Data Disclaimer: Water level data is provided by USGS and NOAA for informational purposes only. Verify conditions on-site before any water activities.
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San Carlos Lake offers a convenient boat ramp for kayakers, canoeists, and small motorized boats to access the Gila River. The 60-foot-wide concrete launch ramp is located just a mile from the San Carlos Dam, providing easy access to the 13,058-acre reservoir.
Boaters should note that the lake has a 25 horsepower limit on gasoline motors, so larger boats will need to use trolling motors for mobility. Overnight camping is limited in the immediate area. The Gila River, which feeds the lake, is a medium-sized waterway known for its scenic desert landscapes and diverse wildlife habitats.
The boat ramp is accessible by taking State Route 70 east from Globe for 25 miles, then turning south on Indian Route 3 and continuing for 9.5 miles to reach the Soda Canyon General Store. Paddlers and anglers will find additional public access and recreation areas along the Gila River, including the nearby Needle's Eye Wilderness and Gila River Recreation Area.