RV Rental Bartlett Lake, AZ

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Take a leisurely drive through the lush green desert of Arizona to the enchantingly beautiful Bartlett Lake on your next motorhome camping trip. Located about twenty miles east of the town of Carefree, Bartlett Lake is a true blue jewel of the area, coupled with scenic views of the surrounding desert-mountains and the Saguaro-studded foothills. The lake is a reservoir that was formed by the damming of the Verde River.

Being very close to the cities of Phoenix and Scottsdale, it’s a good idea to book an RV in Maricopa County and explore the areas surrounding the lake. Located within the Tonto National Forest, Bartlett Lake has over 33 miles of shoreline and boasts of a surface area of about 2000-acres.

Constructed in 1939 and the very first reservoir to be built on the Verde River, it was named after Bill Bartlett, a government surveyor. The Bartlett Lake has many claims to fame, including its popularity as a great fishing destination, with many fishing tournaments held here. An RV rental at Bartlett Lake will give you easy access to the many recreational opportunities in the area, including hiking the trails around the lake, boating and swimming in Bartlett Lake.

Discover Bartlett Lake


Getting Outdoors

Bartlett Lake is a playground of outdoor recreation for the entire family. Camping with an RV near Bartlett Lake makes it easy to indulge in days of outdoor recreation. Considering the size of Bartlett Lake and its richness in marine life, make sure you get in some fishing here. While most of the shore is underdeveloped, you may opt for shore fishing that’s accessible from recreation areas and the many campgrounds around the lake, but keep in mind that it’s dependent on the water levels.

Boat fishing is recommended if you’re a serious angler. Known for producing some of the largest fish in the state of Arizona, fishing the waters of Bartlett Lake is a unique experience. Catfish, black crappie and largemouth bass, are abundant. Don’t forget your Arizona fishing license.

Leisure boating is fun in Bartlett Lake, and boat launches are located at Yellow Cliffs, Bartlett Flats and at the Bartlett Marina. Keep in mind, motorboats that are louder than 82 decibels are not allowed in the lake. Take your jet ski out into the lake for a cool jet skiing experience.

Are you looking forward to a bit of hiking during your RV rental trip? Try the Jojoba Trail, a scenic 1.3-mile long trail that goes through the Rattlesnake Cove Recreation Site to Jojoba Boating Site along the lake’s western shore.

Camping at Bartlett Lake

Bartlett Lake camping areas are plentiful, and you’ll be able to find a spot with ease to park your rental vehicle. Yellow Cliffs on the eastern shore of the lake is a good option to consider, with quite a few campgrounds available in the area. Riverside Campground has 12 sites available with a few amenities like pull-thru sites, tent camping, and vault toilets. Trailers under 16 feet in length are welcome, with a maximum stay duration of 14 days at the campsite.

The Upper Bartlett Recreation Area is open to RV campers for short and long term stays. Paid campers have access to restrooms and showers, dump station, drinking water, picnic tables and grills, trash removal, boat ramps and a handicap accessible fishing ramp.

If you want to camp in an RV near Bartlett Lake, the Cave Creek Regional Park in Cave Creek is an option. There are 38 sites available, with amenities like pull-thru sites, 30 and 50 AMP electric service, big rig access, tent camping, dump station, water, restrooms, and showers. Bring your kids along too; they’ll love running around in the playground.

Exploring the Area

There is quite a bit to explore in the areas surrounding the lake, and if you rent a camper near Bartlett Lake, you could visit the nearby towns and cities. Should you be a city person, head to Scottsdale, a little over 45 miles from Bartlett Lake. It’s a happening city with lots to keep you busy on your visit.

Check out the Historic Old Town in Scottsdale that offers an easy stroll around its nine historic neighborhoods. Art lovers can enjoy browsing through the galleries in the Art District. The popular Fifth Avenue is your shopping stop, and if you want to shake a leg and down some beers, head to the entertainment district buzzing with nightlife.

If you’re a museum kind of person, make time to visit the Musical Instrument Museum exhibiting galleries filled with unique musical instruments and music from around the world. The Scottsdale Museum of the West celebrates the spirit of the American West through its exhibits displaying fine arts, cultural treasures, and artifacts. The Scottsdale Museum of Temporary Art celebrates modern art, architecture, and design through its changing exhibitions.

If you are seeking to play a round of golf, TPC Scottsdale is your best bet and is one of the city’s finest desert-style golf courses that is worthy of all the praise it gets.

The kids will love a trip to the Odysea Aquarium and Butterfly Wonderland. Walkthrough thousands of butterflies and explore the rivers and oceans of the world on your visit here.

You can’t go wrong with food in Scottsdale, as the city is known to serve up some great Arizona favorites like chimichangas, ranch fries, and cowboy steaks. After your trip, head to one of the many convenience stores to stock up on supplies and fill up your rental RV at one of the gas stations before your next travel adventure.

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Popular nearby hiking trails and campgrounds


  • Hiking TrailLocation
  • Bartlett Reservoir, AZTonto National Forest, AZ
  • Palo Verde Trail , AZTonto National Forest, AZ
  • Telegraph Line Road, AZTonto National Forest, AZ
  • Indian Spring Wash Trail, AZTonto National Forest, AZ
  • North Trail, AZScottsdale, AZ
  • St. Clair Mountain, AZTonto National Forest, AZ
  • Pine Creek Loop And Ballantine Trail , AZTonto National Forest, AZ
  • Lousley Hill Trail, AZScottsdale, AZ
  • Nursery Tank Trail, AZScottsdale, AZ
  • Camp Creek Falls Trail, AZCarefree, AZ

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