How to Kayak Saguaro Lake (Launch Spots, Parking, Routes + What to Bring)

Saguaro Lake is one of the closest “real desert lake” paddling spots to Mesa—towering canyon walls, hidden coves, and plenty of shoreline to explore. It’s inside the Tonto National Forest, so the main thing to plan ahead for is where you’ll launch + where you’ll park (and having the right pass ready).

If you don’t own a kayak, you can rent a kayak or paddleboard in Mesa at Lower Salt Rentals, then drive straight up to the lake for a full-day paddle. We can also provide you the necessary day pass!

Quick trip plan (the easy way)

• Best time to launch: early morning (calmer water, easier parking)

• Best beginner zone: the bay near Butcher Jones / Saguaro Del Norte (motorized boats are restricted there)

• Post-paddle food: Saguaro Lake Marina has an on-site restaurant

  
  

Where to launch a kayak at Saguaro Lake

Here are the launch spots most paddlers use—pick based on your comfort level and what kind of day you want:

1) Butcher Jones Day Use Area (best for relaxed beach launching)

Butcher Jones is popular for a reason: shade, beach access, a mellow vibe, and easy water entry for kayaks and paddleboards. It’s one of the most visited sites on the Tonto National Forest, so weekends can fill fast.

Why paddlers like it:

• Easy shoreline launch (no “boat ramp” stress)

• Great for families and first-timers

• Close to calmer water zones (see “routes” below)

  
  

2) Saguaro Lake Marina (amenities + convenience)

Launching near the marina is convenient if you want restrooms, a store, and a restaurant right there. The marina is also a great “basecamp” spot if you’re meeting friends.

3) Saguaro Del Norte (boat ramp area)

This is a structured recreation site with boating access and big-day crowds. If you like having a defined launch/parking setup, it can work well, just aim for early.

Parking + passes (don’t skip this)

Saguaro Lake is managed under Tonto National Forest rules, and some areas require passes/fees for day use and boating. The Forest Service notes that for boating, a Tonto Daily Pass + Watercraft Sticker (if required) or a Tonto Discovery Pass may apply.

Saguaro Del Norte lists typical day-use pricing and also references the watercraft sticker for motorized boats.

Practical tip: If you’re bringing non-motorized gear (kayak/SUP), you’re usually focused on the vehicle day-use/parking pass; stickers are primarily discussed for motorized watercraft. When in doubt, check the latest Forest Service guidance before you go.

Beginner-friendly routes on Saguaro Lake

Saguaro Lake can get busy with powerboats, but it also has areas that are noticeably calmer.

Route A: The calm-water bay paddle (best for beginners)

The Forest Service notes: “The bay in front of Butcher Jones and Saguaro del Norte is closed to motorized watercraft.” That’s exactly what beginners want—less wake, less stress.

How to do it:

• Launch at Butcher Jones (or nearby)

• Stay inside/near the buoyed areas and along the shoreline

• Practice turns, stopping, and re-mounting (SUP) before you go exploring

  
  

Route B: Cove hopping (intermediate, super scenic)

Once you feel steady, start linking coves and hugging the shoreline. You’ll get more shade, more wildlife chances, and less boat traffic than the middle of the lake.

Lake rule awareness:

The Forest Service also notes the direction of travel is counter-clockwise, and certain parts of the lake have wake restrictions—so staying alert around main channels is smart.

What to bring (Arizona paddling essentials)

Here’s the simple checklist that keeps people safe and comfortable:

Must-haves

• USCG-approved life jacket (PFD) for each person (required to be available on all watercraft, including kayaks and paddleboards)

• Plenty of water (Arizona sun is no joke)

• Sun protection: hat, sunscreen, sunglasses

• Dry bag (phone/keys)

• Footwear you can get wet

  
  

Nice-to-haves

• Lightweight gloves (blister prevention)

• Waterproof phone case

• Snacks + electrolytes

• Small towel + change of clothes for the drive home

  
  

Where to eat after kayaking (Saguaro Lake Marina)

If you want the classic “paddle then patio” day, Saguaro Lake Marina has an on-site restaurant. Saguaro Lake Grill (Kitchen & Tap) publishes current hours online—check day-of before you go. saguarolakegrill.com

Bonus idea: If you’re bringing family who doesn’t want to paddle, the Desert Belle does narrated cruises on Saguaro Lake.

Rent a kayak or paddleboard for Saguaro Lake (Mesa)

If you don’t own a kayak/SUP, the easiest plan is:

1. Rent in Mesa at Lower Salt Rentals

2. Load up and drive to Saguaro Lake

3. Paddle all day (instead of watching an hourly clock)