Luna Lake
4.5787 reviewsAPACHE-SITGREAVES
Luna Lake
$20.00 - $125.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$125.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $20 for standard nonelectric sites to $125 for group sites. Additional fees like reservation and cancellation fees may apply.
About this campground
Nestled beside a pristine 75-acre mountain lake in the heart of Apache National Forest, Luna Lake Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness escape. This rustic retreat invites you to cast a line into crystal-clear waters, paddle across mirror-like surfaces at dawn, or explore winding forest trails where elk and deer roam freely. Here, the modern world fades away, replaced by the gentle lapping of waves and the whisper of wind through towering pines.
Luna Lake Campground caters to a range of camping needs, offering standard non-electric sites, group sites, and opportunities for primitive camping.
Historical SignificanceLuna Lake sits along the legendary Coronado Trail Scenic Byway, following the footsteps of Spanish conquistador Francisco Vásquez de Coronado's 16th-century expedition. This storied landscape has witnessed centuries of human history, from ancient indigenous peoples who first called these mountains home to pioneers who carved new lives from the wilderness. Today, travelers can explore this living tapestry of cultural heritage while creating their own adventures in this timeless setting.
Weather and SeasonsAt 8,000 feet, Luna Lake offers a refreshing mountain climate that provides sweet relief from desert heat. Summer days hover around a comfortable 59°F, perfect for hiking without breaking a sweat, while crisp nights dip to 31°F—ideal for campfire gatherings and stargazing under brilliantly clear skies. The high elevation keeps conditions pleasantly dry, with occasional afternoon showers that paint rainbows across the mountain vistas and fill the air with the intoxicating scent of rain-kissed pine.
ElevationPerched at a breathtaking 8,000 feet above sea level, Luna Lake Campground offers a true high-country experience. This dramatic elevation transforms the landscape into a cool mountain oasis where summer feels like spring and the air carries a crispness that invigorates the soul. The thin mountain air adds an extra sparkle to the stars and makes every sunrise feel like nature's grand performance.
Natural Features and SceneryMajestic ponderosa pines stand like ancient sentinels around Luna Lake, their vanilla-scented bark and emerald canopies creating a cathedral of nature. Verdant meadows burst with wildflowers in summer, while extensive wetlands provide a haven for great blue herons, pintail ducks, and other waterfowl that dance across the water's surface. The lake itself serves as the crown jewel—its glassy surface reflecting clouds by day and stars by night, creating a photographer's paradise and a naturalist's dream.
Geological RegionRising 8,000 feet into Arizona's eastern sky, Luna Lake occupies a remarkable ecological niche within the Apache National Forest. This high-altitude sanctuary showcases a stunning transition zone where desert gives way to alpine splendor. Ancient volcanic activity and millennia of erosion have sculpted this landscape into a tapestry of rolling meadows, dense ponderosa forests, and precious wetlands that support an incredible diversity of life. The result is a geological wonderland where every vista tells the story of Earth's creative forces at work.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility details are not explicitly described.
Sites SizeGroup sites can accommodate up to 120 guests; individual sites are described as spacious and well-spread.
Sites PrivacyCampers frequently note spacious and private sites, with one reviewer sharing, "The campsites are large and nicely spread apart!"
Total Campsites120 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites closer to Luna Lake are often favored for their views, while some visitors recommend avoiding sites near generators.
Best CampsitesNo specific best campsites identified.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Not stated
Check-out
Not stated
Stay Limit
14 nights
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not specified in the authoritative source.
Groups
The campground has three group campsites, including two double sites and one large site that accommodates up to 120 people.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is well-spaced with separate loops and sites, providing both communal and private camping options.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 23 to September 18 (reservable), with limited first-come-first-served availability before and after these dates. Closed during specific out-of-season periods.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability is offered during specific periods (e.g., September 19-October 15 and May 14-May 21).
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before the scheduled arrival. A $10 cancellation fee applies, along with other potential fees, such as late cancellation penalties which include forfeiting the first night's fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Luna Lake Campground offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including fishing, hiking, boating, birdwatching, and mountain biking. The lake is stocked with rainbow trout and features a marina, fishing pier, and bait shop. Educational programs about natural and cultural features are conducted in July and August. Some trails are accessible for horse riding, though livestock is not permitted inside the campground.
Hiking
A non-motorized trail system is available for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Trails range in difficulty, and one user warned, "If you are going to ride the long loop bike trail, be aware that it is poorly signed."Fishing
Fishing is a primary activity at Luna Lake, stocked with rainbow trout. Fishing conditions are best in spring and early summer due to the lake's use for irrigation during summer. One user remarked, "Fishing usually is good," while another noted the presence of algae as a drawback.Biking
Mountain biking is supported on the non-motorized trail system. Trails vary in signage and difficulty, with one user mentioning, "Take your phone with map app...so you do not get lost."Boating
Boating is facilitated with a boat ramp, rentals, and a marina. "You can bring your own boat," shared one reviewer, adding that paddleboarding is also a popular activity.Wildlife viewing
The campground's location near wetlands and a ponderosa pine forest makes it ideal for birdwatching and wildlife photography. "Lots of wildlife around the area. I saw elk, different types of birds and crawdads," said one visitor.Cultural and Educational Programs
Educational programs about the cultural and natural history of the area are conducted during July and August.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like paddleboarding and canoeing are supported.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Not explicitly stated about fire rules.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsThe area is frequented by bears, making food storage rules essential. The high altitude may pose challenges for visitors unaccustomed to it.
Weather forecast
68
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 36%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 1.5 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Mainly clear
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
No specific information.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 to September 18
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities, including dumpsters, are available, but there are no dedicated recycling facilities, as per user feedback: "It would also be nice if Luna Lake...installed bins for recycling."
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is within walking distance of Luna Lake, which offers fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing.
Common complaintsSome visitors noted maintenance issues such as rotted picnic tables and occasional campsite cleanliness concerns. Noise from generators and proximity to other campers were also minor complaints.
HostCampground hosts are noted as friendly and helpful. "Ron, the campground host, is the best!" is a standout review.
Campground Map
APACHE-SITGREAVES
Driving directionsFrom Alpine, drive 5 miles east on U.S. Highway 180 and turn north (left) onto Forest Road 570 just east of Luna Lake. Follow the gravel road one mile to the campground.
The primary access road to the campground is gravel. Specific road conditions, such as roughness or seasonal closures, are not detailed in the source material.Nearby places
Alpine (5 miles)
Nearby supplies
The town of Alpine, located 5 miles away, offers gas, restaurants, groceries, and other services.
Camper Reviews
4.6
87 reviews
Luna Lake is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, Luna Lake Campground receives positive reviews for its scenic beauty, spacious campsites, and cleanliness, but some issues such as aging picnic tables and occasional maintenance lapses are noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 87 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers frequently praise the peaceful atmosphere, proximity to the lake, and well-maintained vault toilets. "Clean restrooms and spacious sites," is a common sentiment.
Based on 87 reviewsCommon Concerns
Recurring complaints include the deteriorating condition of picnic tables, lack of recycling bins, and occasional algae in the lake, with one user stating, "Picnic tables need to be replaced—many are...
Based on 87 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water and food supplies as nearby options are limited. Be prepared for high elevation conditions and potential wildlife encounters, including elk.
Based on 87 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Peak season experiences are generally positive, with campers highlighting cooler summer weather. Off-peak seasons see reduced crowds but may have limited amenities.
Based on 87 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Bathrooms were nice and clean."
"The lake was absolutely beautiful during the sunset."
"The campsite was very clean with some firewood on-site."
"The camp host was very helpful and...
Based on 87 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsite 012: Mixed reviews—some noted algae in the lake and rain disruptions; others appreciated the scenic views.
Campsite 017: Praised for cleanliness, though busy at times.
Group Site A:...
Based on 87 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility, though the campground's spacious layout may support mobility.
Based on 87 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
One user complaint about loose dogs in neighboring campsites, though leash rules are enforced inconsistently.
Based on 87 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025