Saguaro Lake Boat Ramp: Open Or Closed?

Saguaro Lake, located in the Tonto National Forest, is a popular destination for boating, kayaking, sailing, jet skiing, fishing and camping. The lake features two boat ramps, located at the Saguaro Lake Marina, which also includes a restaurant, boat concession, a Maricopa County Sheriff's aid station, picnic tables and restrooms. However, on most weekends and holidays from April to October, the lake reaches its maximum boating capacity early in the day, resulting in delays in boat access. So, is the Saguaro Lake boat ramp open?

Saguaro Lake Marina has two boat ramps

The two boat ramps at Saguaro Lake Marina are both paved and feature two lanes each, allowing for efficient launch and retrieval of boats. The second dock is slightly larger but tends to be more crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. To avoid the crowds, it is recommended to arrive at the lake early, as parking spots fill up quickly.

In addition to the boat ramps, the Saguaro Lake Marina also offers a range of other amenities, including a restaurant, boat rentals, a Maricopa County Sheriff's aid station, picnic tables, and restrooms. The nearby Saguaro del Norte Recreation site provides additional facilities, such as a campground, fishing spots, and hiking trails.

Saguaro Lake is a popular destination for boating enthusiasts, offering a unique experience in the heart of the Sonoran Desert. The lake is known for its majestic Saguaro cacti that line the shoreline, creating a stunning backdrop for a day on the water. Whether you're looking to ski, jet ski, fish, or simply cruise around, Saguaro Lake Marina's two boat ramps provide easy access to all that the lake has to offer.

It's important to note that there are some restrictions and guidelines to follow when using the boat ramps at Saguaro Lake Marina. Glass containers are not permitted in the lake area, and there may be delays in boat access during busy summer weekends. It's always a good idea to check for any updates or advisories before heading out to the lake.

Passes and permits are required for boating

Saguaro Lake, located in the Tonto National Forest, is a popular destination for boating, kayaking, sailing, jet skiing, fishing, and camping. The lake has more than 22 miles of shoreline and is named for the majestic Saguaro Cactus that stand in the surrounding desert landscape.

If you are planning to go boating at Saguaro Lake, it is important to note that passes and permits are required. The lake reaches its maximum boating capacity early in the day on most weekends and holidays from April to October, so it is recommended to arrive early to secure a spot. Here is what you need to know about the required passes and permits:

• Tonto Daily Pass and Watercraft Sticker: This pass is required for boating at Saguaro Lake. It can be purchased at Tonto National Forest Offices and retail vendors. The Watercraft Sticker costs an additional $4 per watercraft and is required in addition to the Tonto Daily or Annual Pass.
• Tonto Discovery Pass: This pass is also accepted for boating at Saguaro Lake and can be obtained at Tonto National Forest Offices.
• America the Beautiful Pass: While this pass is accepted at the picnicking sites, it is not valid for boating.
• Parking Permits: Parking permits are required and can be purchased on-site at the ranger station for day passes or online for annual passes.
• Group Event Permits: If you are planning a group event, including fishing tournaments, a permit is required. Contact the Mesa Ranger District Office at 480-610-3300 for more information.

It is important to follow the regulations and obtain the necessary passes and permits before heading out to Saguaro Lake for boating. Be sure to also familiarize yourself with other boating rules and guidelines, such as life jacket requirements, navigation light requirements, and no-wake zones.

The lake reaches maximum boating capacity early on weekends and holidays

Saguaro Lake is a popular destination for boating, with two launch ramps located at the Saguaro Lake Marina. The lake is known to reach its maximum boating capacity early on weekends and holidays from April through October. As a result, it is recommended to arrive early to secure a spot, with some visitors aiming to arrive at the lake no later than 8 am on busy days.

During the summer, Saguaro Lake is a bustling hub for boating enthusiasts, with activities such as wakesurfing and tubing attracting people of all ages. The lake's popularity during the warmer months means that those arriving later in the day may be turned away once the parking lots are full. Visitors are directed to an overflow parking lot and must wait for parking spots to become available, which can be inconvenient and time-consuming.

To avoid disappointment, it is advisable to plan ahead and arrive early, especially during the summer weekends and holidays. This is also recommended for those who wish to explore the various fun places around the lake, such as Captain's Cove, Camper's Cove, and the cliff jumping spots.

The Saguaro del Norte Recreation site, located near the Stewart Mountain Dam, offers additional amenities such as a restaurant, boat concession, a Maricopa County Sheriff's aid station, picnic tables, restrooms, and boat ramps. The nearby Butcher Jones Beach also provides swimming, picnic, and restroom facilities. However, camping is not permitted at Butcher Jones Beach, and visitors should be cautious of skunks in the beach areas and campgrounds.

With its stunning desert landscape, Saguaro Lake provides a unique and enjoyable experience for boaters and outdoor enthusiasts alike. However, the early arrival is key to making the most of the lake's offerings during peak seasons and busy periods.

Boats are turned away once the lake reaches capacity

Saguaro Lake is a popular destination for boating, with two boat ramps located at the Saguaro Lake Marina. However, it is important to note that once the lake reaches its maximum boating capacity, additional boats will not be allowed in. This typically occurs on most weekends and holidays from April to October, with the lake reaching capacity early in the day. As a result, visitors are advised to arrive early to secure a spot.

On busy days, parking lots can fill up quickly, and visitors may be directed to an overflow parking lot if they arrive after the lots are full. To avoid this inconvenience, it is recommended to plan to arrive early, especially during the summer months when delays in boat access are more common.

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, visitors should be aware of the regulations and restrictions in place. These include life jacket requirements for children, flag protocols when someone is in the water, and no riding on the back of boats. Additionally, watersports are not permitted after sunset, and navigation lights are required for boats on the water after dark.

It is also important to respect the natural environment and wildlife around the lake. Skunks are commonly found in beach areas and campgrounds, so caution is advised. Visitors are expected to pack out all trash and maintain a safe distance from the herd of wild horses that can often be seen drinking from the lake.

By following these guidelines and planning ahead, visitors can maximize their chances of a pleasant and memorable experience at Saguaro Lake while minimizing potential disruptions due to capacity constraints.

The bay in front of Butcher Jones is closed to motorized watercraft

Butcher Jones Beach is located just a few miles north of the Saguaro del Norte Recreation Site, which is situated near the Stewart Mountain Dam that formed Saguaro Lake in 1930. The beach offers swimming, picnic areas, and restroom facilities, making it a popular destination for visitors to Saguaro Lake.

Saguaro Lake is a popular spot for boating, with two paved boat ramps available at the Saguaro del Norte Recreation Site. The lake is also frequented by kayakers, sailors, skiers, fishers, and campers. The lake is known for its majestic Saguaro Cactus, which dot the surrounding desert landscape.

While motorized boats are prohibited in the bay in front of Butcher Jones, there are still plenty of other areas on Saguaro Lake where visitors can enjoy motorized water activities. It's important to note that glass containers are not permitted on the lake, and there may be delays in boat access during busy periods, especially on summer weekends.

To access Saguaro Lake, visitors can travel 27 miles north from Mesa, Arizona, on State Highway 87. From there, they turn right onto Bush Highway/Forest Road (FR) 204 and follow it for 4 miles to FR 206, where they will turn left. This route takes visitors directly to the lake and the Saguaro del Norte Recreation Site.

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