Bird the surrounding desert and the big mesquite bosque which makes up Burnt Corral Campground. 

A good turnoff comes at the eastern section of the lake at mile marker 234.  This road goes to the Burnt Corral Recreation Area and campground, which is a very peaceful branch of the lake.

Apache Lake is in the Tonto National Forest.

Apache Lake was formed in 1927 when the Horse Mesa Dam was completed. Outstanding trout and warm-water fishing. Wet winters bring a profusion of spring flowers. This lake is set among sun-painted canyon walls, which form scenic backdrops to the lake itself. Camping is available at Burnt Corral Recreation Site, Apache Lake Marina/Resort, or at several shoreline access areas.

The entire route is paved with the exception of the five-mile section of AZ-88. From Mesa: Take the Beeline Highway/AZ-87 north for approximately 60 miles to the junction of AZ-188. Turn right and follow AZ-188 for 33 miles to the junction with AZ-88. Turn right on AZ-88 and drive past Roosevelt Dam. Follow AZ-88 for 5 miles to Forest Road (FR) 183; turn right and continue an additional mile to the site.

From Claypool (between Globe & Miami: Take AZ-188 northwest for 29 miles to the junction of AZ-88. Follow AZ-88 (it heads southwest and becomes an unpaved road) for 5 miles to FR 183; turn right and continue an additional mile to the site.