Picnicking
Find a scenic spot to eat lunch with family and friends.
Picnicking - Single
The Tonto offers Day Use and Picnic Sites across the forest, from shoreline areas to more secluded shaded spots under towering pine trees. There is a spot for everybody to enjoy!
Please be considerate of others while using these picnic spots and pack out everything you bring in. Respect wildlife if you encounter any and leave the forest the way you found it. Certain spots can fill up quickly, so plan ahead and be prepared with a backup plan.
For a full list of trails and some picnic sites, please click here. For more information, contact the appropriate Ranger Station on the forest. Visit our Safety and Outdoor Ethics page for more outdoor safety information.
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Acacia Day Use Area
Site Open
The drive from Apache Junction offers magnificent vistas of the Superstition Mountains, Salt River Canyon and Canyon Lake. The waters of scenic Canyon Lake wash against a gentle swimming beach at…
Apache Lake Marina & Resort
Site Open
Apache Lake Marina is concessionaire operated. See their website for up to date information on services provided, hours, and fees, or call 928-923-6690. Apache Lake Marina is located off the historic…
Bagley Flat Campground and Courtesy Dock
Site Open
Bagley Flat is notable for its boat access only camping on Saguaro Lake. Camping is allowed at the designated sites with grills and tables provided. This location is fun during the summer months…
Bartlett Reservoir
Site Open
 The Bartlett Reservoir area is noted for the spectacular vistas of the Desert Mountains and the Sonoran plant life. A fair portion of the west side of the reservoir is devoted to camping and…
Blue Point Day Use Area
Site Open
This riparian area is outstanding for watching spring and fall migratory fowl. The area is ideal for a day of floating leisurely down the Salt River. The area has a large beach and a mesquite grove…
Boulder Day Use Area
Site Open
Fishing Pier Temporarily Closed as of 9/10/25 for Maintenance and Repairs. See Closure Order and Map. The Boulder recreation site is located on Canyon Lake just south of the Canyon Lake Marina.…
Burnt Corral Campground and Day Use Area
Site Open
Burnt Corral Campground and Day Use Area is set among the canyon walls of Apache Lake, which allows for great water recreation activities. Nearby are impressive views of mountains, canyons, wildlife…
Butcher Jones Day Use Area
Site Open
At Butcher Jones, Mesquite trees provide welcome natural shade to picnic units. Butcher Jones features a pleasant nature trail and a gently sloping beach which makes gradual changes in depths…
Canyon Lake
Site Open
Canyon Lake Arizona drawdown projectThe water level of Canyon Lake Arizona will be lowered for approximately 16 weeks starting Sept. 16, 2026, for critical dam safety inspections and…
Cave Creek Trailhead
Site Open
Cave Creek Trailhead is a must if you’re exploring Seven Springs! The trail is an easy hike along the creek where you can bird watch various species that like to frequent the riparian watershed…