Upper Tonto Creek

Star3.29
53 reviews

Quick Facts

5,522 ft

Price

$20/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

6 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

February 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

February 2026
Upper Tonto Creek
$20.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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What Campers Say

3.29

Mixed Reviews

Based on 53 reviews

41 Google reviews

Most mentioned

quietcleanshadehiking

"User reviews for Upper Tonto Creek Campground are mixed, with the majority of campers praising the natural beauty, cleanliness, and recreational opportunities. The campground host, Ken, receives polarized feedback, with many users commending his helpfulness and maintenance efforts, while others criticize his demeanor as rude or overbearing. The campground itself is frequently described as scenic, clean, and well-maintained."

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Campground Map

Upper Tonto Creek

34.3393, -111.0942

Driving directionsFrom 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.
The site is 17 miles northeast of Payson, Arizona. Roads leading to the campground are described as tight, with no turnaround options and better suited for smaller trailers.
Nearby places
Payson, AZ: 17 miles

Best Time to Camp at Upper Tonto Creek

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Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Reviews list summer as an ideal season; creeks provide fishing and cooling spots.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.5 / 5

Fall reviews note the area's beauty; trails remain accessible.

Best
Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5

Spring highlighted by reviewers as an ideal season for fishing and hiking.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.0 / 5

Few mentions; limited winter use though hiking in snow is possible per one review.

Planning Tips
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About Upper Tonto Creek

Tucked away in a quiet corner of the wilderness, Upper Tonto Creek offers an intimate camping experience where solitude meets natural beauty. This small, secluded site provides a peaceful retreat far from the crowds, with access to a pristine creek that winds through the landscape. Here, campers discover a hidden gem where the sounds of nature replace the noise of everyday life, creating the perfect backdrop for those seeking a genuine escape into Arizona's backcountry.
Upper Tonto Creek Campground offers primitive camping facilities suitable for tents and small trailers. Group camping options are not explicitly mentioned, and the limited number of campsites suggests it is best for individual or small-family use.
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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit
13 days

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Upper Tonto Creek Campground offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. Highlights include fishing in Tonto and Horton Creeks, hiking trails such as Horton Creek Trail and Derrick Trail, which connect to the Highline National Recreation Trail, and exploring the scenic environment of the Tonto National Forest.
HikingHiking is a popular activity, with access to nearby trails such as Horton Creek Trail and Derrick Trail. These trails also connect to the Highline National Recreation Trail, offering options for different skill levels and exploration.
FishingFishing in Tonto and Horton Creeks is a well-loved activity, with some users reporting successful trout catches. The union of the two creeks at the north end of the campground adds scenic value to the experience.
Wildlife viewingThe shaded pine forest and nearby creeks are home to various wildlife species, creating opportunities for birdwatching and nature observation. Visitors have noted enjoying the undisturbed habitat of the area.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & Alertsnull
Active Alertsnull

Weather at Upper Tonto Creek

Reviews

3.3
53 reviews
Mixed Reviews
Mixed Reviews
Upper Tonto Creek has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Upper Tonto Creek Campground are mixed, with the majority of campers praising the natural beauty, cleanliness, and recreational opportunities. The campground host, Ken, receives polarized feedback, with many users commending his helpfulness and maintenance efforts, while others criticize his demeanor as rude or overbearing. The campground itself is frequently described as scenic, clean, and well-maintained.
Review Summaries
Based on 53 reviews

What Campers Love

Many users highlight the natural beauty of the area, particularly the creek and shaded pine forest. The proximity to hiking trails and fishing opportunities also receives positive attention. The...
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Based on 53 reviews

Common Concerns

Some users reported negative interactions with the campground host, citing rude behavior. Campsites being small and occasionally too close to neighbors were other noted issues.
Based on 53 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend arriving early to secure the best campsites, especially on weekends. Bringing downloaded maps, as cell service is limited, and being aware of the campground's two-tent site limit...
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Based on 53 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Most reviews highlight spring and summer as the ideal camping seasons, with the creeks providing excellent fishing opportunities and the trails being easily accessible. Fall reviews note the beauty...
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Based on 53 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Ken was outstanding... made us dinner and even cleaned fish for us!' - Guy Brown 2. 'The Horton Creek trailhead is right next to the campground and provides lots of fun exploring.' - Dwight...
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Based on 53 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific information in reviews is limited, but references suggest that some of the larger campsites tend to fill up early on weekends. Close proximity to Horton Creek Trail is a noted advantage...
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Based on 53 reviews

Accessibility Features

No detailed reviews focus specifically on accessibility features.
Based on 53 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

There is no explicit mention of pet policies or experiences in the reviews.
Based on 53 reviews

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Last updated February 23, 2026
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