Bartlett Lake Ramp Closures

Dropping water levels at Bartlett Lake have prompted Tonto National Forest officials to close off access to both of the paved boat ramps providing access to the lake.

“The ramps at both Jojoba & Yellow Cliffs are out of the water & are unsafe for use,” said Cave Creek District Ranger Colleen Madrid. “Unfortunately, they will have to remain closed until the water level at Bartlett Lake comes back up.”

Drought & high water demand has dropped the lake to about 40% of capacity, & forest officials are unsure of when the ramps will be reopened. There are some places, such as Bartlett Flats, open to shoreline boat launching, boaters are urged to be extremely careful.

“Shorelines that were under water until very recently could be soft & potentially unstable,” she said. “We don’t want to see anyone’s vehicle stuck in the mud or end up in the lake.”

With both of the paved boat ramps exposed, the Tonto's taking advantage of the shutdown to make repairs, so that when the ramps are reopened they'll be in better shape than before. For more info, visit the Tonto’s web sit, fs.fed.us/r3/tonto, or call 480-595-3300.