Houston Mesa Campground and Equestrian Sites

As the fifth largest forest in the United States, the Tonto National Forest is one of the most-visited "urban" forests in the United States (approximately 5.8 million visitors annually). Its boundaries are Phoenix to the south, the Mogollon Rim to the north and the San Carlos and Fort Apache Indian reservations to the east. Natural Features: The campground is located at an elevation of 5,200 ft. in a mixed forest and shrub area, with spacious campsites offering both sun and shade. Winters are pleasant and cool with cold nighttime temperatures, while summers are warm and sunny, providing a nice getaway from the hotter deserts around Phoenix. Hawks, eagles, javelina, deer, fox, skunk and coyote live in the area. Recreation : Many visitors come to Houston Mesa to horseback ride, hike, camp and picnic. Facilities : Houston Mesa has 102 campsites, including 28 equestrian sites for campers with horses or mules, and 29 tent-only sites for those who want a quieter experience. The horse camping section (Mule Deer Loop) is across the street from the main campground and features 28 individual sites with tables & grills, and most having corrals available. Campers who reserve Mule Deer Loop Sites 7 - 18 MUST have horses or mules. There are two group sites that can host up to 75 people and can be reserved through Recreation.gov . Nearby Attractions: Campers who make the quick trip to the town of Payson, one mile south, will find restaurants, shopping and other conveniences. Scenic driving and outdoor recreation abound in the surrounding Tonto National Forest, which embraces almost 3 million acres of rugged and spectacularly beautiful country, ranging from saguaro cactus-studded desert to pine-forested mountains beneath the Mogollon Rim.