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Horseshoe Reservoir
Please Note: Mesquite Campground and Horseshoe Campground are currently closed.
Horseshoe Reservoir is one of the most remote lakes in the area and features quiet recreation opportunities. Horseshoe Reservoir is one of the most remote lakes in the area -- ideal for anglers looking for a quiet lake. Horseshoe is one of the best fish nurseries in Arizona, with the refilling of the reservoir.
At a Glance
| Operational Hours: | Day Use Only |
|---|---|
| Open Season: | All year |
| Restrictions: | Horseshoe Reservoir is the first of the Salt River Project lakes to be very low when irrigation and domestic water requirements dictate. It can be virtually dry for long periods of time. The entire lake is closed to water skiing, parasailing and the use of personal watercraft (jet-skis, etc). Speed limit 20 mph. No on-lake events allowed. Direction of travel on the water is counter-clockwise. Caution: Flowing debris is often present at or below the water surface. During low-water periods, Ocotillo ramp can get muddy and slippery, or be totally out of the water. Free-flowing portions of the Verde River are closed to motorized use. 25 horsepower motor limit. |
| Closest Towns: | Cave Creek, Scottsdale |
| Water: | Not available |
| Restroom: | Not available (bury human waste away from beaten paths) |
| Information Center: | Cave Creek Ranger District (480)-595-3300 |
General Information
Directions:From Carefree: Take Cave Creek Road to Bartlett Road. Turn right and travel 6 miles to the junction with FR 205; turn left onto an unmaintained unpaved road (first 2 miles paved). Continue for 11 miles on FR 205 to Horseshoe Reservoir.
Activities
Lake and Pond Fishing
Fish Species: Large and Smallmouth Bass; Crappie; Sunfish; Channel and Flathead Catfish
| Fish Species | Crappie, Large and Smallmouth Bass, Channel and Flathead Catfish, Carp, and Bluegill. |
Boating - Motorized
Boat Launching Sites Ocotillo
| Motor Type | 25 horsepower limit |
| Water/Flow Level | Counter clock wise |
Boating - Non-Motorized
Boat Launching Sites Ocotillo
| Water/Flow Level | Counter clock wise |
Location