Cholla Recreation Site

For Arizonans seeking a fantastic camping destination that combines the unique beauty of the Sonoran Desert with the refreshing allure of a vast lake, Cholla Recreation Site is an exceptional choice. Nestled on the shores of Theodore Roosevelt Lake, the largest lake entirely within Arizona, this campground provides a memorable experience for a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts. It's a place where the vibrant desert landscape, with its iconic saguaro cacti and diverse wildlife, meets the tranquil blue waters, creating a stunning and serene backdrop for your next adventure.

What truly sets Cholla Recreation Site apart is its reputation as one of the largest solar-powered campgrounds in the United States. While this doesn't mean every site has electricity, it does power essential modern conveniences like lighting in the restrooms and, importantly, the hot showers. This blend of sustainable technology with a natural setting makes it a forward-thinking and appealing destination. The sheer size of the campground, with its 206 campsites, ensures that even during busy seasons, there is ample space. As one visitor noted, many sites are well-spaced with natural vegetation in between, providing a sense of seclusion and privacy.

The campground is more than just a place to park your tent or RV; it's a hub for recreation. Its prime location on Roosevelt Lake means water activities are a huge draw. A highly developed, paved boat launch is available within the campground, making it easy to get your bass boat, pontoon, or kayak out on the water. For those who prefer land-based adventures, the surrounding area offers endless opportunities for hiking and exploring. The campground provides easy access to a portion of the Arizona Trail, and the nearby Tonto National Monument is a fascinating place to visit.

The thoughtful amenities and family-friendly features make it an ideal spot for a group or family outing. Each site is equipped with a shade ramada, picnic table, and fire ring, which are essential for a comfortable camping trip in the Arizona sun. The playgrounds scattered throughout the campground are a bonus for families, providing a dedicated space for children to play and socialize. The cleanliness and upkeep of the facilities, including the flush toilets and showers, are frequently praised by visitors, which significantly enhances the overall experience. This attention to detail ensures that campers can focus on enjoying the beauty of the lake and desert without worrying about basic comforts.

In short, Cholla Recreation Site stands out for its combination of stunning natural features, excellent amenities, and commitment to sustainability. Its ability to cater to both tent and RV campers, combined with its fantastic location and abundant recreational opportunities, makes it a top destination in Arizona. Whether you’re looking to fish, boat, hike, or simply relax by the water, this campground offers a well-rounded and memorable experience for all.

Location and Accessibility

Cholla Recreation Site is located at Arizona 85553, USA, within the Tonto National Forest. The site is situated on the north side of Roosevelt Lake, approximately five miles north of the Roosevelt Dam. From the Phoenix metro area, the drive is a scenic journey up State Highway 87 (Beeline Highway) to State Highway 188. From the Globe area, you can take State Highway 188 north. The campground's elevation is around 2,200 feet, which provides a welcome relief from the hotter desert temperatures while still offering the unique Sonoran Desert landscape.

The campground is easily accessible by paved roads, making it suitable for all types of vehicles, including large RVs and trailers. The sites are well laid out with paved driveways and on-site parking. The location's proximity to major highways and its position on the lake makes it a convenient and popular destination. The site is also known for being very accessible, with designated ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) sites and features.

Services Offered

• 206 Campsites: The campground offers a wide variety of sites for both RV and tent campers. Some sites are reservable, while others are available on a first-come, first-served basis, providing flexibility. The maximum RV length is 32 feet.
• Running Water and Restrooms: Potable water is available throughout the campground, along with flush toilets and restrooms that are well-maintained.
• Showers: Public showers are available, offering a great convenience for campers after a day on the lake or hiking.
• Picnic and Grilling Amenities: Each campsite is equipped with a shade ramada, a picnic table, a fire pit, and a grill, perfect for cooking and enjoying meals outdoors.
• Boat Launch: A paved boat launch with a courtesy dock is available within the recreation site, providing easy access to Roosevelt Lake.
• Dump Station: An RV dump station is available on-site for the convenience of RV campers.

Features / Highlights

• Solar-Powered Campground: Cholla Recreation Site is one of the largest all-solar-powered campgrounds in the United States, utilizing renewable energy for its facilities.
• Lakeside Location: The campground is situated on the shores of Roosevelt Lake, providing stunning views and endless opportunities for water sports like boating, fishing, and kayaking.
• Family-Friendly: The site is considered very good for kids, with multiple playgrounds scattered throughout the campground.
• Hiking and Wildlife: The area is known for its hiking trails, including a section of the Arizona Trail. The surrounding landscape is home to a variety of wildlife, including mule deer, coyotes, and javelina.
• Nearby Attractions: The campground is a gateway to several attractions, including the Roosevelt Dam and the Tonto National Monument, offering additional activities for your trip.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are allowed at the campground, as long as they are leashed or restrained, making it a great option for those traveling with their furry companions.

Contact Information

Cholla Recreation Site is managed by the Tonto National Forest. For general inquiries, fees, and to check on current conditions, you can contact the Tonto Basin Ranger District. Reservations for certain sites can be made through Recreation.gov.

Address: Arizona 85553, USA

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

What is worth choosing

For Arizonans, Cholla Recreation Site is an exceptional choice for several key reasons. Its combination of a stunning lakeside location with well-developed, modern amenities creates a comfortable and convenient camping experience that is hard to find. The fact that it is situated on Roosevelt Lake, the largest in the state, is a major draw for anyone interested in water-based activities. The availability of a paved boat launch makes it incredibly easy to get your boat out on the water, whether you are fishing for bass or simply enjoying a leisurely cruise.

The quality of the facilities is a significant selling point. The public restrooms with flush toilets and the availability of hot showers are amenities that are not always found at other campgrounds and make a huge difference in the comfort level of a trip. The well-maintained sites, each with its own shade ramada and picnic table, show a commitment to providing a high-quality experience for every camper. The solar power aspect is an interesting and commendable feature that adds to the campground's unique character.

Furthermore, the campground is perfect for families. The dedicated playgrounds and the safe environment make it an ideal place to introduce children to camping and the outdoors. The variety of activities available, from hiking to boating, ensures that there is something for everyone to enjoy. The proximity to other attractions like the Tonto National Monument also means you can easily expand your trip to include cultural and historical exploration. In essence, Cholla Recreation Site is a premier choice because it provides the best of both worlds: a beautiful natural setting with the essential comforts that make for a relaxing and memorable family getaway in the heart of Arizona's desert landscape.

Cholla Recreation Site

Arizona 85553, USA