Tonto Creek Campground | Payson

Tonto Creek Campground is a peaceful and naturally scenic campground nestled within the Tonto National Forest, located approximately 15 miles northeast of Payson, Arizona. This campground offers visitors an immersive outdoor experience amid the Arizona highlands, ideal for campers who appreciate a quieter, more rustic setting close to the flowing waters of Tonto Creek.

Location and Accessibility

The campground sits near the confluence of Tonto Creek and Horton Creek, creating a picturesque environment rich with lush vegetation, cool creek waters, and abundant wildlife. To reach Tonto Creek Campground from Payson, visitors travel east on State Highway 260 for about 15 miles until reaching Kohl’s Ranch near mile marker 269. From there, a turn north onto Forest Road 289 leads directly to the campground area. The setting offers both the beauty of the surrounding Mogollon Rim forests and the convenience of proximity to Payson, making it a favored spot for both day visitors and overnight campers.

Campground Layout and Facilities

Tonto Creek Campground features approximately 40 campsites, all designed as walk-in only. This means campers must park in a designated lot and then walk a short paved sidewalk to their campsites, which adds a sense of seclusion and quiet by limiting vehicle traffic in the camping area itself. The campsites provide enough space for tents and small camping setups, but there are no hookups or utilities available on-site.

Facilities at the campground are basic but sufficient for a comfortable outdoor stay. Vault toilets are available, and there is a trash collection service to help maintain the campground's cleanliness. However, there is no potable water source on site, so campers must bring their own drinking water and supplies. Campfires are allowed where designated, but campers are encouraged to bring their own firewood or collect downed wood, as no firewood is sold on-site.

Pets are permitted in the campground but must be kept on a leash to ensure safety and respect for wildlife and other campers. There is a maximum stay limit of 14 days to allow fair use among visitors.

Recreation and Activities

Tonto Creek Campground is prized for its access to a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities:

Fishing: The nearby Tonto and Horton Creeks provide excellent fishing spots, particularly for rainbow trout. Anglers appreciate the peaceful creekside settings, which often yield productive catches in a tranquil environment.

Hiking: The campground serves as a gateway to several popular hiking trails. Notably, the Horton Creek Trail is just a short distance away. This 3.5-mile trail meanders alongside Horton Creek and offers beautiful forest scenery, cascading creek views, and wildlife spotting opportunities. The Horton Creek Trail connects to the longer Highline National Recreation Trail, which extends through the Tonto National Forest, providing extended hiking options for the more adventurous.

Wildlife Viewing and Nature: The lush riparian environment attracts a variety of wildlife, including numerous bird species and small mammals. The sound of running water and the shade of tall ponderosa pines make this campground a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and photographers.

Nearby Attractions: The Tonto Fish Hatchery, located a few miles north along Forest Road 289, offers visitors educational self-guided tours to learn about fish propagation efforts that support local fisheries.

Reservations and Regulations

Tonto Creek Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis without the option for advance reservations. Visitors must physically arrive at the campground and select an available site. Once at the site, campers pay fees through the Recreation.gov mobile app by scanning a posted QR code. This modern system streamlines payment but requires campers to have a smartphone and internet access.

The campground fees contribute to maintenance and conservation efforts to keep the area pristine and accessible for all visitors.

Important Considerations

Proximity to Highway: The campground is located very close to Highway 260, which may result in some noise and light from passing traffic. While this proximity makes access easy, campers seeking absolute solitude might find the highway sounds noticeable.

Bear Activity: Due to changing environmental conditions, including drought, the area has experienced increased bear activity in recent years. Campers must follow strict bear safety protocols, such as storing food properly and maintaining a clean campsite, to minimize encounters and protect both visitors and wildlife.

No On-Site Water: Lack of potable water facilities requires thorough preparation, including bringing sufficient water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Summary

Tonto Creek Campground offers a blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and rustic camping amenities in the heart of the Tonto National Forest. Its location along clear, cool creeks, combined with access to scenic hiking trails and fishing spots, makes it a popular destination for families, anglers, hikers, and nature enthusiasts. The walk-in campsite design enhances a sense of quiet and connection with nature, while basic facilities provide the essentials for an enjoyable outdoor stay. Visitors are advised to plan ahead for water and supplies and to be mindful of nearby highway noise and local wildlife considerations. Overall, Tonto Creek Campground is a serene gateway to the forested highlands of Arizona, offering a rewarding experience for those seeking to immerse themselves in the natural environment.