Lower Tonto Creek
Closed due to bridge construction on Forest Road 289. The closure is in effect from March 9, 2026 through December 31, 2026. NFS Road 289 remains open with construction delays expected. Derrick Trailhead provides alternate trail access during the closure.
Flood Watch issued July 20 at 10:33PM MST until July 21 at 10:00PM MST by NWS Flagstaff AZ
* WHAT...Flash flooding caused by excessive rainfall continues to be possible. * WHERE...Portions of east central, north central, northeast, and west central Arizona, including the following areas, in east central Arizona, Northern Gila County. In north central Arizona, Black Mesa Area, Coconino Plateau, Eastern Mogollon Rim, Grand Canyon Country, Kaibab Plateau, Little Colorado River Valley in Coconino County, Marble and Glen Canyons, Northeast Plateaus and Mesas Hwy 264 Northward, Northeast Plateaus and Mesas South of Hwy 264 and Western Mogollon Rim. In northeast Arizona, Little Colorado River Valley in Apache County, Little Colorado River Valley in Navajo County and White Mountains. In west central Arizona, Yavapai County Mountains. * WHEN...From Tuesday morning through Tuesday evening. * IMPACTS...Flash flooding will be possible in creeks, normally dry washes, swimming holes, and over recently burned areas. Raging killer currents will be possible in side canyons and narrow slot canyons. Low-water crossings may be flooded. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - Deep monsoon moisture in place across northern Arizona will lead to storms capable of producing rainfall in excess of 2 inches per hour, resulting in an enhanced risk of flash flooding. - Additional information is available at weather.gov/flagstaff.
No Fire Restrictions
There are currently no fire restrictions on the Tonto National Forest.
About
Lower Tonto Creek Campground is tucked into the pine forests of the Mogollon Rim, 15 miles northeast of Payson along Highway 260. The campground offers 9 walk-in tent sites accessed via a paved sidewalk from a central parking area, with sites dotted along the path among tall pines near Tonto Creek. The confluence of Tonto and Horton Creeks at the north end of the adjacent Upper Tonto Creek Campground provides good fishing opportunities. The area serves as a gateway to several trails, including Horton Creek Trail 285 and Derrick Trail 33, both of which connect to the Highline National Recreation Trail. While the setting is scenic, campers should be aware that the campground is immediately adjacent to Highway 260 and experiences considerable traffic noise and light throughout the day and night. This is a first-come, first-served campground with no advance reservations. Payment is made on-site via QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app. Campers should download the app before arriving, as cellular service is limited in the area. Potable water is not available on-site; drinking water can be obtained at nearby campgrounds.
Directions
From Payson, travel 15 miles east on State Highway 260. Just east of mile marker 269 at Kohl's Ranch, turn left (north) on Forest Road 289.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | — |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | — |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | — |
| Price | $20 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (928) 474-7900 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | Yes |
Availability
Photos
Community Posts
No posts yet. Be the first to share your experience!