Bartlett Lake Marina
A less crowded Arizona gem offering boating, fishing, camping, and stunning desert views. Perfect for a peaceful escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful and less crowded
Bartlett Lake Marina
Best Time
Peaceful and less crowded
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A less crowded Arizona gem offering boating, fishing, camping, and stunning desert views. Perfect for a peaceful escape.
"A hidden gem, perfect to enjoy on a weekday when it's super quiet. A bit of a drive but well worth it."
🚗 Drive to the Marina
It's a bit of a drive from Phoenix, but well worth it for the beautiful scenery and fewer crowds.
🚤 Pontoon Boat Rentals
Competitive rates for pontoon boats, often cheaper than other local marinas. Fuel and insurance included.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Paddle Cove Rentals
On the beach at Bartlett Lake
Rent paddleboards and kayaks for a fun day on the water. Great for families and groups!
The Cove Restaurant
Bartlett Lake Marina
Enjoy delicious food and drinks with stunning lake views. A perfect spot to refuel after a day of activities.
Scenic Views & Nature
Throughout Bartlett Lake
Experience the beautiful desert landscape surrounding the lake, with unique yellow stones and vast open fields.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Weekday Visits
Boat Rentals & Activities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive to the Marina
It's a bit of a drive from Phoenix, but well worth it for the beautiful scenery and fewer crowds.
🚤 Pontoon Boat Rentals
Competitive rates for pontoon boats, often cheaper than other local marinas. Fuel and insurance included.
🛶 Paddleboard & Kayak Fun
Paddle Cove offers rentals and a great beach setup for a fun day on the water.
🎣 Great Fishing Spot
Bartlett Lake is a good spot for fishing, especially for catfish. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive to the Marina
It's a bit of a drive from Phoenix, but well worth it for the beautiful scenery and fewer crowds.
🚤 Pontoon Boat Rentals
Competitive rates for pontoon boats, often cheaper than other local marinas. Fuel and insurance included.
🛶 Paddleboard & Kayak Fun
Paddle Cove offers rentals and a great beach setup for a fun day on the water.
🎣 Great Fishing Spot
Bartlett Lake is a good spot for fishing, especially for catfish. +1
🏕️ Beach Camping Available
Perfect for family camping trips with beautiful surroundings.
💳 Pay Kiosk Issues
Some visitors experienced issues with pay kiosks; be prepared to pay inside the marina if needed.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Bartlett Lake Marina for its friendly and helpful staff, competitive boat rental rates, and the overall peaceful atmosphere, especially on weekdays. The lake offers beautiful desert scenery and good fishing opportunities. Some minor issues with pay kiosks were noted, but overall, it's considered a hidden gem worth the drive.
"Had a great day at Bartlett Lake thanks in large part to the excellent and friendly folks at the Marina AND at the Cove restaurant. Everyone was super helpful from start to finish. We rented a pontoon boat for the day for a total of around $370 including fuel & insurance. A very competitive rate, especially compared to marina based rentals at Lake Pleasant. Plus, these guys helped us in every aspect of the day, from start to finish. It couldn’t have been any easier. And the staff up at the Mini Mart and restaurant (The Cove) were also great, especially Autumn (hope I remembered that right). (Pro Tip: if you are thinking about using the generally available Groupon, try contacting the Marina directly. They might be able to set you up with the discounted price without the added steps of Groupon). The lake is fairly low right now, but still plenty of water to enjoy, and the views are fantastic. Very quiet and peaceful during the week. Altogether we had a great experience at the Bartlett Lake Marina and out on the water."
M Baker
"I've grown up going to this lake for over 30 years now. It's always been a great lake for day trips or even multiple day beach camping. The water level has dropped drastically over the years but that hasn't taken away from the beauty or the excitement. Fishing is great here too and they've added a new restaurant and shopping center too. Best part about this lake is that it's never as crowded as all the others!"
ryne f
"I rented a paddle board from Paddle Cove. The brothers who run this business also work at the Marina and are the nicest, most accommodating folks. I love their set up on the beach. It is for guests to use before and after including a beautiful seating area and grill available for use. Ideal for group events."
Kimberly Anne
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bartlett Lake Marina is located north of Phoenix. The drive typically takes about an hour to an hour and a half, depending on traffic. It's a scenic route through the desert landscape.
Yes, follow the signs for Bartlett Lake Marina. The drive is straightforward, though it can feel a bit remote.
The roads leading to the marina are generally paved and well-maintained, making for a smooth drive.
Public transport options are very limited to non-existent for reaching Bartlett Lake Marina. A personal vehicle is highly recommended.
Yes, there is parking available at the marina, though it can fill up on busy weekends.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While there isn't a specific entrance fee for the lake itself, there are fees for boat launching and potentially for parking, especially on busy days.
The marina's operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check their official website or call ahead for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, Bartlett Lake Marina offers boat rentals, including pontoon boats, which are a popular choice for a day on the water.
Pontoon boat rentals can range around $370 for a full day, including fuel and insurance, which is considered competitive.
Some visitors suggest contacting the marina directly, as they might offer discounts similar to Groupon without the extra steps.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, and beach camping. The lake offers a variety of outdoor recreation. +1
Yes, Bartlett Lake is known for good fishing, particularly for catfish. +1
Swimming is permitted at Bartlett Lake, and it's a popular way to cool off during warmer months.
Yes, The Cove restaurant at the marina offers dining options, and there are also sweet treats available at the Oar House.
Bartlett Lake is generally less crowded than other Arizona lakes, especially during weekdays, making it a peaceful escape. +1
📸 📸 Photography
Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour light, perfect for capturing the desert landscape and lake views. Sunsets can also be spectacular.
The surrounding desert hills with their unique yellow stones, the open fields, and the lake itself provide stunning photographic opportunities.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with the marina or local authorities regarding any restrictions before flying a drone.
While not guaranteed, the natural desert environment may offer chances to photograph local wildlife. Keep an eye out during your visit.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is recommended to capture both the expansive landscapes and any wildlife. Don't forget a polarizing filter for water shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎣 Anglers' Paradise
🏕️ Camping Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Bartlett Lake by Boat
For those seeking a more active water adventure, Paddle Cove offers paddleboard and kayak rentals right on the beach.
Important Note: The lake's water level can fluctuate. While it has dropped significantly over the years, there is still plenty of water for recreational activities.
Fishing and Camping at Bartlett Lake
For those who love the outdoors, Bartlett Lake offers excellent opportunities for beach camping.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit