## 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

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

## 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>Camping</li>
<li>Fishing</li>
<li>Non-Motorized Boating</li>
<li>River Access</li>
<li>Birding</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.

Bird's eye view of the campground

Riverside Campground (AZ)

## Overview

Mesquite Campground provides privacy and shade. Here you can relax under the
shaded canopies of mesquite trees while listening to the sounds of water
flowing from the Verde River just a short distance from your site. Designated
camp sites have fire rings, grills and picnic tables where families can enjoy
time together. There are hiking, fishing, swimming opportunities and more.

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

  * Swimming
  * River and Stream Fishing
  * Non-Motorized Boating
  * Nearby Hiking Trails
  * Nearby OHV Routes

## Facilities

  * Swimming
  * River and Stream Fishing
  * Non-Motorized Boating
  * Nearby Hiking Trails
  * Nearby OHV Routes

## Natural Features

The Verde River is just a short distance from the campground, with swimming,
fishing, and non-motorized boating access. Large trees provide plenty of
shade.

## Nearby Attractions

  * Horsehoe Reservoir
  * Towns of Carefree and Cave Creek

## contact_info

For facility specific information, please call (480) 595-3300.

<h2>Overview</h2>
<p>Mesquite Campground provides privacy and shade. Here you can relax under the shaded canopies of mesquite trees while listening to the sounds of water flowing from the Verde River just a short distance from your site. Designated camp sites have fire rings, grills and picnic tables where families can enjoy time together. There are hiking, fishing, swimming opportunities and more.  </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>Swimming</li>
<li>River and Stream Fishing</li>
<li>Non-Motorized Boating</li>
<li>Nearby Hiking Trails</li>
<li>Nearby OHV Routes</li>
</ul>
<h2>Facilities</h2>
<ul>
<li>Swimming</li>
<li>River and Stream Fishing</li>
<li>Non-Motorized Boating</li>
<li>Nearby Hiking Trails</li>
<li>Nearby OHV Routes</li>
</ul>
<h2>Natural Features</h2>
<p>The Verde River is just a short distance from the campground, with swimming, fishing, and non-motorized boating access. Large trees provide plenty of shade. </p>

<h2>Nearby Attractions</h2>
<ul>
<li>Horsehoe Reservoir</li>
<li>Towns of Carefree and Cave Creek</li>
</ul>

<h2>contact_info</h2>
For facility specific information, please call (480) 595-3300.

Mesquite (AZ)

## Overview

Horseshoe Campground is farther up the road from Mesquite Campground. Offering
more developed campground sites with picnic tables, fire pits and access to
the Verde River at campsites 11 and 12. Gorgeous vistas of surrounding
mountains and the Verde River are offered along the path for families to
enjoy. Most campsites are less shaded than the favored 11 and 12 campsites, so
please feel free to bring canopies and coolers to provide shade and stay
hydrated during the day, but this campground does have some large mesquite
trees providing shade. Bald eagles are frequently seen in this vicinity.

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

  * Swimming
  * Fishing
  * Boating (Non-Motorized on the Verde River and a 25 horsepower motor limit on Horseshoe Reservoir.)
  * Birding
  * Photography
  * OHV Routes

## Facilities

  * Swimming
  * Fishing
  * Boating (Non-Motorized on the Verde River and a 25 horsepower motor limit on Horseshoe Reservoir.)
  * Birding
  * Photography
  * OHV Routes

## Natural Features

This campground provides some river access for activities like swimming and
fishing and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Its proximity
to Horseshoe Reservoir makes it a great basecamp for all your lake adventures!

## contact_info

For facility specific information, please call (480) 595-3300.

## Nearby Attractions

Horseshoe Lake, Horseshoe Dam, Mesquite Campground, Catfish Point Day Use Site

<h2>Overview</h2>
<p>Horseshoe Campground is farther up the road from Mesquite Campground. Offering more developed campground sites with picnic tables, fire pits and access to the Verde River at campsites 11 and 12. Gorgeous vistas of surrounding mountains and the Verde River are offered along the path for families to enjoy. Most campsites are less shaded than the favored 11 and 12 campsites, so please feel free to bring canopies and coolers to provide shade and stay hydrated during the day, but this campground does have some large mesquite trees providing shade. Bald eagles are frequently seen in this vicinity.  </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 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.</p>
<h2>Recreation</h2>
<ul>
<li>Swimming</li>
<li>Fishing</li>
<li>Boating (Non-Motorized on the Verde River and a 25 horsepower motor limit on Horseshoe Reservoir.)</li>
<li>Birding</li>
<li>Photography</li>
<li>OHV Routes</li>
</ul>
<h2>Facilities</h2>
<ul>
<li>Swimming</li>
<li>Fishing</li>
<li>Boating (Non-Motorized on the Verde River and a 25 horsepower motor limit on Horseshoe Reservoir.)</li>
<li>Birding</li>
<li>Photography</li>
<li>OHV Routes</li>
</ul>
<h2>Natural Features</h2>
<p>This campground provides some river access for activities like swimming and fishing and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Its proximity to Horseshoe Reservoir makes it a great basecamp for all your lake adventures!</p>

<h2>contact_info</h2>
For facility specific information, please call (480) 595-3300.
<h2>Nearby Attractions</h2>
<p>Horseshoe Lake, Horseshoe Dam, Mesquite Campground, Catfish Point Day Use Site </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 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.

Horseshoe (AZ)

## Overview

Civilian Conservation Corps Campground offers spread out camp sites with large
sycamore trees providing shade. Picnic tables and firepits with cooking grates
are available for families to enjoy while passing the time away together. Cave
Creek Trailhead is nearby where you can follow along the Cave Creek Riparian
Ecosystem. This spot is popular for bird watching!

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
  * Hiking
  * Creek Access
  * OHV Routes
  * Bird Watching

## Facilities

  * Camping
  * Hiking
  * Creek Access
  * OHV Routes
  * Bird Watching

## Natural Features

Large sycamore trees provide plenty of shade and the Cave Creek Riparian
Ecosystem is just steps away from your campsite.

## Nearby Attractions

  * Towns of Carefree and Cave Creek

## contact_info

For facility specific information, please call (480) 595-3300.

<h2>Overview</h2>
<p>Civilian Conservation Corps Campground offers spread out camp sites with large sycamore trees providing shade. Picnic tables and firepits with cooking grates are available for families to enjoy while passing the time away together. Cave Creek Trailhead is nearby where you can follow along the Cave Creek Riparian Ecosystem. This spot is popular for bird watching! </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 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.</p>
<h2>Recreation</h2>
<ul>
<li>Camping</li>
<li>Hiking</li>
<li>Creek Access</li>
<li>OHV Routes</li>
<li>Bird Watching</li>
</ul>
<h2>Facilities</h2>
<ul>
<li>Camping</li>
<li>Hiking</li>
<li>Creek Access</li>
<li>OHV Routes</li>
<li>Bird Watching</li>
</ul>
<h2>Natural Features</h2>
<p>Large sycamore trees provide plenty of shade and the Cave Creek Riparian Ecosystem is just steps away from your campsite.</p>

<h2>Nearby Attractions</h2>
<ul>
<li>Towns of Carefree and Cave Creek</li>
</ul>

<h2>contact_info</h2>
For facility specific information, please call (480) 595-3300.

C C C (AZ) Tonto NF

## Overview

Cave Creek Group Site is located 20 miles north of Cave Creek and Carefree,
Arizona. It is a historic campground constructed in the 1930s by the Civilian
Conservation Corps (CCC). This site is a short drive from the blistering heat
of Phoenix offering cooler temps, a clear running creek, and plentiful shade
to relax and enjoy nature. With food prep areas, grills and covered picnic
tables, you're all set for a weekend with your loved ones you'll never forget!

## Recreation

At this site you'll enjoy camping, hiking, mountain biking, picnicking,
sightseeing, exploring, bird and wildlife viewing, and there is even a game
area for volleyball and horseshoes.

## Facilities

At this site you'll enjoy camping, hiking, mountain biking, picnicking,
sightseeing, exploring, bird and wildlife viewing, and there is even a game
area for volleyball and horseshoes.

## Natural Features

This group campsite is nestled in a narrow valley of juniper and sycamore
trees providing abundant shade. Water flowing through seven springs is minimal
and only several inches in depth. The area has one large open camping area and
a nearby trailhead offering access to over 48 miles of hiking and mountain
biking trails. Bring your camera during springtime to get photos of the desert
wildflowers in bloom.

## Nearby Attractions

Across the road, Cave Creek trailhead offers over 48 miles of hiking trails -
great for overnight backpacking trips. Bronco Trailhead further south, offers
parking for 40 vehicles plus trailers and six horse pens. Just seven miles
south is Sears-Kay ruin. Listed in the National Register of Historic Places,
this site features the remains of an ancient Native American tribe's hilltop
village. For spectacular scenic views take Forest Road 562 to Humboldt
Mountain. Or, you can simply stay on site and observe nature and hunt for
crawdads in the nearby creek.

<h2>Overview</h2>
Cave Creek Group Site is located 20 miles north of Cave Creek and Carefree, Arizona. It is a historic campground constructed in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). This site is a short drive from the blistering heat of Phoenix offering cooler temps, a clear running creek, and plentiful shade to relax and enjoy nature. With food prep areas, grills and covered picnic tables, you're all set for a weekend with your loved ones you'll never forget!<h2>Recreation</h2>
At this site you'll enjoy camping, hiking, mountain biking, picnicking, sightseeing, exploring, bird and wildlife viewing, and there is even a game area for volleyball and horseshoes.<h2>Facilities</h2>
At this site you'll enjoy camping, hiking, mountain biking, picnicking, sightseeing, exploring, bird and wildlife viewing, and there is even a game area for volleyball and horseshoes.<h2>Natural Features</h2>
This group campsite is nestled in a narrow valley of juniper and sycamore trees providing abundant shade. Water flowing through seven springs is minimal and only several inches in depth. The area has one large open camping area and a nearby trailhead offering access to over 48 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails. Bring your camera during springtime to get photos of the desert wildflowers in bloom.
<h2>Nearby Attractions</h2>
Across the road, Cave Creek trailhead offers over 48 miles of hiking trails - great for overnight backpacking trips. Bronco Trailhead further south, offers parking for 40 vehicles plus trailers and six horse pens. Just seven miles south is Sears-Kay ruin. Listed in the National Register of Historic Places, this site features the remains of an ancient Native American tribe's hilltop village. For spectacular scenic views take Forest Road 562 to Humboldt Mountain. Or, you can simply stay on site and observe nature and hunt for crawdads in the nearby creek.

$75 per night for groups of 1-50 people  
$150 per night for groups of 51-150 people

Shaded open area.

Shaded picnic area.

Entrance sign.

Gate entrance.

Group area.

Shaded picnic site.

On-site vault toilets.

Cave Creek Group Site

## 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 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.

## 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.

<h2>Overview</h2>
<p>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.</p>
<h2>Recreation</h2>
<p>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. </p>
<h2>Facilities</h2>
<p>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. </p>
<h2>Natural Features</h2>
<p>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.</p>

<h2>Nearby Attractions</h2>
<p>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.</p>

Riverside Campground (AZ)

Overview

Recreation

Facilities

Natural Features

Directions

Reviews

Camp Sites

Nearby Campgrounds

Mesquite (AZ)

Horseshoe (AZ)

C C C (AZ) Tonto NF

Cave Creek Group Site

Larry Forbis Day Use Group Site

Larry Forbis Overnight Group Site