Arizona / Maricopa County / Tonto National Forest

Tortilla Campground

Closed — Closed for facility maintenance repairs to the plumbing system. The closure is in effect from October 1, 2025 through March 31, 2026. The campground typically operates as a winter campground from October through March.

About

Tortilla Campground is a winter campground situated in the Tonto National Forest, just outside the Phoenix metropolitan area. From October through March each year, urban dwellers escape to enjoy cooler temperatures and the stunning Sonoran Desert landscape. Campers wake to views of rugged bluffs, towering saguaro cactus, and expansive desert skies. The campground is located directly across the historic Apache Trail from Tortilla Flat, Arizona, which features a general store and restaurant within walking distance. The area is rich with human history and outdoor recreation opportunities. The campground lies along the Canyon Lake Apache Trail Scenic Byway, a former Apache tribal route turned stagecoach road, where visitors may hear stories of lost cowboys and gold mining. The scenic drive to the campground provides ample photography opportunities and wildlife viewing. Just down the road, Canyon Lake offers kayaking, fishing, and boating. The Superstition Wilderness features a well-developed trail system that receives heavy use during cooler months, though trail conditions vary and some are unsuitable for horses. The Superstition Wilderness Area surrounding the campground is starkly beautiful and untamed. A series of dams has created numerous lakes along the Salt River. Each spring, blossoming plants bring the desert to life with vibrant wildflowers. Wildlife photographers can capture images of bighorn sheep, deer, and other desert animals. Winter temperatures are typically pleasant during the day but drop significantly at night. The campground offers flush toilets and drinking water from faucets.

Directions

From Mesa, Arizona, take U.S. Highway 60 to the Idaho Road exit. Go north to State Route 88 (Apache Trail) and turn right. Continue for 18 miles on Route 88 to Tortilla Flat (the campground is two miles past Canyon Lake). Tortilla Campground is directly across from Tortilla Flat, on the left side of the road. The entire route is paved, narrow and has sharp curves; traffic can be heavy.

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