Bagley Flat Recreation Area (Boat Access Only)

For Arizonans seeking a truly unique and secluded camping experience, Bagley Flat Recreation Area offers an escape unlike any other. Tucked away on the stunning shores of Saguaro Lake, this campground is a hidden gem that caters to those who appreciate the quietude and natural beauty that can only be found off the beaten path. Its defining characteristic is its accessibility—or lack thereof—as it is a boat-in only campground. This unique feature ensures a level of peace and privacy that is hard to come by at more conventional, drive-up camping sites. It’s an ideal spot for boating enthusiasts, anglers, and anyone looking to trade the noise of the city for the gentle lapping of lake water and the calls of local wildlife. While it may require a little extra effort to get there, the rewards are well worth it, providing an immersive and memorable outdoor adventure for families and friends.

Located on Saguaro Lake, approximately 35 miles east of Mesa, Bagley Flat Recreation Area is a testament to the fact that some of the best places require a little more work to reach. The primary mode of access is by boat, which adds a layer of adventure to your trip from the very beginning. To get to the boat launch, visitors travel 27 miles north on State Hwy. 87 from Mesa, then turn right onto Bush Highway/Forest Road (FR) 204. After following FR 204 for about 4 miles, you will reach the lake and a boat launch, such as the one at Saguaro Del Norte Recreation Site. From there, you must travel by water to reach the campground. This boat-only access not only makes the area feel more remote but also helps preserve its natural, less-trafficked state. On-site parking is available for boats at the courtesy dock, which can accommodate several vessels at a time. The area's seclusion is a major draw, providing a tranquil environment away from the traffic and crowds often found at more accessible recreation areas. Its location within the Tonto National Forest places it in the midst of a spectacular desert landscape, with a beautiful grove of mesquite trees offering a rare and welcome abundance of shade, especially during the warm summer months.

While Bagley Flat Recreation Area maintains a more rustic and primitive feel, it is not without key amenities that make for a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience. The services provided are designed to meet the essential needs of boat-in campers, ensuring a hassle-free stay in this beautiful, remote location. It’s important to note that visitors should be prepared to be self-sufficient, as not all conveniences of a modern campground are available. However, the site offers what is most critical for a successful camping trip. Below is a list of services you can find at the campground:

• Public Restrooms: The site features public vault toilets, which are the only toilet facilities on the upper portion of the lake. While simple, these are a crucial convenience for campers.
• Running Water: It is important to know that while there are restrooms, there is no potable (drinkable) running water available on-site. Campers must bring their own drinking water. This is a key piece of information for trip planning and preparation.
• Tent Sites: Bagley Flat is exclusively a tent campground, offering a number of designated tent sites. These sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, with no reservations accepted.
• On-site Parking for Boats: A courtesy dock is available for boaters to use for mooring. This provides a convenient place to dock your vessel while you set up camp and enjoy the area.

Bagley Flat Recreation Area's charm lies in its simplicity and natural beauty, but it also has a number of specific features and highlights that make it a compelling choice for outdoor enthusiasts. These unique attributes cater to a specific type of camper—one who is willing to put in the effort for a more authentic and quiet experience. The sense of accomplishment that comes with reaching a boat-in campground is a highlight in itself, making the destination feel even more like a special retreat. Here are some of the standout features of this unique camping spot:

• Boat Access Only: The single most notable feature is that it is only accessible by boat. This ensures a low-traffic environment, providing a peaceful and uncrowded experience that is perfect for escaping the everyday.
• Designated Campsites with Amenities: The campground offers 10 designated camp units, each equipped with grills and tables. These basic amenities make it easy to set up camp and prepare meals.
• Natural Shade: A key highlight is the presence of a nice grove of mesquite trees, which provide an abundance of shade. In the Arizona sun, this natural shade is a highly valued feature, especially during the summer months.
• Family and Pet-Friendly: The area is noted as being good for kids, likely due to the opportunities for swimming and exploring along the shoreline. Furthermore, it is a dog-friendly location, and dogs are allowed, making it a great option for family camping trips that include your four-legged companions.
• Fishing Opportunities: The courtesy dock and general location on Saguaro Lake provide easy access for fishing, making it a great spot for anglers.
• First-Come, First-Served: The no-reservation policy for the 10 designated sites means that campers can decide to visit spontaneously, although it is always best to arrive early to secure a spot, especially on weekends.

Since Bagley Flat Recreation Area is a boat-in only campground and part of the Tonto National Forest, there is no direct phone number or specific address for the campsite itself. The best way to get information is to contact the managing ranger station. The Mesa Ranger Station is the most relevant contact point for this area, as they can provide the most up-to-date information on conditions, regulations, and any potential closures. It is always wise to call ahead and check for any fire restrictions or other important notices before your trip. Please note that camping is permitted at the designated sites, but visitors must pay for a Tonto Daily Pass to launch their boat at the Saguaro Lake boat launch site.

Address: 33°34'17.2"N 111°29'03.0"W, Mesa, AZ 85215, USA

For more detailed information, visitors can contact the Mesa Ranger Station at:

Phone: (480) 610-3300

Bagley Flat Recreation Area is truly worth choosing for several key reasons that cater to a specific kind of outdoor lover. Its boat-access-only nature immediately sets it apart, offering a rare and valuable sense of seclusion that is perfect for those who want to escape the crowded campgrounds and noise of the city. For residents of Arizona, this provides a nearby but completely immersive wilderness experience without having to travel far from the Phoenix metropolitan area. The campground is praised by visitors for its potential to be a great, quiet spot to relax and let dogs roam for a bit, as well as a great location for a night or two of camping with family. The presence of restrooms and picnic amenities at the designated sites provides a level of comfort, even in a primitive setting. It is the ideal destination for anyone who loves boating, fishing, and tent camping and is looking for an opportunity to combine all of these passions into one seamless and unforgettable trip. While the site is primitive and requires campers to be self-sufficient—particularly in regards to bringing their own water—it is precisely this ruggedness that defines its charm and draws people back again and again. For a unique adventure on Saguaro Lake, Bagley Flat Recreation Area stands as a top choice for a remote and rewarding Arizona camping trip.

Bagley Flat Recreation Area (Boat Access Only)

33°34'17.2"N 111°29'03.0"W, Mesa, AZ 85215, USA