Sharp Creek
Open for the season through October. Stage 1 fire restrictions are currently in effect with very high fire danger. Nineteen sites are reservable via Recreation.gov; nine sites are first-come, first-served. No firewood sales on site. Payment at the digital fee machine accepts card only.
Flood Watch issued July 20 at 12:38PM MST until July 21 at 10:00PM MST by NWS Flagstaff AZ
* WHAT...Flash flooding caused by excessive rainfall is 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
Sharp Creek Campground offers a forested retreat at 6,000 feet elevation in the Tonto National Forest, nestled beneath the dramatic Mogollon Rim. The campground is surrounded by ponderosa pines and provides welcome relief from southern Arizona's desert heat. Located 23 miles northeast of Payson and 1.5 miles east of Christopher Creek, the area serves as an excellent basecamp for exploring the high country. The campground has 28 family campsites spread across three loops, with a mix of back-in and pull-through sites suitable for tents and RVs. Each site includes a picnic table, fire ring, grill, and lantern holder. Three group sites can each accommodate up to 75 people and feature dedicated vault restrooms and paved parking. Potable water is available from hand pumps in each loop. ADA-accessible sites with hardened surfaces are available. Recreation options abound. Christopher Creek offers trout fishing less than a mile away. The historic Highline National Recreation Trail runs 51 miles along the base of the Mogollon Rim, accessible from the 260 Trailhead about 3 miles east. Woods Canyon and Willow Springs Lakes are a 10-minute drive above the rim for additional fishing and boating.
Directions
From Payson, take Highway 260 east for 23 miles. The campground is on the south side of Highway 260, approximately 1.5 miles east of Christopher Creek.
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $29 - $150 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | — |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (928) 474-7900 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | Yes |
Availability
Photos
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