Recreation
Before you recreate on the Tonto National Forest, you are encouraged to make sure your desired destination is open. Review on the Conditions Report on this page and the individual recreation site page. Please understand that conditions can rapidly change and priority will always be public safety on the ground over updating a recreation site status on the web page.
The Cave Creek Ranger District includes the Verde River, and Horseshoe and Bartlett Reservoirs.
Enjoy river rafting the Upper Salt River, mountain biking the Pinals, and hiking or horseback riding at Picketpost Mountain on the Globe Ranger District.
The Mesa Ranger District has a variety of recreation opportunities including Arizona’s famous Salt River Tubing located on the Lower Salt River.
The Payson Ranger District just outside the Phoenix metro area has beautiful ponderosa pines, and includes the East Verde River and Highline Trail.
The Pleasant Valley Ranger District is located around the small town of Young, and is known for its remoteness and ample dispersed recreation opportunities
Enjoy one of the largest lakes in Arizona- Roosevelt Lake, along with Apache Lake, and other great opportunities on the Tonto Basin Ranger District!
Bulldog Canyon OHV Permit Zone motorized use area on the Mesa Ranger District.
Desert Vista OHV Permit Zone motorized use area on the Cave Creek Ranger District.
Located in the Mesa Ranger District and less than an hour from Phoenix.
St. Clair OHV Permit Zone motorized use area on the Cave Creek Ranger District.
Bob Bear Trailhead
Bobcat OHV Staging Area
Boulder Day Use Area
Box Bar Shoreline Area and River Access Point
Bronco Trailhead
Burnt Corral Campground and Day Use Area
Bush OHV Staging Area
Butcher Jones Day Use Area
Camp Creek Wash OHV Access
Canyon Lake