Best Camping near Tonto National Forest

Tonto National Forest is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Arizona camping has to offer. Find the best campgrounds near Tonto National Forest, AZ. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Best Camping Sites Near Tonto National Forest, AZ (239)

    Camper-submitted photo from Lost Dutchman State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lost Dutchman State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lost Dutchman State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lost Dutchman State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lost Dutchman State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lost Dutchman State Park Campground

    1. Lost Dutchman State Park Campground

    79 Reviews
    301 Photos
    548 Saves
    Superstition Mtn, Arizona

    The campground has 138 sites: 68 sites with electric (50/30/20 amp service) and water and the remainder non-hookup sites on paved roads for tents or RVs. Every site has a picnic table and a fire pit with an adjustable grill gate. There are no size restrictions on RVs. Well-mannered pets on leashes are welcome, but please pick after your pets. The office at Lost Dutchman is open until 7 p.m. for campsite check-in, but after hours (with campsite reservations) you can grab a map by the ranger station and head straight to your campsite! If you are staying multiple nights, check-in with the camp host, or a ranger to get a vehicle tag.

    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $25 - $89 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Usery Mountain Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Usery Mountain Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Usery Mountain Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Usery Mountain Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Usery Mountain Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Usery Mountain Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance
    Camper-submitted photo from Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance
    Camper-submitted photo from Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance
    Camper-submitted photo from Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance
    Camper-submitted photo from Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance
    Camper-submitted photo from Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance

    3. Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance

    25 Reviews
    63 Photos
    484 Saves
    Fort Mcdowell, Arizona

    NO CAMPING First 2 miles and 300 feet on either side of the road/trail VEHICLES MUST STAY ON DESIGNATED ROADS - but past those designated no camping zones, camping is allowed unless otherwise posted.

    This space is very large so it may be best to divide it by the access points. The point I'll be using is Access #3- Forest Road (FR) 10, south entrance: This access point is reached from Apache Junction. From Mesa: Travel 15 miles east on the Superstition Freeway (US 60) to the Idaho Street exit. Follow Idaho Street north 4½ miles to McKellips. Turn right on McKellips and travel ½ mile to the Wolverine Pass Road and turn left. Follow it for 7/8 mile and turn right on Tonto Road. Travel north on Tonto Road for ¼ mile to Cactus and turn left. Follow Cactus to McDowell Road and follow it to FR 10 gate.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Burnt Corral Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Burnt Corral Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Burnt Corral Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Burnt Corral Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Burnt Corral Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Burnt Corral Campground

    4. Burnt Corral Campground

    19 Reviews
    104 Photos
    402 Saves
    Roosevelt, Arizona

    Overview

    Burnt Corral Campground and Recreation Area (elevation 1914') is about 5.8 miles south of Roosevelt Dam along the Apache Trail (AZ Hwy 88) along the shoreline of Apache Lake. It is nestled amongst the saguaros, mesquites, and palo verdes, and offers opportunities to boat, swim, fish, relax, hike, and sightsee.

    Recreation

    Burnt Corral Campground offers something for almost everyone. Motorboating, fishing, water-skiing, and paddlesports are very popular because of the developed and undeveloped lake access from within the campground. Others may enjoy hiking nearby trails, being challenged by local jeep trails, or practicing their landscape photography, or simply relaxing with a good book.

    Natural Features

    Burnt Corral Campground is situated in what may be the most stunning Sonoran Desert landscape in Arizona. The contrast of sunshine, clear blue water, and saguaro's surrounded by the Four Peaks and Superstition Wilderness' is a magnificant sight to see. While shade is scarce in the desert, campsites are situated amongst mature mesquite and palo verde trees, and desert chaparral. Apache Lake is 17 miles long making it the longest in the chain of reservoirs on the lower Salt River below Roosevelt Dam.

    Nearby Attractions

    Roosevelt Dam, Apache Lake Marina, Tortilla Flats, Tonto National Monument (Cliff Dwellings), Roosevelt Lake, Apache Trail Scenic Byway (AZ Hwy 88), Spines to Pines Scenic Byway (AZ Hwy 288). The City of Globe and Town of Payson are only an hour away.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $40 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Tortilla Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Tortilla Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Tortilla Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Tortilla Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Tortilla Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Tortilla Campground

    5. Tortilla Campground

    16 Reviews
    90 Photos
    11 Saves
    Tortilla Flat, Arizona

    Overview

    Tortilla Campground is a winter campground just outside of the Phoenix metropolitan area. From October through April each year, urban dwellers take advantage of cooler temperatures and enjoy boating, fishing, hiking, rock climbing and scenic driving throughout the surrounding Tonto National Forest. Campers awake to a scenic backdrop of rugged bluffs, saguaro cactus and desert skies. The campground is located directly across from Tortilla Flat Restaruant and general store, which is just a short walk away.

    Recreation

    The area is rich with human history, scenery and outdoor recreation. The campground lies along the Canyon Lake Apache Trail Scenic Byway, a former Apache Tribal route turned stagecoach road. Visitors may hear stories of lost cowboys and gold mining. The drive to the campground provides ample scenery and a vista point perfect for photography and wildlife viewing. The campground is just down the road from Canyon Lake which provides a number of recreational opportunites such as kayaking, fishing, and boating. The Superstition Wilderness has a well-developed trail system, and the western end of the wilderness receives heavy use during the cooler times of the year. Use caution as trail conditions can be fair or poor, and several are unsuitable for horses. Also make sure to check out many of the developed recreation sites along Canyon lake for shoreline and fishing dock access, but keep in mind these sites require a day pass not included in the camping fees.

    Natural Features

    The Superstition Wilderness Area is starkly beautiful and untamed. A series of dams has created numerous lakes along the Salt River. Blossoming plants bring the desert to life each spring with vibrant wildflowers. This area is a photographers dream with plenty of opportunities to capture Bighorn Sheep, Deer, and other desert widlife. The area can be harsh for travelers not equipped to meet nature on her own terms. Soaring temperatures and little water are typical conditions in the summer. In winter, temperatures are typically pleasant during the day but drop significantly at night. Visitors should come prepared for anything, even the occasional rain or snow.

    Nearby Attractions

    Fish Creek Vista Point is approx. 7 miles east on AZ-88, this area provides great views of the desert and an accessible interpretive trail great for learning about the history of the area.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from McDowell Mountain Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from McDowell Mountain Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from McDowell Mountain Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from McDowell Mountain Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from McDowell Mountain Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from McDowell Mountain Regional Park

    6. McDowell Mountain Regional Park

    20 Reviews
    43 Photos
    211 Saves
    Rio Verde, Arizona

    Set in the northeast Valley of metro Phoenix, McDowell Mountain Regional Park covers 21,099 acres in the lower Verde River basin. Campers choose from 76 individual sites for tent or RV camping, which can accommodate up to a 45-foot RV. These developed sites have water and electrical hook-ups, plus a dump station, picnic table, and barbecue fire ring, while all restrooms offer flush toilets and showers. Group camping is also available.

    McDowell Mountain activities range from biking, hiking, and horseback riding on over 50 miles of multi-use trails to picnicking, stargazing, and plenty of park-organized programs and events.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $32 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Canyon Lake Marina & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Canyon Lake Marina & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Canyon Lake Marina & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Canyon Lake Marina & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Canyon Lake Marina & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Canyon Lake Marina & Campground

    7. Canyon Lake Marina & Campground

    15 Reviews
    33 Photos
    162 Saves
    Tortilla Flat, Arizona

    Commerical Site, Please call for information, Tel: (480)288-9233, Paved Boat Launch

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from Roosevelt Lake - Cholla Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Roosevelt Lake - Cholla Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Roosevelt Lake - Cholla Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Roosevelt Lake - Cholla Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Roosevelt Lake - Cholla Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Roosevelt Lake - Cholla Campground

    8. Roosevelt Lake - Cholla Campground

    11 Reviews
    15 Photos
    48 Saves
    Roosevelt, Arizona

    Overview

    Cholla Campground at Roosevelt Lake, is one of several campgrounds on the shores of the largest lake/reservoir located entirely in the State of Arizona. It is situated within a lush sonoran desert landscape at an elevation of 2168'. Cholla Campground is also the largest solar powered campground in the United States. Each of its 206 campsites have shade ramadas, firepits, grills, and picnic tables. Playgrounds, showers and toilet facilites are scattered throughout the campground. The area around Cholla Campground is often alive with abundant wildlife such as mule deer, coyotes, geese, fox, javalina, and the occasional bald eagle.

    Recreation

    Recreation opportunities abound at Cholla Campground. Launch your bass boat, ski boat, or pontoon boat from the developed boat ramps within the recreation site and play on the water all day long. If motorsports aren't your thing, there's an abundance of places to explore from your kayak, canoe, or paddleboard. While you're visiting, you can also hike a portion of the Arizona Trail, visit the Tonto National Monument cliff dwellings, explore endless miles of jeep trails or drive a portion of the Apache Trail or Spines to Pines Highway. If if you're looking for a day in town, consider the easy 45 minute drive Globe or Payson where you can shop for antiques, buy ice cream and learn about Arizona's rich mining and timber history. Roosevelt Lake is a landscape photograhers dream so don't forget your camera (and sunscreen).

    Facilities

    Recreation opportunities abound at Cholla Campground. Launch your bass boat, ski boat, or pontoon boat from the developed boat ramps within the recreation site and play on the water all day long. If motorsports aren't your thing, there's an abundance of places to explore from your kayak, canoe, or paddleboard. While you're visiting, you can also hike a portion of the Arizona Trail, visit the Tonto National Monument cliff dwellings, explore endless miles of jeep trails or drive a portion of the Apache Trail or Spines to Pines Highway. If if you're looking for a day in town, consider the easy 45 minute drive Globe or Payson where you can shop for antiques, buy ice cream and learn about Arizona's rich mining and timber history. Roosevelt Lake is a landscape photograhers dream so don't forget your camera (and sunscreen).

    Natural Features

    Roosevelt Lake was dedicated by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1911 and boasts 112 miles of shoreline and peaceful coves. When full, the lake provides 21,500 acres of surface water for your recreating pleasure. Cholla Campground is situated within a Sonoran Desert Landscape along the lakes shorelines. Views of the blue water and sunsets against the Sierra Ancha, Salome, and Superstition Wilderness' are a sight that keep many visitors coming back year after year.____

    Nearby Attractions

    Two National Scenic Byways (AZ Hwy 88 Apache Trail and AZ Hwy 288 Spines to Pines Highway). Roosevelt Dam, Tonto National Monument, the Arizona Trail, endless miles of jeep trails, Towns of Payson and Globe, Superstition, Sierra Ancha, and Four Peaks Wilderness'. Don't forget to stop by the Tonto Basin Environmental Center learn about the history of the area.__

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $50 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Mesa-Apache Junction KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Mesa-Apache Junction KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Mesa-Apache Junction KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Mesa-Apache Junction KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Mesa-Apache Junction KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Mesa-Apache Junction KOA

    9. Mesa-Apache Junction KOA

    12 Reviews
    21 Photos
    47 Saves
    Apache Junction, Arizona
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Bartlett Flat
    Camper-submitted photo from Bartlett Flat
    Camper-submitted photo from Bartlett Flat
    Camper-submitted photo from Bartlett Flat
    Camper-submitted photo from Bartlett Flat
    Camper-submitted photo from Bartlett Flat

    10. Bartlett Flat

    15 Reviews
    61 Photos
    253 Saves
    Rio Verde, Arizona

    Bartlett Flat Bartlett Reservoir and the Arizona Upland phase of the Sonoran Desert. This site offers beautiful vistas of the surrounding mountains. Bartlett Flat has primitive boat launch opportunities for small boats. River Access Point (RAP) for Verde River. There are no designated campsites at this shoreline area but camping along the shore is allowed. High water levels will limit the amount of available shoreline in this area.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
Showing results 1-10 of 239 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Tonto National Forest

Recent Reviews in Tonto National Forest

716 Reviews of 239 Tonto National Forest Campgrounds


  • Roman R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Burnt Corral Campground
    Nov. 18, 2024

    Burnt Corral Campground

    Great convenience with fishing

    Stayed a long weekend with the family and had great time. Fishing within walking distance. Bathrooms are clean and a water spiket/faucet available.

  • Joseph P.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lamplighter Mobile Park
    Nov. 4, 2024

    Lamplighter Mobile Park

    Mobile trash park

    This is to Mike the owner,

      Just wanted to let you know that you are a poor excuse for a human being. We were going to move anyway, but you pushed it ahead, so now my disabled wife and I are in the desert. Thanks.

  • Joseph P.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lamplighter Mobile Park
    Nov. 4, 2024

    Lamplighter Mobile Park

    Trailer park in Apache Junction AZ.

    Business as usual at The lamplighter they specialize in stealing your home throwing you in the street the new manager is an outright liar she lies in open court their concern is themselves and nothing else places infested with rats cockroaches dopers to the family to help start the neighborhood watch we evicted so there's no neighborhood watch anymore but there's lots of dopers I've witnessed the manager the new manager coming out of a dope house in her own risk and you owner Mike pure trash and what can you meet that award-winning staff he has there you have a manager that sleeps with residents numerous residents I believe her last name is basua

  • Enzo M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - West Entrance
    Nov. 4, 2024

    Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - West Entrance

    Bulldog Canyon (all entrances) is an OHV Sport area first, Camp spot second

    Thanks to the efforts of the environaz- mentality of the last 40 years there are horribly few true sanctioned OHV areas for folks to legally use and enjoy offroad Motorsports, neither FREE or PAID.   So OHV owners have nearly zero options.   Bulldog Canyon is one those tiny few chances for those OHVers.    Campers need to be cognizant of this and respect the OHV'er, not demand OHV'ers respect THEM!    If you are looking for a pure silent CAMPground, and are of the "get off my lawn" and or "man/woman shouts at clouds" type, look elsewhere.  There are PLENTY of options for such inflexible campers to demand adherence to THEIR level of enjoyment.    Bulldog isn't free, OHVers pay for the unlimited access - when allowed that access - to trails WITHOUT time/day/hour exceptions.   So if you're a camper, bring some earplugs if the sounds of all-hours OHVers is disturbing to you.   Bulldog Canyon is a fantastic area for those campers who enjoy the OHV.   I no longer can use an OHV but I enjoy seeing these younger generations doing what mine and earlier gens once took for granted nearly everywhere unrestricted.     Highly recommend Bdog Canyon for the fun-lovers and young-at-hearts.   For the HOA-loving types, sincerely consider elsewhere for your benefit and those of others.

  • Lisa M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lost Dutchman State Park Campground
    Oct. 31, 2024

    Lost Dutchman State Park Campground

    Amazing view and great hikes

    We only got to stay here one night, but it is very beautiful. At the base of the Superstition mountains, which are awesome. Out of the city, so nice and quiet. All the sites are paved and fairly level. There are many sites that have pull through, electric, and water. The showers were good. Many hiking trails in the area. Would love to stay here a little longer.

  • Lea
    Camper-submitted photo from Pinnacle Farms South
    Oct. 20, 2024

    Pinnacle Farms South

    Fantastic place to relax and listen to the birds.

    Friendly host, clean facilities, Nice comfy spot for a tent. I enjoyed my stay very much.

  • Becca C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lost Dutchman State Park Campground
    Sep. 29, 2024

    Lost Dutchman State Park Campground

    SUPERStition Views

    This State Park campground located in the Superstition Mountains is a frequent quick camp spot for me if I don feel like trying to beat the crowds to some favorite local dispersed sites.

    They offer sites with electric and water, and sites for dry camping, along with some cabins and group sites you can reserve. The sites offer as much privacy as one can expect in the desert and are not super close together, except for the site numbers 70+ which are only available in winter typically. There are plenty of hiking trails and activities in the park and nearby. The bathrooms and showers are clean and well maintained, and they even have a small dog “park” for your best pal to run off some energy.

    Favorite things about the park: The views and the wild life. We have seen so many beautiful birds, from quail and owls to roadrunners and vultures, along with several different types of squirrels, lizards, hare, and coyotes.

  • Patricia N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lost Dutchman State Park Campground
    Sep. 24, 2024

    Lost Dutchman State Park Campground

    Spectacular views

    If traveling near Phoenix you should make this state campground a number one option.

    The towering superstition mountain range is a beautiful site and while we were there we were able to watch a hiker who was rescued. This hiker was not injured, just afraid to come back down the trail. Guess going up is easier than coming down.

    The site we had had power and water. The showers in the restrooms were not great but something is better than nothing.

  • eThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Peralta Canyon / Gold Canyon Dispersed Camping - PERMANENTLY CLOSED
    Sep. 22, 2024

    Peralta Canyon / Gold Canyon Dispersed Camping - PERMANENTLY CLOSED

    Dispersed camping not allowed currently

    September 21, 2024: We’ve dispersed camped here many times in last three years, took a trip out there today and every dispersed access point is plowed up with very deep trenches not allowing vehicles or rigs to access. Sad affair with squatters taking advantage and leaving trash, there was not a soul in sight. Maybe they’ll reopen it later when it cools down.

  • Ryan D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Pioneer Pass Campground
    Sep. 2, 2024

    Pioneer Pass Campground

    Great place for a quiet night amongst the pines while you explore the Pinal Mountains

    The campground is nestled in a secluded canyon amongst the Ponderosa Pines and next to an intermittent mountain stream. The views on the drive up from Globe to the campground at 5,900 feet are gorgeous.

    The campground and bathrooms were clean. Some of the sites are a little close together, but others are nicely separated.

    Each site has a nice fire pit with a grill gate and a concrete picnic table.

  • E
    Camper-submitted photo from Encore Countryside
    Aug. 13, 2024

    Encore Countryside

    Avoid

    Poorly managed with arbitrary fees charged. Park is not a "resort", it's just an old rundown trailer park with a lot of very old park models.New management is awful.

  • k
    Camper-submitted photo from Desert Sands RV Park
    Jul. 18, 2024

    Desert Sands RV Park

    חשפניות בבאר שבע

    https://erotic-show.com/

    רקדניותחשפנותבתלאביב:ביןבידורלביקורתחברתיתתלאביב,המוכרתבכינוי"העירשלאנרדמת",מציעהמגווןרחבשלבידורלילי,אשרביניהםנמנותגםמועדוניחשפנות.התעשייההזו,אףעלפישנתפסתלעיתיםקרובותכחלקבלתינפרדמהבידורהמבוגרים,מעוררתגםויכוחיםעזיםוביקורתחברתית.מועדוניהחשפנותבתלאביבמציעיםשללהופעותומופעיםאשרמגווניםבהתאםלדרישותהקהל.המבקריםבמועדוניםאלומחפשיםבידורוהתרגשות,אךמאחוריהקלעיםעומדותסיפוריםשלרקדניותאשרלאתמידמרוצותמהמצבהנוכחי.המרחבהחברתיוהתרבותיבופועלתתעשייתהחשפנותבתלאביבמורכב.מחד,ישנםקולותהטועניםכיהתעשייהמאפשרתביטויעצמיואוטונומיהלנשיםהמופיעותבה.מאידך,קולותביקורתייםמדגישיםאתהצדדיםהפחותמועדפיםשלהעניין,כגוןהתייחסותמזלזלתואובייקטיביזציהשלהאישה.המאבקיםהמשפטייםוהחברתייםסביבנושאזהרביםומגוונים.בשניםהאחרונות,נערכוקרבותבבתיהמשפטעלשאלותשלזכויותוחופשעבודהמולהצורךלהגןעלכבודהאדםולמנועהפליהושימושלרעה.עדיין,קהלהמבקריםוהתומכיםבמועדוניםאלוממשיךלהיותרחבומגוון.עלרקעזה,עולההשאלהעלהתפקידשלהמדינהוהחברהבפיקוחובקביעתמדיניותבתחוםזה.האםישלחזקאתהפיקוחעלמועדוניהחשפנותלשםשמירהעלכבודהרקדניותוהקהלהרחב,אושמאישלאפשרחופשפעולהרחביותרתוךכדישמירהעלהזכויותהפרטיותוהעסקיותשלבעליהמועדונים?הוויכוחסביבתעשייתהחשפנותבתלאביבממחישאתהמתחביןחירותלביןזכויותאדם,ומדגיםאתהאתגריםהעכשווייםשלהחברההישראליתבטיפולבשאלותשלמוסר,תרבותוכלכלה.זהודיוןשמשקףגםאתהצורךלהתמודדעםתופעותחברתיותנוספות,כגוןשוויוןמגדריוהתמודדותעםדימוייגוףומיניות.בסופושלדבר,הדיוןעלרקדניותחשפנותבתלאביבמציעהזדמנותלחשובמחדשעלהדרכיםבהןחברהיכולהלקדםתרבותרחבהיותרשלכבוד,הוגנותושוויון,תוךכדישמירהעלעקרונותשלחופשפרטיוביטויעצמי.

  • John G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Stardust trailer park
    Jun. 23, 2024

    Stardust trailer park

    Fantastic unique place

    Stardust Trailer Park in Cave Creek, Arizona, is a hidden gem worth raving about! This park offers a unique and charming experience for those looking to enjoy the beauty of Arizona while feeling right at home. The park's serene surroundings and friendly atmosphere make it a perfect spot for relaxation and adventure. Whether you're looking to unwind in nature or explore the nearby attractions, Stardust Trailer Park has something for everyone. I highly recommend checking it out for a memorable stay in Cave Creek!

  • Jim A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lost Dutchman State Park Campground
    Jun. 13, 2024

    Lost Dutchman State Park Campground

    Great place to Stay

    Fairly close to our home (30 miles) but we love to do 1-2 nighters here when we have the time.  There is plenty to see around the area.  Park is well maintained.  Spots are close but not too close to each other.  Its a little elevated so the valley views are great.  Gets a little warm during the summer - after all it is AZ.  Theres an old Gold Mine nearby to visit.

  • Jim A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Saguaro Cove
    Jun. 13, 2024

    Saguaro Cove

    Remote Camping

    Takes a little 4 wheeling to get there or you can access it from the water.  Basic dispersed camping but gets a little warm during the summer months.  Views are nice and its a nice pack it in, pack it out spot.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Canyon Lake Marina & Campground
    Jun. 3, 2024

    Canyon Lake Marina & Campground

    Fun lake, weekends exceptionally busy

    Been staying here off and on for over a decade. Great place to hang out with the family. Water hookup and electrical hookup. No sewer. They have a truck that will come pump your tank for a small fee. You can launch your boat and then bring to the campsite and tie off for easy access. Lots of parking available. You have to pay for extra vehicles. Dolly the Steamboat is available to ride around the lake and ticket purchase is at the marina. There is also a restaurant and bar at the marina. The campground has a mix of available sites. Day use also. Large grassy area for kids to play. Drive in can seem daunting if you haven’t experienced it before. Not bad, however. Hauled a 32’ 5th wheel with no problems at all.

  • Rachel W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Sulphide Del Rey Campground
    May. 28, 2024

    Sulphide Del Rey Campground

    Good if you're prepared

    Beautiful campground on a hill surrounded by pines. Gets completely silent at night assuming other campers behave. Perfectly dark except for stars between the trees and your fire. Please be careful with fires, keep them small, because there's already clear fire damage all around the area. Stayed 2 nights on Memorial day weekend. There were three groups that just came for a picnic then left, which surprised me considering the miles of washboard dirt road to get there. Our Honda CRV handled the road ok, I've seen worse roads that I would not drive. Do pack everything you need, don't plan to drive back into town if you can help it. Do not drive your ATV up and down the hill especially after quiet hours. I will say there is very little parking and a couple sites have very little flat ground for tents. One group did seem to have a couple large tents in the sites at the top of the hill, and ours at the entrance was good but we slept in our car.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Picket Post
    May. 22, 2024

    Picket Post

    Quick Night

    Good place to pull off in a pinch for free. You do hear road noise. Close to Arizona Trail, where it crosses 60 so you can hike both directions if you decide to, or take the trail up to the top of the mountain. Very beautiful area

  • Patrick C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Box Bar Road Dispersed
    May. 1, 2024

    Box Bar Road Dispersed

    Fun spot

    This is a great spot and easy to get to. Lots of shaded areas. You can camp next to your car , wich there might be campers running generators, or you can hike towards the river and set up camp to get away from that. Close to the river with several walk in spots to play in.

  • Camden S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Stardust trailer park
    Apr. 30, 2024

    Stardust trailer park

    Fabulous and fun

    My wife and I had the time of our life staying at stardust trailer park. It is located really close to 2 fun biker bars, we stayed for a month and just happened to be there during bike week. The energy and vibes were immaculate. Property is well kept with clean bathrooms and a friendly manager.

  • Jacquelyn I.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Box Bar Road Dispersed
    Apr. 27, 2024

    Box Bar Road Dispersed

    Easy Drive In

    We don’t have an offroad car, so it is always nice when the gravel road is well managed. No heart aches getting in and finding an open area to camp. I was pleasently surprised at the many little nooks of privacy that you could set up camp. Outhouses are well maintained. Bring your own water though and you do need to pay ahead of time, there are no pay boxes on site.



Guide to Tonto National Forest

Camping near Tonto National Forest, Arizona, offers a mix of stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're into hiking, biking, or just soaking up the beauty of nature, there’s something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Lost Dutchman State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "Loved staying at Lost Dutchman. We are full time in our RV, stayed for a full week and had access to the bathrooms, showers, dump & fill stations." The park has trails for all skill levels, making it a great spot for everyone.
  • Mountain Biking: If you’re into biking, check out Usery Mountain Regional Park. A visitor shared, "There are mountain bike trails connected to this campground that were very fun! Definitely a great basecamp for MTB and hiking."
  • Water Activities: For those who love the water, Canyon Lake Marina & Campground is perfect. One reviewer said, "You can launch your boat and then bring it to the campsite and tie off for easy access."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the views at McDowell Mountain Regional Park. A happy camper noted, "Gorgeous views, very spaced out sites, and access to great mountain biking and hiking trails."
  • Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A visitor at Burnt Corral Campground mentioned, "There is access to the bathroom, which were clean and trash, which didn’t smell."
  • Spacious Campsites: Campers enjoy the spaciousness at Tortilla Campground. One reviewer said, "Sites are close together without much privacy but they are spacious."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping, have few amenities. A camper warned, "CLOSED TO CAMPING," indicating that it’s essential to check ahead before heading out.
  • Cell Service: Be prepared for limited cell service in areas like Peralta Canyon. One camper noted, "I got occasional T-Mobile service but mostly no cell service for anyone."
  • Road Conditions: If you're driving to Bartlett Flat, be aware of the road conditions. A visitor mentioned, "If you want to be more secluded keep following the shoreline NW, however the more you travel the more ground clearance you’ll need."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: At Mesa-Apache Junction KOA, families can enjoy a mix of amenities. One parent said, "The campground has a mix of available sites. Day use also. Large grassy area for kids to play."
  • Safety First: When camping at Usery Mountain Regional Park, keep an eye on kids near the trails. A camper noted, "The people are mostly quiet, and to themselves."
  • Plan for Meals: Make sure to bring enough food and snacks. A visitor at Burnt Corral Campground mentioned, "There’s no grocery store nearby, so plan ahead."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookups: If you’re staying at Lost Dutchman State Park Campground, be aware that sewer hookups are not available. A camper pointed out, "The park offers spacious campsites with convenient power and water hookups."
  • Quiet Hours: Respect quiet hours at campgrounds like Canyon Lake Marina & Campground. One reviewer said, "A lot of kids especially ill-behaved little demons running around like they are entitled to the place."
  • Plan for Crowds: Popular spots can get busy, especially on weekends. A visitor at McDowell Mountain Regional Park noted, "The overflow area where we had to spend a couple of nights has a very nice bathroom and shower."

Camping near Tonto National Forest, Arizona, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors. Just remember to plan ahead and be prepared for the unique experiences each campground offers!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Tonto National Forest?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Tonto National Forest offers a wide range of camping options, with 239 campgrounds and RV parks near Tonto National Forest and 58 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Tonto National Forest?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Tonto National Forest is Lost Dutchman State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 79 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Tonto National Forest?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 58 free dispersed camping spots near Tonto National Forest.

  • What parks are near Tonto National Forest?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 9 parks near Tonto National Forest that allow camping, notably Coconino National Forest Recreation and Prescott National Forest.