Saguaro Lake, Reservoir in Tonto National Forest, Arizona, United States
Saguaro Lake is a reservoir in the desert of central Arizona with approximately 22 miles of shoreline and water depths reaching 90 feet. The shore features mountains reflected in the water, with boat ramps and beach areas for public use.
The Stewart Mountain Dam was built in 1930 to create this reservoir as a water storage facility for the Salt River system. The lake served as a key infrastructure project to supply water to growing settlements in the region.
The lake takes its name from the saguaro cacti that grow throughout the surrounding desert landscape, shaping how the place looks and feels.
The lake is accessible via State Route 87 near Mesa and offers multiple boat ramps, the Saguaro del Norte Recreation area, and Butcher Jones Beach. Visitors should prepare for desert heat and sun exposure when spending time on or near the water.
The Desert Belle tour boat offers passengers a chance to travel across the water with views of surrounding mountains and access to the ShipRock Restaurant from the water. This boat tour provides a relaxing way to explore the lake and its setting.
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