The Tonto National Forest is the fifth-largest national forest in the United States, covering nearly 3 million acres of rugged, ecologically rich terrain—from saguaro cactus-studded deserts to the cool pine-covered highlands beneath the Mogollon Rim. With elevations ranging from 1,300 to 7,900 feet, this vast and varied landscape offers year-round opportunities for outdoor recreation.

A network of scenic drives connects remote canyons, desert basins, and mountain vistas. The forest features more than 29,000 acres of lakes, including Theodore Roosevelt, Apache, Canyon, and Saguaro Lakes on the Salt River, and Bartlett and Horseshoe Reservoirs on the Verde River—all popular for boating, fishing, swimming, and camping. The Lower Salt River is among the most popular tubing destinations in the country.

Higher elevations offer relief from desert heat with cool pine forests, making areas like Christopher Creek, Tonto Creek, and the Four Peaks Wilderness ideal for camping from April through October. Outdoor lovers will find hundreds of miles of trails for hiking, horseback riding, and off-roading across the forest’s diverse ecosystems.

Wildlife is abundant across this vast landscape—you might encounter javelina, bald eagles, black bears, deer, bobcats, and even Gila monsters. From desert wildflowers in spring to snow-dusted rim country in winter, each season in Tonto National Forest brings new scenery, solitude, and adventure.

Plan Your Visit

• Elevation Range: 1,300 to 7,900 feet

• Seasons: Year-round; desert areas best in fall–spring, rim areas ideal in late spring through fall

• Nearest Towns: Phoenix, Payson, Globe, Mesa, Tonto Basin

• Popular Lakes: Roosevelt, Apache, Canyon, Saguaro (Salt River); Bartlett, Horseshoe (Verde River)

• Camping: Dispersed and developed options available; lakeside and high-country sites

• Top Activities: Camping, tubing, hiking, horseback riding, boating, fishing, hunting, off-roading, scenic drives