Luna Lake

By AZ Leisure Staff Writers

Last updated on May 4, 2026.

Luna Lake Near Alpine, Arizona

Luna Lake, located near Alpine in Arizona’s White Mountains, is a peaceful fishing lake known for its scenic setting and reliable trout populations. The lake is stocked with rainbow trout and supports catfish and bass, making it a great destination for anglers. Calm waters allow for small boats, kayaks, and shoreline fishing, while the surrounding forests provide opportunities for camping and wildlife viewing.

Location & Description

Luna Lake is the eastern most lake in the White Mountains of Arizona. Just 3 miles east of Alpine, Arizona, it is simply beautiful here surrounded by thick forests and the Luna Lake Wildlife Area. At an elevation of 7,890 feet, temperatures are ideal in the spring, summer and early fall before the autumn colors arrive. It sits in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests one of the most scenic areas in Arizona. Although the lake is open all year, the Wildlife Area is closed to the public from April 1st through July 31. The state record for cutthroat trout (6 pounds, 5 ounces) was caught at Luna Lake. The lake is formed by the upper San Francisco River. The lake often freezes over during the winter months. See Alpine, Arizona Weather Chart.

Why Visit Luna Lake

Visitors enjoy Luna Lake for its quiet atmosphere and consistent fishing, especially during the warmer months when the cooler mountain climate provides a welcome escape. Its remote location and natural beauty make it an ideal destination for relaxing outdoor getaways.

Lake Size

The lake's water surface is about 154 acres with an average depth of 8 feet with the deepest spots approaching 21 feet.

Fish Variety

Rainbow and Cutthroat Trout.

Fishing

During the spring and early summer, try trolling with flies. Nightcrawlers also perform well. When the temperatures start to rise in the late summer, fish in the deeper, cooler areas of the lake. State fishing licenses with a trout stamp are required for anglers age 14 and above. The bag limit is six trout combined of either species per day. For unlicensed anglers age 13 or less, the limit is three trout per day. Live bait is prohibited.

Best Fishing Spots at Luna Lake

• Shoreline Near the Dam: A popular area for trout fishing, especially when using bait or casting from shore.
• Deeper Mid-Lake Water: Productive during warmer months when trout move into cooler, deeper areas.
• Boat Ramp Area: Convenient for anglers launching small boats, kayaks, or canoes to reach open-water trout.
• Quiet Shoreline Access Points: Good for bank fishing during spring and early summer when trout are more active near shore.

Boating at Luna Lake

Boat motors are restricted to either electric or 10 hp gas motors or less.

Camping, Hiking & Amenities

The amenities and conveniences include a boat ramp, barrier-free toilets, paved parking and picnic tables. The Luna Campground features 40 fee-based camping sites and 3 group sites. There is a small store near the dam that sells fishing licenses, bait, tackle and snacks and rents boats. Call (877) 444-6777 for more information and camp site reservations.

Things To Do at Luna Lake

• Fish for rainbow trout and cutthroat trout
• Launch a small boat, canoe, or kayak
• Camp at Luna Lake Campground
• Enjoy picnicking in the cool mountain air
• Watch for birds and wildlife around the lake and nearby forest
• Visit nearby Alpine, Arizona and explore the eastern White Mountains

Best Times to Visit Luna Lake

• Spring: One of the best times for trout fishing as the weather warms and fish become more active.
• Summer: A good season for camping, boating, kayaking, and escaping the heat of lower elevations.
• Fall: Cooler temperatures, fewer visitors, and fall color make this a scenic time to visit.
• Winter: The lake often freezes, so access and fishing conditions can be limited during colder months.

Directions to Luna Lake

Luna Lake is located about 3 miles east of Alpine, Arizona, just north of U.S. Highway 180 in the eastern White Mountains. From Alpine, drive east on Highway 180 and follow signs toward Luna Lake and the Luna Lake Wildlife Area.

Visitors traveling from Springerville or Eagar can take Highway 180 south toward Alpine, then turn toward Luna Lake before reaching town. The lake is easy to reach by paved highway access, with nearby parking, camping, and boat ramp facilities.

Luna Lake FAQ

Where is Luna Lake Arizona?
Luna Lake is located about 3 miles east of Alpine, Arizona, in the eastern White Mountains near the New Mexico border.

Is Luna Lake good for fishing?
Yes, Luna Lake is known for trout fishing, especially rainbow trout and cutthroat trout. Spring, early summer, and fall are often the best fishing seasons.

Can you boat on Luna Lake?
Yes, boating is allowed on Luna Lake, but motors are restricted to electric motors or gas motors of 10 horsepower or less.

Does Luna Lake have camping?
Yes, Luna Lake Campground offers campsites near the lake, along with access to picnic areas, restrooms, parking, and the boat ramp.

Is Luna Lake open year-round?
Luna Lake is generally open year-round, but winter conditions can be cold and the lake often freezes, which may limit fishing and access.

More Information

Luna Lake RV Campground
Luna Lake Wildlife Area

Arizona Lakes