Cholla Campground

Tonto Basin, AZ

4.4(189 reviews)Book online

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About this campground

Cholla Campground at Roosevelt Lake, is one of several campgrounds on the shores of the largest lake/reservoir located entirely in the State of Arizona. It is situated within a lush sonoran desert landscape at an elevation of 2168'. Cholla Campground is also the largest solar powered campground in the United States. Each of its 206 campsites have shade ramadas, firepits, grills, and picnic tables. Playgrounds, showers and toilet facilities are scattered throughout the campground. The area around Cholla Campground is often alive with abundant wildlife such as mule deer, coyotes, geese, fox, javalina, and the occasional bald eagle.

Cholla Campground has 206 campsites. Each site has shade ramadas, firepits, grills, and picnic tables. Scattered throughout the campground are playgrounds, showers and toilet facilities. Highly developed boat ramps with accessible boat boarding ramps are also available within the Campground.

Roosevelt Lake was dedicated by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1911 and boasts 112 miles of shoreline and peaceful coves. When full, the lake provides 21,500 acres of surface water for your recreating pleasure. Cholla Campground is situated within a Sonoran Desert Landscape along the lakes shorelines. Views of the blue water and sunsets against the Sierra Ancha, Salome, and Superstition Wilderness' are a sight that keep many visitors coming back year after year.

Recreation opportunities abound at Cholla Campground. Launch your bass boat, ski boat, or pontoon boat from the developed boat ramps within the recreation site and play on the water all day long. If motorsports aren't your thing, there's an abundance of places to explore from your kayak, canoe, or paddleboard. While you're visiting, you can also hike a portion of the Arizona Trail, visit the Tonto National Monument cliff dwellings, explore endless miles of jeep trails or drive a portion of the Apache Trail or Spines to Pines Highway. If if you're looking for a day in town, consider the easy 45 minute drive Globe or Payson where you can shop for antiques, buy ice cream and learn about Arizona's rich mining and timber history. Roosevelt Lake is a landscape photographers dream so don't forget your camera (and sunscreen).

What campers say

Cholla Campground sits on Roosevelt Lake with many well-spaced sites offering lake and mountain views, plus a boat launch and RV dump. Loops are staffed by camp hosts; some visitors praise hosts while others report negative encounters, so experiences vary. Facilities include flush toilets and solar-heated showers (often cold in winter), though cleanliness and occasional out-of-service fixtures have been reported. Sites feel private with vegetation between them; there are hiking paths and tent-only spots. No nearby stores—bring supplies—and be mindful of desert wildlife and spiders. Cell service may be available on major carriers.

Our summary of 189 traveler reviews.