Riverside Campground
Currently closed due to post-fire recovery. The closure has been extended multiple times following the Riverside, Horse, Wildcat, and Boulder View wildfires. The closure order (03-12-01-25-28) remains in effect for public safety due to flash flood risk and to allow natural resource recovery. No confirmed reopening date has been announced.
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
Riverside Campground offers a more tranquil camping experience compared to the busier recreation sites at Bartlett Lake. Located along the Verde River below the dam, the campground provides excellent river access for fishing and non-motorized boating. The natural setting features ample shade from trees and the calming sounds of the flowing river, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and wildlife watching. The campground has 12 primitive sites, each with a designated fire ring, grill, and picnic table. Vault toilets are available, but there is no potable water, so campers must bring their own water supply. Sites accommodate a maximum of 10 people and 3 vehicles, with a strict 16-foot limit on trailers. No motorboats are allowed, and glass containers are prohibited. Access requires traveling on FR 19, a maintained gravel road for the final 3 miles. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations accepted. Fees are $16 per night, with a 50% discount for Senior or Access pass holders. Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM, during which generators are prohibited.
Directions
From Carefree, head east on Cave Creek Road for 7 miles. Turn right onto Bartlett Dam Road and continue for 13 miles. Just before reaching the Jojoba Boating site, FR 19 becomes a maintained gravel road that turns south (right). Follow FR 19 for another 3 miles to reach Riverside Campground.
Location
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 | $16 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | 16ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | Yes |
Availability
Photos
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