Larry Forbis Day Use Group Site
Closed — Open for overnight group camping October 1 through March 31. Check-in is noon, check-out is 10:00 a.m. Reservations required and must be made at least 7 days in advance.
Fireworks, Explosives and Sparks Restrictions
To prevent fires and for public safety order 03-00-23-001 prohibits to 1) possess, discharge, or use any kind of firework or other pyrotechnic devices; 2) use explosives; or 3) operate an internal or external combustion engine without a spark arresting devic
Motor Vehicle Order Road Restrictions
The purpose of this Order is for the protection of public health and safety and prohibits:
Lower Salt River Area Temporary Emergency Equestrian Closure for Public Health & Safety
Click to view closure order for details.
Granite Reef Developed Recreation Site Public Health and Safety Closure Order
See order for details.
TERMINATION ORDER: Stage II Fire Restrictions and Emergency Recreational Shooting Order
There are no fire restrictions on the Tonto National Forest as of Sept. 5, 2025, 8 a.m.
Box Bar Seasonal Eagle Closure
December 1, 2024, at 12 p.m. and will remain in effect seasonally each year from December 1 through June 30, until June 30, 2026, at 12 p.m.
About
Tucked away amongst vibrant palo verde and iconic saguaro cactus on the banks of the Lower Salt River, Larry Forbis Group Site offers a peaceful setting for groups and large gatherings. The site is located on the south end of the Pebble Beach Recreation Area and provides access to one of Arizona's finest rivers. Three separate units are available for reservation, each containing two large ramadas, four picnic tables, four pedestal grills, three fire rings, and ten designated parking stalls. Groups can pitch tents on the sandy shoreline and awaken to beautiful views of the surrounding Sonoran Desert. The stark contrast between the nearby Bulldog Cliffs and the adjacent Lower Salt River creates a unique desert landscape. The area is spotted with saguaro and prickly pear cacti, wildflowers, and grasses which provide habitat for rattlesnakes, horned lizards, coyotes, and roadrunners. The riparian area supports large cottonwoods on the shore, while bass, trout, great blue herons, and barn owls call the river home. Mule deer and bighorn sheep frequently visit to quench their thirst. Popular activities include fishing in pools along the riverbank, photography, and day hikes. Saguaro Lake is approximately 5 miles northeast and offers boating, boat rentals, and additional fishing opportunities.
Directions
From Mesa, take Power Road northbound until it becomes Bush Highway, then follow Bush Highway for approximately 9 miles. After crossing the bridge, enter the Pebble Beach Recreation Site on the right. Follow the entry road south to the double-sided gate. Use the combo provided in your reservation to access the site and follow the road down to the parking spaces. From Highway 87, take the Bush Highway exit heading south and follow for approximately 7.5 miles, turning into Pebble Beach Recreation Site on the left just before the bridge.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | — |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $75 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (480) 610-3300 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | Yes |
Useful Links
| View on Recreation.gov |
Availability
Photos
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