Granite Reef

About Granite Reef

Granite Reef picnicking site is the closest site to Mesa. Because of its proximity to a major city, Granite Reef is very popular. Sitting next to the Lower Salt River, Granite Reef offers the ability to launch non-motorized boats along with shoreline fishing. This riparian area is outstanding for bird watching for warblers, shore birds and spring and fall migratory fowl. Fishermen use this area year-round.

How to Get There

This site is located 14 miles northeast of Mesa. From Mesa, travel 7 miles east on the Superstition Freeway (US 60) to Power Road/Bush Highway/Forest Road (FR) 204 and turn north. Follow Bush Highway for 7 miles to the site. This is the first site next to the river coming from the west on Bush Highway. View and download a map.

Plan Your Visit to Granite Reef

Heading to Granite Reef? A few things to know before you go:

• Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
• Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
• Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
• Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
• Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

References & Official Resources

• Official Recreation.gov page
• View on OpenStreetMap
• Driving directions (Google Maps)