Lower Tonto Creek
4.5318 reviewsQuick Facts
Price
$20/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
10 campsites
Season
Campground open seas...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
Quick Facts
Price
$20/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
10 campsites
Season
Campground open seas...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
Lower Tonto Creek
$20.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees are $20 per night at walk-to campsites during April 3, 2025 - November 3, 2025. These rates are for first-come, first-served basis only, paid...
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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
Total Campsite Fees$20.00
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What Campers Say
4.53
Top-Rated
Based on 18 reviews
85 Google reviews
Most mentioned
cleanlocationhiking
"The campground receives consistently positive reviews for its cleanliness and natural beauty. Visitors appreciate the scenic surroundings, proximity to creeks, and well-maintained facilities. However, noise from the nearby highway and the lack of amenities like potable water and showers are common drawbacks highlighted by visitors."
Fees & Passes at Lower Tonto Creek
$20/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: You may stay up to 13 nights during a visit.
Cancellation: Refund policies differ depending on cancellation timing. Late cancellations incur a $10 fee and the ...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official null website.
Best Time to Camp at Lower Tonto Creek
This mountain retreat experiences delightfully mild conditions throughout much of the year, with clear, starlit skies dominating nearly three-quarters of the time. During peak season, expect comfortable dew points around 24°C (75°F) and minimal cloud cover, creating perfect conditions for outdoor adventures. Spring and fall emerge as the golden seasons here, when gentle temperatures combine with low precipitation to create ideal camping weather—perfect for creek-side relaxation or hitting the nearby trails.
Best
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm days. Most facilities open. Reserve ahead.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: April 3, 2025 - November 3, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Campground open seasonally from April 3, 2025 - November 3, 2025.
- Current Alerts: null
About Lower Tonto Creek
Nestled alongside the gentle waters of Tonto Creek, Lower Tonto Creek Campground offers a serene escape beneath towering pines. Each campsite is thoughtfully connected by smooth, paved sidewalks that wind through the forest, making it easy to explore your surroundings or take an evening stroll to the creek. While the nearby Highway 260 provides convenient access to this natural haven, visitors should note that traffic sounds and lights occasionally drift through the pine canopy, adding a touch of civilization to your wilderness experience.
Lower Tonto Creek Campground caters to a variety of campers with its walk-in tent sites. The campground is designed for primitive camping with minimal facilities, and no RV hookups or group camping sites are available.
Historical Significancenull
Weather and SeasonsThis mountain retreat experiences delightfully mild conditions throughout much of the year, with clear, starlit skies dominating nearly three-quarters of the time. During peak season, expect comfortable dew points around 24°C (75°F) and minimal cloud cover, creating perfect conditions for outdoor adventures. Spring and fall emerge as the golden seasons here, when gentle temperatures combine with low precipitation to create ideal camping weather—perfect for creek-side relaxation or hitting the nearby trails.
Elevationnull
Natural Features and SceneryThe campground's crown jewel is its prime location along Tonto Creek, where crystal-clear waters wind through a forest of majestic pines. These towering giants provide natural shade and fill the air with their distinctive, fresh scent. Anglers will delight in the creek's fishing opportunities, while hikers can easily access several nearby trailheads that lead deeper into the surrounding wilderness. The combination of rushing water, rustling pine needles, and abundant wildlife creates a sensory experience that captures the essence of Arizona's high country.
Geological RegionPositioned in the heart of Arizona's pine country, the campground sits at the convergence of forest and stream where Tonto Creek has carved its path through the landscape. The terrain features the characteristic geology of the region, with the creek corridor creating a lush riparian zone amid the pine-covered slopes. Well-maintained paved pathways follow the natural contours of the land, providing easy access to the creek's edge where smooth stones and gentle rapids tell the story of centuries of flowing water.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground features paved walkways providing accessibility to all campsites. However, access to the creek may require a light hike.
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as spacious, accommodating standard-sized tents and small setups.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels at the campsites vary, though the proximity to a busy highway introduces noise and light pollution, reducing the sense of seclusion.
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesOpt for campsites further from the main road to avoid highway noise. Campsite 008 is highly recommended for cleanliness and beauty.
Best Campsites
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
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Check-out
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Stay Limit
You may stay up to 13 nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
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Groups
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Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layout10 walk-to campsites accessible via paved sidewalk.
Open and Closed SeasonCampground open seasonally from April 3, 2025 - November 3, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are made using Recreation.gov app's Scan and Pay feature upon arrival.
Walk-in AvailabilityCampsites are exclusively first-come, first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyRefund policies differ depending on cancellation timing. Late cancellations incur a $10 fee and the first night's fees will be forfeited.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Lower Tonto Creek Campground offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities. Fishing in the nearby Tonto and Horton Creeks is a popular pastime. Hiking opportunities are abundant, with trailheads for Horton Creek Trail (#285) and Derrick Trail (#33) accessible from the nearby Upper Tonto Creek Campground. Wildlife viewing is also a notable activity, as the campground is surrounded by tall pines and natural water features.
Hiking
The campground provides convenient access to Horton Creek Trail (#285) and Derrick Trail (#33), both of which connect to the Highline National Recreation Trail (#31). These trails offer diverse experiences for hikers, ranging from easy to moderately challenging routes through scenic forested areas.Fishing
Fishing is a primary activity here, with anglers enjoying opportunities at both Tonto and Horton Creeks. The creeks are noted for their clear waters and suitability for family-friendly fishing outings.Wildlife viewing
The campground's natural setting, surrounded by tall pines and proximity to creeks, offers opportunities for wildlife observation. Visitors may see local fauna typical of the area, although specific species are not mentioned.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned, although the campground's open season is limited to April through November, suggesting it is not operational during winter.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding are not mentioned, as the creeks are not described as suitable for these activities.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfire rings provided at campsites.
- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsTraffic noise and light from Hwy 260 present constant disturbances. Bear-proof equipment is required.
Active alertsnull
Weather at Lower Tonto Creek
52
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 35%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 0.2 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
Weather History
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Emergency Services
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Good to know
Peak season datesApril 3, 2025 - November 3, 2025.
Trash and recyclingThe campground features trash collection services, with one user noting that the "forest ranger will even pack out your trash for you." However, there are no dedicated recycling facilities mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresDirect proximity to Tonto Creek. Fishing opportunities available.
Common complaintsComplaints include loud traffic from Hwy 260, limited cellular service, issues with QR code payment processes, and aggressive park ranger behavior.
HostSome users report helpful camping hosts; others highlight strict or aggressive behavior.
Campground Map
Driving directionsThis site is 15 miles northeast of Payson. From Payson, travel 15 miles east on State Hwy. 260. Just east of mile marker 269 at Kohl’s Ranch, turn left (north) on Forest Road (FR) 289.
Road access is paved and directly adjacent to Hwy 260, but notable for frequent traffic noise and light throughout day/night.Nearby places
Payson (15 miles, approximately 20 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
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Reviews from booking and map sources
4.5
18 reviews
Lower Tonto Creek is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground receives consistently positive reviews for its cleanliness and natural beauty. Visitors appreciate the scenic surroundings, proximity to creeks, and well-maintained facilities. However, noise from the nearby highway and the lack of amenities like potable water and showers are common drawbacks highlighted by visitors.
Review Summaries
Based on 18 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently mention the campground's cleanliness, scenic location next to creeks, and opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing and hiking. "The campgrounds were nice, and well kept....
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The most common complaints are the traffic noise from the adjacent highway and the lack of essential amenities like potable water and firewood. Some visitors also noted issues with the Recreation.gov...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing potable water, firewood, and extra supplies such as toilet paper due to the walk-in nature of the sites and limited on-site conveniences. One user advised, "Next time, I...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground mostly receives visitors during its open season (April to November). Spring and fall are particularly popular for their mild weather, making these ideal times for camping.
Based on 18 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Great secluded place to camp. My family has camped here many times." "Clean campground, with hiking trails. Restrooms are available and limited cellular data." "The bathrooms were as clean as you...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #001: Convenient but noisy due to highway proximity. Site #002: Connectivity issues with the Recreation.gov app reported. Site #003: Very loud due to nearby traffic. Site #008: Rated excellent...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
The campground is generally accessible due to its paved walkways, but some users noted challenges with the walk-in nature of the campsites. "The host was awesome and helpful, only drawback was the...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and one user noted, "I walked to Hortencia trail and walked my dogs. Make sure you let do the leg miles because after one mile, my dog kept sitting."
Based on 18 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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