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U.S. Forest Service · Tonto National Forest

Upper Tonto Creek

The Upper Tonto Creek is a small campground tucked away from the main highway where the Tonto and Horton Creeks merge. 6 Campsites are available for reservation only. This location is available only through reservation May 1through November 3rd. Campground map available here. 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). This campground contains 6 campsites, 3 picnic sites, and a double vault toilet. 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.

Reservable13 sites
Check availability on Recreation.gov ↗
Site 3
no

Campsites

Standard, no hookups6
Host/management4
picnic3
Total13

Amenities & rules

Pets allowedCampfires allowed

Compiled from site-level records; individual sites vary. Confirm on Recreation.gov or with the managing office.

Getting there

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.

Campgrounds nearby

Data source: Recreation.gov RIDB, retrieved August 30, 2026. The Campsite Atlas is an independent publication and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Recreation.gov or any federal agency. Always confirm critical details on the official Recreation.gov page before you travel.