My tips when visiting saguaro lake: - Arrive early if you're planning to rent a boat or kayak, especially on weekends. The marina can get crowded and boats are in high demand. - Bring plenty of water! Arizona heat can be brutal, even in the fall and spring. Make sure to stay hydrated, especially if you're hiking or spending time on the water. - If you're visiting for the first time, be sure to take a boat tour to get a unique perspective of the area. - Watch out for wildlife . You might spot herons, eagles, and even bighorn sheep along the trails, so keep an eye out! Plan your visit during the off-season (fall or spring) to avoid the summer heat and the crowds. read more

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I visited Lake Saguaro on a Saturday.. Good thing I arrived early at 7:30am. I was able to unload my vehicle and get on the water fairly quickly. By this time all of the front beach spots at the Butcher Jones area were completely taken up by large camping tents. It was tough to squeeze by people to get my stuff on the water. The water was crowded with many different paddle boards, jet skies, boats pulling other water toys. If I return it will likely be on a weekday when school is back In session. Nice lake otherwise. Oh yeah, when I left at around noon, there was no parking down near the beach. That parking lot was packed full. There were cars parked on the side of the road all the way up where you turn into the street driving towards the Butcher Jones area. Appeared to be a LONG walk down too. The FULL signs were posted at the turn off. read more

Saguaro Lake - Butcher Jones area - Lakes Near Me - Mesa, Arizona

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Not a lot of picnic areas. Super nice lake, I like canyon lake better due to more beach like areas where you don't have to climb down rocks

A gorgeous lake with a lot of history, fun spot for hiking, camping or boating. Chartered Cruise available as well as a nice restaurant with great views. read more

Been here a million times over the past 50 years. I went here today because of a rare bird report of a Pomarine Jaeger from the arctic circle being at the lake, many people got pictures of it the past 3 days. Of course, when I got the chance to go (today), it was no where to be seen. But it on the way home driving on Bush Highway going to Beeline there was many wild horses on the west side of Bush Highway, many people were pulled over and photographing them. read more

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Directions took me to a dam. Or very helpful for someone that just moved here. Can someone please fix this?

Went to the Saguaro Lake Recreation site yesterday and had not been in a while. The fee used to be $7 now its $12. The lake itself is beautiful but the entire place is full of trash (see photos). I think some people think because you pay a fee the park employees are your janitors but they aren't. The place had trash all over from these entitled people who come to the lake have a good time then leave their crap for others to clean. When the cans, boxes of food are lighter after you finished it. If you are someone who just leaves your trash don't come at all. Saw everything from a beer box in the water, beer bottles left in trees, dozens of drink cans, chip bags, someone even brought a whole Rasing Canes box gobbled it all up and then left it. Do not come here if you plan to leave it like this. I expect children to eat and leave their trash. All of this came from fully grown adults who should be ashamed. read more

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What a great site to visit! The drive is easy; winding roads through beautiful canyons just a short distance from the suburbs. This particular stop is convenient for those who aren't quite outdoor savvy. There are Tonto National Park passes for purchase at the nearby gas stations. read more

The part of the lake we visited was near the marina, further east than what this Saguaro Lake location lists. A hidden gem only 40 minutes from Phoenix. These views are absolutely amazing. In China there is a saying (or it's an idiom my mom made up), "有山有水", which translates to "where there are mountains, where there is water". Sunset here is extra vibrant because the water further reflects the sun's rays onto the mountainside and cliffs. We sat on a dock with a little picnic, joined by little gnats and the occasional flop of a fish. There is a marina restaurant nearby, and we listened to their live musician they had that evening. Plenty of boats zooming around, as well as kayakers. I believe there are reasonable boat rentals (both motorized and kayak) available. There are some hiking trails along the water as well. AMAZING stargazing location - even with the light from the marina, I saw the most stars I've seen in the Phoenix area here. Overall, tranquil area, beautiful views, and a must-visit to enjoy some nature. read more

Saguaro Lake - 1.30.21 @ 6pm - Lakes Near Me - Mesa, Arizona

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This is such a beautiful lake with very nice scenery, although canyon lake is still my favorite. There are a lot of trails here for off roading and camping by the water. We've gone out on a boat and also kayaked here. The water in most areas is clean. Once you get closer to the dam there is more debris. We came on Labor Day and it wasn't as busy as I thought it would be. Everyone here seemed to be boating responsibly. read more

Saguaro Lake - Lakes Near Me - Mesa, Arizona

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I am so disappointed in the way we were all treated today. Every way we turned someone was telling us we couldn't do whatever it is we were doing. We are new to the lake life and were really looking forward to making memories here but every forest ranger, staff member and anyone else who works for Saguaro lake was so miserable and it shows. Not to mention the parking is a joke, there are spots available but not for day use? But yet you're turning people away left and right because It's "FULL". I will make sure we find somewhere else to make memories. We don't need to deal with unhappy, miserable people all day long. read more

we had a great 1/2 day on the lake. the process on line was easy. the registering and getting on the vessel was good seems like when you call...not much interest of assisting...go to the internet was the response the day was great If I had to review the Resturant I would give it 0 if I could. The nastiest unfriendly hostess chased us away with her bad attitude. We ended up in fountain hills at a very lovely Resturant so it worked out for us read more

Such a beautiful lake with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. We saw eagles and big horn sheep on our boat trip. The boat ride is well worth the time and money. Drinks were fairly priced but cash only. read more

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Pretty hard to beat the combination of a very well prepared breakfast and one hour plus guided river tour on a comfortable boat. 5 of us started the adventure at about 10:00 with a good, made to order breakfast. Parking was no problem and while there are some steep stairs to descend, we all made it with no real problems. We were seated promptly and given menus along with out pr drinks order. Nice table with a shaded view of Sugaro Lake with a congenial crowd. A very diverse age group. One of our group acquired boarding passes for the cruise and we'd finished our excellent food in plenty of time for noon boarding. The boat comfortably accommodates just over 150 and I believe out group was about 125. Found a good lower deck area with five seats and we continued our visit. The boat pulled away at noon sharp and we spent the next hour and a bit cruising upstream looking at flora, fauna and Arizonas spectacular geology before turning back for the return trip, total time on the water was about an hour and a quarter. Our guide kept a running commentary going explaining the things we were seeing and some explanations regarding the history and geology of the area. I'm from New Mexico where we also have great places to tour but this was a real eye opener. And very educational. The food was good and the tour was comfortable and well conducted. I'll give this one five starts and suggest it as a very worthwhile tourist experience. Definitely worth the time and effort. read more

I can't say too much since I only went here once and didn't partake in any water or picnic activities. I bought a Tonto daily park pass [$8] at my local Safeway, but I passed by the Walgreens everyone was talking about that you can buy it from because it's near the entrance of the park if you're coming from the west. I arrived to Phon D Sutton Recreation area shortly before sunrise and it was super dark and I was the only one in that parking lot. But the view of the sun's red glow hitting the water was superb. There were about 2-3 picnic areas there and it was super buggy. Some garbage on the shoreline. I drove out of that branch and off to Saguaro lake. I parked at the parking lot near where the boats slide into the water. If you keep on driving upwards, there's more parking but for boat trailers. Alsoo super buggy. At Blue Point, there were 5-6 picnic areas and incredibly dirty. Someone had left their sack of garbage on one of the bbq racks. I jumped over the metal bar fencing in this area and walked to the water where I saw 10 vultures sitting on a dead tree - a little bit scary. But once I was at the water I spotted wild horses on the other side! Goldfield Recreation site had a restroom but there wasn't much there. The shoreline was riddle with garbage cans and signs asking visitors to help clean up. Overall, facilities-wise, not the best from what I observed. There were empty soda cans here and there. The picnic areas looked not the cleanest. It's super buggy. I'm pretty sure every kind of insect there rested its butt on me somewhere or bit me. However, the view is incredible. I was driving to Saguaro lake and I was in awe once I saw the water come into view. So, that's what makes it worth it. read more

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Saguaro Lake is the closest water oasis to Mesa, Arizona. The best way to see the lake is on the Butcher Jones trail. I say best because it is the only trail I've attempted on the lake. I've explored the trail twice, both times not getting very far. The second time I brought my fishing rod along to cast from shore as I made my way around the inlet. There were plenty of opportunities to cast in a line from shore by following the path. Lots of opportunities don't necessarily mean lots of fish. It takes more knowledge than I have if you want to catch a fish. Unfortunately, I have not yet figured out how to catch fish in desert canyon lakes. I'm not going at the right time of day or season or I'm using the wrong lure. Either way, it was a beautiful evening and my brother got a lot of great pictures. I'd go back a third time to explore more of the trail and lake. read more

Saguaro Lake - Lakes Near Me - Mesa, Arizona

We had a church event at Butcher Jones Recreational area. This beach and rec area is tucked away in a canyon on Saguaro Lake in the Tonto national Forest, hence the reason you need a Tonto Pass to park here. They are only $8.00 and they don not sell them on site. Purchase one in town at most convenient stores before leaving. They do patrol the parking lot and the fine is up to $100.00 for not having one. The area is a home to a herd of wild horses, so you may see one if you're lucky. You will see the evidence that they are around so watch your step. The beach is the main attraction. This beach is not maintained much so you won't find a sandy groomed shoreline. There are restrooms and changing rooms on site. There is a hiking path that follows the shoreline for 2.5 miles. The beauty of the park is why this place is perfect for a picnic or event. read more

Saguaro Lake - Lakes Near Me - Mesa, Arizona

Went today it was so beautiful I didn't know ARIZONA had this and it's not to far from me and everyone who was there was nice my kids loved it read more

Saguaro Lake - The lake - Lakes Near Me - Mesa, Arizona

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We came here for a birthday cruise and enjoyed ourselves thoroughly! It was a cool 100 degrees that day. The water breezes made it very nice and tolerable. The boat did have AC, but we just enjoyed our time on the deck and the feeling of floating along with the currents. One of the many cool things are the boaters speeding along the lake. One had a small pup with a life vest sitting out front, letting his tongue hang out as he enjoyed the wind in his face (photo). Hilarious! Saguaro Lake is a lot of fun, so bring a camera. Enjoy! read more

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went kayaking loved it so fun we saw a lot of horses and the people who ran the company were super friendly welcoming and extremely helpful had a great!!! experience., Thanks guys!!! read more

Love this area and also the harbor cafe. It's is pretty close to where we live in Mesa. but feels like another world away. Just a gorgeous drive. You expect to see John Wayne riding a horse over the cliffs and cactus and then suddenly you are at a beautiful little lake. The fish and chips are great. View is wonderful. Pricey but worth it because of the view - especially on a pretty day. It is usually about 5-10 degrees cooler there than in town as well read more

Favorite place to kayak, or spend the day with friends hiking, or floating in the water at Butcher Jones. The hike we do is usually 5 miles. The kayaking of the entire lake with a stop for lunch and a swim takes us about 4 hours. And when were just there for a lake day there is always the majestic beauty of the horses coming up the side to get some water and cool off themselves. Caution: These are not pets. Leave the horses be. You cant walk up and pet them or get right up on them for a selfie. read more

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We had a great day after we found a beach to Goto. Not very familiar with the area so we weren't sure were to go read more

Beautiful views and lovely atmosphere We took the 12:30 ferry boat ride on the Desert Bell with my aunt Joyce who lives there in Arizona. My step-son got to see his first Mountain Goat, loved the Elephant rock; the only silly thing that happened I lost my sunglasses when trying to get a photo of my aunt and I. read more

As an avid boater who frequents all the lakes in this area, I am a little disappointed with Saguaro lake, and the Tonto National forest folks in general - The reason.....Trash! Yes, I know this is not the "lake's fault", but it does degrade the scenery and overall "experience" of Saguaro lake as a whole. The worst areas (in my opinion) are the areas that are accessable by boat only - The Bagley flat campground area is particularly nasty. Many of the remote coves are litter-strewn as well. I have discussed my concerns with the Mesa Ranger District of the Tonto National Forest, and I have even gone so far as to volunteer to help clean up. Unfortunately, I was told that I could not go to the remote areas with my boat and clean-up - A liability issue? Anyway, it is a shame that areas of the lake are nasty - It is a bigger shame that apparently nothing can be done about it. The restaurant is "average", parking at the lake can be horrible on the weekends, and since it is one of the closest lakes in the area, it can be inundated with crazy people. Canyon Lake is better, and Roosevelt Lake is MUCH better, but a bit of a drive. Happy Boating! read more

Went here for sunrise pictures and it was a great spot. Very quiet and was able to go on a dock to setup. Looking forward to going back on some trails. read more

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Beautiful lake. Get there on a weekday early and leave before 3 to avoid dock traffic. Lake is serene early in the morning but not all that clean. Be prepared for being among the drunks and vulgarity and don't take young children if nearly nude crude behavior makes you uncomfortable. read more

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We have rented boats and pontoons, LOVE the LAKE and the options provided. Prepare to wait as many people are there and get there early. Craig was amazing with customer care as it was a very busy day and we waited for an hour and half to access our boat as they were checking everyone out from their cruise. They give you to 2 1/2 hours, and with the delay we were only going to have about an hour and half for our our 2 1/2...the owner's wife was the rudest person i have ever met, which is sad as the rest of the dudes were AWESOME! THE LAKE is GLORIOUS and the boat/pontoon, and incredible way to experience the uniqueness of the AZ canyon lake! Boats are clean and work beautifully! read more

Many things to do here! We saw people biking/paddle boarding/boating. There were also picnic tables. Parking was very easy, however, there was a $12 fee per car or an $18 fee if you had a boat. We chose to hike along side the lake. The easier part of the trail was a little under a mile, then we climbed some rocks to discover a cave! The sunset was excellent with the backdrop of the mountains and cliffs. I hope to come back again. read more

Actually, make that $8 for a Tonto Pass, which is good for the Butcher Jones Trail and other recreation areas along Bush HWY. Visited Pho Sutton and others along the highway along with hiking the trail (about 4-5 miles, easy to moderate). Well worth picking up the pass for a half (or whole day) trip. read more

Had a nice lunch at the marina restaurant. Little pricey but tasted good. Get take out and walk down to the dock where there's tables and chairs and you can look right out on the lake. no other people there and no tonto pass needed if you park in the marina lot. Some sheriffs, they had a nice bell 407 copter parked there. Be sure to go during the week,stay way on weekends, its the closest water to metro phoenix... read more

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We have done the boat tour on Saguaro Lake and also hiked the trail around it - and it is one of my favorite in the area! The boat tour was fun, but a little touristy - make sure you dress warm for cooler days and bring your camera to take photos of the steep ledges and beautiful water. The hike isn't that strenuous, and I am not athletic at all! There are a couple points where you are walking at a steep incline for a while, but most of it is relatively flat. There are lots of beautiful look outs at the lake, but at the end of the trail you get a beautiful view of Four Peaks. Take it slow and enjoy your hike, no need to run through it! It is so picturesque and beautiful! read more

Loved it here. Wild Horses hanging out all over. Sat on the beach at sunset. Water was beautiful. Ducks, bats, stars galore! Plenty of bathrooms and picnic tables. Walking trails. Loved it! read more

Such a beautiful lake (although cold!) and so much fun with family or friends on a boat. Beautiful views and friendly people as well.

I'm a beach babe at heart and this is the closest I can get in Arizona without planning a longer journey. The lake is very calm. I like to hang out at Butcher Jones Recreation Area because it has a large beach and the water is shallow, good for hanging out with friends or family. We brought our dog last time, which I guess you're not supposed to do, but I kept him on the leash and there were no problems. FYI- No campfires in the summertime! Bring a grill or sandwiches. :0) Also if you plan on drinking, make sure one person stays sober. There will be cops looking for you on the way out. Going to the lake and getting a DUI would definitely ruin a day at the lake. read more

Love this lake! First of all, I don't know why I haven't done any lake reviews around here. Maybe it's because I only went twice last year since my hubby seem to get annoyed when after swimming and fishing, I just want the canopy up, spread out my big towel over the seats, lay my body down, hat over my face then I take a nice siesta. You think? This is by far, the best lake to take the kids fishing. The water is usually calm and it doesn't get too windy like Lake Pleasant. Anyone can catch a bluegill when you're fishing by the coves among the reeds. Make sure you bring enough tackle and bait to lose to snagging....I guess that goes without saying for the seasoned fisherman/woman. The marina has a gas station, tackle, bait, little store and water sports rental. You can also dock the boat if you want to get some snacks or have a meal at the Lakeshore Restaurant (see review). Lots of "sandy beaches" if you just want to spend the day by the water. There are covered ramadas, only a little treck to the water. We try to get here before 6am...the parking is a clusterf*ck after 9am! p.s. Can everyone please pick up their trash? There are trash receptacles all over the place...no excuse! I gathered some floating empty water bottles and soda cans...plus who knows what's at the bottom of the lake! For those that do care about our surroundings, my son thanks you, coz he is ticked off at fishing crap instead of fish! read more

Unwelcoming signs and the fact it was impossible to buy permits at lake made me feel very unwelcome. They invested a huge amount of money in no parking, no stopping, no standing, pay us or well go after you with fines signs, but their system doesn't work at all. There is no way a new visitor would have any inkling that you have to buy your parking pass 25 miles away. Its pretty hard to believe they don't actually sell parking passes at the lake and then have signs telling people they will be fined. However, down the street Saguaro Lake Guest Ranch with horses and kayaks and a gorgeous property and welcoming friendly people, was everything that this place was not. read more

Who knew that the lakes in AZ were going to be so fabulous. We lived in the land of 10,000 lakes for years and were not sure how boating would be out in AZ---but I have to tell you we enjoyed it so much. For the most part the lakes are big enough that you can find your own little piece of paradise if you just want to anchor the boat---and relax---read a book--get a tan---jump off the side and float on a tube. It is an easy way to spend a whole day.....loved it... read more

Beautiful as was the drive on the way from Mesa. We took a lake cruise on the Desert Belle. That was a great way to see all of the lake. read more

Saguaro Lake - Lakes Near Me - Mesa, Arizona

Saguaro Lake has two entry points the marina side and the beach side. In the beach side you can enjoy the sun and have a picnic. The picnic area has tables, grills and big trees for shade. We saw people BBQ, playing volleyball, others where just enjoying the peace. Also it has a small hiking trail in case you want to stretch your legs:) It's a great place to go if you want to get out of the city. read more

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