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When you think of Arizona, the first images that come to mind are always its sandstone cliffs, barren landscapes, and breathtaking canyons. Every year, millions of tourists visit this American state to see the Grand Canyon, one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the U.S. However, not many know that Arizona is also home to other beautiful natural wonders, including mountains and lakes. In fact, the lakes in Arizona are some of the most beautiful ones in the country. These bodies of water prove that Arizona is wonderfully diverse and provides plenty of tourism opportunities.
Conveniently located near major cities and population centers, getting to and from these lakes is easy. Most lakes also have complete facilities like campgrounds, marinas, and boat rentals. So if you want to take a break from hiking through the deep canyons, sit back and relax at one of the lakes in Arizona!
Must-Visit Lakes in Arizona
1. Lake Mead
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Photo by lovz2hike on Flickr[/caption]
Lake Mead is one of the most popular lakes in the state and the largest reservoir in the country, providing water for Arizona, California, Nevada, and parts of Mexico. Its deep blue waters are surrounded by over a million acres of valleys, canyons, and mountains. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, sunbathing, scuba diving, and fishing. The nearby Lake Mohave is part of the Lake Mead National Recreation Area. Most developed campgrounds are in Nevada.
TouristSecrets Tip: Since Lake Mead straddles the borders of Arizona and Nevada, the state of Nevada recognizes and allows Arizona residents or non-residents to fish within the Nevada side of the lake as long as there is a valid fishing license or permit.
2. Theodore Roosevelt Lake
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Photo by Philcomanforterie on Wikimedia Commons[/caption]
For fishing enthusiasts, visit one of the best lakes in Arizona for fishing, Theodore Roosevelt Lake! It is one of the largest lakes in the state with a surface area of more than 21,490 acres, giving you plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Theodore Roosevelt Lake is popular for fishing and boating, and sailboats, houseboats, and other watercraft are common. From Theodore Roosevelt Lake’s marina, follow the Tonto National Monument trail to see incredible cliff dwellings surrounded by huge saguaro cacti. You can also catch breathtaking views of the lake from the cave dwellings.
TouristSecrets Tip: The U.S. National Park Pass only allows access to the lake’s picnicking sites. To visit the lake itself, visitors will have to purchase a Tonto National Forest Pass at ranger district offices, select retail outlets, or online. The Tonto Pass also allows visitors to camp, hike, boat, and fish (additional fishing license needed).
3. Lake Powell
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Photo by ArtTower on Pixabay[/caption]
Located along the border of Utah and Arizona is Lake Powell, a man-made reservoir on the Colorado River. In addition, Lake Powell is a popular destination, visited by almost 2 million people every year. It offers acres of otherworldly canyons and gorges, featured in films like The Planet of the Apes and shows like Dr. Who. Lake Powell is a playground for adventure lovers and outdoor enthusiasts exploring Arizona’s lakes. You can rent a houseboat or sail across the waters on a jet ski. Alternatively, go hiking or try fishing for smallmouth bass, walleye, and bluegill.
TouristSecrets Tip: From Page, Arizona, you can go on a multi-day excursion to explore Lake Powell. Start at Antelope Canyon, one of America’s best natural wonders, then head to Glen Canyon Dam. Take your time at Lake Powell before marveling at the beauty of the Rainbow Bridge National Monument.
4. Lake Havasu
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Photo by islandworks on Pixabay[/caption]
Lake Havasu is a popular vacation spot in Arizona, especially during spring break. With its white-sand shores, blue skies, and tropical weather courtesy of Lake Havasu State Park, you wouldn’t think that you’re in Arizona! This destination offers over 26 miles of blue water for swimming, fishing, kayaking, paddling, and exploring. In summer, numerous boats and jet skis zip past the waters, and wakeboarders enjoy the warm weather. As sunset approaches, hop on a boat to watch the breathtaking view. Complete your trip with a sumptuous dinner to complement the scene.
TouristSecrets Tip: Lake Havasu State Park is one of the most visited attractions around the lake. It is situated near the shoreline, where the best beaches in Arizona are found. From Lake Havasu City, the state park is less than 10 minutes away.
5. Lake Pleasant
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Photo by Cathixx on Wikimedia Commons[/caption]
True to its name, Lake Pleasant is a refreshing oasis in a state of cacti, deserts, and canyons. A 45-minute drive from Phoenix, it is a popular day trip. Visitors can bike, hike, picnic, and fish. With an average depth of 70 feet, it is an inland scuba diving hotspot in Arizona. At night, stargaze or photograph the sky.
TouristSecrets Tip: Lake Pleasant Regional Park offers night activities: romantic dinner cruises, scorpion hunts, and fishing for striped bass, white bass, and largemouth bass.
6. Canyon Lake
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Photo by Smiles1479 on Wikimedia Commons[/caption]
Despite being one of the smallest lakes in Arizona, Canyon Lake in Maricopa County offers a secluded escape with red rock cliffs ideal for boating, kayaking, swimming, diving, and hiking. Fishing is popular here for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and rainbow trout. The U.S.
TouristSecrets Tip: Canyon Lake is less than an hour from downtown Phoenix. On a road trip from Phoenix to Sedona, stop here for relaxation.
7. Willow Springs Lake
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Photo by Alan Levine on Wikimedia Commons[/caption]
Willow Springs Lake sits on top of the Mogollon Rim, so its temperatures are colder and milder as compared to other Arizona lakes. While most lakes in the state are surrounded by red rocks and canyons, pine, oak, and Douglas fir trees surround the lake. It was established in 1967 to provide water-based recreational activities for the locals and visitors. Boating and fishing are the most popular activities and you can find rainbow trout and tiger trout throughout spring and summer. There may be several closures from fall to winter, but you can also enjoy ice fishing and catch game fish during the cold winter months.
TouristSecrets Tip: The camping fee is subject to change. Take note that not all campgrounds have electricity and some campgrounds are open only on select months. The U.S. For those planning a broader outdoor itinerary, this lake pairs well with the top 10 National and State parks to see in the region.
8. Watson Lake
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Photo by Debora Ratliff on Wikimedia Commons[/caption]
Huge granite boulders and pristine waters make Watson Lake one of the most beautiful lakes in Arizona. It is also arguably the most famous tourist destination in Prescott, visited by thousands every year. The lake is a popular destination for kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding because of its views. Since the lake is a source of drinking water, swimming isn't allowed. On the other hand, if you prefer land activities, follow the different hiking and mountain biking trails. An 18-hole disc golf course is also available for those who want to enjoy a game of golf overlooking the lake’s signature rock formations.
TouristSecrets Tip: From Watson Lake, you can also head to Goldwater Lake if you prefer somewhere more remote. The lake also offers similar activities like kayaking and canoeing.
9. Hawley Lake
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Photo by TLPOSCHARSKY on Flickr[/caption]
Hawley Lake is a gorgeous Arizona lake surrounded by aspen, spruce, and pine trees. As it is part of the White Mountain Apache reservation, you don’t have to look far for an unforgettable nature excursion. Cast a line and get the chance to catch largemouth bass, channel catfish, black crappie, and more. Go kayaking, canoeing, or sailing across its deep blue waters. For travelers staying overnight, Hawley Lake is one of the few lakes around the Fort Apache Indian Reservation that offers well-maintained campgrounds. There are campsites with picnic tables, potable water faucets, and vault toilets.
TouristSecrets Tip: If you plan on fishing at Hawley Lake, make sure to purchase a White Mountain Apache Tribal fishing permit. You can get the fishing permit at the lake store. The Arizona state license doesn’t include fishing on tribal lands.
10. Apache Lake
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Photo by minniemouseaunt on Flickr[/caption]
Less than three hours from Canyon Lake, Apache Lake is an off-the-beaten-path Arizona lake. Reaching it requires effort via the Apache Trail, but the drive and lake views are priceless, with the Superstition Mountains adding postcard-worthy scenery. Its location makes it ideal for avoiding summer crowds, offering better conditions for wakeboarding, jet skiing, and fishing. On cooler days, hike the trails for wildlife viewing.
TouristSecrets Tip: Tourist services are limited. The Apache Lake Marina & Resort offers overnight accommodation, camping and RV sites, and boat rentals. The U.S.
11. Lynx Lake
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Photo by Benjamin Cody on Wikimedia Commons[/caption]
Escape the Arizona heat at this 55-acre reservoir less than two hours from Sedona and 15 minutes from Prescott. Swimming is not allowed, but visitors can fish, boat, sail, and kayak. It offers hiking trails accessible for visitors with limited mobility, and its fresh water and forest attract many bird species for birdwatching and wildlife photography.
TouristSecrets Tip: Visitors can bring their own boats if they have an electric motor or less than 10 horsepower gas motor. Otherwise, boat rentals are available at the lake store.
12. Lake Mary
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Photo by Gary Garner on Wikimedia Commons[/caption]
Unlike most lakes in Arizona, Lake Mary is a collective name for two reservoirs, Upper Lake Mary and Lower Lake Mary. Upper Lake Mary, the star of Coconino National Forest, is long and narrow, dotted with beautiful ponderosa pine trees along the shore. The lake is stocked with crappie, sunfish, channel catfish, yellow, bass, and walleye, perfect for anglers. Lower Lake Mary is smaller and tends to dry up, offering fewer water sports but still fishing. Elk, deer, great blue heron, and bald eagle are common sights. In summer, Lower Lake Mary is a popular hotspot for birdwatchers.
TouristSecrets Tip: Water levels in Lake Mary vary depending on annual rainfall and other factors. Before visiting, call the ranger station to inquire about the water level. The U.S.
13. Bartlett Lake
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Photo by Jeff Shewan on Flickr[/caption]
Bartlett Lake is the best Arizona lake for lovers of boating, kayaking, jet skiing, and other fun water sports. Like Apache Lake, Canyon Lake, and Saguaro Lake, it was formed by the Salt River Project from 1936 to 1939. It is a popular spot for sport fishing and visitors can get the chance to catch sunfish, flathead catfish, smallmouth bass, and crayfish. At Bartlett Lake, visitors can rent boats and other kinds of watercraft, purchase fishing licenses, and fishing equipment. Visitors can also enjoy picnicking, camping, and swimming, which is usually prohibited in other Arizona lakes.
TouristSecrets Tip: For boating access at Bartlett Lake, make sure to purchase a Tonto Daily Pass and Watercraft sticker or a Tonto Discovery Pass. Some campgrounds may also have a separate camping fee that isn’t covered by the Daily or Discovery Pass, so make sure to check with the ranger station in advance.
14. Patagonia Lake
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Photo by Burley Packwood on Wikimedia Commons[/caption]
Just a few hours away from the Sonoran Desert is another beautiful oasis, Patagonia Lake. The lake is teeming with fish species including largemouth bass, bluegill, and green sunfish. Also a great place for bird watching, a diverse variety of birds from great blue herons to vermilion flycatchers frequent the lake. It offers more than a hundred campsites along the lake as well as boat-in campsites. Cabins are available for rent for visitors who prefer a more comfortable way of staying overnight. For those who want to take a break from nature activities, head to Sonoita and embark on a wine tour or join a wine tasting session at its wineries. For those planning other Arizona trips, be sure to check our top 10 National and State parks to see.
TouristSecrets Tip: For travelers bringing their own boats, they need to be aware of Arizona’s current boating and watercraft rules and regulations. Take note that personal watercraft, jet skis, jet boats, and water bikes are prohibited on Patagonia Lake.
15. Alamo Lake
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Photo by duroc2006 on Flickr[/caption]
Alamo Lake is one of the best lakes in Arizona for fishing, with abundant largemouth bass and tournaments hosted at Alamo Lake State Park. The desert landscape provides a picturesque backdrop. Hiking trails near the state park offer lake views and wildlife encounters. Swimming is allowed but only near the shore, as there are no designated swimming areas.
TouristSecrets Tip: Water levels at Alamo Lake may fluctuate dramatically depending on the weather and season. Before heading out, make sure to check the current Alamo Lake water conditions to ensure a safe trip.
16. Tempe Town Lake
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Photo by Rohit Sarkar on Flickr[/caption]
If you want to visit lakes in Arizona without leaving the city, Tempe Town Lake is your best choice. It is a short walk from Arizona State University, perfect for a quick breather. Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to cruise along its waters. Tempe Beach Park offers cycling, jogging, and in-line skating paths. You may still catch trout, sunfish, and catfish in the middle of the city. For those planning a broader trip, the lake is a good stop when exploring the "top 10 National and State parks to see" in the region.
TouristSecrets Tip: Kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals are available. If you bring your own watercraft, apply for a permit at the City of Tempe.
17. Fool Hollow Lake
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Photo by azbarkmans on Flickr[/caption]
One of the most famous lakes in Navajo County, Fool Hollow Lake is situated in Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest. Surrounded by 100-year-old pine trees, it offers picturesque hiking trails and wildlife viewing. Camping, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing can be enjoyed all-year-round.
TouristSecrets Tip: Fool Hollow Lake has over a hundred campsites available throughout the year. All campsites have a picnic table, access to restrooms and showers, and a fire ring. Weekends can get crowded so book in advance.
18. Saguaro Lake
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Photo by Jonathan Sutyak on Flickr[/caption]
Set in Maricopa County, Saguaro Lake is part of the Tonto National Forest and surrounded by huge saguaro cacti. Activities include kayaking, boating, hiking, and sailing. Hop on the Desert Belle for a 90-minute cruise around the lake; the boat is accessible for people with disabilities and limited mobility. Less than an hour from Phoenix, it’s one of the best day trips from the city. The U.S.
TouristSecrets Tip: Near the lake is a marina with a restaurant, picnic tables, boat ramps, and restrooms. The nearby Butcher Jones Recreation Site is also a great place for picnicking and swimming.
19. Woods Canyon Lake
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Photo by Richard N Horne on Wikimedia Commons[/caption]
Woods Canyon Lake is located on the Mogollon Rim like Willow Springs Lake. Because of its location, the weather is relatively milder and cooler. Unlike most lakes in Arizona, it is smaller, but it has an average depth of 25 feet. This lake was created for recreational use, so expect well-maintained campsites and facilities for recreational vehicles. Fishing, camping, hiking, and biking are the most popular things to do. Since the lake is at a higher elevation, access in winter may be limited.
TouristSecrets Tip: Anglers must hold a valid Arizona Fishing License. A fishing license costs 37 USD for residents and 55 USD for non-residents.
20. Goldwater Lake
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Photo by Melissa Munding on Flickr[/caption]
Just a few minutes away from Prescott is Goldwater Lake, another off-the-beaten-path Arizona lake. It’s a small lake with a surface area of only 25 hectares, so all activities are concentrated in one area. Go fishing, picnicking, or enjoy a game of volleyball overlooking the lake. Since Goldwater Lake is part of the Prescott National Forest, the hiking trails are simply phenomenal. Don’t forget to bring your cameras and snap photos of the pristine scenery before you.
TouristSecrets Tip: Swimming is prohibited at Goldwater Lake and only electric motors are allowed. There are different operating hours for the lake depending on the season.
21. Rose Canyon Lake
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Photo by Alb2001 on Wikimedia Commons[/caption]
Rose Canyon Lake provides a small yet serene escape from the scorching hot Tucson weather. It sits on top of the Santa Catalina Mountains, only an hour away from Tucson. Its higher elevation has the advantage of cooler weather so it’s perfect for activities under the sun. Take advantage of the fact that it is the only lake in the area that permits recreational fishing and fish for rainbow trout and brown trout, although a valid fishing license is still required. Else, go kayaking and enjoy the view of the tall pine trees dotted across the shoreline along with rock formations.
TouristSecrets Tip: Access to the lake is via the Rose Canyon Campground with plenty of campsites, campfire pits, picnic areas, and hiking trails. The U.S.
22. Big Lake
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Photo by Art by Bart on Flicke[/caption]
Located in the White Mountains, Big Lake is one of the best fishing lakes in Arizona. It is also an ideal escape in summer since it has cooler temperatures even during summer. The lake is home to hundreds of rainbow trout, brook trout, and the Apache trout. While fishing is the most popular activity in Big Lake, visitors can also enjoy a relaxing picnic lunch, rent a boat and go around the lake, or camp overnight. There is also a small convenience store that sells fishing supplies, food, and fishing licenses.
TouristSecrets Tip: Although the lake is open from April to December, the peak fishing season is between April and May. Fishing from a boat is also better than fishing from the shore as catch rates are better.
23. Bear Canyon Lake
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Photo by davidpinter on Wikimedia Commons[/caption]
Bear Canyon Lake is another Arizona lake nestled deep between rows of towering pine trees. Access requires driving on rough dirt roads, but the lake is worth the trip. It was built by the Arizona Game and Fish Department for recreational fishing and is well-stocked with rainbow trout. The surrounding pine forests offer picture-perfect scenery for boating, kayaking, or picnicking.
TouristSecrets Tip: There is no garbage service at Bear Canyon Lake, so visitors should practice proper waste disposal before leaving the campgrounds.
24. Lyman Lake
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Photo by Lyman Lake on Flickr[/caption]
Lyman Lake is one of the biggest yet most secluded lakes in Arizona, located in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest. Its massive land area gives visitors plenty of opportunities for nature activities. Join guided hiking trails as you explore the area and learn about its history. You may also get the rare opportunity to cross paths with a mane waterfowl or even a coyote! Catch channel catfish or largemouth bass or go wakeboarding for a dose of adrenaline rush. On the other hand, if you prefer something relaxing, stay in the cabins or pitch a tent at the campsite for some needed rest.
TouristSecrets Tip: Unlike other Arizona lakes that close during winter, Lyman Lake is open all year round. Campground reservations are available online or by calling the reservation center. Additionally, there is a 5 USD reservation fee per site which is non-refundable. For those planning other trips, be sure to check our top 10 National and State parks to see for more outdoor inspiration.
25. Rainbow Lake
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Photo by Rainbow Lake on Flickr[/caption]
Rainbow Lake is a man-made lake in Arizona, created by Mormon settlers in 1903 by damming Walnut Creek. Its elevation of 6,700 feet gives refreshing and cool weather from spring to early fall. Fish species include rainbow trout, channel catfish, bluegill, green sunfish, and largemouth bass. The campground has vault toilets, potable water, and firewood for sale. Cabin rentals and boat rentals are also available.
TouristSecrets Tip: Most of the shoreline is privately owned so it’s best to fish from a boat. Anglers 14 years old and above need state fishing licenses with trout stamps. There is a daily bag limit of six trout for licensed anglers and three trout for anglers 13 years old and below. The U.S.
Discover the Beauty of the Lakes in Arizona
If you’re looking for another way to explore Arizona, grab your fishing poles or camping gear and head to one of the Arizona lakes. They offer a much-needed escape from the heat and allow you to swim, fish, hike, and camp overnight. Some lakes, like Tempe Town Lake, are located within the city. You can enjoy views of pine trees, lush forests, or desert landscapes, proof that Arizona isn’t just about sandstone canyons and cacti. Before you go, check a month-by-month guide to the weather in Italy to compare climates, or browse our top 10 National and State parks to see for more outdoor inspiration.
So if you’re planning a visit to Arizona and are looking for things to add to your itinerary, visit the lakes in Arizona.
