They are very nice camping sites theres some traffic during the dam Trails Im not at night its pretty calm at night theres wild horses that will literally come up to your tenants care you like it in me all around its one of the best places I have found its got nice hiking trails through it very very beautiful views and scenery and is also dispersed camping area which is nice
For Hortons Creek area: Extremely beautiful place. The hiking trails are considered easy, kid and pet friendly. Very nice area. Only picked up 2 small bags of trash so most visitors are packing up and taking their trash with them. Except for the picnic area, that was kind of littered but I cleaned that up. I recommend coming here if youre looking for something simple and peaceful. The water was extremely clean looking and was a very enjoyable experience.
So lovely place. Nature in the country is so beautiful and amazing. Its so vivid and wonderful. You feel so welcomed in this country. Its just Gods given country. Family place. Nice atmosphere, hot too. Its adventurous and learning. Overall youll enjoy a lot.!!!!
Ponderosa Campground is great! The sites are large and spread out. Some will hold 3 tents if needed. Id recommend staying mid-week if possible. Our loop was completely empty 2 nights of our stay.
My brother and I took a little walk up by gonzales pass late afternoon early evening, was a beautiful walk found some old deer sign, no water that we seen but we only went about 2miles down on old 2track, not a bad little excursion for spur of the moment. Any time outdoors Is a good time. Get outdoors.mountainsrcalling
Rugged terrain! Very rocky trail. We traveled from the beginning of Table Mesa Rd parking area to trail 37 where the shady rest area is noted on the map. About 12.5- 13 miles to this point. Our round-trip was some 25-30 miles. Slow going due to the very rocky trail. Some areas not as rough, but most of the trail was very rough. Im 75 and my arms can feel it today. Thankfully, my wife, Jean, has power steering on her machine. We both have Suzuki Quads. There were 3 of us on this trip....me, my wife, Jean, and her sister, Mary. Mary had a 550 Yamaha Grizzly. They both told me that they would not have gone on this trail by themselves...too rough and rocky for their liking! I liked the trail for the fact that it had a little of everything....rough and rocky, and also smooth areas. A real variety to test your mettle though at my age, I dont think I want anything in the red trail category! Overall, I give this trail a thumbs up! My wife and SIL said no thanks....they will never go there again! Wimps! Thank you for a super moderate trail!
Great hiking trails out at First Water Trail Head! Still very green and lot of water running, went Monday morning and there wasn’t a lot of traffic. The road getting to the trail head wasn’t bad. Small cars can get down it no problem. The bathrooms are always clean and nice, parking lot is a great size at all trail head areas! This hike is probably great for small kids too! It is a must hike super awesome area!
The price on double camp spots is a little steep, BUT WORTH IT. The bathrooms are clean and work great. The Woodbury fire gave us Mother Natures show every night for a week. Met some excellent human beings! Game &Fish, Forest Service, Tonto Basin residents, all Fire fighters and support crew were inspiring to meet and watch. These are certainly hard working, great Americans. Tonto forest is well managed and loved and cared for by so many. God blessed America but He was especially good to Arizona! Please come and respectfully enjoy this majesty.
Talk about some outdoor fun ? Well talk no more !!! This is the place you can do it all. You can bring your toys, guns, hiking boots, cameras, camping gear, toy haulers, you name it, this place is FANTASTIC to get away from reality. We took the can am and razor out and just WENT explored all over. From the fantastic scenery to the breathtaking trails and jaw dropping excitement there was never a dull moment. Roll up on hiding mines and explore, make sure you have flashlights and some good long strong sticks, neverknow what may be deep in the caves and tunnels. Make sure you mark your way down, youll definitely get lost coming back.Go make a family day of it. Youll enjoy.
Its a wonderful, well maintained place to visit with friendly staff. (This was at the Lost Dutchman State Park portion of the forest)
Land of many uses. My auto correct called it Land of many users.. Which can be incredibly true in some places. But there can be immense beauty. Grab your camera, kayak, hiking boots, and fishing rod and go.
It’s beautiful period! After being a big city with full of people like New York, it’s spiritually detoxing to be here breathing the fresh air seeing the most amazing formation of rocks with vibrant colors. Hike was pretty easy going so there is no excuse not to do it. I was with my parents who are in their high 70’s. They did it n loved it.
Love the diversity of the Tonto National Forest, fron desert to high forest, all within a couple of hours of Phoenix
Beautiful nature... great privacy
It was a great hike. Better to hike when the weather is cooler. You are exposed out there. Bring plenty of water and snacks. The trail was rough in some places. Wear good shoes, I felt like I was walking barefooted on the way back down.
We spent Easter at Roosevelt Lake, a tradition of my girls family. This was the second year for me, and I loved it!We did a lot of exploring around the area. The stark beauty of the lake and its surroundings are truly awe inspiring!There are quite a few campgrounds surrounding the lake with something for everyone. You can choose to camp with full amenities, showers, water pumps, cabanas w/ picnic tables, and parking for your RV, or you can rough it in a campground that offers only space and restrooms. There is even a resort at the south end of the lake.If you take the entrance road to Bachelor Cove, but instead of veering left to the campground, you keep going, the road takes you up into the mountains on a steep dirt road that levels out onto a plateau that offers an absolutely breathtaking view of the lake, dam, bridge, Tonto basin, and miles of desert scenery and mountains. You can go even higher, but the road from this point on is pretty steep with lots of rocks, and sheer dropoff on both sides. I would definitely advise a four wheel drive vehicle to proceed beyond this point. There are many places like this to explore in Tonto National Forest, and especially in Tonto Basin.If youre the outdoor type, I urge you to plan a trip to the area. I think youll fall in love with it too.
Its a very beautiful place, the woods are spacious and calm. Also its home to many things and sightings that can not be explained. If you love camping and fishing, or you just have a general love for the outdoors and nature this is the place for you! You will find many ponds and lakes as well as hiking, mountain biking and camping spots.
Get out & do something, follow the rules!!! Be respectfully of all of out there....& For GOD sake, you pack-it-in... YOU pack-it-out!!!! You know who you are!!!You better hope I dont see ya litter!!!!!!!! We will have a discussion!!!
Its a very beautiful destination.there are many plants and its great to go with family and friends.
The entire park is gorgeous, but the park and hike down to the falls at Tonto Natural Bridge is amazing! Tourist! This shouldnt be missed! Resident? Get out and make the drive to see this natural beauty. Very much worth the drive and the park admittance fee.
I loved this place its really amazing. So peaceful and the lady from the campsite was just so nice to everyone. We had an amazing experience.
A favorite for us for hiking, boating and horseback riding. It is sad to see some of it being burned in the recent Woodbury Fire. Tonto hosts the Superstition Mountains and there is a plethora of hiking & riding trails ranging from easy to moderate to difficult. There’s also camp grounds at Lost Dutchman that have really nice facilities.
Love Tonto National Forest! It is beautiful up there. This is one of our favorite vacation/camping areas.
Great wildlife and camping.
Really beautiful Park. Really worth seeing. We got there late in the day but will definitely go earlier so we can do some more hiking there. Were surprised to see a really cool waterfall at the top of the natural arch. And a really nice creek goes through the middle of it. Very well maintained by the park service. Definitely worth the visit.
Its breath taking beauty after leaving choke me out city.
Hiking and courts rock hunting. Its peaceful! Camping to down on Granetdel Rd.
So beautiful when you reach the waterfall. Its relaxing hearing the water and wind blowing thru the tree, brings your mind and body to another level
We love the ability to camp just about anywhere off the road. We traveled near diamond point this time. We spent a day looking for geodes, but did not find anything good. Looking over the valley away the rim was a great view. It was great weather the whole weekend.
Spectacular desert vista views. Bring your camera to prove desert views.
The Superstitions are unique, huge, and gorgeous in the winter months. Its frankly just too hot in the summer to truly enjoy them. That being said, there are some spectacular streams and waterfalls in the monsoon season.There is quite an extensive trail system on west side of the mountain. There are trails for almost all skill levels.
Perfect time to go camping overnight
The drive up Hwy 87 was beautiful and well-maintained. Lots of places to stop and have an adventure, such as Tonto National Monument, and plenty of hiking trails. Feels very remote and immersive. Would love to go back-country camping here next visit!
Just to the northeast of Mesa Arizona, the Tonto National Forest is he easily accessible Nature Preserve with lots to offer anyone wanting to get into nature. Hiking trails from easy to difficult, plenty of places to stop and look and gaze at the Wonder of the Southwest landscape. More people need to get out and do hiking to enjoy all that our country has to offer.
This is such a beautiful hike along the canyon areas just outside of Superior. Park along the road just East of the Tunnel and you can find great trails and stream areas with waterfalls. Its a very relaxing day trip of about an hour from the Phoenix area.
Beautiful lake, relaxing day on the water. #dontfakeitlakeit
We ventured to Tonto National Forest to look at the Wild flowers that are flowering now in the thousands. Though we did find them they were really not all over the place but on the hillocks while nearing the TNF. Some the pics taken are posted here.
Lots of camping and hiking opportunities, beautiful nature.
Love all the deferent landmarks it has to offer
Mid desert elevation near North Scottsdale with River and dams. Burns over when dry. Has a few native ruins, cactus, big cliffs, dry washes, snakes, deer, coyote, woodpecker, and other mammals, birds and reptiles. Most parking areas require a pass, mostly no fires allowed. Burned areas mostly closed. Lots of ATV and dirt bike trails, some horse and bicycle. Mostly easy open country hiking, some very steep mountains, few trees. Extreme heat in summer. Mostly empty except around the lakes and trails.
I absolutely love this lake. Its a little rough for kayaking in the main part if there are a lot of boats but its enjoyable.Gorgeous views, love the rock formations.The only disappointing thing was the trash. We picked up as much as we could but its disheartening to see the total disregard for nature.
Tonto National Forest is a beautiful area surrounding Bartlett Lake. Its great for boating or swimming though areas are not marked off well and when you ask the person at the general store you tend to get vague unhelpful answers (though not impolite). The kiosk to get a ticket for parking is a mile away from the store in an unmarked empty parking lot. Overall if you can handle a few minor inconveniences, its a beautiful place to enjoy a hike, swim, boating or camping Adventure.
Great hike and fishing was a great experience both my kids enjoyed it
Nice scenic drive. Lots to do... Rafting down the river, swimming,, boat launch and horseback riding just a few. Watch the speed though... It drops from sixty five down to thirty five fast.
There are a great variety of camping sites with utilities and bathrooms. Some our on the water and some are very secluded. Be careful with highway 88;no pavement means some mild offeoading that will bottom out most cars.
It was so beautiful. I climbed up a Monolith by a peaceful stream and all I could hear at the top was my very own heartbeat and my thoughts
I usually find myself @ South Mountain, or Mcdowell Sonoran Preserve But decided to change it up ajd im so Glad I did, despite the little drive the scenery is honestly much different, I know most will say the desert is the desert how could it change? Well theres wayy more greenery, shrubs,trees vs JUST cactus and sand. Offering more shade, cleaner Air, Less People. Everything about it is just nicer. Although many trails are closed right now because of the fires the ones that are open are still great, ive been back here about 5 times in two weeks. Cant wait for the Fall to explore other sides of the range
Awesome time taking the Jeep out over Four Peaks summit to Roosevelt Lake. The road was pretty easy to pass, only a few areas that would need caution. The washboarding on Four Peaks Rd right off the 87 was insane.
Actually went riding at Sycamore creek. Lots of irresponsible people. Bring your firearms. Would get 5 stars if not for the crowd. The terrain is amazing.
Spent three absolutely stress free days in Tonto National Forest. Christopher Creek campground is perfect! Lots of trailheads and scenery to take in. Would take weeks to explore the whole area. If youre looking for a peaceful getaway, this a great place. So many spots in Az worth the time.
Great lots of hunting, seen 2 kills
Its a beautiful place, ended up just driving through before sunset to take in the beauty. Drove back at night and it was a beautiful sight as well. Check out the Tonto Basin when coming here.. Nice little area.
One of the most spectacular places to camp that I have ever been. Instead of camping at the reservoir and paying $12 why dont you turn away from the reservoir on a Forest road where numerous isolated camping spots will be awaiting you. Hopefully you dont mind camping with cows.
Rv Friendly, big campsites with shade structures, bathrooms & right near the lake. Self check in allowing arrival at anytime.
I always love coming here. My friend and I came up for a couple days for some hiking and seeing some of the local sights. Everyone is super friendly we didnt want to leave. We hiked up around granite dells and drove around the rim it was nice and cool and breezy and the rain was very welcoming. We cant wait for our next adventure here.
Always fun driving through. Must stop at the rest point in salt canyon on the 60. If your there when it rains its quit a sight. I ride out here when the weather gets hot. Accross the bridge there is a camp site and for $15 it covers camping fishing and hiking. Its an amazing ride on the north east side of the canyon along the 60, with some of the best views in the state.
Prepare for no-trail hiking. There are a few different routes: one is easily paved and the other is through rock, brush, and water. I suggest wearing shoes with a good grip and a camera--the destination is beautiful and photo worthy. There is a small secluded small path that takes you to another mini cave with a light small water fall. Its the one closest to the entrance. Its insanely pretty and not many people know about it. Ask a guide about it, its worth it!
Always a great time in the forest. Jeepin in Box Canyon with State 48 Jeepers today.
A wide range of flora, fauna and rock formations are the at the heart if this beautiful wilderness. Youll see evidence of the Great Flood in the layers of the Red Rocks and many other historic wonders. Be mindful of the fire danger conditions if you visit during the dry seasons. There are trails for every level of hiker. The national forest service does an excellent job maintaining the trails and markers. The Tonto National Forest is a must experience if youre visiting Arizona.
Wasnt terribly busy on memorial weekend.
Many acres of Tonto Forest has been badly burned from the fires. Yet in the areas above 4000 feet (?) there has been little to no fire damage. Tonto has several National Monuments, lakes and rivers (streams and creeks) included in it. There are many acres of hiking as well.
Such an amazing area. Very tranquil. Theres a lit of camping and barbeque areas. Great spot to watch the sunset
An awesome day bike riding desert trails in Sunny Arizona. Over 70 degrees in January. Awesome! Apache Junction can be very proud of Prospector Park. Soccer fields, Raquet Ball and Pickle Ball courts, playground equipment for kids, many walking paths and sidewalks. And a great jumping off place to non motorized trail system. Biking, hiking, horseback riding.
Covering such a huge amount of Arizona, Ive barely scratched the surface of the many spectacular places in The Tonto National Forest. I randomly drove to an amazing place outside cave creek yesterday. I dont recall the name, but Ive got plenty of pictures to share.
Day trip. Beautiful day to spend with family
It was a gorgeous day to go! So worth the drive from Phoenix! I reccomend good hiking shoes with tred on them because we slipped around the rocks a lot but made it back unscathed! Great photo opportunities and please respect the signs and rangers in the park
Browns peak- Rough 12 miles of road from the Lake Roosevelt side. About 5.5 miles round trip with significant scrambling. Not for the faint of heart.
Beautiful and nice place to get a relax and connect with the nature
Wave cave is an amazing little hike. Social media worthy pics and challenging last mile of a hike. Superstition mountains have the best hikes in the valley. Bring lots of water. Dont be a novice and not bring a minimal amount. Start off any beginner hikes in the valley before going and attempting any of the challenging or long hikes
Had a nice afternoon in the trees doing some light off roading.
Free range shooting was an excellent experience. Being from another state where this is not a thing made it even more enjoyable. Lots of sites to shoot and lots of ATVs and jeeps and trucks were there yet it was very safe and respectful. Warning, you need a truck with good suspension to drive there. We brought chairs and a tent for shade and food and a bunch of water. Please also bring trash bags to clean up behind your fun. We had to clean up the fun of others before we started our own fun.
I hiked up siphon draw trail today. It was amazing at the top. This is a tough trail. You should definitely be in good shape and take plenty of water and something to eat. The top is called flatiron. The view is breathtaking.
Always beautiful :) wild horses are amazing. If its a busy weekend look out for marshmallows. (Please keep the river clean) Great way to spend a day off. Stay safe.
The greatest biker camp out ever!Chopper Town Rally.Great people great time. All the locals were the best people you could wish for!
Beautiful park it was rainy this daySo we weren’t able to get the full enjoyment of it but a beautiful trails.
I love this place. Roosevelt Lake in the Tonto National Forest. Great place to camp, hike, boat, or just enjoy the peace.
As beautiful as ever. Went to Bartlet lake. The lake was full thats for sure
Love camping here in the off season when temps are milder . My husband loves fishing nearby.
What a beautiful place to hike. Many trails and options for your difficulty level. We hiked the Dutchman trail as a 9.5 mile loop connecting to Bluff Springs and back to the Peralta trailhead.A beautiful day with varying views of mountains, streams and canyons.
Always a beautiful day spent on the Apache Trail in Tonto National Forest. My family loves it here!
Cool green, hike fish camp!
Coolest weather! 55 at night, 75 during the day with short light showers all weekend. Beautiful scenery and views at Mogollon Rim.
Seems that now they find any reason to close the river and recreation sites for the whole Globe area. Cant fear the inevitable. Fires, floods, and accidental deaths will happen, but closing everything makes no sense. A ranger told me because of flash flooding. Omg. Really?
Its beautiful up here. Lots of Beautiful Elk.
The most challenging hike Ive done so far. There were no trails where we went. It was hot and extremely rough terrane. Thank God I had a GPS. Worth every second of pain carrying a 40lb pack.
Ponderosa campground off the 260E. Be bear aware here. Spacious sites, some road traffic noise.
Great place to visit during to cooler season. There are a lot of things to take photos of. Don’t go in the open mines and take your trash with you!
Waterwheel Hiking Area easy enough and short enough for young kids.
Scoop your poop! Parking can be competitive and limited. The trails are rigorous and challenging but the vistas are absolutely worth it. From Peralta it took us a hour to get to the saddle which is where everyone congregated. We bypassed them in search of adventure on Terapin. Follow the rock carins and youll be money.
I love this forest. Huge and with a ton of stuff to do and see. I especially love my road trips when I go through this National Forest as you can see so many different biomes and types of flora and fauna
Amazing places to visit in the Tonto national forest, which a lot are close to the valley. Check out the salt river, you are more than likely to see wild horses. There is tons to do!
Super nice staff. Its just off the road by Lake Roosevelt. We just went to the lower site. Its a shy moderate climb. My two year old hiked the entire way. You get to walk among the site. You have to make a reservation for the upper site and it is a longer hike. Once again, really nice staff and really neat history.
At the Ponderosa campground. The staff keep this place really clean. Great place to camp with the kids.
Amazing! Beautiful. Fresh air. Clean campgrounds. Amazing views. Clean flushing toilets. Great, hospitable camp hosts. We will be back. It was colder than we are use too down south; but it was worth the cold night camping! Clean and beautiful campgrounds.
Some of the best places to hike i have ever been! take more water than you think you will need and dont hike the trail labeled sd alone, it gets downright dangerous. I love a sense of danger, however, this isnt one to do solo