Fishing enthusiasts and water recreation seekers will find Roosevelt Lake Overlook provides free dispersed camping with direct lake access in the Tonto National Forest. The campground sits near Roosevelt Lake, where campers can launch boats and cast lines for catfish and bass. However, reaching the sites requires navigating a challenging final mile on rough forest road that demands high clearance vehicles.
The terrain features large cliffs overlooking the water, with multiple camping spots scattered along the shoreline. Heather H. notes campers can "wake up to playing on the water" when securing waterfront sites. Night fishing produces good results according to reviews. Sites fill up quickly, so early arrival helps secure the most desirable lakefront positions.
Access proves challenging for larger rigs or low-clearance vehicles. The final 10 miles wind considerably before reaching the rough forest road section. Campers with vehicles unable to handle the terrain can find alternative spots along Highway 288 before the difficult stretch. Cell service remains available despite the remote location.
The US Forest Service allows campfires, pets, and alcohol at this free camping area. Those exploring the region can also check out campgrounds near Tonto National Forest for additional options with easier road access.
Description
Roosevelt Lake 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.
Individuals can camp on the shores of Roosevelt Lake. Some popular sites include; Grapevine, Schoolhouse, Cholla, Indian Point, Cholla Bay, Bachelor Cove
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsRoosevelt Lake Overlook is located in Arizona near Roosevelt
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.
Coordinates
33.7577679 N
110.9807784 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo CoverageVerified by 10 usersLast on 6/12/26
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo CoverageVerified by 10 usersLast on 6/12/26
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Phone Service
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
FREE established camping
Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Roosevelt Lake Overlook needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 8 min from Phoenix, AZ
- 2 hrs 41 min from Tucson, AZ
- 2 hrs 55 min from Prescott Valley, AZ
- 3 hrs 5 min from Flagstaff, AZ






