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Arizona is one of the most beautiful states in the United States of America, offering tourists numerous natural attractions like the Grand Canyon National Park, Antelope Canyon, and Monument Valley. There are numerous lakes in Arizona that also provide a cool and calm atmosphere that helps you relax and enjoy the beauty of the state. It is the sixth-largest state in terms of size and the 14th most populous in the United States of America. Other than these scenic beauties, the state also contains a lot of museums, parks and zoo’s that attract tourists from all around the world.

Top 7 Lakes In Arizona

These 7 lakes in Arizona will give you a glimpse of some of the best natural beauties of the world. These lakes also form an ideal spot to witness the sunset.

1. Big Lake

Big Lake

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Big Lake is one of the best lakes in Arizona, offering you numerous attractions like fishing, boating, and sightseeing in the White Mountains. The lake has been given the name of Big Lake for its large size. The lake is flooded with locals and tourists who come here to catch some of the best fish in the lakes like rainbow, brown trout, brook and cutthroat. The lake is located at approximately 9,000 feet making a cool environment so it is recommended to carry some warm clothes when you travel to this lake. It is also one of the very few lakes in Arizona with cabins that offer you various services.

Location- Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests, Arizona

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2. Canyon Lake

Canyon-Lake

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One of the four reservoirs formed by the damming of the beautiful Salt River, Canyon Lake is one of the most splendid lakes in the state. Canyon Lake was formed after the construction of Mormon Flat Dam. The lake covers an area of 950 acres and offers various activities like boating, fishing, jet skiing and much more. It is also one of the best swimming lakes in Arizona, as the lake provides an ideal atmosphere for swimming in its clean waters. You can also rent boats and other equipment related to fishing during your stay here.

Location- Maricopa County, Arizona

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3. Bartlett Lake

Bartlett Lake

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Another lake formed after the construction of a dam on the Verde River. This was the first reservoir that was built on the Verde River. The lake consists of various aquatic species like largemouth bass, crappie, sunfish, variety of catfish and many more. The lake allows activities like fishing and boating that attracts the people. The place is surrounded by lush green fields and small hills that make the place look beautiful. It is also one of the best lakes in Arizona for camping and gives an amazing experience of the place.

Location- Maricopa County, Arizona

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4. Ashurst Lake

Ashurst Lake

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One of the very few natural lakes in the state, Ashurst Lake is a small lake which remains filled in water even during long dry seasons. The lake is filled with many active springs. The lake offers activities of swimming and boating, with the locals storming the place to catch some fresh fish for their dinner. The most common fish found here is the rainbow trout. The lake is maintained by the Coconino National Forest authorities. Ashurst Lake is also one of the very few lakes in Arizona for camping. The lake is divided into two campgrounds, namely, Ashurst Lake on the west shore and the Forked Pine on the east shore.

Location- Coconino County, Arizona

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5. Lynx Lake

Lynx Lake

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Lynx Lake is a small 55-acre reservoir in the Prescott National Forest. Like all other lakes in the state, this place too offers activities like fishing, boating and swimming. With mild weather and lush green surroundings, the lake forms the perfect spot to sit and enjoy the cool and lively atmosphere around this area. The lake area also allows activities like horseriding, hiking, bird watching sites and much more that let you enjoy the scenic natural beauties and make beautiful memories.

Location- Prescott National Forest, Yavapai County, Arizona

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6. Watson Lake

Watson Lake

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Watson Lake is one of the two reservoir lakes in Granite Dells. The reservoir has been brought to life by the people of the city of Prescott. The site offers adventurous activities like hiking and rock climbing. The lake is also home to the famous TriCity Prep Rowing Crew which is the only rowing team in the northern part of Arizona. Some of the commonly found fish species in this lake are largemouth bass, crappie, sunfish and catfish.

Location- Yavapai County, Arizona

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7. Chevelon Canyon Lake

Chevelon Canyon lake

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One of the smallest but the most beautiful lakes in the state. It is also called as the hidden lake in Arizona because of its location. The lake is situated in between the canyons and forms a part of the Rim Lakes. Because of its location, it is not easily accessible thus not a lot of people crowd this beautiful lake. The facilities in this lake are maintained by the authorities of Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests of the USDA Forest Service,

Location- Coconino County, Arizona

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These were some of the best lakes in Arizona that will amaze you with their scenic beauties. These lakes form an ideal spot to spend time with your friends or family, taking part in the numerous activities offered at these places like swimming, boating, fishing, camping and much more. So make sure to visit these lakes when you plan a trip to the United States of America in your next vacay!

Frequently Asked Questions About Lakes In Arizona

Is there water present in the lakes of Arizona during the summer season?

Arizona State lakes get dry during the summer. Yet, you can find some waters in canyon lakes and that to depend on previous year rainfall in the state.

Which is the best time to explore the lakes in Arizona?

You must visit here from in-between November to March to explore the lakes in Arizona. These are present months for lakeside recreational and adventure activities.

What types of lakes are found in Arizona?

Lakes in Arizona are of artificial lakes, Canyon Lake, mountain Lakes, Natural lakes, and reservoir lakes.

What are all the recreational activities the tourists are permitted to go for while on the Arizona Lake tour?

The recreational activities like bird watching, boating, camping, fishing, hiking, horse riding, and swimming are allowed in the lakes of Arizona for tourists.

What are all the water-sports activities the tourists are permitted to go for while on the Arizona Lake tour?

The water-sporting activities like lakeside hiking, jet skiing, and rock climbing are allowed in permitted lakes of Arizona for tourists.

Why are Arizona lakes the best for hiking trips?

The hiking trips to see the Arizona lakes are through canyons, creeks, valleys, National Parks and wilderness of Arizona.

How long will it take to explore the lakes of tourist’s importance in Arizona?

There are hundreds of lakes in Arizona. It will take a weeklong to explore the major lakes, which are of tourist importance.

Are the lakes in Arizona safe to swim in?

Yes, swimming is permitted in a few of the lakes in Arizona. This is because many of the lakes present here are of reservoirs, spring water, saltwater, and freshwater lakes.


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