Blog Date: 3.7.2022
Date Visited: 1.25.2022
Location: Maricopa County (Near Carefree, AZ)
All content is © 2022, Larry Nader & Larry Nader Photography & Art
Many people may not think of Arizona when it comes to fun on and around the water, but State 48 has some great lakes/reservoirs that offer loads of activities for its visitors. But possibly none offer the combination of activities in such a beautifully serene setting as Bartlett Lake.
Located just under 50 miles northeast of downtown Phoenix in the Tonto National Forest, Bartlett Lake, sometimes called Bartlett Reservoir, is a popular detitanation in Maricopa County for boaters, skiers, fishing, hiking, swimming, camping, or just watching the local fauna. Bartlett Lake some amazing views as well.
As with many of the lakes and reservoirs in the desert state of Arizona, Bartlett was formed/created, when the Verde River was dammed. Named after Bill Bartlett, a government surveyor, and built by the Salt River Project, the Reservoir too took roughly three years (1936-39) to complete.
If fishing is your pastime, Bartlett offers a great variety for the avid angler including large and smallmouth bass, crappie, sunfish, catfish, carp, bluegill, crayfish, and bullfrogs, with bass being the primary target of those fishing this lake. The waters of Bartlett are usually clear unless water levels drop too low. The Lake provides a variety of structures and cover, with much of the lake comprised of flooded areas of decomposed granite while other areas are strewn with giant boulders. The northern section of the lake contains vegetation and brush.
If your gig is boating, Bartlett Lake offers 2,815-acres of boatable surface, which is more than Canyon and Saguaro Lakes combined. Bring your own boat or rent one of one for the day. The marina offers a variety of watercraft to choose from, including pontoon boats, ski boats, fishing boats, and jet skis. There is even a general store to pick up anything that you may have forgotten to bring with you.
If camping is your thing, check out Bartlett Flats, a shoreline campground that offers some amazing scenic mountain views, as well as access to boating and other activities. There are no designated campsites, so you can virtually set up camp almost anywhere you like. Please note that the camping space available changes with the water levels. When the lake is full, there are only limited campsites available.
Be aware that you will need a Tonto National Forest park pass to access Bartlett Lake. You may also need additional stickers/passes depending on the type(s) of activity you are planning to enjoy. Check out the Forestry Services page here for more details on passes and stickers and where you can pick them up.
All in all, if you are looking for a great place to spend time with family and friends that involved outdoor activities, Bartlett Lake is a great destination to checkout.
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