Rattlesnake Cove provides direct access to Bartlett Reservoir. Rattlesnake Cove has a sloping beach suitable for use in many water recreation activities. This area boasts of beautiful vistas of the desert with mountains in the background. The beach at Rattlesnake Cove is generally gently sloping with gradual change in water depths. Enjoy this primitive area with your friends and family by bringing your own grill and gear.
This site is 21 miles east of Carefree. From Carefree, take Cave Creek Road 7 miles, turn right on Bartlett Dam Road and continue for 13 miles then turn left on FR 459. Travel ½ mile on FR 459 and turn right into the site.
A gorgeous destination. Incredibly busy on the weekends, so if you're looking to social distance in a responsible manner, I'd suggest coming here on a weekday like we did, if you're able. We had a wonderful time kayaking along the coast for most of the morning, occasionally sopping at all sorts of hidden little beaches along the shore. The weather was slightly overcast, and helped keep the heat from burning us up completely. Just be sure to bring lots of water to stay hydrated!
This place is absolutely gorgeous!!! If you are seeking a fun, family day, look no further than Rattlesnake Cove! There is a parking lot at the top of the lake, complete with grills and nice covered picnic tables. Several families were grilling lunch when we arrived. Rattlesnake Cove even offers restrooms with running water which can be utilized prior to heading down to the lake. There is a set of stairs in addition to a ramp, which were both fantastic for hauling down all of our towels, paddle-boards, and coolers. At the lake front, there were numerous families who set up small shade tents and they were playing music and enjoying an afternoon of family fun. There is a gradual beach entry into the lake, which is great for smaller children, but it is rather rocky, so be prepared and wear water shoes or appropriate foot covering. Overall, we had such a fantastic time and would highly recommend this location for an enjoyable day in the sun!
Flowers in bloom, Bartlett Lake-full, Dogs happy we're happy. Slim but accessible shoreline plenty of parking. The boat ramp was closed but did see boats motoring around. Plenty of handicapped parking, easily accessible ramadas and trash bins. You do need a parking pass to stay it's cheaper than paying for a ticket.
This place is absolutely beautiful. I went the first weekend of April and let me say it was far better then I expected to be honest. The water so nice and cool and my toddler was able to play on it without me having too worry too much cause it’s almost like a little beach to certain extent it wasn’t deep. The bathrooms were actually really nice and clean and private. The little areas to sit if you want to barbecue or grill something was nice and roomy as well along with a bench to sit so even if you don’t bring your own chairs you have a place to sit there. Spent like 5-6 hours there and it was a very fun time. I saw dogs there and people fishing so I’m assuming it’s fine for them to do all that stuff as well. I AM DEFINITELY COMING BACK.