Bermuda Flat Shoreline Area

For Arizonans who crave a camping experience that is truly raw and untamed, the Bermuda Flat Shoreline Area on Roosevelt Lake provides a perfect, albeit rustic, escape. Located on the shores of Arizona's largest lake, this is a destination for those who want to get away from the structured, crowded campgrounds and embrace a more open, dispersed camping style. The area's beauty lies in its simplicity: a gently sloping shoreline with miles of expansive space where you can set up your tent with a spectacular view of the water and the surrounding Sierra Ancha Mountains and Four Peaks Wilderness.

The appeal of Bermuda Flat is its sense of freedom. Unlike traditional campgrounds with designated, numbered sites, this area allows you to find your own slice of paradise along the water's edge. This flexibility is a major draw for campers who want more space and a greater sense of privacy. However, as one reviewer noted, this openness can lead to it getting "rammed" during good weather, so timing your visit to avoid peak weekends might be a wise move for a more peaceful experience. The beauty of a "not-so-nice" weather day is that it often ensures a more quiet and serene environment, allowing you to fully enjoy the natural tranquility.

While the camping is primitive, the site does offer essential amenities that make a difference. The presence of public restrooms and running water are significant conveniences for a primitive camping area. This makes it more accessible for families with children who might not be ready for a complete "boondocking" experience. The large, open areas are also "good for kids," giving them plenty of space to run, play, and explore. However, campers should be prepared for the realities of the desert environment. As a reviewer wisely pointed out, the area is home to rough cockleburs, which can be an "ouch" for dogs, so keeping a close eye on your pets is highly recommended.

A critical aspect of camping here is understanding the permit system. While some campers might be frustrated by the need to purchase passes daily, this system is in place to manage the site and its resources. A daily pass is required for camping, and it's essential to plan ahead to acquire one, as they may not be available at local stores and require a trip to a kiosk at a nearby campground. This is a small price to pay for the incredible views and unique camping experience that Bermuda Flat offers. Despite the occasional disruption or inconvenience, as a past camper shared, the beauty and peacefulness of the location, from the moonrise to the views of Starlink, make it a worthwhile destination for those who appreciate the raw beauty of the desert.

In conclusion, Bermuda Flat Shoreline Area is an excellent choice for Arizonans who want a rustic, open, and beautiful lakeside camping experience. While it may not offer all the comforts of a developed campground, its stunning views, unique shoreline access, and essential amenities make it a top destination for adventurers, families, and those seeking a true escape into nature. The minor inconveniences are far outweighed by the peaceful, open landscape and the opportunity to camp right on the edge of Arizona's largest lake.

Location and Accessibility

Bermuda Flat Shoreline Area is located in Gila County, AZ 85553, USA. The campground is situated on the gently sloping shores of Theodore Roosevelt Lake within the Tonto National Forest. To reach it, visitors typically travel on State Highway 188. From the Phoenix metro area, the drive takes you east on US-60 to State Highway 188, where you continue north toward the Tonto Basin. The site is approximately seven miles north of the Roosevelt Dam.

The campground is generally accessible and suitable for both RVs and tents, with on-site parking available. However, due to the unimproved nature of the shoreline and varying lake levels, the terrain can be uneven, so campers should be prepared for this. The site offers a wheelchair-accessible entrance and a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, which are important features for visitors with mobility needs. The proximity of the camping area to the water's edge allows for a convenient setup and easy access to lake activities.

Services Offered

• Tent Sites: The site is well-suited for tent camping on the shoreline, providing plenty of open space for campers to set up.
• Running Water: Running water is available, which is a key convenience for this type of rustic camping.
• Public Restroom: Public restrooms are available, providing a necessary amenity for campers.
• Public Shower: There are public showers available, a welcome luxury in a primitive camping environment.
• On-site Parking: On-site parking is available for vehicles, making it easy to unload and set up camp.
• Kid-Friendly: The campground is noted as "good for kids," with open spaces for children to play and explore safely.

Features / Highlights

• Unique Shoreline Camping: The most significant highlight is the ability to camp directly on the beach shore of Roosevelt Lake.
• Spectacular Views: The campground offers breathtaking views of Roosevelt Lake, the Sierra Ancha Mountains, and the Four Peaks Wilderness. The sunsets and moonrises are particularly noteworthy.
• Roosevelt Lake Access: The site provides direct and easy access to Arizona's largest lake, a perfect setting for water activities like swimming, fishing, and boating.
• Open and Expansive: Unlike other campgrounds, Bermuda Flat offers a large, open area rather than individual, confined sites, giving campers more space and privacy.
• Picnic Areas: The site is suitable for picnics, with picnic tables available, making it a great location for a day trip as well.
• Rustic and Uncrowded Atmosphere: As one camper mentioned, it's a "great area to camp," especially when the weather is not perfect, as it tends to be less crowded.

Contact Information

Bermuda Flat Shoreline Area is managed by the Tonto National Forest. For up-to-date information on fees, permits, and current conditions, it is best to contact the Tonto Basin Ranger District.

Address: Gila County, AZ 85553, USA (located within the Tonto Basin Ranger District)

Phone for General Inquiries: (928) 467-3200 (Tonto Basin Ranger District Office)

What is worth choosing

For Arizona residents, Bermuda Flat Shoreline Area is an attractive choice for its truly unique camping experience. The primary reason to choose this site is the opportunity to camp on the beach of Roosevelt Lake. This is a rare offering in the Arizona desert and provides a refreshing change of pace from traditional forest or mountain camping. The ability to wake up to the sound of water and have immediate access for swimming, fishing, or boating is a luxury that makes this a top-tier destination for water lovers.

Despite some of the challenges that can come with a primitive site, the essentials are well-covered. The presence of running water, restrooms, and public showers is a huge benefit that makes the camping experience much more comfortable, especially for families. It’s a place where you can still feel like you’re roughing it without completely sacrificing basic comforts. The open nature of the area also allows for a more flexible and communal camping experience, where you can spread out and feel a sense of freedom.

The beauty of the natural environment itself is a major selling point. The open views, stunning sunsets, and starry nights create a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere, which is the whole point of a getaway. The reviews mention the "very comfortable" lake water and the beauty of the scenery, underscoring the site's natural appeal. While there may be some challenges with crowds or unexpected disruptions, as a past camper noted, these are often isolated incidents that don't detract from the overall value of the experience. For those who prioritize a beautiful, spacious, and unique lakeside setting over a highly structured and amenity-rich campground, Bermuda Flat is an ideal choice that promises a memorable and scenic adventure.

Bermuda Flat Shoreline Area

Gila County, AZ 85553, USA