Houston Mesa
4.32294 reviews2100 Houston Mesa Rd
Houston Mesa
$22.00 - $170.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$29.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$170.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary by site type and season. Standard Nonelectric and Tent Only Nonelectric sites are $29/night in peak season, while Equestrian Nonelectric sites are $22/night. Group Standard Electric sites are $170/night. Additional charges such as reservation fees ($8 online, $9 contact center, $3 in person) and second vehicle fees ($8/night) apply.
About this campground
Escape to Houston Mesa Campground, a serene mountain retreat nestled in the northern reaches of Tonto National Forest, just a mile from the charming town of Payson, Arizona. This versatile outdoor haven welcomes everyone from families seeking adventure to equestrians exploring scenic trails and minimalist campers yearning for tent-only tranquility. Wind through hiking paths that reveal breathtaking vistas, saddle up for memorable horseback journeys, or simply lose yourself in the beauty of Arizona's stunning mixed forest landscape.
Houston Mesa Campground caters to a variety of camping preferences with options for standard tent camping, RV sites, and equestrian-specific camping. Group sites and tent-only loops are also available for those seeking more specialized accommodations.
Historical SignificanceYour camping adventure unfolds within the legendary Tonto National Forest, an awe-inspiring wilderness spanning nearly 3 million acres of Arizona's most diverse landscapes. From ancient desert floors to towering pine forests, this ecological wonderland tells the story of millions of years of natural history. The nearby Mogollon Rim stands as a testament to Earth's powerful forces, its dramatic escarpment marking where two worlds meet in geological grandeur.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the perfect climate refuge where crisp mountain air greets you year-round. Cool winters bring refreshingly cold nights ideal for cozy campfires, while warm, sun-drenched summers offer a blissful escape from the scorching desert heat below. Nature's rhythms guide the camping experience here, with equestrian sites taking a winter rest from November through March, allowing the land to rejuvenate for spring adventures.
ElevationPerched at 5,200 feet above sea level, Houston Mesa offers a refreshing mountain climate that feels worlds away from the desert heat below. This elevated paradise delivers naturally air-conditioned camping, where summer temperatures drop 15-20 degrees compared to the valleys, creating an ideal high-country escape.
Natural Features and SceneryAt 5,200 feet, Houston Mesa reveals a captivating tapestry of pinyon pines, fragrant junipers, and diverse shrublands that create a perfect balance of dappled sunlight and cooling shade. This vibrant ecosystem pulses with life as majestic hawks and eagles soar overhead, while ground-level encounters might include curious javelinas, graceful deer, clever foxes, wily coyotes, and the occasional nocturnal skunk. Every campsite offers front-row seats to nature's daily drama in this enchanting mixed forest sanctuary.
Geological RegionHouston Mesa occupies a special place in Arizona's geological story, rising 5,200 feet within the vast Tonto National Forest. This elevated plateau showcases the transition zone where pinyon-juniper woodlands blend seamlessly with mountain shrublands, all under the watchful presence of the nearby Mogollon Rim. The dramatic terrain tells an ancient tale of uplift and erosion, creating the spectacular camping environment that draws outdoor enthusiasts from across the Southwest.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible campsites and trails are available. The campground features a short, self-guided interpretive trail.
Sites SizeSites vary from standard to equestrian-specific, with spacious layouts accommodating multiple tents or vehicles in some cases.
Sites PrivacySites are described as spacious and surrounded by trees, providing a good level of privacy. Some loops, like the Bear Loop, are noted for their seclusion.
Total Campsites102 campsites
Recommended CampsitesMountain Lion Loop offers quieter camping away from highway noise. Sites in Bear Loop are great for families due to proximity to amenities.
Best CampsitesHighly-rated campsites include #006 in Bear Loop and #008 in Mountain Lion Loop, noted for privacy and spacious layouts.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact guest limit not provided but generally accommodates standard group sizes for family campsites.
Groups
Group sites can accommodate larger parties and are equipped with picnic tables and fire rings. Group Standard Electric and Group Standard Nonelectric options are available at $170 and $130 per night, respectively.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into loops: Bear (Tent Only), Elk (Mixed), Mountain Lion (Mixed), and Mule Deer (Equestrian). Each loop has specific site types and layouts.
Open and Closed SeasonPeak season is May 1 to November 3, 2025; first-come, first-served season runs from November 4 to December 31, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online, via the app, or through the contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability during the off-season from November 4 to December 31. Equestrian sites 2–6 and 19–30 are first-come, first-served without requiring horses or mules.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee and forfeiture of first night's fee for individual sites if canceled late (after midnight the day before check-in). Changes to reservations cost $10 unless within the original stay window. No-shows incur a $20 fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors to Houston Mesa Campground can enjoy a range of activities such as hiking, horseback riding, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. The campground provides access to trails for both hiking and equestrian use. However, reviewers have noted that the trail system could benefit from better maintenance and signage.
Hiking
Houston Mesa features two main trails: a 9-mile round trip Houston Mesa Loop Trail through pinyon and juniper woodland and a 0.5-mile self-guided interpretive trail. "Great hiking activities for kids," noted one user, while another mentioned, "The trail at the campground needs work and better signage."Wildlife viewing
The campground is home to diverse wildlife, including hawks, eagles, javelina, deer, fox, skunk, and coyotes. One user mentioned, "We had javelina come through our site, but they did not stay long." Another noted, "Coyotes howling in the distance."Winter Activities
No explicit mention of winter-specific activities, but the campground remains accessible during colder months.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding are available.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted but must be monitored for seasonal restrictions.
- Quiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsBear activity is possible; campers need to practice secure food storage. Wildlife hazards include javelina, coyotes, and other animals. No firewood sales at the campground; campers must purchase before arrival.
Active alertsShowers and dump station were noted as closed during several user reviews and may remain unavailable seasonally.
Weather forecast
83
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 33%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 14.3 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services are located in the town of Payson, which includes a hospital and police station. No specific ranger station detailed for emergencies.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season runs from May 1 through November 3.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available, including bear-proof refuse containers. Campers are advised to manage their garbage carefully to prevent wildlife interactions.
Proximity to water featuresNo large water features directly nearby, though creeks and waterfall hikes such as Wagon Wheel Trail are accessible within 15 minutes.
Common complaintsNoise from nearby highways and airports, occasional lack of enforcement of quiet hours, and issues with closed showers and dump stations. Some reviews mention cleanliness issues in restrooms.
HostCamp hosts are generally praised for being friendly and helpful. Hosts such as Beth and Stewart received specific positive mentions.
Campground Map
2100 Houston Mesa Rd
Driving directionsFrom Payson, Arizona, go north for 1 mile to the junction of Highway 87 (Beeline Highway) and Forest Road 199 (Houston Mesa Road). Turn right (east) onto Forest Road 199 for 0.10 miles. The campground is on the north side of Houston Mesa Road.
Accessible year-round as it is located just off Highway 87 (Beeline Highway) and Forest Road 199. The roads leading to the campground are paved and well-maintained. Seasonal closures do not affect Houston Mesa Road.Nearby places
Payson (1 mile, approximately 5 minutes drive).
Nearby supplies
The town of Payson, one mile south of the campground, offers restaurants, shopping, and other conveniences, including grocery stores, camping supplies, and fuel stations.
Camper Reviews
4.3
294 reviews
Houston Mesa is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Houston Mesa Campground are mixed, with mentions of clean facilities and helpful hosts but recurring complaints about noise, maintenance issues, and overcrowding. The proximity to Payson is frequently noted as a convenience.
Review Summaries
Based on 294 reviews
What Campers Love
Many reviewers praised the cleanliness of the sites and restrooms. "The bathrooms were the cleanest I've ever seen," said one user. Camp hosts are often described as friendly and accommodating....
Based on 294 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Noise from traffic and nearby highways is a frequent complaint. Many users mentioned issues with closed or poorly maintained showers and restrooms. Overcrowding and lack of enforcement of quiet hours...
Based on 294 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring quarters for showers, as they are coin-operated. Avoid sites close to the road to minimize traffic noise. Earplugs are recommended for light sleepers.
Based on 294 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is popular but can be noisy and crowded. Winter offers quieter conditions but limited amenities like closed showers. Fall appears to be an ideal time based on a mix of favorable weather and...
Based on 294 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Beautiful setting with tall pine trees and beautiful scenery," noted one camper. Another stated, "Coyotes howling in the distance and even heard a bear lumbering by."
Based on 294 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Bear Loop is noted for its privacy, while Elk Loop often receives complaints about road noise. Mountain Lion Loop is praised for its spacious sites and seclusion.
Based on 294 reviewsAccessibility Features
Several reviews highlight that accessible campsites and restrooms are available, but a few noted poorly maintained facilities.
Based on 294 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and users have frequently mentioned bringing their dogs. "We loved that our dog was welcome," one user remarked.
Based on 294 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025