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Map showing campground location near Carefree, Arizona
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Mesquite Campground

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Accessible via forest road, Mesquite Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with 10-15 sites managed by the US Forest Service. Each site includes a cement picnic table and fire ring, with basic restrooms available. The campground sits along a river with steep banks leading down to the water. Some sites back directly to the river, allowing campers to set up hammocks near the flowing water. The location provides mountain views and maintains a relatively secluded atmosphere. Horseshoe Lake sits a short drive away, while a dam and reservoir offer additional water access for day trips. For other options in the area, campers can explore campgrounds around Tonto National Forest. Horseshoe Campground provides an alternative less than a mile north.

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Location

Public Campground

Mesquite Campground is located in Arizona

Detail location of campground

Directions

The site is 22 miles northeast of Carefree. From Carefree, take Cave Creek Road to Bartlett Dam Road. Turn right and continue for 6 miles to the junction of FR 205 and FR 19. Continue on FR 205 which turns left and becomes an un-maintained, unpaved road to Horseshoe Reservoir. Continue approximately nine miles more on FR 205, following the route to Horseshoe Reservoir. Watch for the sign marking the site.

Coordinates

33.96406089 N
111.71616482 W

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Tent Cabin

Features

For Campers

  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

Drive Time

Reviews

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4.0

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2 Reviews

Gillian C.The Dyrt PRO User
Reviewed Nov. 1, 2020

Amazing mountain views near river

Great campsites off the forest road. Amazing views of the mountains. Cement picnic table and fire ring provided. Basic bathrooms available. Steep decline into the river right next to the sites. About 10-15 sites available, first come, first served. Pretty secluded and private. Travel to the dam and reservoir for great water views!

  • Review photo of Mesquite Campground by Gillian C., November 1, 2020
  • Review photo of Mesquite Campground by Gillian C., November 1, 2020
  • Review photo of Mesquite Campground by Gillian C., November 1, 2020
  • (7) View All
Tom C.
Reviewed Jun. 8, 2019

Mesquite campground

Decent campground. My site backed up to the river and I was able to hammoc next to it. Short drive to horseshoe lake. Very dusty

Showing results 1-2 of 2 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What outdoor activities can I enjoy at Mesquite Campground?

Mesquite Campground offers excellent outdoor recreation opportunities. The adjacent river provides water activities like fishing and relaxing in hammocks along the shore. Nearby Horseshoe Lake expands water recreation options. The surrounding area features mountain views perfect for hiking and nature photography. The secluded, private setting makes it ideal for wildlife watching and stargazing. With the campground's proximity to both water features and mountain terrain, visitors can enjoy a diverse range of outdoor pursuits in a natural setting.

What amenities are available at Mesquite Campground?

Mesquite Campground offers basic but functional amenities for campers. Each site includes a cement picnic table and fire ring, making it suitable for cooking and gathering. Basic bathroom facilities are available throughout the campground. The sites are positioned near the river, allowing for hammock setup and water access, though the riverbank has a steep decline. While the campground is fairly dusty, it provides the essential amenities needed for a rustic camping experience in a natural setting.

How do I access the Mesquite Recreation Area?

Mesquite Recreation Area is accessible via a forest road. The campsites are located off this road, with approximately 10-15 sites available on a first-come, first-served basis. The area is a short drive from Horseshoe Lake and the dam. For specific directions, it's advisable to check with the local forest service or recreation area management before your trip, as forest road conditions can vary seasonally.

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