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Camper submitted image from Tonto National Forest Rattlesnake CoveView 1 Photo
Map showing campground location near Rio Verde, Arizona

Tonto National Forest Rattlesnake Cove

2 ReviewsAdd Review

Within Tonto National Forest, Rattlesnake Cove operates as a boat-in and walk-in campground managed by the US Forest Service. The site provides clean restrooms, picnic tables, and ramadas for group activities, though campers must bring their own drinking water as none is available on-site. A handicap-accessible ramp leads to a designated swimming area where motorized boats cannot enter.

The campground requires a Tonto National Forest use permit placard, available at local merchants or ranger stations. Shoreline fishing opportunities exist along the northwest shore, where campers can spread out nearly a mile from the main facilities. For additional options, consider pet-friendly campgrounds near Tonto National Forest since pets are welcome here year-round.

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Location

Public Campground

Tonto National Forest Rattlesnake Cove is located in Arizona

Detail location of campground

Directions

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.

Coordinates

33.84714894 N
111.63650897 W

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-MobileLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 3 users
    Last on 4/3/26
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 3 users
    Last on 4/3/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 3 users
    Last on 11/19/25

Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-MobileLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 3 users
    Last on 4/3/26
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 3 users
    Last on 4/3/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 3 users
    Last on 11/19/25

Access

  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Boat-In
    Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Dispersed
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Phone Service
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Big Rig Friendly

Drive Time

Reviews

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3.5

out of 5

2 Reviews

Mark S.The Dyrt PRO User
Reviewed Apr. 10, 2025

Favorite Weekday Fishing

I usually go further north of the cove to great open space where you can really spread out. shoreline fishing is great and peaceful. Depending how far you go along the northwest shore you can get nearly a mile away from the hardstand toilets and trash. Lots of places to pull up or pull in.

SiteBartlett Flat
Month of VisitMarch
  • Review photo of Tonto National Forest Rattlesnake Cove by Mark S., April 10, 2025
D
Reviewed Jun. 17, 2018

Day use with family swimming access

This is a nice day use spot. Has clean restrooms, ample parking and ramadas for group activities. Handicap ramp with swimming beach access that motorized boats are not allowed to enter. Beautiful desert mountain view. No hook ups or drinkable water. Bring your own. Also a Tonto National Forest use permit placard is needed. Placards are for sale at many Az merchants like Circle K's in Cave Creek which you pass through on the way there for $8 or for $12 at local ranger station and marina. Good boat ramp for launching nearby.

SiteRamada 1 thru 4
Month of VisitJune
Showing results 1-2 of 2 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Rattlesnake Cove located at Bartlett Lake?

Rattlesnake Cove is located along the shoreline of Bartlett Lake in the Tonto National Forest. The cove is situated in a desert mountain setting with beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. It's accessible via a designated access road leading to the day use area. Visitors can find it by following signs to Bartlett Lake and then to the Rattlesnake Cove day use area. The cove offers shore access to the lake with adequate parking facilities.

Can you swim at SB Cove swimming area near Rattlesnake Cove?

Yes, swimming is available at the cove area. Rattlesnake Cove features a designated swimming beach that's accessible via a handicap ramp, and motorized boats are prohibited from entering this swimming area, making it safer for swimmers. The swimming area provides a pleasant experience with beautiful desert mountain views. For those seeking additional swimming options, the northwest shore beyond the main cove also offers swimming opportunities with more open space and privacy. Always practice water safety and be aware of changing conditions when swimming at Bartlett Lake.

What facilities are available at Rattlesnake Cove day use area?

Rattlesnake Cove day use area offers clean restrooms, ample parking, and ramadas for group activities. It features a handicap-accessible ramp with swimming beach access where motorized boats are not allowed to enter. The area has trash disposal facilities but no hookups or drinkable water, so visitors need to bring their own water supplies. A Tonto National Forest pass is required for entry. The day use area provides beautiful desert mountain views and is well-maintained for visitors.

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