Arizona boasts its fair share of places to swim, but we still get excited beyond belief to discover a new one. Bartlett Lake is a hidden oasis less than one hour from downtown Phoenix, offering pristine sandbars and a variety of water recreation activities. Plus, better still, with Bartlett Lake comes Bartlett Lake Beach, which can and does feel like the ocean sometimes!

Located in the heart of Tonto National Forest, less than one hour from downtown Phoenix, Bartlett Lake Marina is a true Arizona hidden gem.
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Far away from the chaos of everyday life, and with absolutely breathtaking scenery, this deep blue oasis is a perfect addition to your summer bucket list.
Nature lovers flock to the lake for a variety of recreational opportunities, including fishing, kayaking, boating, and camping.
Facebook/Bartlett Lake Marina
Nearly 3,000 acres of surface area accessible to watercraft promises ample space for families to spread out and experience the tranquility of solitude. It's one of the nicest lakes in Arizona!
When you aren't splashing the day away, relax on the sandbar with an ice-cold drink and a good read.
Facebook/Bartlett Lake Marina
Beaches are hard to come by in a landlocked state, so this little slice of paradise is a true blessing. And, as we all know, Arizona beaches are truly something special!

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Stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, and jet skis are all available for rent, as well as a variety of boats -- including this luxurious party yacht.
Facebook/Bartlett Lake Marina
Several mooring options are offered as well for guests with their own boats. Information about rentals and slip storage can be found on the lake website.
If you're having too much fun and can't bring yourself to leave, just extend your stay overnight.
Facebook/Bartlett Lake Marina
Camping directly on the shoreline provides unparalleled access to the beautiful high desert landscape, where indigenous plants and wildlife abound. The beach at Bartlett Lake is an idyllic place to rest up after a long day at the lake.
No matter what the season, Bartlett Lake always has something to offer.
Facebook/Bartlett Lake Marina
Whether it's snow-capped mountains in the distance or blissfully warm, cloudless summer days, you'll never regret a trip to this little-known alcove.
If you're using GPS, be warned that it sometimes leads people two hours out of the way to Rio Verde - so navigate carefully.
Facebook/Bartlett Lake Marina
Office hours are 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. daily, so feel free to call (602) 316-3378 with any questions or concerns.

Check out this birds-eye, cinematic view of Bartlett Lake in gorgeous 4K:

Visit the lake’s official website or its Facebook page to learn more.

Have you ever been to Bartlett Lake? Have you relaxed on Bartlett Lake Beach? If so, what’s your favorite activity to do on the water? Let us know, and check out some Arizona beaches that’ll make you feel like you’re at the ocean.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Lakes In Arizona

Tori Jane | June 22, 2023
  1. Where is Bartlett Lake in Arizona?

Bartlett Lake is a reservoir that was formed by damming the Verde River in the Tonto Forest. It’s 48 miles from downtown Phoenix and 17 miles northeast of the town of Carefree. Learn more about the cabins near Bartlett Lake in Arizona you can reserve if you’d like to linger awhile.   

  1. What are some of the best lakes in Arizona?

Arizona might be smack-dab in the middle of not one but two great deserts (the Sonoran and the Mohave), but it’s got a surprising number of lakes to its name. At the time of this writing, there are 128 lakes and five major rivers in Arizona (though just two of those lakes are natural). Some of the most notable lakes in Arizona are:  

  • Lake Pleasant – This is easily one of the most popular lakes in the Copper State, as it’s located close to Phoenix and offers an escape from the city.  
  • Horsethief Basin Recreation Area – This lake is absolutely breathtaking and feels almost tropical, surrounded by greenery and hidden away in the basin.  
  • Woods Canyon Lake – This gorgeous, sparkling lake is known for its astonishing clarity and nice, cool temperatures. It’s about 30 miles away from Payson, so be sure to visit!  

Learn more about each of these delightful lakes in Arizona!   

  1. What are some of the best Arizona beaches?

With wonderful Arizona lakes come wonderful Arizona beaches! Who says you need to drive for hours to California just to have a beach day? Have an Arizona beach day instead! Some of the best beaches in Arizona include ones like:  

  • Boat Beach – This little cove is nestled within Grand Canyon National Park and it’s absolutely awesome! If you want to kayak the Colorado, this is a great starting point.  
  • Cattail Cove State Park – Who knew there are sandy beaches in Arizona? Well, now you do, as this western AZ gem is a true must-do for locals and visitors alike.  
  • London Bridge Beach – This beach is a part of beautiful Lake Havasu and it’s perfect for sinking toes in. And yes, it’s THE London Bridge we’re talking about here.  

Learn more about each of these wonderful Arizona beaches!   

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Bartlett Lake, Arizona, USA