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.
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.
Houston Mesa Area Clean-Up & Restoration Project Temporary Closure Order
Temporary Closure Order For Public Health and Safety of the Houston Mesa area.
SR260 Lion Springs Construction Site Public Health and Safety Closure Order
SR260 Lion Springs Construction Site closed.
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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