Born and raised in Arizona, I’ve been exploring the Lower Salt River for as long as I can remember. I’ve kayaked it with my family and gone tubing with friends, but my favorite way to experience the river is by simply hanging out on the shore.
I have a deep gratitude for the river and all it gives our desert. I’ve made so many happy memories there and am happy to share my experience with friends. Since you’re reading this, we are friends. And my friends leave nature better than they found it. We pack out all our trash (and any litter we find), give wildlife plenty of space, and are respectful to other adventurers.
With respectful recreation in mind, here’s my guide to exploring the Lower Salt River in Tonto National Forest, Arizona.
>> Please respect nature by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.
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A Local's Guide To The Lower Salt River in Arizona
Table of Contents
What Is The Lower Salt River?
The Salt River is approximately 200 miles long, originating in the mountains of northeastern Arizona and ultimately joining the Gila River. For centuries, the Hohokam tribe used the river to water crops. In the early 20th century, dams were constructed, and the river now supplies a significant portion of Phoenix’s water.
The Lower Salt River is a 12-mile section and one of Arizona’s favorite recreation spots. Surrounded by red cliffs and lush greenery, the river is home to wild horses, coyotes, a variety of fish and birds, and I’ve even spotted big-horned sheep and bald eagles! It’s a popular destination for anglers, picnickers, and anyone who likes to float on a kayak, canoe, paddleboard, or inner tube.
The water flows year-round, with an average water temperature of a cool 68 degrees Fahrenheit, making it an amazing oasis during the long, hot summer.
How To Get To The Lower Salt River
Salt River Tubing
Tubing down the Lower Salt River is one of the more popular recreation activities in Phoenix. Groups of families and friends tie tubes together, put a cooler in a tube, and enjoy the ride. I’ve done it a couple of times and it makes for a fun, sun-drenched day!
If you don’t have your own tubes and don’t want to bother shuttling back and forth, Arizona’s Salt River Tubing & Recreation is the go-to for Salt River tubing. From May to September, they rent tubes and shuttle you to drop off and pick you up.
Pro tip: Bring a towel to lay over your tube – they get hot in the sun! And don’t lose your keys, haha. I love using a small dry bag and clipping it to my tube with a carabiner.
Kayaking the Lower Salt River
Like tubing, kayaking and paddle boarding can be done independently or with a guide.
We usually kayak the river on our own, coordinating with another couple. We meet at Water Users Recreation Site and unload all four kayaks. Then, the guys drive both vehicles down to Phon D Sutton and leave one vehicle there, so we have a ride waiting for us at the take-out point.
If you want to kayak with a guide, check out Lower Salt Rentals, Saguaro Lake Ranch, and Red Line Rentals and Sales.
Lower Salt River Access Points
There are several designated access points and recreation sites along the Lower Salt River. A Tonto National Forest Recreation Pass is required at all of them. You can purchase a pass for $8 at multiple stores and gas stations throughout Greater Phoenix. For a couple of bucks more, you can also purchase a day pass at a few recreation sites.
I personally love using my America the Beautiful Pass! Every recreation site has bathrooms, armadas, and trash cans/dumpsters.
Water User Recreation Site
Located near the stunning Saguaro Lake Guest Ranch, this is the most popular spot to launch a kayak, SUP, or inner tube. While there are a few areas along the shore where picnicking and swimming are permitted, please respect posted signs. This is an active boat launch, so swimming is prohibited in some spots.
Blue Point Recreation Area
Right by the bridge, Blue Point is a local favorite for picnicking, swimming, and rockhounding. The current is strong in the middle but shallow and calm near the shore. It’s also one of the more littered spots due to its popularity, so if you can safely pick up a few things, please do! Dumpsters are available in the parking lot.
Coon Bluff Recreation Area
This is my go-to spot for wild horse sightings! They’re beautiful and fully wild, so please give them plenty of space. Coon Bluff is also fantastic for birdwatching, so be sure to bring your binoculars. It’s a peaceful spot to relax, take a dip in the water, or enjoy a picnic.
Phon D Sutton Recreation Area
With two large parking lots and multiple river access points, this is where most kayakers and tubers exit the river. That said, don’t let the traffic deter you; there are plenty of peaceful pockets tucked between the cattails. It’s a great spot to relax, even on a busy day.
Granite Reef Recreation Area
At the far end of the river near Mesa, Granite Reef offers incredible birdwatching and fishing for rainbow trout, bass, catfish, and more. It’s a quieter, scenic place to unwind by the water.
No matter which spot you choose, I know you’ll love it. However, remember that this is a very popular destination, especially on weekends. If you’re hoping for a quieter experience, head out early.
And yes, you’ll always find trash in or near the water. Please help take care of this special place by picking up any trash (if it’s safe to do so) and disposing of it in the dumpsters located at every recreation area.
We leave it better than we found it!
Lower Salt River Packing List
Here are the things I always bring on a trip to the Lower Salt River:
- Camp chair
- Sun hat
- Water shoes (highly recommended due to the presence of broken glass bottles and fishing hooks in the river)
- Reusable water bottles (I usually pack two)
- Snacks
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Trash bag (a plastic grocery bag is perfect)
- Towel or picnic blanket
Optional but nice to have:
- Binoculars
- Cooler with drinks
- Camera or phone tripod
- Book or journal
- Sun umbrella
- Camp table (I always bring this tiny one)
When I’m kayaking:
- Dry bag
- Life jacket
- Towel
Tips For Visiting The Lower Salt River
Go Early
The Lower Salt River is a popular destination, especially in the summer. Arriving early means cooler temps, easier parking, and a better chance of spotting wildlife.
Be Prepared for the Heat
April – October, temperatures can soar well over 100°F. Here’s how to stay safe:
- Bring plenty of water (more than you think you’ll need!)
- Wear sun protection of all kinds: hat, sunscreen, and light, breathable clothing.
- Take breaks in the shade and be aware of the signs of heat exhaustion.
Be Aware of the Current
While the river is often calm near the shore, the current can get strong in the middle. As with any adventure, be sure to check current river conditions before you go. Especially after storms, when the water can become unpredictable and dangerous.
- Always supervise kids and weaker swimmers
- Stick to designated swimming areas
- Wear water shoes to help with footing on slippery rocks
- Arizona law requires the use of life jackets on all vessels. Learn more here.
Respect the Wildlife
The Lower Salt River is home to dozens of species of wildlife, including wild horses, rattlesnakes, javelinas, coyotes, bald eagles, vultures, and many more. Please don’t approach or feed any animals.
Leave It Better Than You Found It
Help preserve the river for future adventurers! This looks like:
- Packing out all your trash (and chairs and food)!
- Picking up litter when it’s safe to do so.
- Using designated dumpsters at every site.
Final Notes On Exploring The Lower Salt River
Whether you’re floating downstream, birdwatching from the shore, or just soaking in the beauty of the desert oasis, the Lower Salt River is a place that invites you to slow down, be present, and connect with nature. I hope this guide helps you plan a fun and respectful visit to all the recreation areas shared above!
Follow my Arizona adventures on Instagram @jaceywest.
