Tonto National Forest

Larry Forbis Overnight Group Site

Closed

Closed for the season. The campground operates only from October 1 through March 31 for overnight camping. Reservations can be made starting 6 months in advance through Recreation.gov, with a minimum 7-day advance booking requirement.

Air Quality Alert issued June 30 at 9:12AM MST by NWS Phoenix AZ

9:12 AM — July 1st, 9:00 PM

AQAPSR The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) has issued an Ozone High Pollution Advisory for the Phoenix Metro Area today and Wednesday. This means that forecast weather conditions combined with existing ozone levels are expected to result in local maximum 8-hour ozone concentrations that pose a health risk. Adverse health effects increase as air quality deteriorates. Ozone is an air contaminant which can cause breathing difficulties for children, older adults, as well as persons with respiratory problems. A decrease in physical activity is recommended. You are urged to car pool, telecommute or use mass transit. The use of gasoline-powered equipment should be reduced or done late in the day. For details on this High Pollution Advisory, visit the ADEQ internet site at www.azdeq.gov/forecast/phoenix or call 602-771-2300.

Tonto National Forest

Stage II Fire Restrictions and Emergency Recreational Shooting Order

Tonto National Forest implements Stage II Fire Restrictions and Emergency Recreational Shooting Order, beginning June 30, 2026 at 8 a.m.

Tonto National Forest

Sycamore Fire Emergency Closure Order

Closure order due to the Sycamore Fire.

About

Nestled on the banks of the Lower Salt River, Larry Forbis Overnight Group Site provides an excellent option for large gatherings in the Sonoran Desert. The campground features three independent units (A, B, and C), each equipped with two large ramadas, four picnic tables, four pedestal grills, three fire rings, and 10 designated parking spaces. Shared vault toilets serve all three units. The site operates seasonally from October 1 through March 31, when cooler temperatures make desert camping comfortable. During the winter months, the river typically runs lower, but fishing opportunities exist in pools along the riverbank. Groups exceeding 75 people require a separate Special Use Authorization from the Mesa Ranger Station. Campers should note that no potable water is available on site and trash must be packed out or disposed of at dumpsters located at nearby Pebble Beach Recreation Site. Reservations must be made at least 7 days in advance through Recreation.gov and can be booked up to 6 months ahead.

Directions

From the city of Mesa, Arizona, take Power Rd. or Usery Pass Rd. to Bush Highway and head east to Pebble Beach Recreation Site.

Amenities

Water No
Fires Allowed Yes
Toilets Yes
Dump Station
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

Availability

Photos

Tonto National Forest
Larry Forbis Group Site- Tonto National Forest
Tonto National Forest
Larry Forbis Group Site- Tonto National Forest
Larry Forbis Group Site- Tonto National Forest
Tonto National Forest
Larry Forbis Group Site- Tonto National Forest
Tonto National Forest

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