Larry Forbis Group Site- Tonto National Forest

Larry Forbis Group Site sign with desert background

Riparian Area

Larry Forbis Amenities (Ramadas, picnic tables, grill, fire pit)

Entry gate to Larry Forbis

Desert Wildflowers

Panoramic view of the Lower Salt River

Trail with Tent/Hiking signs

Larry Forbis Overnight Group Site

Tucked away amongst vibrant palo verde and iconic saguaro cactus on the banks
of the Lower Salt River, the Larry Forbis Group Site offers a peaceful setting
for groups and large gatherings throughout the year. October through March,
this site is open to campers looking to take advantage of a unique opportunity
to enjoy one of Arizona's finest rivers under the stars. Campers can pitch a
tent on the sandy shoreline and awaken to beautiful views of the surrounding
Sonoran Desert. During summer months when the river is flowing and ambient
temperatures are high, recreators can enjoy a day of kayaking, tubing, or
fishing down the river before returning to their private ramada for a picnic.

There are 3 units available to reserve (Units A, B, or C). Each unit contains
the following:

  * 2 large ramadas
  * 4 picnic tables
  * 4 pedestal grills
  * 3 fire rings
  * 10 designated parking stalls
  * Access to the tent camping loop trail (shared with adjacent units)
  * Access to two vault toilets (shared with adjacent units)

The Larry Forbis Group Site is located on the south end of the Pebble Beach
Recreation Area and requires a reservation for use. Reservations can be made
for one, two, or all three units. Any group exceeding 75 people will require a
separate Special Use Authorization. Please contact the Mesa Ranger Station
ahead of time for further details. **Overnight camping is only permitted
within the site from October 1 st - March 31st.**

<p><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/53108273@N03/albums/72177720312502707" title="Larry Forbis Group Site"><img alt="Larry Forbis Group Site" height="375" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53316826839_e11b341868.jpg" width="500" /></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p><p>Tucked away amongst vibrant palo verde and iconic saguaro cactus on the banks of the Lower Salt River, the Larry Forbis Group Site offers a peaceful setting for groups and large gatherings throughout the year. October through March, this site is open to campers looking to take advantage of a unique opportunity to enjoy one of Arizona&rsquo;s finest rivers under the stars. Campers can pitch a tent on the sandy shoreline and awaken to beautiful views of the surrounding Sonoran Desert. During summer months when the river is flowing and ambient temperatures are high, recreators can enjoy a day of kayaking, tubing, or fishing down the river before returning to their private ramada for a picnic.</p><p>There are 3 units available to reserve (Units A, B, or C). Each unit contains the following:</p><ul><li>2 large ramadas</li><li>4 picnic tables</li><li>4 pedestal grills</li><li>3 fire rings</li><li>10 designated parking stalls</li><li>Access to the tent camping loop trail (shared with adjacent units)</li><li>Access to two vault toilets (shared with adjacent units)</li></ul><p>The Larry Forbis Group Site is located on the south end of the Pebble Beach Recreation Area and requires a reservation for use. Reservations can be made for one, two, or all three units. Any group exceeding 75 people will require a separate Special Use Authorization. Please contact the Mesa Ranger Station ahead of time for further details. <strong>Overnight camping is only permitted within the site from October 1<sup>st</sup> &ndash; March 31<sup>st</sup>.</strong></p>

Bird's eye view of the campground

Larry Forbis Group Site

Located in the Mesa Ranger District about one hour from Phoenix, Bulldog
Canyon is 34,000 acres in size and provides approximately 20 miles of open
routes. Bulldog Canyon routes are all full size vehicle width and provide
access to the beautiful Sonoran desert and Goldfield Mountains. There are five
access points: Blue Point, Usery, Wolverine, Hackamore, and Dutchman. A Tonto
OHV Permit is currently required for this area, available at Recreation.gov.
Please remember to stay on the routes.  Driving off-road is prohibited on the
Tonto National Forest. Permits are not available at the District Office.

**ALERT:**  Camping is prohibited within the following staging areas: Blue
Point for two miles, Usery, Wolverine, Hackamore, Dutchman, and Willow for one
mile. As well as all of NFSR 78 (First Water Road). The user made horse
trailer parking area located adjacent to State Route 88, mile post 203. For
more information view the Closure Order here and the Maps here.

<p>Located in the Mesa Ranger District about one hour from Phoenix, Bulldog Canyon is 34,000 acres in size and provides approximately 20 miles of open routes. Bulldog Canyon routes are all full size vehicle width and provide access to the beautiful Sonoran desert and Goldfield Mountains. There are five&nbsp;access points: Blue Point, Usery, Wolverine, Hackamore, and Dutchman. A Tonto OHV Permit is currently required for this area, available at <a href="https://www.recreation.gov/activitypass/AP22844">Recreation.gov</a>. Please remember to stay on the routes. &nbsp;Driving off-road is prohibited on the Tonto National Forest. Permits are not available at the District Office.</p><p><strong>ALERT:</strong>&nbsp;Camping is prohibited within&nbsp;the following staging areas: Blue Point for two miles, Usery, Wolverine, Hackamore, Dutchman, and Willow for one mile. As well as all of&nbsp;NFSR 78 (First Water Road).&nbsp;The user made horse trailer parking area located adjacent to State Route 88, mile post 203.&nbsp;For more information view the Closure Order&nbsp;<a aria-label="Link here" href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd1083584.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" tabindex="-1" target="_blank" title="https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd1083584.pdf">here</a>&nbsp;and the Maps&nbsp;<a aria-label="Link here" href="http://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd1083585.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" tabindex="-1" target="_blank" title="http://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd1083585.pdf">here</a>.</p>

Beginning 1/1/2025, permit fees for motorized use are as follows:

  * $10 for 3-day permit
  * $60 for 6-month permit
  * $80 for annual permit

Bulldog Canyon OHV Permit Zone

Bagley Flat is notable for its boat access only camping on Saguaro Lake.
Camping is allowed at the 10 designated sites with grills and tables provided.
This location is fun during the summer months because of the nice grove of
mesquite trees that provide and abundance of shade. Bagley Flat also has a
courtesy dock for easy fishing.

<p><img alt="Bagely Flat" src="http://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_MEDIA/fseprd516626.jpg" style="width: 518px; height: 335px;" /></p><p>Bagley Flat is notable for its boat access only camping on Saguaro Lake.&nbsp; Camping is allowed at the 10 designated sites with grills and tables provided. This location is fun during the summer months because of the nice grove of mesquite trees that provide and abundance of shade. Bagley Flat also has a courtesy dock for easy fishing.&nbsp;</p>

Bagley Flat Campground and Boat Dock

The Point is located in the Mesa Ranger District and is mostly known for boat
access only camping on Canyon Lake.  There are only three designated camp
units at this site, but the camp units can also be used as picnic sites for
day use. Boaters enjoy The Point during summer months along with fishermen
because of the courtesy dock. No garbage collection.  Pack it in, Pack it out.

<p>The Point is located in the Mesa Ranger District and is mostly known for boat access only camping on Canyon Lake.&nbsp; There are only three designated camp units at this site, but the camp units can also be used as picnic sites for day use. Boaters enjoy The Point during summer months along with fishermen because of the courtesy dock. No garbage collection.&nbsp; Pack it in, Pack it out.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

The Point Boat Dock, Campground and Picnic Area

## Overview

Tortilla Campground is a winter campground just outside of the Phoenix
metropolitan area. From October through April each year, urban dwellers take
advantage of cooler temperatures and enjoy boating, fishing, hiking, rock
climbing and scenic driving throughout the surrounding Tonto National Forest.
Campers awake to a scenic backdrop of rugged bluffs, saguaro cactus and desert
skies. The campground is located directly across from Tortilla Flat Restaruant
and general store, which is just a short walk away.

## Recreation

The area is rich with human history, scenery and outdoor recreation. The
campground lies along the Canyon Lake Apache Trail Scenic Byway, a former
Apache Tribal route turned stagecoach road. Visitors may hear stories of lost
cowboys and gold mining. The drive to the campground provides ample scenery
and a vista point perfect for photography and wildlife viewing. The campground
is just down the road from Canyon Lake which provides a number of recreational
opportunites such as kayaking, fishing, and boating. The Superstition
Wilderness has a well-developed trail system, and the western end of the
wilderness receives heavy use during the cooler times of the year. Use caution
as trail conditions can be fair or poor, and several are unsuitable for
horses. Also make sure to check out many of the developed recreation sites
along Canyon lake for shoreline and fishing dock access, but keep in mind
these sites require a day pass not included in the camping fees.

## Facilities

The campground is large yet compact, with campsites in close proximity of one
another. Every campsite has a view of the surrounding desert, some with views
of mountain peaks and cliffs. The facility accommodates RVs and has sewage
hookups. Each campsite comes with a picnic table and a campfire ring with a
cooking grate. Services at the end of Tortilla Flat include a post office,
restaurant, gift shop and public cellular credit card phone (emergency 911).
Canyon Lake and Marina is located two miles west and includes public boat
launches and picnic/fishing sites, a restaurant, excursion boats and boat
rentals.

## Natural Features

The Superstition Wilderness Area is starkly beautiful and untamed. A series of
dams has created numerous lakes along the Salt River. Blossoming plants bring
the desert to life each spring with vibrant wildflowers. This area is a
photographers dream with plenty of opportunities to capture Bighorn Sheep,
Deer, and other desert widlife. 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 rain or snow.

## Nearby Attractions

Fish Creek Vista Point is approx. 7 miles east on AZ-88, this area provides
great views of the desert and an accessible interpretive trail great for
learning about the history of the area.

<h2>Overview</h2>
<p>Tortilla Campground is a winter campground just outside of the Phoenix metropolitan area. From October through April each year, urban dwellers take advantage of cooler temperatures and enjoy boating, fishing, hiking, rock climbing and scenic driving throughout the surrounding Tonto National Forest. Campers awake to a scenic backdrop of rugged bluffs, saguaro cactus and desert skies. The campground is located directly across from Tortilla Flat Restaruant and general store, which is just a short walk away.</p>
<h2>Recreation</h2>
<p>The area is rich with human history, scenery and outdoor recreation. The campground lies along the Canyon Lake Apache Trail Scenic Byway, a former Apache Tribal route turned stagecoach road. Visitors may hear stories of lost cowboys and gold mining. The drive to the campground provides ample scenery and a vista point perfect for photography and wildlife viewing. The campground is just down the road from Canyon Lake which provides a number of recreational opportunites such as kayaking, fishing, and boating.  The Superstition Wilderness has a well-developed trail system, and the western end of the wilderness receives heavy use during the cooler times of the year. Use caution as trail conditions can be fair or poor, and several are unsuitable for horses. Also make sure to check out many of the developed recreation sites along Canyon lake for shoreline and fishing dock access, but keep in mind these sites require a day pass not included in the camping fees. </p>
<h2>Facilities</h2>
<p>The campground is large yet compact, with campsites in close proximity of one another. Every campsite has a view of the surrounding desert, some with views of mountain peaks and cliffs. The facility accommodates RVs and has sewage hookups. Each campsite comes with a picnic table and a campfire ring with a cooking grate. Services at the end of Tortilla Flat include a post office, restaurant, gift shop and public cellular credit card phone (emergency 911). Canyon Lake and Marina is located two miles west and includes public boat launches and picnic/fishing sites, a restaurant, excursion boats and boat rentals.</p>
<h2>Natural Features</h2>
<p>The Superstition Wilderness Area is starkly beautiful and untamed. A series of dams has created numerous lakes along the Salt River. Blossoming plants bring the desert to life each spring with vibrant wildflowers. This area is a photographers dream with plenty of opportunities to capture Bighorn Sheep, Deer, and other desert widlife. 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 rain or snow.</p>

<h2>Nearby Attractions</h2>
<p>Fish Creek Vista Point is approx. 7 miles east on AZ-88, this area provides great views of the desert and an accessible interpretive trail great for learning about the history of the area. </p>

Tortilla Campground, Tonto National Forest

Entrance to Tortilla Campground

Views from Tortilla Campground

Prickly Pear Blooms

Views of Canyon Lake

Tortilla Prev. 3

Tortilla Campground

Tortilla Campground Campsite and View

Tortilla Flat

Tortilla Campground Site 35

Tortilla Campground Entrance

Tortilla Campground Restrooms On Site

Sunset at Tortilla

Tortilla Prev. 2

Tortilla Campground Water Source Adjacent to Restrooms

Tortilla Prev. 1

Tortilla Campground Campsite

Due to a facility maintenance issue that requires an extensive repair,
Tortilla Campground will not be taking reservations for the 2026-2027 winter
season until further notice. We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate
your understanding. Please check back regularly for updates, as we intend to
open the campground during its normally scheduled season as soon as the work
is completed. Thank you.

## Overview

Riverside Campground offers more peace and tranquility than the busier
recreation sites at Bartlett Lake. With the campground’s proximity to water,
fisherman and avid water recreationalists enjoy this spot all year long. There
are designated grills, fire rings and picnic tables where families can enjoy
the day together along the river, not far from the dam. Keep a look out for
fish jumping along the river!

This location is available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Visitors
are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a
site. Once on-site, you may be able to pay for your campsite(s) by scanning a
QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app, and the Scan and Pay feature. If
this option is available, you will need to first download the free
Recreation.gov mobile app https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app prior to your
arrival as some remote areas have limited or no cellular service. Camping
passes can also be purchased at a Tonto Fee Machine Pass. $16 per site, per
night. Nearest fee machine location is at the Cave Creek Ranger Station.

## Recreation

  * Camping
  * Fishing
  * Non-Motorized Boating
  * River Access
  * Birding

## Facilities

  * 12 Campsites
  * First-Come, First Serve only. No reservations.
  * 14 day stay limit.
  * Maximum occupancy per individual campsite is 10 people.
  * Maximum number of vehicles per individual camp unit is three. All vehicles must completely fit within the designated parking area.
  * Check-in time is 12:00 pm, and check-out time is 10:00 am.
  * No motor boats allowed.
  * Trailers under 16 feet.
  * Glass containers prohibted.
  * No potable water services available. 
  * Quiet hours 10:00 pm to 6:00 am (running generators are not permitted during quiet hours).

## Natural Features

Plenty of trees provide ample shade and the calming sound of the river flowing
makes Riverside Campground a great place to relax and enjoy nature. Keep a
lookout for wildlife!

<h2>Overview</h2>
<p>Riverside Campground offers more peace and tranquility than the busier recreation sites at Bartlett Lake. With the campground’s proximity to water, fisherman and avid water recreationalists enjoy this spot all year long. There are designated grills, fire rings and picnic tables where families can enjoy the day together along the river, not far from the dam. Keep a look out for fish jumping along the river!  </p>
<p>This location is available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Visitors are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a site. Once on-site, you may be able to pay for your campsite(s) by scanning a QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app, and the Scan and Pay feature. If this option is available, you will need to first download the free Recreation.gov mobile app <a href="https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app" rel="nofollow">https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app</a> prior to your arrival as some remote  areas have limited or no cellular service. Camping passes can also be purchased at a Tonto Fee Machine Pass. $16 per site, per night. Nearest fee machine location is at the Cave Creek Ranger Station.</p>
<h2>Recreation</h2>
<ul>
<li>Camping</li>
<li>Fishing</li>
<li>Non-Motorized Boating</li>
<li>River Access</li>
<li>Birding</li>
</ul>
<h2>Facilities</h2>
<ul>
<li>12 Campsites</li>
<li>First-Come, First Serve only. No reservations.</li>
<li>14 day stay limit.</li>
<li>Maximum occupancy per individual campsite is 10 people.</li>
<li>Maximum number of vehicles per individual camp unit is three.  All vehicles must completely fit within the designated parking area.</li>
<li>Check-in time is 12:00 pm, and check-out time is 10:00 am.</li>
<li>No motor boats allowed.</li>
<li>Trailers under 16 feet.</li>
<li>Glass containers prohibted.</li>
<li>No potable water services available. </li>
<li>Quiet hours 10:00 pm to 6:00 am (running generators are not permitted during quiet hours).</li>
</ul>
<h2>Natural Features</h2>
<p>Plenty of trees provide ample shade and the calming sound of the river flowing makes Riverside Campground a great place to relax and enjoy nature. Keep a lookout for wildlife!</p>

Campsites are $16 per night, per site. America the Beautiful Senior or Access
Disability passholders are eligible for a 50% discount. Pass must be valid and
present with passholder at time of stay.

This location is available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Visitors
are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a
site. Once on-site, you may be able to pay for your campsite(s) by scanning a
QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app, and the Scan and Pay feature. If
this option is available, you will need to first download the free
Recreation.gov mobile app https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app prior to your
arrival as some remote areas have limited or no cellular service. Camping
passes can also be purchased at a Tonto Fee Machine Pass. $16 per site, per
night. Nearest fee machine location is at the Cave Creek Ranger Station.

Larry Forbis Overnight Group Site

Reviews

Camp Sites

Nearby Campgrounds

Larry Forbis Group Site

Bulldog Canyon OHV Permit Zone

Bagley Flat Campground and Boat Dock

The Point Boat Dock, Campground and Picnic Area

Tortilla Campground

Riverside Campground (AZ)