Saguaro Lake, Arizona is the fourth from the top and the final lake in the Salt River chain of lakes in Central Arizona. Saguaro Lake is located approximately 40 miles to the northeast of central Phoenix. The Stewart Mountain Dam, completed in 1930, holds the waters of Saguaro Lake. The Mormon Flat Dam is the lake’s upstream boundary.

The Stewart Mountain Dam is capable of hydroelectric generation, but the main purpose of the dam is store water for human use. The water that leaves Saguaro Lake travels for a short period of time in the Salt River before it is completely diverted by a system of canals that deliver it to its final destinations.

Directions

Bush Highway north from U.S. Highway 60 to the Saguaro del Norte Recreation Site turnoff.

or Beeline Highway (State Route 87) from either the McDowell Road turnoff in Mesa or from Shea Boulevard near Fountain Hills.

About eight miles after crossing the Verde River, turn right at signs indicating the Saguaro Lake Recreation Area.

From Mesa, exit US 60 at Bush Highway. Travel north 7 miles to Granite Reef Dam.

From Payson travel south on 87 about 60 miles and turn left on the Bush Highway (FR 204). Travel past the Saguaro Lake Marina Road to the stocking sites. Follow the signs to Granite Reef.

Saguaro Lake is home to 8 species of fish:
Bluegill - Brown Trout - Catfish - Crappie - Largemouth Bass - Yellow Bass -Rainbow Trout - Walleye