Overview
Larry Forbis Day Use Group Site is a summer day-use site just outside of the Phoenix metropolitan area. From April through September each year, urban dwellers take advantage of long days and rising temperatures and enjoy boating, fishing, hiking, kayaking, paddleboarding and scenic driving throughout the surrounding Tonto National Forest. Vistors are surrounded by a scenic backdrop of rugged bluffs, saguaro cactus and desert skies. The campground is adjacent to the Pebble Beach Recreation Site and is just a short walk down to the Lower Salt River.
Recreation
The Lower Salt River is known for its beautiful desert landscapes and its ample recreation opportunities. Photographers will find no shortage of subjects, whether they be dramatic landscape, desert wildflowers, or wildlife in a natural setting. Fisherman will find many deep holes well suited for fish habitat year round. Water- enthusiasts will find boating, kayaking and paddle boarding year round at nearby Saguaro Lake, and river float trips during the summer. Mountain biking is popular in the nearby Hawes Trail system, and Bulldog Canyon can offer opportunities for OHV trail rides for those with a permit. If going to other recreation areas, users should be sure purchase a day pass or OHV permit not included in the camping fee.
Facilities
The Group site is large, yet compact. While the facilities, such as bathrooms and ramadas, are close to one another, there is ample space for privacy in the nearby desert, including a short loop trail of the site. The facility accommodates group sizes of up to 75 people and 10 vehicles. There are two sets of vault toilets in the site. There are no trash services, however, you may utilize dumpsters at the adjacent Pebble Beach Recreation Site.
Each Reservation includes:
• 2 Ramadas
• 4 picnic tables
• 3 fire rings
• 4 grills
• 10 designated parking spaces*
• access to the loop trail
• access to vault toilets.
*see Need to Know section for more information
Natural Features
The stark contrast between the nearby Bulldog Cliffs and the Lower Salt River create a unique desert landscape. The desert is spotted with Saguaro and Prickly Pear cacti, wildflowers, and grasses which provide habitat for "desert dwellers" such as rattlesnakes, horny toads, coyotes and roadrunners. The riparian area provides for large cottonwoods on the shore and eel grass in the river. These create habitat for bass, trout, great blue heron, and owls while also serving as a watering hole for wildlife such as deer and bighorn sheep. Even with its proximity to the Phoenix metro, the area can be harsh for travelers not equipped to meet nature on her own terms. Soaring temperatures and little water are typical conditions in the summer. In winter, temperatures are typically pleasant during the day but drop significantly at night. Visitors should come prepared for anything, even the occasional summer monsoon.
Nearby Attractions
Saguaro Lake is approximately 5 miles Northeast on Bush highway. Scenic views, fishing, boat rentals, tours, and a restaurant provide opportunities that can easily fill the day.
Camp Observer
