Tortilla Flat Forest Service Campground in Arizona

We have used Tortilla Flat a number of times in the past with a big rig, but no more. First, getting a spot that a 40' long or more will fit in is somewhat problematical. The drive up on the Apache Trail is not too bad as long as you take it slow and use the turnouts to let the traffic behind you get past. We're over 70' overall with the toad and have no problems. Unfortunately, the camp ground does not take reservations, and the FS method for payment and posting of their window tags is just plain stupid. Furthermore, the folks who use the CG seem to have their own little club and don't care too much for interlopers. Some sites are also restricted as to generator use and camping there exposes your rig to side scratches because they have not been keeping the trees, cactus and shrubs cleared back. Finally a couple of years ago they used to lock the gates in the early evening and they had problems keeping the CG hosts, so if you got back from town late you couldn't get in. We just don't bother any longer. Too much of a PITA.

BillyandKris wrote:
We have a 30' Arctic Fox fifth wheel. Looking to spend 2 weeks at Tortilla Flat F.S. campground in January. Been reading about AZ-88 highway. Going east from Apache Junction it says the road is paved, narrow, sharp curves, heavy traffic. Campground sounds like it can accommodate bigger rigs, altho one place mentioned "under 30'" and I am not sure if they mean the highway or what. Will be we OK on that road getting there? I know you cannot approach from the west. THX

We took our Harleys over that road several months ago and found it very narrow and twisty, very rough, small turn outs. Barely a road IMHO. I wouldn't take my RV over it for anything.

Dave

No way I would drive an RV on that road.

Well we will skip that campground. Thanks to all. This forum is great. Happy Summer.

I wonder if some of the posters are thinking of the road AFTER the CG?

I drive my car from Apache Junction to Tortilla Flat at least once each winter. While the road is curvy, this section is certainly driveable...just take your time. One direction at a time on the bridges by Canyon Lake. Tortilla campground was closed this past winter. Don't know why.

Have you looked into staying at Lost Dutchman State Park?

Snowman9000 wrote:
I wonder if some of the posters are thinking of the road AFTER the CG?

I think you nailed it. I thought the road as far as the CG was pretty good.

Snowman9000 wrote:
I wonder if some of the posters are thinking of the road AFTER the CG?

Very true. Road to campground is fine for RV's. Road a few miles past gets very tight and narrow. We've taken our 30's trailers there many times. Never a problem.

It's been a few years but we were always able to reserve a spot. If its changed to first come first serve that would be a bad thing. You'd have to turn around and hope to find something else.

It's a beautiful drive to the campground and the road is wide enough for two vehicles. It's not traveled heavily except weekends so plan to drive it during the week and early morning and you won't have any issue.

Snowman9000 wrote:
I wonder if some of the posters are thinking of the road AFTER the CG?

I think your right. the trip on to Roosevelt is the prettiest part of the trip, but best taken with the toad.