We checked out Butcher Jones Beach recently and had a blast enjoying the outdoors!🌊
The shore is a little rocky so water shoes are a must. The girls still had fun scooping and digging but don’t expect to get a traditional sand castle going.🏰
There’s puddles for littles to splash in at the beach entry and the depth stays shallow for a while… my 5 year old could go out pretty far and still reach the bottom. 🏊🏻♀️
This beach is a pretty easy drive (yes, we spotted some wild horses on the way!) and there are diagonal street parking spots as well as a lot. Parking passes can be bought on site for $12 at a terminal but we actually buy our passes ahead of time at Big 5 for $8. It’s called a “Tonto Daily” pass. A lot of retailers sell these. Here is a list of where you can buy them.
Get there early. Before 9 or 10am especially as it gets more into summer hours. The beach gets busy with families and with kayak tour groups.🚣🏽
There aren’t a ton of picnic table options so I suggest chairs or a good blanket. There is also a trailhead and restrooms are available (vault toilets).
Don’t forget to get a fishing license if you decide to fish. 🎣
E Butcher Jones Beach Rd, Fort McDowell, AZ 85264 📍
More information about the park can be found here.
