Apache Lake Boat Access
Open year-round for dispersed boat-in camping. No reservations, first-come first-served. No facilities available; pack in all water and supplies, pack out all trash.
Extreme Heat Warning issued August 29 at 9:29AM MST until August 29 at 8:00PM MST by NWS Phoenix AZ
* WHAT...Dangerously hot conditions. Afternoon temperatures 104 to 112. Major Heat Risk. * WHERE...Aguila Valley, Apache Junction/Gold Canyon, Cave Creek/New River, Fountain Hills/East Mesa, New River Mesa, Rio Verde/Salt River, Superior, and Tonopah Desert. * WHEN...Until 8 PM MST this evening. * IMPACTS...Heat related illnesses increase significantly during extreme heat events. Overexposure can cause heat cramps and heat exhaustion to develop and, without intervention, can lead to heat stroke. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...In Maricopa County, call 2-1-1 to find a free cooling center, transportation, water and more. https://www.maricopa.gov/heat
Air Quality Alert issued August 28 at 11:18AM MST by NWS Phoenix AZ
AQAPSR The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) has issued a PM-10 High Pollution Advisory for the Phoenix Metro Area through Saturday. An episode of strong and gusty winds is forecast to generate widespread blowing dust that may result in local PM-10 concentrations that pose a health risk. Adverse health effects increase as air quality deteriorates. Coarse particulate matter - also known as PM-10 - is an air contaminant that can aggravate heart and lung disease conditions, especially in older adults, children, and those with asthma. A decrease in physical activity is recommended. Consolidate your travel, stabilize loose soils, slow down or avoid travel on dirt roads, reduce or eliminate fireplace use, and avoid using gas-powered lawn equipment. For details on this High Pollution Advisory, visit the ADEQ internet site at www.azdeq.gov/forecast/phoenix or call 602-771-2300.
Canyon Lake Drawdown Public Safety Closure
Due to the Canyon Lake drawdown all recreational sites around Canyon Lake including the marina and the lakebed will be closed. Apache Trail (SR 88) will remain open.
About
Apache Lake Boat Access provides primitive dispersed camping along the north shore of Apache Lake in the Tonto National Forest. This boat-in-only area sits among the dramatic canyon walls that define the lake, formed in 1927 when Horse Mesa Dam was completed. The remote setting offers a chance to escape developed campgrounds and experience the rugged Sonoran Desert landscape from the water. This is true backcountry camping with no developed facilities whatsoever. There is no potable water, no restrooms, no trash service, and no fire rings or tables. Campers must bring all water and supplies and pack out all trash. The area is popular with boaters seeking solitude, anglers targeting trout and warm-water species, and wildlife enthusiasts hoping to spot desert bighorn sheep on the cliffs above. Boat launches are available at Apache Lake Marina or Burnt Corral Campground on the south shore. A Tonto Daily Pass or Discovery Pass plus Watercraft Sticker is required for all watercraft on the lake.
Directions
Accessible by boat only from the north shore of Apache Lake. Launch from Apache Lake Marina or Burnt Corral Campground on the south shore via AZ Highway 88 (Apache Trail). Note: SR 88 between Fish Point and Apache Lake Marina may have closures; check current road conditions.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | — |
| Toilets | No |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $0 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | — |
| Pull Through Sites | — |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (602) 225-5395 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Useful Links
| Tonto NF Apache Lake Recreation | |
| Tonto NF Camping & Cabins |
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