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Map showing campground location near Tonto National Forest, Arizona
Camper submitted image from Crabtree WashView 11 Photos
RoadsMap showing campground location near Tonto National Forest, Arizona

Crabtree Wash

2 ReviewsAdd Review

Apache Lake's shoreline camping comes with two route options: a rough dirt road for 4x4 vehicles or the paved service road 79 that leads to the adjacent marina resort. This small, first-come-first-served campground sits next to Apache Lake Marina and Resort, creating an unusual setup where desert camping meets convenience store amenities. The resort sells firewood, ice, and food just steps from campsites.

Campers need a Tonto Pass rather than paying campground fees, and the site provides basic facilities including toilets and trash pickup. RVs are limited to 22 feet maximum due to access constraints. The lakeside location offers water access for kayaking with minimal boat traffic, though desert conditions mean hot nights well into September. For additional options, campers can explore campgrounds near Tonto National Forest.

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Location

Public Campground

Crabtree Wash is located in Arizona

Detail location of campground

Directions

This site is 12 miles south of Roosevelt Dam on the south shoreline of Apache Lake. From Apache Junction: Drive north on State Hwy. 88 for 32 miles (the last 20 miles of State Hwy. 88 are unpaved) to FR 79. Turn left and continue to site approximately 1 mile. From Mesa: Take State Hwy. 87/Beeline Highway north for approximately 60 miles to itsjunction with State Hwy. 188. Turn right onto State Hwy. 188 for 33 miles to its junction with State Hwy. 88. Turn right onto State Hwy. 88, and drive past historic Roosevelt Dam (unpaved) for 12 miles to FR 79. Turn right and continue to the site approximately 1 mile. From the Globe area: Take State Hwy. 188 west for 30 miles to its junction with State Hwy. 188. Turn left onto State Hwy. 88, and continue past historic Roosevelt Dam (unpaved) for 12 miles to FR 79. Turn right and continue to the site approximately 1 mile. Click Here For Map.

Coordinates

33.57684362 N
111.25365297 W

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 4/4/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 4/4/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Boat-In
    Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • Market
  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Firewood Available
  • Phone Service
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Sanitary Dump

Drive Time

Reviews

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5.0

out of 5

2 Reviews

Whitney W.The Dyrt PRO User
Reviewed Sep. 25, 2019

Ranger Review: Primus Essential Pot Set at Crabtree Wash

Campground Review:

Crabtree Wash is a small campground next to the Apache Lake Marina and Resort. There are two ways down to the wash: one fun dirt road to take your 4x4 vehicle or service road 79. Service road 79 is the same road you take to the resort and is paved all the way down. Crabtree is run by the Tonto National Forest so you must have a Tonto Pass to enjoy the day or night. Passes can be purchased at any Tonto Ranger station, Canyon Lake or most gas stations on the way down Apache Trail. 

The campground itself is fairly small and first come/first serve. This campground is unique because it is next to the “resort”. The campground has toilets and trash pickup. The resort offers many things for sale (firewood, ice, lunch...) so it’s like camping out in the desert next to a convenience store. 

When planning a trip to Apache lake plan accordingly as this is a desert campground. In September I sweat bullets until about midnight when the temperature dropped. The lake the next day made it all better. 

Product Review:

As a Ranger for The Dyrt (what I refer lovingly to as a Dyrt Ranger), I get the privilege to test products. At Crabtree Wash, I tested Primus’ Essential Pot Set 1.3L. I have been in need of specific camping pots as the kitchen pots I was using were not getting the job done. These pots were impressive. 

The set comes with two 1.3L pots, one frying pan, a pot gripper and a carrying bag. First impressions: love the carrying bag, pans look well made and perfect size to cook for my one or two person camping trips. 

I was able to throw my plate and silverware into the carrying bag with the pots so everything is self contained. The flying is nonstick and doubles as a lid to the pots.  The pot gripper is okay, the design is akin to scissors. I’m planning on upgrading to the Primus Crimp Pot Gripper as I fully expect to drop a pan of boiling water because I loosen my grip on the gripper. Overall I am completely stoked to add the Primus pots to my camping gear. 

  • Review photo of Crabtree Wash by Whitney W., September 25, 2019
  • Review photo of Crabtree Wash by Whitney W., September 25, 2019
  • Review photo of Crabtree Wash by Whitney W., September 25, 2019
  • (9) View All
Adam J.
Reviewed Jun. 14, 2019

Right on the water

This campground was a great spot for our first kayak trip. Very little water traffic, great views, and lakeside camping. The area is first come, first served, but you only have to have a Tonto pass to stay there. No campground fees. The road to the lake is pretty rough, but manageable without a trailer. We will definitely be back.

  • Review photo of Crabtree Wash by Adam J., June 14, 2019
  • Review photo of Crabtree Wash by Adam J., June 14, 2019
Showing results 1-2 of 2 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Crabtree Wash Campground located at Apache Lake?

Crabtree Wash Campground is located next to the Apache Lake Marina and Resort in Arizona. There are two routes to access it: a fun dirt road suitable for 4x4 vehicles or Service Road 79, which is paved all the way to the destination. The campground sits along the shoreline of Apache Lake, offering lakeside camping with beautiful views. The location provides a relatively quiet spot with minimal water traffic, making it ideal for peaceful lakeside camping experiences.

What amenities and facilities are available at Crabtree Wash Campground?

Crabtree Wash Campground offers primitive camping with minimal amenities. The main attraction is the lakeside camping with direct water access, making it perfect for kayaking and other water activities. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no designated facilities like bathrooms, showers, or hookups. Visitors should come prepared for dispersed camping and bring all necessary supplies, including water, as no potable water is available on site.

Are there any fees or permits required for camping at Crabtree Wash?

Yes, camping at Crabtree Wash requires a Tonto Pass, but there are no additional campground fees. This makes it an affordable option for lakeside camping. The Tonto Pass can typically be purchased from local retailers or forest service offices. Since the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservation system, it's advisable to arrive early during peak seasons to secure a spot. For the most current information on permit requirements, check with the Tonto National Forest before your visit.

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