Fishing enthusiasts will find direct water access at this Forest Service campground situated along Bartlett Lake in the Tonto National Forest. The facility provides basic amenities including restrooms and permits alcohol, though pets are not allowed on the grounds.
Road access reaches the campground, making it drive-in accessible for standard vehicles. Site 11 and 12 offer the most desirable locations according to campers, though maintenance issues with litter and debris affect cleanliness at some spots. The location lacks cell service, creating an off-grid experience for visitors. Kayaking opportunities complement the fishing access on the lake waters. For additional camping options, explore campgrounds around Tonto National Forest throughout the broader forest system.
Description
Overview
Horseshoe Campground is farther up the road from Mesquite Campground. Offering more developed campground sites with picnic tables, fire pits and access to the Verde River at campsites 11 and 12. Gorgeous vistas of surrounding mountains and the Verde River are offered along the path for families to enjoy. Most campsites are less shaded than the favored 11 and 12 campsites, so please feel free to bring canopies and coolers to provide shade and stay hydrated during the day, but this campground does have some large mesquite trees providing shade. Bald eagles are frequently seen in this vicinity.____ This location is available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Visitors are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a site. Once on-site, you may be able to pay for your campsite(s) by scanning a QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app, and the Scan and Pay feature. If this option is available, you will need to first download the free Recreation.gov mobile app https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app prior to your arrival as some remote areas have limited or no cellular service. Camping passes can also be purchased at a Tonto Fee Machine Pass. $16 per site, per night. Nearest fee machine location is at the Cave Creek Ranger Station.
Recreation
Swimming Fishing Boating (Non-Motorized on the Verde River and a 25 horsepower motor limit on Horseshoe Reservoir.) Birding Photography OHV Routes
Facilities
Swimming Fishing Boating (Non-Motorized on the Verde River and a 25 horsepower motor limit on Horseshoe Reservoir.) Birding Photography OHV Routes
Natural Features
This campground provides some river access for activities like swimming and fishing and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Its proximity to Horseshoe Reservoir makes it a great basecamp for all your lake adventures!
Nearby Attractions
Horseshoe Lake, Horseshoe Dam, Mesquite Campground, Catfish Point Day Use Site__
contact_info
For facility specific information, please call (480) 595-3300.
Fee Info
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundHorseshoe Campground — Tonto National Forest is located in Arizona
Directions
This site is 23 miles northeast of Carefree. From Carefree, take Cave Creek Road turn right on Bartlett Dam Road and continue for 6 miles to the junction of FR 205 and FR 19. At this junction, FR 205 turns left and becomes an unmaintained unpaved road. Follow FR 205 for 10 miles towards Horseshoe Reservoir. At the junction of FR 205 and FR 205A, turn right and travel an additional __ mile to the site.__
Address
40202 N Cave Creek Rd
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
Coordinates
33.976938 N
111.716735 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Features
For Campers
- Toilets
- Alcohol
Drive Time
- 1 hr 26 min from Phoenix, AZ
- 2 hrs 12 min from Prescott Valley, AZ
- 2 hrs 55 min from Flagstaff, AZ
- 3 hrs 1 min from Tucson, AZ
