Top Tent Camping near Tonto National Forest

Are you planning a tent camping trip to Tonto National Forest? We've got you covered. Finding a place to camp in Arizona with your tent has never been easier. Whether you're looking for a quiet, dispersed site or an established camgpround with amenities, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect place to pitch your tent.

Best Tent Sites Near Tonto National Forest, AZ (26)

    Camper-submitted photo from Hackamore Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Hackamore Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Hackamore Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Hackamore Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Hackamore Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Hackamore Road Dispersed

    1.

    Hackamore Road Dispersed

    10 Reviews
    8 Photos
    72 Saves
    Apache Junction, Arizona

    Camping on public lands away from developed recreation facilities is referred to as dispersed camping. Most of the remainder of public lands are open to dispersed camping, as long as it does not conflict with other authorized uses or in areas posted "closed to camping," or in some way adversely affects wildlife species or natural resources.

    Dispersed camping is allowed on public land for a period not to exceed 14 days within a 28 consecutive day period. The 28 day period begins when a camper initially occupies a specific location on public lands. The 14 day limit may be reached either through a number of separate visits or through 14 days of continuous overnight occupation during the 28 day period. After the 14th day of occupation, the camper must move outside of a 25 mile radius of the previous location until the 29th day since the initial occupation. The purpose of this special rule is to prevent damage to sensitive resources caused by continual use of any particular areas. In addition, campers must not leave any personal property unattended for more than 10 days (12 months in Alaska).

    Campsite Selection Dispersed camp sites are located along most secondary roads and may not be marked. Popular locations can be recognized by the telltale flat disturbed area that has been used as a camp site before. Not all flat spots are sites. If possible, please use existing sites to avoid creating new disturbances. To further protect your public lands, campers must not dispose of any refuse, hazardous materials, sewage, or in any manner pollute the surrounding area.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from McDowell Regional Park-Ironwood
    Camper-submitted photo from McDowell Regional Park-Ironwood
    Camper-submitted photo from McDowell Regional Park-Ironwood
    Camper-submitted photo from McDowell Regional Park-Ironwood
    Camper-submitted photo from McDowell Regional Park-Ironwood
    Camper-submitted photo from McDowell Regional Park-Ironwood

    3.

    McDowell Regional Park-Ironwood

    4 Reviews
    8 Photos
    20 Saves
    Rio Verde, Arizona
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from The Point Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from The Point Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from The Point Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from The Point Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from The Point Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from The Point Campground

    4.

    The Point Campground

    1 Review
    7 Photos
    126 Saves
    Tortilla Flat, Arizona

    Boat access only.

    The Point is located in the Mesa Ranger District and is mostly known for boat access only camping on Canyon Lake. There are only three designated camp units at this site, but the camp units can also be used as picnic sites for day use. Boaters enjoy The Point during summer months along with fishermen because of the courtesy dock. No garbage collection. Pack it in, Pack it out.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Picnic Table
    • Toilets
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Needle Rock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Needle Rock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Needle Rock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Needle Rock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Needle Rock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Needle Rock Campground

    6.

    Needle Rock Campground

    1 Review
    8 Photos
    15 Saves
    Rio Verde, Arizona

    The beach on the Verde River is generally rocky, but attracts many people during the hot summer months. The area is noted for its unusual rock formations. Nearby is a protected riparian area, the Mesquite Bosque. This popular water recreation area attracts many people trying to escape the Arizona summer heat. The rocky beach area is surrounded by beautiful towering rock formations. Near the recreation site is a fenced unique biological area, a stand of mesquite. Bald Eagles and Great Blue Herons are frequently seen in this vicinity.

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Equestrian
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Diversion Dam
    Camper-submitted photo from Diversion Dam
    Camper-submitted photo from Diversion Dam
    Camper-submitted photo from Diversion Dam
    Camper-submitted photo from Diversion Dam
    Camper-submitted photo from Diversion Dam

    7.

    Diversion Dam

    1 Review
    10 Photos
    7 Saves
    Roosevelt, Arizona
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Trash
    • Picnic Table
    • Drinking Water
    • Toilets
    • No image available

      8.

      Tonto National Forest Rattlesnake Cove

      1 Review
      8 Saves
      Rio Verde, Arizona

      Rattlesnake Cove provides direct access to Bartlett Reservoir. Rattlesnake Cove has a sloping beach suitable for use in many water recreation activities. This area boasts of beautiful vistas of the desert with mountains in the background. The beach at Rattlesnake Cove is generally gently sloping with gradual change in water depths. Enjoy this primitive area with your friends and family by bringing your own grill and gear.

      • Tents
      Camper-submitted photo from Sulphide Del Rey Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Sulphide Del Rey Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Sulphide Del Rey Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Sulphide Del Rey Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Sulphide Del Rey Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Sulphide Del Rey Campground

      10.

      Sulphide Del Rey Campground

      2 Reviews
      14 Photos
      29 Saves
      Globe, Arizona
      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Tents
      • Standard (Tent/RV)
      • Picnic Table
      • Toilets
    Showing results 1-10 of 26 campgrounds

    Recent Tent Reviews In Tonto National Forest

    519 Reviews of 26 Tonto National Forest Campgrounds


    • Camper-submitted photo from Pioneer Pass Campground
      September 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.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Desert Sands RV Park
      July 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.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Lost Dutchman State Park Campground
      June 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.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Saguaro Cove
      June 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.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Canyon Lake Marina & Campground
      June 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.

    • 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.

    • 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

    • Camper-submitted photo from Jones Water Campground
      April 23, 2024

      Jones Water Campground

      Overgrown

      Stayed here a night in early April 2024. There were a lot of positive things about this place. Both vault toilets were very clean. The sites that weren’t overgrown with brush had cement tables and fire rings. The roads were narrow and easily managed in my Forester however much of the road, and camp sites, were covered in brush and overgrown trees. I could only locate about 4 sites that weren’t overgrown. The campsite is off of the highway so there is some road noise. Around 7:30 AM someone stopped by a nearby unoccupied site and started cutting wood for about an hour, and then they left. Overall not a bad place for an escape from the heat not far from Globe.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Goldfield Ghost Town Dry Camping
      April 23, 2024

      Goldfield Ghost Town Dry Camping

      Camping for one night

      Camping for one night and it was 30$. Very clean restrooms and showers!

      We were almost only campers there and lots of spots available. Closest campgounds were full or expensive.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Windy Hill Campground
      March 21, 2024

      Windy Hill Campground

      Very pretty, kinda cramped

      Gorgeous location and more spaced out than other campgrounds in the area (we stayed at the first loop). Be aware that if you have Verizon you may have bars but no LTE and that access and senior passes don’t work for double sites - also the host made rude remarks to other campers about my partner and I not being seniors because her access pass (she’s very visibly disabled) showed automatically as “senior” when we paid. Bathrooms are clean but bring your own soap!

    • Camper-submitted photo from Canyon Lake Marina & Campground
      March 13, 2024

      Canyon Lake Marina & Campground

      Not worth it

      Came with my girlfriend's friend for her b-day. She specifically chose this spot for the Porta-potties and the flushable toilets. The porta-potties were full when we arrived on a Saturday and even after numerous complaints/inquiries they were never emptied even after being told they were supposed to be cleaned on Sunday. As well as the flushable toilets clogged one night so for one night there was no where to go to the bathroom at a campground that is a public area where you can't just pop a squat in the bushes. As well as if you don't want to be around kids, this is NOT the place for you. A lot of kids especially ill-behaved little demons running around like they are entitled to the place. Also at 66-ish dollars a night it is very expensive considering that you may have no amenities they offer to you in the first place.

    • Camper-submitted photo from McDowell Regional Park-Ironwood
      March 12, 2024

      McDowell Regional Park-Ironwood

      McDowell Regional Park EI Rowland RV campground

      We stayed in site 27 which was close to the kids playground.  We only stayed for 1 night .  Lots of bikers at this location.  We did do a short 3 mile hike and it was very nice on the Granite and then Wagner trail.  Other than the camp host who was a complete jerk ( we arrived 5 minutes before 1 pm and the guy at the front gate said nothing about not driving in before 1 pm - there was a sign but seriously 5 minutes early is an issue, you would have thought I kicked his dog the way he acted )?  A beautiful night and wished we had stayed a few more days.    I think some of the best sites here are on the Pemberton loop  64,65,66, 68, 70.  Unobstructive views but all sites pretty well spaced out and well kept bathrooms and showers.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Lost Dutchman State Park Campground
      February 29, 2024

      Lost Dutchman State Park Campground

      Lost Dutchman State Park: Desert Playground for the Adventurous Soul!

      Lost Dutchman State Park isn't just a campground, it's an adventure paradise! I'm giving it a flawless 5-star rating because it truly blew me away. Here's why: 

      Off-Roading Nirvana: Dust off your UTVs(side-by-sides) and get ready for a blast! The washboard washes (river beds) offer thrilling rides for off-road enthusiasts, with stunning desert landscapes as your backdrop.️ 

      Hikers' Haven: Lace up your boots and conquer one of the park's diverse hiking trails. From challenging climbs to scenic strolls, there's a path for every level and every desire. 

      Feast for the Eyes: Prepare to be awestruck by the breathtaking scenery. Jagged mountain peaks pierce the azure sky, while the vast desert stretches out before you, creating a postcard-perfect landscape. 

      History Comes Alive: Immerse yourself in the legendary lore of the Lost Dutchman's Gold Mine. Uncover the park's rich history and explore the stories that have captivated adventurers for centuries. 

      Camper's Dream: The park offers spacious campsites with convenient power and water hookups, making it a comfortable home base for your desert exploration.(Note: sewer hookups are not available.) 

      A Final Note: While you're busy conquering the trails and soaking up the scenery, keep in mind that cell service can be limited in certain areas. This might just be the perfect opportunity to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature! Lost Dutchman State Park is an unforgettable experience for anyone seeking adventure, breathtaking views, and a touch of history. I can't wait to get back and explore more of this desert gem!

    • Camper-submitted photo from Houston Mesa Campground
      February 29, 2024

      Houston Mesa Campground

      Close to town, SxS trails, and swimming holes.

      We've camped at Houston Mesa Campground several times and consistently have a fantastic experience. Here's why we give it 5 stars: 

      Amazing Staff: The camp hosts are incredibly friendly and helpful, adding to the welcoming atmosphere. 

      Spacious Sites: We love the ample space at each campsite, allowing us to park comfortably and spread out for a relaxing stay. Our kids adore playing in the dirt and exploring the trees. 

      Nature's Playground: The campground's proximity to swimming holes, hiking trails, and the charming town of Payson provides endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. Serene Setting: The abundance of trees creates a peaceful and shady environment, perfect for escaping the Arizona sun. 

      Clean Facilities: The bathrooms are well-maintained and clean, ensuring a comfortable stay. 

      Dry Camping Friendly: We appreciate the ability to dry camp at Houston Mesa, making it a budget-friendly option. 

      Heads Up: While Verizon service isn't optimal, it's manageable. Additionally, campsites near the freeway can experience some road noise. However, the convenience of having Home Depot and Walmart nearby outweighs these minor drawbacks. Overall, Houston Mesa Campground is a fantastic choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a comfortable and scenic camping experience. We highly recommend it and will definitely be back soon!

    • Camper-submitted photo from Roosevelt Lake Overlook
      February 28, 2024

      Roosevelt Lake Overlook

      Previous reviews inaccurate

      Stunning views and worth the drive but NOT on the water or paved all the way up. The last 10 miles is a very windy road and the last mile is on a very rough forest road, high clearance required! There are some spots along 288 if you're rig won't make it the last mile.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Frazier Group Camp - Tonto National Forest
      February 17, 2024

      Frazier Group Camp - Tonto National Forest

      Great spot in the Arizona “winter”

      Group campground that is reasonably priced and can accommodate big groups. Has pit toilets and potable water access, ramadas, grills and campfire location. Good for campers and tent camping

    • Camper-submitted photo from Lost Dutchman State Park Campground
      February 16, 2024

      Lost Dutchman State Park Campground

      Beautiful, convenient campground!

      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. We dry camped with no hookups but were able to use our generator at certain hours of the day. Great AT&T service through our Insty to get internet for work. Mostly loved the copious amounts of trails to walk, hike and run on. Even did a bike ride up the Apache trail to Boulder lake. Such a beautiful location.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Usery Mountain Regional Park
      January 25, 2024

      Usery Mountain Regional Park

      Spacious with great trails nearby

      Stayed here during a 200 mile bikepacking trip around this area in late December. There are mountain bike trails connected to this campground that were very fun! Definitely a great basecamp for mtb and hiking.

      We were the only tent campers but it was nice to use the electric outlets to charge our devices. Overall a quiet campground but there is a shooting range nearby, so just a heads up!

    • Camper-submitted photo from Cave Creek Regional Park
      January 19, 2024

      Cave Creek Regional Park

      Clean, quiet, views, friendly, trails.

      Spent two nights in January. Facilities were clean round the clock, shower water was hot, staff friendly , and hiking trails directly from the campground.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Apache Trail North Camp
      January 9, 2024

      Apache Trail North Camp

      Superstition Dispersed

      There’s a hill north of this spot that we camped on. Some power lines in the way, but generally a great view. Not intense off reading or anything, but not suitable for trailers. Very exposed area so be ready for wind.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Hackamore Road Dispersed
      January 6, 2024

      Hackamore Road Dispersed

      Love / Hate

      I have a love/hate relationship with this place. It’s got great views of the mountains, TONS of awesome trails to walk/ride love the access to the little ghost town nearby. The road in is just terrible & it’s very dirty (mostly on the main road) though, and people can be very noisy with their vehicles but that’s not too bad.

      Overall I love camping here. We were here for a week last year, came back as our first spot on the trip this year and it was awesome again.



    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

    • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Tonto National Forest?

      According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Tonto National Forest is Hackamore Road Dispersed with a 2.9-star rating from 10 reviews.

    • What is the best site to find tent camping near Tonto National Forest?

      TheDyrt.com has all 26 tent camping locations near Tonto National Forest, with real photos and reviews from campers.