Cholla Campground

For Arizonans seeking a spectacular lakeside camping experience without venturing too far from the Phoenix metro area, Cholla Campground is a premier destination. Located on the shores of Roosevelt Lake, the largest lake entirely within Arizona, this campground offers a unique blend of rugged desert beauty and convenient amenities. It’s a place where the Sonoran Desert meets a vast body of water, creating a landscape that is both iconic and serene. The quiet, clean, and well-organized spots, as described by a satisfied camper, make it an outstanding choice for families, individuals, and groups alike.

What truly sets Cholla Campground apart is its remarkable scale and thoughtful design. With hundreds of sites, it is one of the largest campgrounds in the state and boasts the distinction of being one of the largest solar-powered campgrounds in the United States. While individual campsites do not have electricity, the solar power is used to run essential services, including the lighting in the restrooms and, perhaps most importantly, the hot showers. This commitment to sustainability adds a modern touch to a traditional camping experience. Visitors often praise the peaceful atmosphere, especially during the cooler, quieter months of February and March, making it an ideal year-round escape.

The natural beauty of the area is a major draw. The campground is surrounded by classic semi-arid desert landscapes, with mesquite trees, various shrubs, and the unmistakable saguaro cacti. As one reviewer eloquently puts it, the sunsets are a sight to behold, with "the soft light drizzling down each evening to blanket the rust-covered Sierra Ancha Mountains that border the lake." The proximity to Roosevelt Lake, with its 128 miles of shoreline, provides endless opportunities for water-based recreation, from fishing and boating to kayaking and paddleboarding.

Cholla Campground is more than just a place to park your RV or pitch your tent; it's a hub for adventure. Its location offers easy access to a number of local attractions, including the historic Roosevelt Dam and the Tonto National Monument, which features ancient cliff dwellings. For those with a taste for scenic drives, the Apache Trail Scenic Byway is just a short trip away. The campground itself is a self-contained haven, with features that cater to both families and individuals. The simple playground delights children, while the well-kept restrooms with flushing toilets and showers are a welcome comfort after a day of exploring.

In conclusion, Cholla Campground provides an exceptional and comprehensive camping experience for Arizonans. It successfully combines the rugged beauty of the Tonto National Forest with the comforts of a well-maintained facility. Whether you’re looking to fish on the lake, hike in the desert, or simply relax and enjoy a spectacular sunset, this campground offers a memorable and accessible getaway. Its size, amenities, and stunning location make it a top-tier choice for anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors in a truly unique Arizona setting.

Location and Accessibility

Cholla Campground is located at Tonto Basin, AZ 85553, USA, within the Tonto National Forest. The campground is situated directly on the shores of Roosevelt Lake, approximately five miles north of Roosevelt Dam. The drive from the Phoenix area typically involves taking State Highway 87 (Beeline Highway) to State Highway 188, a scenic route that winds through the stunning landscape of central Arizona.

The campground is easily accessible by both cars and RVs. The entrance is wheelchair accessible, with a dedicated wheelchair-accessible parking lot, which is a significant advantage for those with mobility needs. The large, paved boat ramp and courtesy dock make it simple for visitors to launch their watercraft. While many of the sites are designed for RVs, there are also fantastic tent sites, some of which are right on the water's edge. The layout of the campground is well-planned, with sites that are both organized and spaced out to offer a sense of privacy.

Services Offered

• RV and Tent Sites: The campground accommodates both RV and tent campers with a total of 206 sites, including single- and double-unit sites. The RV sites are a mix of first-come, first-served and reservable sites.
• Water: The campground has running water, including water spigots throughout the site. RV water hookups are also available, which is a great convenience.
• Restrooms and Showers: Public restrooms with flush toilets and showers are available and are noted for being clean and well-maintained.
• Picnic and Cooking Amenities: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, a shade ramada, and a barbecue grill or fire ring.
• RV Dump Station: The campground has a refuse dump station, which is a crucial amenity for RV campers.
• Child-Friendly: There are simple playgrounds for children, and the area offers kid-friendly hikes, making it a great destination for families.
• Pet-Friendly: Dogs are allowed at the campground, so you can bring your furry friends along for the adventure.

Features / Highlights

• Solar Power: The campground is one of the largest solar-powered campgrounds in the United States, utilizing renewable energy to power its facilities.
• Roosevelt Lake Access: The campground is located directly on Roosevelt Lake, providing excellent access for boating, fishing, and other water sports.
• Hiking and Scenic Views: The surrounding Tonto National Forest offers a variety of hiking opportunities, and the campground itself provides spectacular views of the Sierra Ancha, Salome, and Superstition mountain ranges, especially at sunset.
• Nearby Attractions: The location is a gateway to several notable attractions, including the Roosevelt Dam, Tonto National Monument cliff dwellings, and the scenic Apache Trail.
• Accessibility: With wheelchair-accessible entrances and parking, the campground is more inclusive than many other outdoor sites.
• Large and Clean Sites: The sites are described as spacious, clean, and well-organized, with natural vegetation providing privacy between spots.

Contact Information

Cholla Campground is managed by the Tonto National Forest. For general inquiries about the campground or the surrounding area, you can contact the Tonto Basin Ranger District.

Address: Tonto Basin, AZ 85553, USA

Phone: (928) 467-3200 (Tonto Basin Ranger District)

It is also highly recommended to check the Recreation.gov website for the most up-to-date information on reservations, fees, and site availability.

What is worth choosing

Cholla Campground is an excellent choice for a wide range of Arizona residents due to its unique combination of natural beauty, convenient amenities, and accessibility. The fact that it is situated on Roosevelt Lake, the largest in the state, is a major draw for anyone interested in water-based recreation. Whether you're a serious angler, a family with a boat, or someone who simply enjoys the sight of a large body of water, this campground delivers. The stunning sunsets and the juxtaposition of the Sonoran Desert with the expansive lake create a truly special atmosphere that is hard to find elsewhere.

Furthermore, the amenities offered are a significant step up from many other campgrounds in the region. The presence of public showers with hot water, flush toilets, and clean restrooms makes the camping experience much more comfortable and appealing, especially for those who may be hesitant about a completely primitive setting. The "outstanding" clean and well-organized spots noted by a real customer highlight the quality of the management. This level of comfort, combined with the rustic setting, provides a perfect balance for both experienced and novice campers. The inclusion of a playground and kid-friendly hikes also makes it an ideal spot for families, ensuring that children have plenty of fun things to do.

Finally, the campground's accessibility and dog-friendly policy broaden its appeal. The wheelchair-accessible features demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity, and the option to bring pets means you don’t have to leave a family member behind. The strategic location near popular attractions like the Tonto National Monument also adds value, allowing campers to combine their outdoor relaxation with historical and cultural exploration. From its solar-powered facilities to its stunning lakeside views and family-friendly environment, Cholla Campground is a top-tier destination that is well worth choosing for your next Arizona adventure.

Cholla Campground

Tonto Basin, AZ 85553, USA