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Tonto/Schoolhouse
Overview
Schoolhouse Campground, located within the Tonto National Forest, offers a serene desert escape on the southern shores of Theodore Roosevelt Lake. This site provides a classic outdoor experience where the focus is on the rugged beauty of the Arizona landscape. As one of the primary access points for the lake's southern end, it serves as a peaceful retreat for those looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in a natural desert environment away from the bustle of modern resorts.
Location & Surroundings
Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Sierra Ancha Mountains, the park is situated in Roosevelt, AZ, surrounded by iconic Saguaro cacti and diverse desert flora. The campground is positioned near the Schoolhouse Point boat ramp, providing convenient water access for recreation. Visitors often enjoy stunning sunsets over the lake and the quietude of a location that feels remote despite being easily accessible via well-maintained roads within the forest system.
Amenities & Park Features
This is a developed but primitive-style facility, making it ideal for dry camping enthusiasts. Each site is designed to accommodate various rig sizes and includes several essential features for a comfortable stay:
- Paved parking spurs that provide a level surface for RVs and trailers.
- Individual fire rings and picnic tables at every campsite.
- Access to potable water hydrants located conveniently throughout the loops.
- Clean vault toilets maintained by the Forest Service.
While there are no individual electrical or water hookups, a dump station is located nearby to support self-contained travelers.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The primary draw is Theodore Roosevelt Lake, the largest lake located entirely within Arizona, where visitors enjoy world-class bass fishing and boating. For history buffs, the Tonto National Monument is a short drive away, featuring well-preserved prehistoric cliff dwellings. Hikers can explore various trails within the national forest, while the scenic Apache Trail offers a rugged and beautiful driving route through the heart of the desert mountains.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is a perfect fit for self-contained RVers who value natural beauty and tranquility over resort-style amenities. It is especially popular with fishing enthusiasts and boaters who want to stay as close to the water as possible. Those who appreciate a rustic atmosphere and are prepared for a boondocking-style experience will find Schoolhouse to be one of the most rewarding spots in central Arizona.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- Hunting Nearby (within 20 miles)
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Dominic Petitti
Great camp spot. Water and mountain views for $10/ night with Access Pass. Recommend filling with water before arrival. Closest with potable water was Burnt Corral Campground, same pass for school house works here (u.s.f.d.a. campgrounds). Dumpsters are available. Boat ramp was easily accessible.
Mister Earls
If you have a boat it's a great place to setup camp. Shoreline fishing is not accessible due to trees. Campground Host Jim was amazing and friendly. Very informative. There is potable water near campground host. The view is amazing
David
I can't speak to all the amenities as I bring my trailer and use that. I go here each January and it is always nice and quiet. I would imagine it fills up when it warms up, but it's perfect for a winter getaway. It's right next to the boat ramp for easy access to the water.
Jackie Mcarthy
A decent campground with semiclean and stocked pit toilets. Lots of shrubs and grasses overgrown except in tent and near drive areas. These have been weed whacked as well as some of the trails to the water. Pet owners beware of all the foxtails. No clear beach area or access for swimming. Small sandy area to either side of boat launch for snagging your fishing lines. Bass are visible in morning.lots of RVs, generator's, boats. Thursday night military helicopters were flying around, possibly training runs. NO water, so be prepared to bring your own to wash dishes or drink. General store is about 10 minutes away for ice, water and other necessities. Cold mornings and nice afternoons with a breeze around 3pm. Shade ramadas and some trees provide respite from the sun. Picnic tables are somewhat dirty but cleanable. Some dogs off leash,perhaps people are not aware of az leash laws. Saw some cardinals and a silky flycatcher ( Black cardinal)(rare)
chris m
Overpriced at $20 a day PLUS an $8.00 junk fee for placing online reservation. No flush toilets, no showers, no hookups. No cell service. Very unsafe, no police presence or enforcement rangers. The entry gate ranger station has been boarded up and looks like was done many years ago. Based on bullet holes in signs they have extensive criminal activity. 164 od the 206 camp sites have been permanently closed off and abandoned, nature is reclaiming them. Bathrooms in the abandoned loops have been dismantled. Camp host here does nothing except let their dog run around all day and night. Only saw them clean up trash once. Never put reserved sign on my site. Lots of trash in bushes.
E Fed
If you’re looking for a spot to enjoy the lake views from the land, there are probably better spots along the waters edge, as the main feature here is the steep boat ramp; but if you do decide to walk down to the edge of the ramp there is a long floating dock and some great views. The water here is rather murky, but the area is very undisturbed and peaceful.
Terri Andress
It was extreemly busy at the boat ramp on Saturday. But people were very pleasent. Didnt go to the campgrounds, too far from the water and too expensive for me.
Jennifer Small
Great little spot with a nice view of the lake. Only downfall was the difficulty getting to the lake other than near the boat ramp.
Richard Conley
Management has let the campground perimeter natural growth go unattended - what was once a wonderful view of surrounding valleys and mountains is now obscured with brush. As it is now, it's pavement parking with a picnic benches and bathrooms. Clean and safe but boring. What was once a spectacular view area has been lost due to poor management.
CuriouslyCory
Lovely quiet campground in January. Only about 10% occupied the weekend we visited. We couldn't find any good fishing spots without a boat, had to go up to a day use area for that. Boat ramp and dock were in great condition. Camp sites were fairly level and clean. Fire rings are well maintained.