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Tonto/Cholla
Overview
Overview
Situated on the shores of the expansive Theodore Roosevelt Lake, the Tonto/Cholla Recreation Site offers a quintessential desert camping experience. Operated by the Tonto National Forest, this location is perfect for those who want to disconnect from the noise of the city and immerse themselves in the rugged beauty of Arizona. It provides a scenic lakeside atmosphere that draws visitors seeking a quiet retreat rather than a traditional resort-style RV park.
Location & Surroundings
Located in the heart of the Salt River Valley, the Cholla Recreation Site is nestled within the dramatic landscapes of central Arizona. The area is defined by its vast water vistas and surrounding saguaro-studded hills. Because it is positioned directly along the shoreline, guests can enjoy spectacular desert sunsets and dark night skies that remain largely unaffected by city light pollution, making it an excellent spot for amateur stargazers.
Amenities & Park Features
This recreation site is designed for comfort while maintaining a natural aesthetic. The park provides paved RV sites that can accommodate a variety of vehicle sizes, though it is important to check specific length requirements beforehand. Visitors have access to potable water and vault toilets located throughout the loops. While it does not offer full utility hookups at every site, the generous spacing and proximity to the water compensate for the lack of modern utility frills.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The primary draw of this area is undoubtedly the water. Outdoor enthusiasts frequently take advantage of boating and fishing opportunities right from the shoreline. For those who prefer land-based activities, the surrounding Tonto National Forest provides miles of trails for hiking and wildlife viewing. History buffs also enjoy the proximity to the Tonto National Monument, where ancient cliff dwellings offer a unique glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Salado of the region.
Who This Park Is Best For
The Tonto/Cholla Recreation Site is best suited for nature lovers and anglers who prefer a rustic, back-to-basics experience over manicured RV resorts. It is an ideal stop for travelers who value solitude, direct access to lake activities, and the chance to witness the stark beauty of the Sonoran Desert. Those who come prepared to be self-sufficient in their RVs will find this destination to be a peaceful and rewarding escape from the ordinary.
Features & Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- Hunting Nearby (within 20 miles)
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
Reviews
robert yeckel
Awesome full service campground within walking distance of the shoreline. Place was a wreck though with bathrooms that were barely usable. Camp host came the next day and was cleaning. So I assume it’s hit or miss. Other than that nice to have showers for the ladies if you don’t have a portable one.
Shari Brewster
Very nice campgrounds. Even numbered sites are first come first serve. Most sites are somewhat private with bushes between sites. Very nice views of the lake and scrounging mountains. There are no stores anywhere close so pack what you need entirely. We stayed in the buckhorn loop. Each loop has its own camp host. I don’t know who is responsible for cleaning the bathrooms but the woman’s bathrooms at the far end of Buckhorn loop was filthy. The sink looked like maybe someone got sick in it and no one cleaned it up. I have never seen black widows so abundant ever before. There were widow webs in every corner and around the base of the two toilets. And spiders all over. It was scary but I survived. The toilet paper was stocked well and not much trash. But the sink counters and toilets could be cleaned way better. The other bathrooms were cleaner. All were stocked well. Showers work, there is just one button that you push to start the shower it gets warm not hot. It’s barely tolerable. Feels good if you are hot. I would not try the shower in the winter. It would be too cold. I will return to this campsite.
Traveling Bee
Nice campground with formative host. Was there during a good thunderstorm. Winds blow from every direction 😆 bathroom in my loop was clean, although 1 of 2 toilets was out of service. Landscape is beautiful and there is a really cool path that goes fully around.
Leonard Scott
Very well maintained Campground with very nice flushing toilet bathrooms and heated water showers. The spot we picked has a great view of Roosevelt Lake. Good trails with a more rugged ones that lead down to the lake. There is a boat ramp and large parking lot in this campground as well. There is a RV dump station too.
Ken Schroth
This is a beautiful campground in the low desert. Incredibles scenery all around with the Matazals right there and the lake just beyond the campground. The only issue we had this past week is that the camp hosts were pretty lazy on cleaning the bathrooms. I'm sure that will change when the Camp Host changes. They do have flush toilets and showers... But the camp host needs a little motivation.