Upper Tonto Creek
Closed through December 31, 2026 due to Tonto Creek bridge construction. When open, the campground operates May through October on a first-come, first-served basis at $20 per night. Payment via Recreation.gov Scan and Pay app required.
Fireworks, Explosives and Sparks Restrictions
To prevent fires and for public safety order 03-00-23-001 prohibits to 1) possess, discharge, or use any kind of firework or other pyrotechnic devices; 2) use explosives; or 3) operate an internal or external combustion engine without a spark arresting device in effective working order.
Motor Vehicle Order Road Restrictions
The purpose of this Order is for the protection of public health and safety and prohibits: Using any type of vehicle that does not comply with an applicable state law.Using a road for commercial hauling without a permit or written authorization.Operating a vehicle in violation of speed, load,…
Mesquite Campground Post Fire Recovery Closure for Public Health & Safety
Mesquite Campground closed due to post fire recovery.
Roosevelt Lake, Cottonwood Cove Area Closure for Public Health and Safety
Cottonwood Cove in Roosevelt Lake closed. Picnic site still open.
Stage 1 Fire Restrictions and Emergency Recreational Shooting Order
Stage 1 Fires Restrictions and Emergency Recreational Shooting Order effective May 15, 2026 at 8 a.m.
Vehicle Restrictions in Fossil Creek Wild & Scenic River Permit Area
Motor vehicles are prohibited in the Fossil Creek Wild and Scenic River area.
Upper & Lower Tonto Creek Campgrounds and Horton Creek Trailhead Parking Area Temp. Closure Order
Due to the construction of a new Tonto Creek bridge Upper and Lower Creek Campgrounds are closed until construction is completed. Additionally, Horton Creek Trailhead parking area is closed until construction is completed. An alternate route to Horton Creek Trail will be available from Derrick…
Pinto Valley Mine Blasting Area Closure - Extension for Public Health & Safety
Due to blasting in the Pinto Valley Mine area on the Globe Ranger District areas near the mine are closed for public safety.
Box Bar Seasonal Eagle Closure
December 1, 2024, at 12 p.m. and will remain in effect seasonally each year from December 1 through June 30, until June 30, 2026, at 12 p.m.
Fossil Creek Non-Permit Seasonal Camping, Fire and Glass Prohibition (October 2- March 31)
Details below.
Fossil Creek Prohibitions and FR 708 Closure During Permit Season (April 1–October 1)
Please refer to the Coconino National Forest website for information regarding the closure of Forest Road (FR) 708, parking restrictions, and prohibitions on glass containers, camping, and campfires at the Fossil Creek Wild & Scenic River during permit season from April 1-October 1. The four-mile…
About
Upper Tonto Creek Campground is a small, intimate campground tucked away from Highway 260 at the confluence of Tonto and Horton Creeks. The 6 non-electric campsites are nestled above Tonto Creek, offering a quiet retreat for tent campers and those with small trailers or truck campers. Fishing in both creeks is a primary draw, with anglers enjoying the accessible waters. Hikers can reach the Horton Creek Trail and Derrick Trail directly from the area, both of which connect to the Highline National Recreation Trail (#31). The campground has vault toilets and potable water available from a hand pump. Due to the tight campground road with no turnaround options, this site is best suited for smaller vehicles and short trailers. Check-in is at 2:00 PM, check-out at noon, with quiet hours from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM. A 14-day stay limit applies.
Directions
17 miles northeast of Payson. From Payson, travel 16 miles east on State Hwy. 260. Just east of mile marker 268 at Kohl's Ranch, turn left (north) on Forest Road 289. Travel one mile and turn right into the campground.
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | — |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | — |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| 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 | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
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