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.
Air Quality Alert issued June 30 at 9:12AM MST by NWS Phoenix AZ
AQAPSR The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) has issued an Ozone High Pollution Advisory for the Phoenix Metro Area today and Wednesday. This means that forecast weather conditions combined with existing ozone levels are expected to result in local maximum 8-hour ozone concentrations that pose a health risk. Adverse health effects increase as air quality deteriorates. Ozone is an air contaminant which can cause breathing difficulties for children, older adults, as well as persons with respiratory problems. A decrease in physical activity is recommended. You are urged to car pool, telecommute or use mass transit. The use of gasoline-powered equipment should be reduced or done late in the day. For details on this High Pollution Advisory, visit the ADEQ internet site at www.azdeq.gov/forecast/phoenix or call 602-771-2300.
Stage II Fire Restrictions and Emergency Recreational Shooting Order
Tonto National Forest implements Stage II Fire Restrictions and Emergency Recreational Shooting Order, beginning June 30, 2026 at 8 a.m.
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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