gorgeous views, very spaced out sites, and access to great mountain biking and hiking trails. Even the overflow area where we had to spend a couple of nights has a very nice bathroom and shower."
from $32 / night
"There’s plenty of wildlife, from wild horses, roadrunners and even skunks and cows. The birds sing nicely if you don’t mind an early morning wake call."
"Box Bar shoreline is located right on the verde fiver. The parking/camping is about two minutes walking distance from the river. We didn’t camp, just came down for the day."
"And to see the view was just a 20 foot walk. Also we were right by a trailhead so we did have passerby’s but no worries. There is a host that comes around so that feel safe and welcoming."
"The second time we came up we managed to grab a spot on the rim side of the road, spot #30, around noon."
"The woods were awesome and very little noise besides cars driving along the road. Thr road was a very easy drive. Only downside is the campsite was very close to the road."
"This is just a dirt road off of the highway."
"Round Valley Remuda has Electric, water and a Dump Station so you can enjoy your time on this beautiful farm, they even have a horse stall for rent if you want to bring the horses. "
from $45 / night
ScoutFYI- This is not a free dispersed campground as noted on the maps link. It’s a county run campground with a fee. It IS a pretty nice though with tons of hiking/biking and I think equestrian trails.
LegendGreat hiking. Decent size campsites.
GuideI only gave it a 2 Because of the App! This app says showers, None! Electric, Non-Existent! Several Water Hydrants scattered throughout the grounds. $29 a night, I've done A lot better, & it's off season. Trying to get all the Great Folks $$$ Heading to Quartzsite before they do an off-season price. 🤔 maybe I got grumpy cause I can't take a Big boy Stand Up Shower tonight 😏! In general it is a nice campground. Now hopefully they do have a dump station 👀 EDIT ‼️ IF I COULD RATE IT NEGATIVE I WOULD ‼️ @ 515AM WHEN NATURE CALLED I WALK TO THE BATHROOMS THERE LOCKED ‼️‼️‼️‼️ $29.00 A NIGHT FOR WHAT ❓❓❓❓ & I FOUND OUT LAST NIGHT THAT THE SHOWERS HAVE BEEN CLOSED SINCE COVID‼️ UPDATE YOUR APP‼️ CAUSE IT'S TURNING OUT TO BE REAL DIRT‼️
TravelerNice size camp sites. Beautiful scenery. Showers.
GuideGood spot. Seems well taken care of. Not many people here although its a Sunday night. Saw a spot with a sign that said camp here so thats where I stayed LOL
GuideI stayed here while traveling from Yellowstone NP to my home in Florida. I love the desert as long as it isn’t summer. While it was still warm here it wasn’t wilting heat. And the view is Superstitious Mountains was fantastic.
TravelerThis place is an absolute treasure!!!
There’s plenty of wildlife, from wild horses, roadrunners and even skunks and cows. The birds sing nicely if you don’t mind an early morning wake call.
The river runs well enough to float down stream on a tub. Some people bring paddle boards and cruise that way. Some people pull up a chair and sit by the banks. There’s a few places where you can swing from a rope and jump in the water. Warning though some areas are shallow so jump with caution.
The porta-potty’s are surprisingly well maintained. There’s a few large dumps so no reason to not pick up after ourselves.
It stays consistently busy with people coming and going throughout the day and a few camping the night.
Overall, it’s a great getaway for anyone in the valley.
GuideThere is some recent fire damage - looks like controlled burn in area with logging going on in back side of hill but the pull through and camp area with views of valley are gorgeous! please do not build fire rings under trees or right along the cliff edge. The wind rushes up the mountain cliff and the fire danger of both these rings is absurd. Use stoves or portable fire pits since burn bans are almost always on and don’t be stupid starting fires under trees or on cliff face with rushing wind.
Other than that, enjoy these absolutely breathtaking views and cool mountain breezes blowing up the mountains! Please again, don’t build fire rings under trees in the pine mats or along the extremely windy uplift currents of the ridge face.
i have 2 bars of ATT service and starlink worked well pointing north.
None of the marked springs were flowing and all creeks were dry so be sure to bring all your water you may need. There is a cute “potato lake” 2 miles away but it’s more of a mud hole and wildlife tank and not good for water. I hope they get some monsoon rains here soon to recharge the water sources!
ScoutSemi private, wooded campsite, paved pad, little hiking trails, bathrooms close, but showers never open. Loved the site we stayed at.
Equestrian camping near Tonto Basin, Arizona offers riders access to miles of desert and forest trails within Tonto National Forest. Located at elevations ranging from 2,300 to 7,900 feet, the region experiences mild winters and hot summers, with temperatures frequently exceeding 100°F during summer months. The terrain consists primarily of rocky paths through mesquite bosques and pine forests, requiring riders to prepare for varied conditions.
Swimming holes exploration: The Payson area has several natural swimming spots accessible from Houston Mesa Campground. "Our favorite day use river spot is 15 minutes away. A+++," notes Will W., making it a perfect summer activity when temperatures rise.
Mountain biking: Trails around McDowell Mountain Regional Park offer excellent biking opportunities for various skill levels. "Miles of mountain biking trails which were spectacular. We've ridden lots of places and this is definitely one of my favorite. Trails are not technically difficult but a great workout and so pretty," shares Mike M.
Hiking to ancient ruins: "2 miles East on Houston Mesa rd. Away you can drive to shofly Indian ruins," suggests csey R. The region contains numerous archaeological sites including cliff dwellings at Tonto National Monument, providing historical context to your horseback adventures.
Kayaking: Verde River access points like Box Bar Shoreline provide calm water sections. "There is a small dam that holds the water in just enough for a calm small lake to appear. There is also quicker waters that can be kayaked or floated on," explains Ashley C.
Trail accessibility: "Great location that is close to excellent hiking and riding. Also close to a unique drive out to Canyon Lake! For the very fit cyclist you can ride from this location out this lake," notes Brad B. about Lost Dutchman State Park Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk provide opportunities to observe desert wildlife. "Heard some coyotes in the night, which was exciting. Enjoyed hiking the trails and exploring the landscape," reports Rebecca G., highlighting the natural encounters available.
Campsite spacing: Riders appreciate room for their equipment. "Sites are well maintained and the visitor center is worth a look. Wonderful hiking trails around the park," comments Christine S. about Usery Mountain Regional Park, which offers spacious camping areas.
Scenic diversity: "The campground's proximity to swimming holes, hiking trails, and the charming town of Payson provides endless opportunities for exploration and adventure," shares Brad | Britany B., describing the varied landscapes accessible from base camps.
Water availability varies: During dry seasons, some creeks and swimming areas may be reduced or inaccessible. "The ramp on the end of Windy Hill was closed due to low water," notes Dennis K., highlighting the need to check conditions before planning water activities.
Weather preparedness: "It's named windy hill for a reason. Stake everything by down well and don't leave shade pop up tents up while you're out, they might be gone to the wind when you get back," warns Candy P. about camping conditions at certain locations.
Primitive camping options: Little Green Valley offers dispersed sites for more experienced equestrians. "This is just a dirt road off of the highway... if you keep following the road back, there is campsites all the way along it and it gets very peaceful and quiet," explains Aidan M.
Reservation requirements: "Suggest you make reservations well ahead for busy winter months!" advises Debbie W., as winter attracts seasonal visitors and popular equestrian sites fill quickly.
Choose shaded sites: "The abundance of trees creates a peaceful and shady environment, perfect for escaping the Arizona sun," notes Brad | Britany B., emphasizing the importance of shade when camping with children in hot weather.
Consider noise levels: "Camped here with my family. The scenery was beautiful, but didn't love the fact that people were blaring their music here until 2AM in the morning," reports Brandon M., suggesting midweek visits for quieter family experiences.
Pack extra water: Desert conditions demand additional hydration for both humans and horses. "The temperature that day was over 100 degrees," mentions Ashley C., highlighting the necessity of proper water supplies.
Look for kid-friendly water features: "Many kids were putting in and going around the bend, getting back out, and doing it over and over again! The water is cool and refreshing in the Arizona sun," observes Ashley C. about areas where children can safely enjoy water play.
Site selection considerations: "Carefully review the site you select to be sure it will accommodate your rig. Roads are narrow and there are unforgiving drop offs on the sides," advises Terri D. about navigating larger vehicles at certain campgrounds.
Dump station availability: "There seem to be one super secret place to dump your trailer water, grey & black. While you can dump there for free; you cannot find it without a treasure map," warns Alejandro D., suggesting researching facilities before arrival.
Utility access: "The utilities are easy to find and use, but only have water and electric. Both 30 and 50 amp available!" explains Larry G., noting the limitations at some horse-friendly campgrounds that don't offer full hookups.
Generator restrictions: Some campgrounds limit generator use to preserve the natural experience. "Despite the area's abundance of sunshine, making it perfect to run your camping rig on solar, this place takes the prize for the most generator impacted site," comments Shari G., suggesting solar alternatives where possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Tonto Basin, AZ?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Tonto Basin, AZ is Lost Dutchman State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 96 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Tonto Basin, AZ?
TheDyrt.com has all 27 equestrian camping locations near Tonto Basin, AZ, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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