Bartlett Reservoir

The Bartlett Reservoir area is noted for the spectacular vistas of the Desert Mountains and the Sonoran plant life. A fair portion of the west side of the reservoir is devoted to camping and picnicking. Bartlett has been a favorite with anglers since Bartlett Dam was constructed in 1939. Several state-record fish have been caught there. The 1977 Small-mouth Bass state record tipped the scales at seven pounds. The carp state record still stands at 37 lbs. 5 oz. Flathead Catfish lurk in the depths. “Fish City” near Bartlett Flat is a fish-habitat improvement project.

Reservations

General Information

Year-round, as water levels permit

Group events like fishing tournaments require a special use permit. Contact the local Ranger District.
America the Beautiful Passes are only accepted at the Picnicking Sites. For boating, a Tonto Daily Pass and Watercraft Sticker or Tonto Discovery Pass are required.

Campground fees at various sites around Bartlett Reservoir might be separate from the Tonto Daily and Discovery Pass. Please call the Cave Creek Ranger District for specific details or visit the Camping section.

No glass containers.
Be prepared for delays in boat access during summer weekends.
The northern end of the lake is closed to waterskiing.
Please observe buoys.
Rocks and other obstacles may be near the water surface.
Be aware that motorized boating involves hazards, and people engaging in this activity assume the associated risks.
Direction of travel on the reservoir is counterclockwise.
Free-flowing portions of the Verde River are closed to motorized use.
Rattlesnake Cove is closed to all motorized watercraft.
Motors generating a noise level of greater than 82 decibels are prohibited.
Periodic major drawdown of the water level occurs.
Water levels fluctuate seasonally based on precipitation and irrigation demand.
Trash service and toilets are available at select recreation sites. Pack-it-in Pack-it-out where services are not provided.
Maricopa County Sheriffs, Arizona Game and Fish and Tonto National Forest personnel enforce regulations.

Getting There

Elevation

1,798 feet

Directions

The reservoir is 20 miles east of Carefree. From Carefree, take the Cave Creek Road/Forest Road (FR) 24 to the Bartlett Road/FR 19 junction. Turn right on this paved highway; it is 13 miles to the reservoir. Many recreation sites are also located along North Lake Road, which is a left turn at the stop sign at the end of the 13 miles.