
167
Total Campsites
Campground
59
Reservable Sites
Mixed (reservable + first-come)
—
Accessible
ADA-compliant sites
—
Organization
Managing agency
Overview
About Cholla Campground
Overview 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 facilites 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. Recreation 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 photograhers dream so don't forget your camera (and sunscreen). Facilities 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 photograhers dream so don't forget your camera (and sunscreen). Natural Features 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. Nearby Attractions Two National Scenic Byways (AZ Hwy 88 Apache Trail and AZ Hwy 288 Spines to Pines Highway). Roosevelt Dam, Tonto National Monument, the Arizona Trail, endless miles of jeep trails, Towns of Payson and Globe, Superstition, Sierra Ancha, and Four Peaks Wilderness'. Don't forget to stop by the Tonto Basin Environmental Center learn about the history of the area.
- 167 total campsites listed.
- 59 reservable sites plus first-come options.
- Most common site type: standard nonelectric (133).
- Map coordinates are available for trip planning.


Our Take
What makes Cholla Campground special
Cholla Campground sits on the sun-drenched shores of Roosevelt Lake, the largest lake located entirely within Arizona. Nestled in the rugged foothills of the Tonto National Forest northeast of Phoenix, this desert oasis offers a striking contrast of sparkling blue water against the saguaro-studded Sonoran landscape. With 167 sites spread across rolling desert terrain, Cholla delivers spacious camping with sweeping lake views that turn golden at sunset. The campground serves as a basecamp for year-round adventure. Anglers chase largemouth bass and crappie in the reservoir's warm waters, while kayakers and boaters explore miles of scenic shoreline. Nearby, the Tonto National Monument preserves ancient cliff dwellings worth a half-day visit, and the Apache Trail scenic drive ranks among Arizona's most dramatic road trips. Winter and early spring are the prime seasons here, when daytime temperatures hover in the comfortable 60s and 70s and desert wildflowers carpet the hillsides. Summer brings triple-digit heat, but early mornings on the lake still draw devoted visitors. Sites book quickly during peak weekends from November through April, so reservations well in advance are strongly recommended. Whether you come for the fishing, the stargazing, or simply the serenity of a desert lake at dawn, Cholla Campground delivers an authentically Arizona experience.
Campsite Inventory
167 sites to choose from
STANDARD NONELECTRIC
58
Reservable
0
Accessible
MANAGEMENT
1
Reservable
0
Accessible
Amenities & Details
Everything you need to know
ACCESSIBLE SHOWERS
Accessible Showers
ACCESSIBLE VAULT TOILETS
Accessible Vault Toilets
BOAT RAMP
Boat Ramp
CAMPFIRE RINGS
Campfire Rings
Campfire Allowed
Yes
Site capacity
DOUBLE, SINGLE
Check-in time
12:00 PM
Check-out time
10:00 AM
Condition Rating
Standard
DRINKING WATER
Drinking Water
DUMP STATION
Dump Station
Double Driveway
No, Yes
Driveway entry
BACK-IN, Parallel, Pull-through
Driveway Grade
Slight
Driveway length (ft)
10, 32, 35, 40
Driveway surface
Gravel, Paved
GRILLS
Grills
Grills/Fire Ring
Grills
Reservations & Contact
Plan your stay
Phone
TONTO BASIN RANGER DISTRICT (602) 225-5395
Getting There
Cholla Campground is 5 miles north of Roosevelt Dam. From Mesa: Take State Hwy. 87/Beeline Highway north for about 60 miles to its junction with State Hwy. 188. Turn right and follow State Hwy. 188 south for 28 miles to the site. From the Globe area: Take State Hwy. 188 north for 30 miles to its junction with State Hwy. 188. Continue on State Hwy. 188 across the bridge for 6 miles to the site.
FAQ
Common questions
Everything you need to know before your trip to Cholla Campground.
How do reservations work for Cholla Campground?
Reservation availability for Cholla Campground can vary by season and campsite type. Check the contact and access section before booking.
What campsite types are available at Cholla Campground?
Cholla Campground currently lists STANDARD NONELECTRIC (133), MANAGEMENT (34).
Where is Cholla Campground located?
Cholla Campground is in Arizona near ROOSEVELT. Coordinates: 33.7315, -111.2038.
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