Mesquite
The campground is currently closed for the summer season. Low-elevation desert campgrounds in this area typically close from mid-May through September or October due to extreme heat. Stage 1 fire restrictions are in effect across Tonto National Forest.
Air Quality Alert issued June 30 at 9:12AM MST by NWS Phoenix AZ
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.
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.
About
Mesquite Campground offers a secluded desert camping experience along the Verde River in Tonto National Forest, approximately 22 miles northeast of Carefree, Arizona. The campground features 12 designated sites shaded by large mesquite trees, each equipped with a fire ring, grill, and picnic table. The Verde River is a short walk away, providing opportunities for swimming, fishing, and non-motorized boating. This is a primitive, first-come, first-served campground with vault toilets but no potable water or trash service. Campers must bring all water and pack out all trash. The access road (FR 205) is unpaved and unmaintained, making high-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicles strongly recommended. The campground is not suitable for trailers or RVs. Nearby attractions include Horseshoe Reservoir and the towns of Carefree and Cave Creek. Payment of $16 per night can be made via the Recreation.gov mobile app using Scan and Pay, or at the Digital Fee Machine located at the Cave Creek Ranger Station.
Directions
From Carefree, take Cave Creek Road to Bartlett Dam Road. Turn right and continue for 6 miles to the junction of FR 205 and FR 19. Continue on FR 205 which turns left and becomes an unmaintained, unpaved road to Horseshoe Reservoir. Continue approximately 9 miles more on FR 205, following the route to Horseshoe Reservoir. Watch for the sign marking the campground.
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 | $16 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (480) 595-3300 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | Yes |
Useful Links
| View on Recreation.gov | |
| Tonto National Forest Alerts |
Availability
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