Larry Forbis Overnight Group Site
Open — Open for overnight camping October 1 through March 31. Check-in at 12:00 p.m. noon, check-out at 10:00 a.m. Reservations must be made online via Recreation.gov 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, the Larry Forbis Group Site offers a peaceful setting for groups and large gatherings. October through March, this site is open to campers looking to take advantage of a unique opportunity to enjoy one of Arizona's finest rivers under the stars. Campers can pitch a tent on the sandy shoreline and awaken to beautiful views of the surrounding Sonoran Desert. Water levels are usually lower in the river during the winter months, but fishing may be desirable in small pools along the riverbank. The site is located on the south end of the Pebble Beach Recreation Area and features three reservable units. Each unit contains two large ramadas, four picnic tables, four pedestal grills, three fire rings, and 10 designated parking stalls. All units share access to a tent camping loop trail and two vault toilets. The stark contrast between the nearby Bulldog Cliffs and the adjacent Lower Salt River create a unique desert landscape. Bass, trout, great blue heron, and barn owls call the river home, while mule deer and bighorn sheep visit frequently to quench their thirst.
Directions
From the city of Mesa, Arizona, gain access to Bush Highway via Power Road or Usery Pass Road and head east. Proceed until you reach the Pebble Beach Recreation Site. Turn right into the recreation site. The Larry Forbis entrance will be located straight ahead on the southern end of the parking lot.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | — |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | No |
| Water Hookups | No |
| Sewer Hookups | No |
| 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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