A Scenic Lake In Arizona Is A Hidden Paradise With Outdoor Fun Surrounded By Mountain Views

Arizona's serene desert landscape is a big draw for hikers looking to commune with nature — but what if we told you it's also home to a hidden paradise where you can have a beach day in a landlocked state? Just about an hour-and-a-half north of downtown Phoenix, Bartlett Lake is the kind of place locals tend to keep close to their chest. Situated inside Arizona's Tonto National Forest, this sparkling reservoir is a desert oasis framed by mountain views and dotted with indigenous saguaro cactuses (the largest in the U.S.) and mesquite trees. It's a landscape that feels rugged and tranquil, but it also offers the perfect backdrop for anyone craving outdoor adventure with a little peace and quiet.

The lake was formed in the late 1930s by the construction of Bartlett Dam — the first one built on the Verde River — and it's been attracting Arizona adventurers ever since. And it's no wonder — the lake has nearly 3,000 acres of water to boat, fish, and swim in. There's something magical about the surroundings — for example, knowing some of the saguaros may have been standing for more time than you've been alive. These towering cactuses can live up to 200 years, and if they have arms, they're at least 75 years old. Local wildlife like bald eagles, mule deer, and coyotes are also known to make appearances all along the shoreline.

Whether you're in it for the watersports, the desert-mountain scenery, or the thrill of spotting indigenous flora and fauna, Bartlett Lake is an under-the-radar destination that delivers way more than you'd expect from such a quick drive out of town. Plus, you're close enough to Arizona's bigger cities, giving you the best of both worlds on a long-enough getaway.

If you love nature but you're also a bit of an adrenaline junkie, Bartlett Lake is just what you need. The lake's broad, open water is perfect for boating, and there's more space here than at Canyon or Saguaro Lake combined. That means fewer crowds and plenty of room to spread out, whether you're wakeboarding, jet skiing, or paddleboarding.

Fishing is a major draw here too. The lake is home to largemouth and smallmouth bass, crappie, catfish, and bluegill, so you're likely to catch dinner with a day out on the water. In fact, one local angler holds the Arizona state record after catching a whopping 76.52-pound flathead catfish right here in Bartlett Lake. Anglers will also find fish cleaning stations available on-site. Before you head out, be sure to check water levels and weather conditions, especially in the summer when flash floods and monsoon storms can affect access to the lake and recreation area.

While you're here, why not explore more of one of America's prettiest "urban forests," Tonto National Forest? The area surrounding the lake has hiking trails that show off the Sonoran Desert in all its glory. One of the more popular paths, the Jojoba Trail, is an easy, hour-long hike that winds through cactus-dotted hillsides with epic lake views and plenty of wildlife-watching opportunities. For a more challenging trek, Bartlett Reservoir Trail hugs the shoreline and passes through Rattlesnake Cove, where you can refresh with a post-hike picnic. With so much open space and a solid blend of water and land activities, Bartlett is ideal for everything from outdoor adventure to laid-back lounging.

Your easiest bet for getting to Bartlett Lake is to head to Carefree from Phoenix. The drive is a straight shot up I-17 North, and there are local directions from Carefree to different lake access points on the Go-Arizona website. Some visitors have warned that GPS navigation can take you toward Rio Verde instead (which is at least an hour out of the way), so double-check your directions on the map along the way. Visitors will find boat launches at Jojoba, Bartlett Flat, Bartlett Marina, and Yellow Cliffs. If you don't have your own vessel, Bartlett Lake Marina rents everything from pontoons to paddleboards and kayaks. You can even book a boat party setup complete with shaded canopies, coolers, and even catering add-ons.

For overnight stays, you can set up camp right along the shoreline at Bartlett Flat, a dispersed camping area that lets you pitch a tent or park an RV within feet of the water. While amenities are pretty basic (just portable toilets), the views and the convenience of lakeside living more than make up for it. Just be sure to bring your own supplies, including lots of drinking water, and a Tonto National Forest pass — which costs $8 for a day. If camping's not your thing, nearby Carefree has several hotels, with rates around $100 a night. 

Day-trippers will want to check out scenic picnic spots like Rattlesnake Cove, which offers shaded tables and barbecue grills. If you didn't pack lunch, The Cove restaurant at the marina serves up delicious bites with a lovely lakeside view. Entrees, from wings to salads and burgers, are around $20 on average. With a little planning for your trip to Bartlett Lake, you're in for one of Arizona's most underrated gems.