Temple Bar Campground

Overview

On the Arizona side of the lake, Temple Bar Campground trades crowds for space, stars, and big‑sky desert views. It’s open year‑round and feels like a true getaway: paved loops, oleanders and cottonwoods for a bit of shade, and water‑on‑rock scenery that glows at golden hour.

Campsites & Facilities

• 71 standard nonelectric, paved sites for tents or RVs, each with a picnic table and fire ring/grill.
• Restrooms with sinks and toilets and multiple potable water spigots spread through the loops.
• RV dump station and water refill near the entrance. No hookups at sites; no showers in the campground (showers are available near the marina for a fee).
• A campground host is typically on site. Reservations are required and cash isn’t accepted.

Activities & What to Do

• On the water: launch your own boat or rent from nearby Temple Bar Marina for fishing, paddling, swimming from boat‑accessed coves, and famously long, unobstructed water‑ski runs.
• On land: stretch your legs on the Temple View Trail for vistas of the namesake rock formation and shifting lake colors.
• After dark: this remote corner serves up superb stargazing thanks to minimal light pollution.

Wildlife

Expect desert birds, lizards, and antelope squirrels; coyotes wander through on occasion. Enjoy them from a distance, don’t feed wildlife, and secure food day and night.

Supplies, Connectivity & Nearby

• The marina (about a quarter‑mile away) has a store with snacks, drinks, ice, charcoal, and a seasonal cafe. Some WiFi is available at the store; there’s no WiFi in the campground and cell service ranges from spotty to none. Personal satellite systems can work in the open desert.
• If you need hookups or showers at your site, use the separate Temple Bar Marina RV Park (booked through the marina, not the NPS campground).

Need‑to‑Know Rules

Quiet hours run 10 p.m.–6 a.m.; generators must respect them. Fires belong only in provided rings/grills. Pets are allowed on a leash (max 6 ft). Stay is limited to 30 days in developed campgrounds (90 days total in the park per rolling 12 months).

Best Time to Visit

October–April brings comfortable days and crisp nights—prime camping, hiking, and star‑watching. Summers (June–August) routinely top 100°F; plan dawn/dusk activity and midday shade if you brave it. Weekdays are typically extra quiet. For photos, aim for sunrise and sunset when the “temple” formation and lake shoreline pick up warm light.

Practicalities & Remoteness

Temple Bar sits about 26 miles off US‑93, so top off fuel and bring extra water, sun protection, and a backup power bank. There’s no walk‑in beach here—boat to nearby coves for the best swimming access.