Roosevelt Lake Day Use and Camping Areas
Roosevelt Lake is a beautiful body of water set in the desert. There is a migratory waterfowl (including Canada geese) and raptors (including bald eagles and osprey) that use the lake during the fall and winter. Small isolated islands and coves offer outstanding opportunities for camping and relaxing in the unique Sonoran Desert. Both Non-Motorized and Motorized boats are allowed at Roosevelt for maximum enjoyment of the water. There are also numerous campgrounds, picnic sites, boat launches, and other recreation sites to enjoy the splendid lanscape of Roosevelt Lake.
General Information
America the Beautiful Passes are only accepted at the Picnicking Sites. For boating, a Tonto Daily Pass and Watercraft Sticker or Tonto Discovery Pass are required.
- Tonto Daily Pass (and Watercraft Sticker, if required). Available at Tonto National Forest Offices and retail vendors (please call for availability).
- Tonto Discovery Pass. Available at Tonto National Forest Offices.
Campground fees at various sites around Roosevelt Lake might be separate from the Tonto Daily and Discovery pass. Please call Tonto Basin Ranger District for specific details or visit individual websites.
Permits
Group events like fishing tournaments require a permit. Call the local Ranger District for further information.
Restrictions
- 14-day stay limit.
- Please use trash receptacles when available.
- PACK IT IN, PACK IT OUT.
- CAUTION: Lake-levels fluctuate constantly.
- Rocks and other obstacles may be near the water surface.
- Waters near developed sites and many coves are “No wake” areas.
- The channel to Salome Cove has a mid-channel lateral buoy-marking system in effect.
- Observe the one-way traffic lanes.
- Be aware that motor boating involves a degree of risk, and persons engaging in this activity assume the associated risks.
- Gila County Sheriff’s office, Arizona Game and Fish Department, and USDA Forest Service personnel enforce Lake regulations.
- Group events (including fishing tournaments) may require a permit.
- Contact the ranger station for information.
- Quiet hours 10:00 pm to 6:00 am (running generators are not permitted during quiet hours).
Seasonal Wildlife Closure Area
Endanger Species Closure Areas (Tonto Creek & Salt River arms)
Address: 28079 N. AZ Highway 188, Roosevelt, AZ 85545
Phone: (602) 225-5395
Hours: Open Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (closed 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.) Closed Saturday and Sunday (Closed on federal holidays)
Getting There
Elevation
2,150 Feet
Directions
From Mesa: Take State Hwy. 87 (Beeline Highway) north for about 60 miles to the junction of State Hwy. Turn right and follow State Hwy. 188 for 26 miles to the lake. The entire route is paved.
From Globe area: Take State Hwy. 188 northwest 27 miles to the lake. The entire route is paved.
