Upper Tonto Creek
The Upper Tonto Creek Campground is tucked away from the main highway where the Tonto and Horton Creeks merge. Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Visitors are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a site.
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 will 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.
You will need to first download the free Recreation.gov mobile app prior to your arrival as this area has limited or no cellular service.
Campground map available here .
This campground contains 6 campsites, 3 picnic sites, and a double vault toilet.
Need to Know
Sites are small in this campground so trailers have to be short or only over camper type mounts.
This campground uses the Scan and Pay feature. You will need to first download the free Recreation.gov mobile app prior to your arrival as this area has limited or no cellular service.
Natural Features
The union of Tonto and Horton Creeks is at the north end of the Upper Tonto Creek campground. Fishing in both creeks is a popular sport.
Recreation
Families may enjoy fishing at both Tonto and Horton Creeks or pass time hiking through nearby Horton Creek Trail or Derrick Trail. Both of these trails access the Highline National Recreation Trail (#31).
Contact Information
Mailing
1009 E. Hwy 260 Payson AZ 85541
Phone Number
For campground inquiries, please call: N/A
Rental Options
Learn more about gear rental options for your trip
Driving Directions
This site is 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 (FR) 289. Travel one mile and turn right into the site.
Available Campsites
- Site 1, Loop Upper Tonto Creek, Type Tent Only Nonelectric
- Site 3, Loop Upper Tonto Creek, Type Tent Only Nonelectric
- Site 5, Loop Upper Tonto Creek, Type Tent Only Nonelectric
- Site 4, Loop Upper Tonto Creek, Type Tent Only Nonelectric
- Site 2, Loop Upper Tonto Creek, Type Tent Only Nonelectric
- Site 6, Loop Upper Tonto Creek, Type Tent Only Nonelectric
