RV parks near Tonto Basin, Arizona sit at elevations ranging from 2,200 to 4,900 feet, offering varied climate conditions throughout the year. The Tonto National Forest surrounds much of the area, with desert landscapes transitioning to pine forests at higher elevations. Winter temperatures typically remain mild at lower elevations, making it popular with seasonal visitors seeking warmth during colder months.
What to do
Hiking accessible trails: Several trails near Payson RV parks accommodate different skill levels. "We didn't really stay long enough (1 week) to get into activities but we joined the many bike riders in the park. You can get a few miles in just going up and down the streets inside the gates," noted a visitor at Encore Mesa Spirit.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The area surrounding Tonto Basin provides habitat for diverse wildlife. "We saw wild horses, woodpeckers, and heard the distant coyotes carrying on," reported a camper at Eagle View RV Resort at Fort Mcdowell.
Water activities: Roosevelt Lake offers fishing, boating and swimming options for RVers. "Awesome views friendly staff," commented a guest at Roosevelt Lake Motel & RV Park, which maintains year-round access to the lake.
What campers like
Community amenities: Many parks feature organized activities for longer-term stays. "This 55+ community is very well organized," mentioned one visitor at Encore Mesa Spirit. Another camper at Valle Del Oro RV Resort added, "This community has so many organized activities for residents. They have almost everything you would need on site. Everything for activities, concerts, games and shows."
Clean facilities: Campers frequently comment on well-maintained amenities. "The amenities are very nice. Large laundry $3/load. Central courtyard with gas grills, a pool and hot tub. DVDs to borrow are available in the office as well as jigsaw puzzles, and books," noted a visitor at Eagle View RV Resort.
Friendly atmosphere: The social aspect of these parks appeals to many campers. At Oxbow Estates RV Park, one reviewer appreciated that "Both the staff and other campers were very helpful," while another mentioned that the "Office is helpful and usually brings your mail to you each day."
What you should know
Site specifications: Many Tonto Basin area RV parks have concrete pads with specific layouts. At Monte Vista RV Resort, a reviewer in a 40-foot fifth wheel noted: "All the sites are back-in but all have concrete parking pads and patio. Gravel surrounds each campsite and we have noticed maintenance crews raking the gravel every other day."
Reservation timing: Advance planning is essential, especially during peak seasons. At Oxbow Estates RV Park, one camper mentioned, "Called up to see if there was availability and Nora the manager was super kind and assisted me in getting a fantastic campsite," but noted this was for a "fairly short notice shakedown trip."
Age restrictions: Several parks in the region cater specifically to older adults. "This 55+ community has so many organized activities for residents," noted a camper at Valle Del Oro RV Resort, while another described Golden Sun RV Resort as "Not fancy, resort roads & parking are tight, many lifers here."
Tips for camping with families
Pool availability: Several parks offer swimming options for children. At Payson Campground & RV Resort, a visitor mentioned, "We decided to stay here since we have young kids and thought having a pool and showers available would be great. Well the pool was great but the showers were lack luster at best."
Noise considerations: Proximity to roads can affect the camping experience. One Payson Campground visitor noted, "Also you can hear the noise from the main road that runs right next to the campground. I had read reviews that said you couldn't. Well we could... all night long."
Playground options: Limited recreational facilities exist for children. A visitor at Payson Campground & RV Resort cautioned: "My kids enjoy staying here but be warned that 'resort' should be taken lightly. There is a 'playground' which consists of a metal swing set, uncovered and a small basketball court."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Finding the right spot requires planning or direct inspection. "We have a view of the tribal land. Other sites have valley views and are more preferable," noted a camper at Eagle View RV Resort, while another at Payson Campground advised, "If you are spot picky (want more of a personal space feel) you will need to get recommendations or visit it to mark your spots."
Connectivity information: Cell service varies by location and carrier. At Encore Mesa Spirit, one visitor complained, "Internet is crap, you have to spend $100 to get decent service. I guess if you are a longer term resident that makes sense."
Navigating tight spaces: Many RV parks near Tonto Basin have challenging layouts. "The park was nice and tidy," mentioned a visitor at Eagle View RV Resort, while another at Oxbow Estates noted, "Sites are very level, decent amount of room and very clean. It's all gravel, a bit dusty, but setback well off the highway."
