Bartlett Lake Guide

Boating, fishing, and where to buy your Tonto Pass on the way.

$8/day at vendors, $12 on-site
Annual passes accepted, watercraft +$4
Official USFS Page
AboutAccess PointsBoatingFishingBuy a PassWater LevelTipsFAQ
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About Bartlett Lake

Bartlett Lake is a 2,815-acre reservoir on the Verde River in Tonto National Forest, about 48 miles northeast of Phoenix. The drive out Bartlett Dam Road takes you through rugged Sonoran Desert — saguaros, mesquite, and open sky.

Quieter and more remote than Saguaro or Canyon Lake. Popular with anglers, boaters, and anyone looking for space. The lake has multiple coves, a marina, and several day-use areas.

Bartlett Dam Road is paved and scenic the whole way to the marina. Some secondary spur roads past the marina are unpaved.

Access Points

Pass required

Rattlesnake Cove

Ramadas and shoreline access. Popular spot.

Directions
Pass required

SB Cove

Boat launch and day-use area.

Directions
Pass required

Bartlett Flat

Larger day-use area near the dam.

Directions
Pass required

Jojoba

Picnic tables and lake access.

Directions

All areas fill on holiday weekends. Arrive early Memorial Day through Labor Day.

Boating & Marina

Marina

Pontoon, jet ski, kayak, and paddleboard rentals on site. Fuel dock and small store with basics. Reservations recommended on weekends.

On the Water

Multiple launch ramps around the lake. PWC (jet skis) allowed. The lake is quieter than Saguaro or Canyon, with plenty of room to spread out.

Tonto Pass required at all launch areas

Fishing

Species Largemouth Bass · Smallmouth Bass · Crappie · Catfish · Sunfish

One of the better bass lakes near Phoenix. Best fishing in spring and fall. Bank fishing at several day-use areas, or take a boat into the coves.

Check azgfd.com for current reports and stocking schedules.

Buy a Pass Before You Go

Pick one up in Cave Creek on your way — there are no vendors past town.

Water Level & Conditions

Check before you go

Managed by Salt River Project. Levels fluctuate seasonally and low water affects boat launch access. Limited shade at the lake, so check weather in summer.

View Current Levels

Tips for Your Visit

  • Bartlett Dam Road is paved to the marina. Some secondary roads past the marina (Bartlett Flat, Horseshoe Dam) are unpaved.
  • Cell service drops off quickly past Cave Creek. Download offline maps and share your plans with someone before you go.
  • Buy your Tonto Pass in Cave Creek or Carefree. There are no vendors on Bartlett Dam Road.
  • Arrive by 7am on summer weekends and holidays. Day-use areas and launch ramps fill early.
  • Bring plenty of water. There's limited shade at the lake and summer temps regularly exceed 105°F.
  • Gas up in Cave Creek or Carefree. The nearest fuel at the lake is the marina dock (boats only).

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you need a Tonto Pass at Bartlett Lake?
Yes. A Tonto Pass is required to park at all Bartlett Lake day-use areas and boat launches. On-site fee machines charge $12/day; buying from a vendor in Cave Creek or Carefree beforehand costs $8.
How do I check Bartlett Lake water level?
Bartlett Lake water levels are managed by Salt River Project (SRP). Check the SRP Daily Water Report at watershedconnection.com for current elevation, storage, and boat ramp depths. Levels fluctuate seasonally and affect launch access.
Can you rent boats at Bartlett Lake?
Yes. Bartlett Lake Marina rents pontoons, jet skis, kayaks, and paddleboards. The marina also has a fuel dock and small store. Reservations are recommended on weekends.
Is Bartlett Dam Road paved?
Yes. Bartlett Dam Road is a paved, scenic road all the way to the marina and main recreation areas. Some secondary spur roads past the marina (to Bartlett Flat, Horseshoe Dam) are unpaved.
Where can I buy a Tonto Pass near Bartlett Lake?
The closest vendors are in Cave Creek, about 20 miles from the lake. Gas stations and convenience stores sell the $8 daily pass. Buy one before you head down Bartlett Dam Road. There are no vendors once you leave town.

View Official Bartlett Lake Information

Fees, hours, current conditions, and site maps from the U.S. Forest Service.

Visit fs.usda.gov