22 Unexpectedly Beautiful Lakes to Visit in Arizona
Arizona is well known for its beautiful desert habitat. But there are also plenty of lakes you can visit, despite the arid climate! In this article, Arizona native Jason Wilson shares some of the top lakes in the Grand Canyon State.
Last updated: April 11, 2024
14 min read
Contents
The state of Arizona – known for its striking crimson landscape and breathtaking outdoor wonders – isn’t just home to the Wild West. You’ll also find some of the most picturesque lakes in the entire United States here as well! After living in Arizona for almost 40 years, I’ve been to plenty of lakes across the state, and many of Arizona’s lakes are unexpectedly beautiful.
From the idyllic manmade shores of Lake Mead to the peaceful secluded waters of Bear Canyon, you’ve come to the right place. Arizona is a perfect place to go lake hopping, whether you’re seeking some recreational rest and respite or just want to escape some of that notorious southwest heat.
Want to explore, but not sure where to go? Don’t worry — we’ve handpicked 22 of the best lakes Arizona has to offer! Residents of the “Grand Canyon State” (and visitors planning to stop by soon) – let’s dive right in!
Lake Havasu
Activities
London Bridge, Water Activities on the Lake, Hiking Scenic Trails
Peak Season
Late Spring to Early Fall (May to September)
Weather
Hotels
Located along the cliff-lined shores of the Colorado River, Lake Havasu draws people by the hundreds due to its enchanting, green-hued water.
It’s not just the color that charms; this water is also remarkably clear, thanks to the filtering effects of the surrounding rocks and sand.
Formed when the nearby Parker Dam was completed in 1938, Lake Havasu has since been a favorite among watersports enthusiasts. With an impressive 45-mile radius, it offers one of the best boating playgrounds across the entire southwest.
The lake features a large number of hidden coves, private beaches, and underwater dive sites that are perfect for exploring by boat or kayak.
If you’re after another laid back option on the water, fishing is definitely an activity worth considering. Lake Havasu is rich in numerous varieties of fish such as bass, carp, and catfish. Throw your reel in and see for yourself what the lake has to offer!
And after a day on the water, the bustling metropolis of Lake Havasu City is just a stone’s throw away. The city is full of world-class eateries, evening markets, and a wide selection of vibrant bars!
Lake Powell
Activities
Houseboating on the Lake, Exploring Antelope Canyon, Hiking the Hanging Gardens Trail
Peak Season
Late Spring to Early Fall (May to September)
Weather
Hotels
Surrounded by magnificent sandstone cliffs and boasting a shoreline that’s longer than the coastline of the entire West Coast of the US, Lake Powell has served as one of the best water recreation hotspots for decades!
The lake was formed when the Glen Canyon Dam was constructed in the 1960s. Since then, visitors have flocked here for the abundant boating, kayaking, and watersport opportunities available. Get your fill of wakeboarding and waterskiing to your heart’s content!
That’s not all, either – Lake Powell also boasts unrivaled recreational fishing opportunities. The lake is home to several species of bass and the culinary classic bluegill.
If you’re looking to land the next big catch, don’t forget your permit! Find out more about what fishing licenses you’ll need, as well as other lake information here.
That aside, if soaking up the scenic journey through the canyon waters is more up your alley, many visitors also enjoy paddling or simply floating down the river. Make sure to visit the iconic Horseshoe Bend and admire the towering cliffs beside you!
Lake Mead
Activities
Diverse Park Trails, Boating and Water Recreation, Visiting the Hoover Dam
Peak Season
Late Spring to Early Fall (May to September)
Weather
Hotels
As part of one of the West’s most notable manmade landmarks, Lake Mead was formed in conjunction with the Hoover Dam and is now one of the most visited lakes in the region.
And it’s not really hard to see why!
Lake Mead offers endless opportunities for any watersport enthusiast. Taste the thrill and experience your share of boating, kayaking, fishing, or scuba diving.
And while the lake is a wonderful place to chase adrenaline, one of its biggest trump cards is arguably the recreational area that lines its shores.
Full of panoramic trails and idyllic picnic and swimming spots, families flock here every summer to relax and unwind against the backdrop of one of America’s finest engineering marvels.
Best of all: if you’re a Nevada native or visiting the bright lights of Sin City, you’re in a prime spot to visit heavenly Lake Mead – just a 40-minute drive away!
Roosevelt Lake
Activities
Water-Based Activities, Hiking Trails, Scenic Viewpoints, Fishing Spots
Peak Season
Summer Months (June to August)
Weather
Hotels
A blue gem set amid the grayish-brown landscape, Roosevelt Lake is another manmade marvel like many of the lakes stretching across the Wild West.
This sprawling reservoir, formed by the nearby Theodore Roosevelt Dam, is the third largest of its kind across the state.
Anglers far and wide come here for a shot at landing a trophy-worthy largemouth bass. Nature enthusiasts also visit every summer to enjoy one of the 13 well-equipped campsites and numerous recreational opportunities on offer.
Roosevelt Lake is a prime location for birding. If you’re lucky, you may catch sight of the lake’s native bird population that includes ravens, sparrows, and kestrels.
The Tonto National Monument is also nearby – an archaeological site that houses pottery and other historical artifacts from centuries past.
With the variety of activities available, a trip to Roosevelt Lake is always guaranteed to be a rewarding experience.
Canyon Lake
Activities
Park Trails, Enjoying Water Activities on the Lake, Visiting Local Landmarks Like Tortilla Flat
Peak Season
Summer Months (June to August)
Weather
Nestled an hour’s drive from downtown Phoenix and three miles from the iconic Tortilla Flat, Canyon Lake is an ideal spot for the city-based, outdoor lover who wants to enjoy some of the West’s finest scenery.
And Canyon Lake certainly won’t disappoint! With its rugged terrain and picturesque beauty, the lake will ensnare you with its dramatic cliffs, rock formations, and shimmering waters.
The lake is also home to a variety of fish species such as bass, bluegill, and catfish. At the designated areas, feel free to catch fish to your heart’s content!
Other water activities, such as boating and waterskiing, are also available for those who want a satisfying taste of adrenaline.
Saguaro Lake
Activities
Hiking the Scenic Trails, Picnicking Along the Shoreline, Taking a Scenic Drive Along Bush Highway
Peak Season
Summer Months (June to August)
Hotels
Paying homage to the Saguaro cactus which lines its shores, Saguaro Lake is a hidden gem in the Sonoran desert that any visitor to the West should visit at least once in their lives.
Saguaro is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts, boasting bald eagles, coyotes, cardinals, mountain lions, and deer. And for water lovers, Saguaro has it all!
Angling and boating are top choices among those visiting the lake, but to truly take in the beauty of the surrounding landscape, kayaking through the coves and cliffs provides an amazing, unforgettable experience.
If a visit to Saguaro sounds like something you’d like to add to your to-do list, you’ll find everything you need to know and more right here.
Apache Lake
Activities
Hiking the Surrounding Trails, Enjoying Water Sports, Camping in the Tonto National Forest
Peak Season
Summer Months (June to August)
Weather
Hotels
Lying about 50 miles northeast of Phoenix, Apache Lake is another hidden gem that you should visit when you can.
Although smaller in size, it’s an easy choice for people looking for sandy beaches, beautifully clear waters, and idyllic picnic spots.
The lake itself was built as part of the Salt River Project and formed when the Horse Mesa Dam was constructed in 1927.
Since then, the lake has offered year-round recreational opportunities – as well as some of the best trout and warm water fishing that won’t be found elsewhere!
Like many other lakes in the region, Apache Lake is also open for exhilirating water activities such as boating and waterskiing.
Patagonia Lake
Activities
Water Activities, Birdwatching, Fishing, Camping in the Nearby State Park
Peak Season
Fall to Spring (October to April)
Weather
Hotels
Part of the stunning Sonoita Creek State Natural Area, Patagonia Lake is an ideal destination for nature lovers who are craving plenty of hiking, wildlife, and bird-watching opportunities.
This lake is situated on the southern end of Arizona, near the boundary between the US and Mexico. A stunning location, Patagonia Lake is an aquatic zone like no other. It has its own sandy beach and is bounded by gentle, rolling hills.
For avid birdwatchers, the Patagonia-Sonoita Creek Preserve located next to the lake is paradise on earth. It’s home to more than 300 bird species, which include migratory species such as hummingbirds and warblers.
For the equally keen hiker, Patagonia Lake has a half-mile trail that leads to a spot where you can relax and watch birds soaring in the air. If you’re hungry for more, venture to the Sonoita Creek area and explore 20 miles of stunning tracks!
Time your visit right and you may even get to enjoy some of the lake’s premier events, such as the famous fireworks displays!
Bartlett Lake
Activities
Water Activities, Exploring Hiking Trails, Fishing, Camping, Bird Watching
Peak Season
Fall to Spring (October to April)
Weather
For the keen photographer, capturing one of the West’s famous sunsets over Bartlett’s mountainous backdrop and forested shores is a must-add to your list today!
From the vibrant colors reflecting off its serene waters to the uniquely rustic and captivating desert scenery, it’s not hard to see why Bartlett Lake invites hundreds of visitors to get behind their lenses and start snapping.
Even if you’re not after photos for your social media feed and simply want a peaceful getaway, Bartlett Lake is more than capably of offering that too!
With boat, kayak, and paddleboard hire onsite, you’ll have your fair share of water activities to choose from.
It’s also the perfect place to find a secluded cove, lay down your picnic blanket, and enjoy some of the finest landscapes you’ll ever find in the region!
Lake Pleasant
Activities
Fishing Excursions, Camping Under the Stars, Wildlife Watching and Photography
Peak Season
Fall to Spring (October to April)
Weather
Hotels
If an expansive space with plenty of things to see and do is what you’re after, you can’t go wrong with Lake Pleasant.
It’s not just one of the largest lakes in the entire Arizona state (boasting more than 23,000 acres of water), but it’s also one of the best and most scenic recreational areas in the region!
At just 30 miles from Peoria, Lake Pleasant is still close enough to the heart of Arizona – making it a popular location that attracts many.
Here, you’ll have plenty of activities available for you to partake in. Feel free to try your hand at boating, kayaking, swimming, and even scuba diving! With its abundance of bass, tilapia, and catfish, Lake Pleasant is also an excellent place for fishing.
If you like to explore, there are also plenty of hiking trails in the area. Scorpion hunting is even a thing here, if arachnid activities are up your alley at all!
The lake boasts 148 sites for RV and tent camping in both developed and semi-developed sites, making this regional park a great place to enjoy a night under some of Arizona’s crystal clear night skies.
Lake Pleasant Regional Park is also a great place to enjoy a night under some of Arizona’s crystal clear night skies. The park even has telescopes you can use to get a better view!
For more information about Lake Pleasant’s many amenities and recreational facilities, check out the state park website here.
Lynx Lake
Activities
Kayaking and Canoeing, Picnicking and Lakeside Relaxation, Fishing Adventures
Peak Season
Fall to Spring (October to April)
Weather
Hotels
Just a short 15-minute drive from Prescott, Lynx Lake offers an array of recreational opportunities for any outdoor enthusiast.
From sailing to boating or fishing to canoeing, its multi-purpose waters are a great choice for your preferred activities.
It’s worth noting, however, that swimming in Lynx Lake isn’t patrolled and is strictly limited to designated areas only. For your safety, keep an eye out for areas marked with buoys that are located near the popular swimming beach.
Swimming isn’t the only thing you can do here, though! This lake is also a popular choice for those who want to bike on scenic mountain trails or get a taste of the wilderness by camping out.
It’s not a bad idea to just sit down, have a picnic, and admire the scenery! Whatever you decide to do, Lynx Lake is a wonderful place for it.
Willow Springs Lake
Activities
Picnicking at Willow Springs Lake, Fishing Excursion, Wildlife Watching, Camping under the Stars, Boating Adventure, Photography Expedition
Peak Season
Fall to Spring (October to April)
Weather
Hotels
Tucked away in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest roughly 30 miles east of the city of Payson and 7,600 feet above sea level, this rocky-shored lake is every fisherman’s dream.
Rainbow trout flourish here by the hundreds thanks to the weekly restocking of their numbers from spring to fall. The waters are also rich with bluegill and catfish, so you’re bound to have a plentiful catch.
In the winter months, Willow Springs turns into a sought-after ice fishing spot!
The lake also serves as an year-round hiking and mountain biking destination for thrillseekers and adrenaline junkies alike.
Aside from that, Willow Springs Lake is ideal for camping and hiking, so it’s a suitable choice for families looking to experience the great outdoors.
Woods Canyon Lake
Activities
Boating and Kayaking Adventures, Scenic Lakeside Camping, Hiking Amidst Ponderosa Pines, Fishing for Rainbow Trout, Wildlife Watching Excursions
Peak Season
From May to September
Weather
Hotels
Situated in the picturesque Mogollon Rim region of Arizona, Woods Canyon Lake attracts visitors from every corner of the globe thanks to its world-class mountain biking, hiking, and recreational fishing opportunities.
At an elevation of 7,000 feet and surrounded by a dense forest of pine, fir, oak, and aspen, Woods Canyon Lake is the perfect choice for a weekend getaway.
It’s even better if you like to break away from the everyday hustle of the city from time to time and feel like you’ve stepped into a brave new world!
Conveniently located less than two hours away from downtown Phoenix, Canyon Lake is also ideal for families thanks to its quiet yet breathtaking scenery.
The lake has a primitive but comfortable campground open throughout the year that gives keen hikers access to the Rim Lakes Vista Trail, nestled less than a mile from the campground.
For more information about visiting Woods Canyon or one of its surrounding lakes, check out this page here.
Knoll Lake
Activities
Fishing Excursions, Picnicking and Relaxation, Wildlife Watching, Kayaking and Canoeing, Campfire Evenings
Peak Season
From May to September
Weather
Hotels
Open throughout the year, Knoll Lake is a scenic paradise set against the Blue Ridge Ranger District in the Coconino National Forest Park.
This gem offers visitors a stunning nature getaway, all within a quaint and easily accessible setting.
A popular spot for fishing, the lake is home to a number of trout species including the brown, rainbow, and brook trout. The fish here are regularly stocked by the AGFD, ensuring there’s plenty of fish for everyone.
Aside from fishing, consider hiking along the nearby Mogollon Rim.
This locale will give you some of the best views across the Colorado Plateau and beyond. You’ll want to bring your camera with you as the sights here invite plenty of opportunities to snap away!
Note that during winter, roads leading to the lake are closed. As such, you can only visit Knoll Lake during the warmer seasons of the year.
Upper Lake Mary
Activities
Boating and Water Recreation, Fishing for Trout, Hiking Along the Lakeshore, Birdwatching and Wildlife Observation, Picnicking with Lake Views
Peak Season
From May to September
Weather
Hotels
Another lake located in the idyllic Coconino National Forest Park, Upper Lake Mary is a haven for water skiers, windsurfers, and powerboaters due to its long, narrow waters and easily accessible location.
The larger of Flagstaff’s twin lakes, Upper Lake Mary is packed full of amenities to suit any need including several highly sought after picnic areas.
Aside from boating activities, the lake is also ideal for fishing. Throw your line in the water for a chance to catch some trout, pike, and crappie!
Unlike some of the other lakes and parks in the surrounding area, there are fees to use some of its developed sites during the peak season.
Before planning your visit, make sure to learn all you can about the lake, its facilities, fees, and permit requirements right here.
Bear Canyon Lake
Activities
Canoeing and Kayaking, Trout Fishing, Hiking Scenic Rim Trails, Camping Under the Stars, Stargazing in a Dark Sky Area
Peak Season
From May to September
Weather
Hotels
One of the most secluded lakes on offer, Bear Canyon Lake is only accessible by foot.
This narrow and relatively shallow lake isn’t a dam reservoir, unlike many other lakes in Arizona. Instead, it was built as a recreational fishing lake by the Arizona Game and Fishing Department.
As such, Bear Canyon Lake is teeming with rainbow trout, crappie, and bass. But even if you aren’t a keen angler, the lake still offers great swimming and camping experiences.
Staying overnight is also in the cards. While the lake’s campground doesn’t have a comprehensive list of amenities, it’s comfortable enough for you to enjoy a night under the Big Dipper and replenish the soul in a calming, forested atmosphere.
If anything, the campsite’s somewhat rustic and primitive environment is its own charm – giving the lake an undeniably captivating vibe.
Chevelon Canyon Lake
Activities
Canoeing and Kayaking, Trout Fishing, Hiking Scenic Rim Trails, Camping Under the Stars, Stargazing in a Dark Sky Area
Peak Season
From May to September
Weather
Hotels
One of the West’s best-kept secrets, Chevelon Canyon Lake is a long, narrow reservoir surrounded by a combination of ponderosa pine, juniper, and pinyon pine forest. This lake lies 28 miles northwest of Heber and is only accessible by foot or ATVs.
Courtesy of the hike required to reach its shores, visitors often find Chevelon Canyon Lake less crowded than some of its more accessible counterparts. However, the walk is highly worth the effort!
Those who love fishing will soon add the lake to their list of favorite spots for its abundance of rainbow and wild brown trout. Chevelon has earned a reputation for angling, and is an equally beautiful swimming site for all.
The lake’s dispersed camping policy is the closest you’ll get to a wild, untouched, and pristine overnight experience. Some facilities such as picnic tables and fire rings are still available, so you’re not completely left to your own devices!
Cataract Lake
Activities
Paddleboarding and Kayaking, Fishing by the Shore, Hiking Scenic Trails, Wildlife Watching, Picnicking and Relaxation
Peak Season
From May to September
Weather
Hotels
Open seasonally for day use only, Cataract Lake offers plenty of picnic and outdoor recreational opportunities.
Fishing is the main activity pursued in these waters, and it helps that the lake is full of different types of fish such as trout, crappie, and catfish.
Originally built as an irrigation reservoir to support the surrounding agricultural land, Cataract Lake was once one of the region’s most well-kept secrets.
It has recently become an increasingly popular spot, especially after a major redevelopment in 2013 saw the installation some of the best family-friendly amenities around. Cataract Lake’s scenic views make it an especially excellent place for picnics!
While swimming is prohibited and no overnight camping facilities are available, the lake’s one-of-a-kind charm still makes it one of the must-visit lakes in all of Arizona.
Dead Horse Ranch State Park Lagoons
Activities
Paddle and Explore the Lagoons, Birdwatching and Wildlife Observation, Hiking Along Lagoon Trails, Fishing in the Lagoons
Peak Season
Year-round
Weather
Hotels
The lagoons at Dead Horse Ranch State Park are a hidden sanctuary for wildlife and a delight for nature enthusiasts of all ages.
These manmade lagoons, created by the damming of the nearby Verde River, offer visitors a chance to see a diverse range of wildlife up close including as herons, river otters, gray foxes, and ospreys.
But it’s not just wildlife that draws people here all year round. Nature enthusiasts also have their choice of nearly 20 miles of trails within the surrounding park. Several of these are even short enough to be perfect for families with young children1
You’ll also find a number of notable landmarks nearby, including the historic mining town of Jerome and Old Town Cottonwood.
There are several events held in the state park every now and then, so be sure to check out their calendar before your visit.
Riggs Flat Lake
Activities
Scenic Boating and Fishing, Hiking Amidst Nature, Picnicking by the Shore, Wildlife Observation, Camping Under the Stars
Peak Season
From May to September
Weather
Hotels
Located near the top of the beautiful Pinaleño Mountains about 40 miles southwest of Safford, Riggs Flat Lake is a scenic reservoir surrounded by forest and unspoiled meadows.
Despite its relatively small size, the lake is the home of a variety of fish species including brown and rainbow trout. Because of this, the lake is very popular among recreational anglers.
If you’re not interested in fishing (or find that the fish aren’t biting), simply sit back and enjoy the picturesque views of Riggs Flat.
From the lake’s shores, visitors can feast their eyes on West Peak. Go on a short stroll and relish in the view of Aravaipa Valley and the surrounding Galliuro Mountains to the west.
To plan your visit to Rigg Flat Lake and the surrounding areas, check out the following information about this hidden gem.
Alamo Lake
Activities
Water Recreation, Hiking Scenic Trails, Wildlife Viewing, Camping Under the Stars, Stargazing, Off-Road Adventures, Photography Excursions
Peak Season
Late September to Early April
Weather
Hotels
Located in the peaceful Bill Williams River Valley, Alamo Lake in the Alamo Lake State Park offers visitors a wide array of outdoor fun, water activities, and opportunities to unwind — all within a 40-minute drive from Wenden.
For nature lovers, the abundance of wildflowers and diverse wildlife that calls the lake home is a major plus.
Keep your eyes peeled, and you just might spot some bald or golden eagles soaring overhead!
If you’re more interested instead in landing trophy-sized game – you’re in luck! That’s because Alamo Lake State Park is one of the best places to fish for bass in the entire Arizona state.
Those who love the night skies will revel in the one of the best stargazing spots available thanks to minimal light pollution in the area.
You may even want to hire a cabin or pitch your tent to enjoy all the sights and activities to the fullest!
Ashurst Lake
Activities
Hiking and Nature Walks, Fishing by the Shore, Camping Under the Stars, Photography Excursion, Scenic Drives, Stargazing at Night
Peak Season
Late May to Early September
Weather
Hotels
While many lakes on this list are manmade beauties, Ashurst Lake is a beautiful exception. This gentle lake, located 25 miles southeast of Flagstaff, is a top spot for fishing, sailing, or camping.
And if you’re here for sights, Ashurst Lake offers some of the best views of the San Francisco Peaks!
For keen wildlife enthusiasts, the lake becomes a hotspot of birdwatching opportunities during the spring waterfowl migration. The fact that the site is a quick drive from Flagstaff makes it even more accessible!
If you’re planning to stay overnight, the nearby campgrounds contain a number of amenities including cooking and drinking water facilities, toilets, and several picnic tables.
For more information about this lake and its campgrounds, take a look here.
The Bottom Line
Arizona isn’t just home to America’s most challenging landscape and rich gold mining history.
It’s also a treasure trove of picturesque lakes, scenic hiking trails, and hidden fishing spots that offer arguably some of the best recreational opportunities in the entire country.
From the enchanting green waters of Lake Havasu to the vast shoreline of Lake Powell, these lakes provide endless opportunities for watersports and fishing enthusiasts alike.
All that’s left to ask is: where will you visit first?
