Upper Tonto Creek, near Payson, Arizona, is a charming spot for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. With its towering Ponderosa pines and proximity to Horton Creek, it’s a fantastic place to unwind and enjoy the great outdoors.

The campground has nine sites, each equipped with solid picnic tables and fire rings, perfect for roasting marshmallows and sharing stories. Visitors have praised the cleanliness of the facilities, including well-kept bathrooms, and the friendly camp host who’s always ready to lend a hand or share local tips.

For adventure seekers, the popular Horton Springs Trail starts right across from the campground, offering easy access to scenic hikes. Many campers have enjoyed fishing in the creek, which is stocked with trout, and the peaceful atmosphere during the week is a big hit. As one camper noted, “Relaxing days, chilly beautiful nights” make for a memorable experience.

Just a short drive away, the town of Payson has all the services you might need, including great dining options. Whether you’re here for a quick getaway or a longer stay, Upper Tonto Creek is a solid choice for a camping trip filled with nature and relaxation.

## Overview

 The Upper Tonto Creek Campground is tucked away from the main highway where the Tonto and Horton Creeks merge. Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Visitors are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a site. 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 will 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. You will need to first download the free Recreation.gov [mobile app][1] prior to your arrival as this area has limited or no cellular service. Campground map available [here][2] . 
## Recreation

 Families may enjoy fishing at both Tonto and Horton Creeks or pass time hiking through nearby Horton Creek Trail or Derrick Trail. Both of these trails access the Highline National Recreation Trail (#31). 
## Natural Features

 The union of Tonto and Horton Creeks is at the north end of the Upper Tonto Creek campground. Fishing in both creeks is a popular sport. 
## Contact Info

 This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (928) 474-7900. 

[1]: https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app
[2]: https://cdn.recreation.gov/public/2024/04/02/16/32/10215934_ba24f33b-3a52-4bb7-85a1-a4cb61e35329.pdf

Upper Tonto Creek — Tonto National Forest

Are you in need of a campground near Kohls Ranch, AZ? Kohls Ranch is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Discover great camping spots near Kohls Ranch, reviewed by campers like you.

Kohls Ranch

The Best Camping Near Kohls Ranch, Arizona

Camping nearby the Horton Creek made for a nice and easy trip. The area was secluded enough we were able to find a great spot to set up and let the dogs play without hassle. The hike up to the falls was worth the climb, not at all difficult and fairly shaded as their is a good amount of tree cover. We love this area and will be back again as soon as time will allow. 

Horton Creek Hike

Great campsites walking distance to Horton Creeek trail, has fire ring, table, and level tent area for easy set up. 9 campsites which are at first come basis. Camp Host was friendly and kept place outstanding! 

Tonto Creek

I camped with my friends, and this was a great site for us. It was clean, and very well situated near the trail. Though the ground was slightly uneven and parking our truck was a challenge, it was comfortable and well laid out. Furthermore, are camp host went above and beyond to help us feel welcomed.

Just the spot for us

Favorite place to camp.  No RVs allowed
Great campsites, bathrooms always cleaned. Great fishing and hiking. 

No RV!!!

Sometimes you come across a campground that makes you feel like you are 12 again, just hanging out with the family in the beautiful surroundings of the Arizona Rim Country, roasting marshmallows. The sites have these awesome, monolithic, USFS, stone, picnic tables next to a solid cooking campfire pit, which makes me think of my earliest road trip memories. 

  

With only 9 spaces, and just a few that could accommodate an RV of any size beyond our compact 15 feet, this is the ideal place to easily car-camp near highway access.  No electrical hook-ups but the bathrooms are clean and there is good water.  Bring your solar panel as there is plenty of sun among the pines!

  

The uber-popular Horton Springs Trail starts right across from campsite #1, and it can lead you up and onto the rim for adventures lasting an afternoon or a week. Many backpackers began or ended their adventures at the trail sign. 

  

While it was super busy on the weekend, the mid-week peace of this place was priceless. There are a few lesser-known trails just around the corner which offer privacy and similar experiences. The creek is stocked with trout for fly fishing enthusiast and the trails are also multi-use for mountain bikers as well. The fresh water is palatable and the pit-toilets are efficiently kept clean by the annual resident camp host Ken, an amiable guy who loves the area as much as his job. He’ll chat you up or get you some firewood, but don’t bother on Wednesdays or Thursdays which are his day’s off. 

  

The town of Payson is less than 20 minutes away and has all the services and restaurants you could want. We highly recommend going to the Alfonso’s Mexican take out– absolutely worth it.

Surrounded by Towering Ponderosa Pines

Really quiet and maintained campground. Occasional sounds off the freeway but not a big deal. 

Great campsite 

Yeah yeah, you might be too young for that movie about a robot that gains consciousness and saves the weirdo girl from The Breakfast Club. It’s just the phrase that matters: 

No. 5 is alive. 

Alive because this is a great little spot in the woods with easy access to Horton Creek. Camp host was charming and helpful. Relaxing days, chilly beautiful nights. 

No. 5 because that’s the spot we stayed at. If you can choose, pick 5, 6, 7, 8, or 9. Those are the good ones. 

No. 5 is Alive

Drove nearly 15 hours to this area and both the upper and lower Tonto Campgrounds said First come, first serve, but both were closed with no explanation or notice of any kind. 

Photos of Upper Tonto Creek — Tonto National Forest

Real photos from real campers