Bartlett Lake

Bartlett Lake is a reservoir that was formed by the damming of the Verde River in the U.S. state of Arizona. It is downstream and to the south of Horseshoe Reservoir. Constructed in 1936–39 by the Salt River Project, the Bartlett Dam and reservoir were named for Bill Bartlett, a government surveyor. Bartlett Lake was the first reservoir built on the Verde River.

Bartlett Lake, located 48 mi from downtown Phoenix and 17 mi northeast of Carefree, is a popular recreation area in the Tonto National Forest. After wet winters, the Bartlett Lake area often has fine displays of spring wildflowers. The facilities at Bartlett Lake are managed by the Forest Service.

Sport fishing and other recreation


Species inhabiting the lake, at about 1600 ft above sea level, include largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, crappie, sunfish, channel catfish, flathead catfish, carp, crayfish, and bullfrogs. The nearest town with fuel, groceries, fishing tackle, restaurants, and other amenities is Carefree. At the lake itself, it is possible to rent boats and buy fishing licenses, fuel, groceries, and fishing equipment.

The lake and its surrounding areas offer opportunities for swimming and waterskiing, camping and picnicking. Trailer spaces and restrooms are available. Users must obtain a U.S. Forest Service Tonto Pass and perhaps pay other fees for various uses of Bartlett Lake.