Discovering Arizona's Hidden Gem Lakes Created by Dams Arizona is home to numerous man-made lakes created by dams, which offer a serene escape from the desert heat while providing opportunities for swimming and fishing.
Discovering Arizona's Hidden Gem Lakes Created by Dams
Arizona is home to numerous man-made lakes created by dams, which offer a serene escape from the desert heat while providing opportunities for swimming and fishing. These hidden reservoirs are not only crucial for water storage and power generation but also support an array of wildlife and vegetation. In this article, we'll explore ten of Arizona's best dam-created lakes for swimming and fishing.
1. Lake Pleasant
Located about 45 minutes northwest of Phoenix, Lake Pleasant is one of the largest man-made lakes in the United States. This lake offers a wide range of recreational activities, including swimming, fishing, boating, and kayaking. With its crystal-clear waters and scenic surroundings, it's an ideal spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Best time to visit: Year-round
- Key facts:
+ 23,000 acres of water surface + Over 500 species of fish + Swimming areas available during summer months
2. Lake Havasu
Situated on the Arizona-California border, Lake Havasu is a popular destination for boating and fishing enthusiasts. Its clear waters offer an excellent spot for swimming, while its surrounding landscape provides breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
- Best time to visit: Spring and fall (avoid summer heat)
- Key facts:
+ 20-mile shoreline + Over 40 species of fish + Swimming areas available during spring and fall months
3. Tempe Town Lake
Located in the heart of Tempe, Tempe Town Lake is a beautiful oasis amidst the city's urban landscape. This lake offers swimming areas, paddle-boarding, kayaking, and fishing opportunities.
- Best time to visit: Year-round
- Key facts:
+ 2-mile shoreline + Swimming areas available during summer months + Artificially created lake with surrounding walking trails
4. Bartlett Lake
Situated about an hour north of Phoenix, Bartlett Lake is a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle and bustle. This lake offers swimming areas, fishing spots, and scenic hiking trails.
- Best time to visit: Spring and fall (avoid summer heat)
- Key facts:
+ 5,000 acres of water surface + Over 20 species of fish + Swimming areas available during spring and fall months
5. Canyon Lake
Located in the Tonto National Forest, Crown King is a beautiful lake surrounded by towering cliffs and lush vegetation. This lake offers swimming areas, fishing spots, and boating opportunities.
- Best time to visit: Spring and fall (avoid summer heat)
- Key facts:
+ 2-mile shoreline + Over 10 species of fish + Swimming areas available during spring and fall months
6. Apache Lake
Situated about an hour northeast of Phoenix, Apache Lake is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts. This lake offers swimming areas, fishing spots, and boating opportunities.
- Best time to visit: Spring and fall (avoid summer heat)
- Key facts:
+ 2-mile shoreline + Over 10 species of fish + Swimming areas available during spring and fall months
7. Saguaro Lake
Located in the Tonto National Forest, Saguaro Lake is a beautiful lake surrounded by towering saguaro cacti and lush vegetation. This lake offers swimming areas, fishing spots, and boating opportunities.
- Best time to visit: Spring and fall (avoid summer heat)
- Key facts:
+ 2-mile shoreline + Over 10 species of fish + Swimming areas available during spring and fall months
8. Lake Mary
Situated about an hour north of Phoenix, Lake Mary is a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle and bustle. This lake offers swimming areas, fishing spots, and scenic hiking trails.
- Best time to visit: Spring and fall (avoid summer heat)
- Key facts:
+ 5,000 acres of water surface + Over 20 species of fish + Swimming areas available during spring and fall months
9. Granite Basin Lake
Located in the Prescott National Forest, Granite Basin Lake is a beautiful lake surrounded by towering mountains and lush vegetation. This lake offers swimming areas, fishing spots, and boating opportunities.
- Best time to visit: Spring and fall (avoid summer heat)
- Key facts:
+ 1-mile shoreline + Over 10 species of fish + Swimming areas available during spring and fall months
10. Fain Lake
Situated about an hour north of Phoenix, Fain Lake is a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle and bustle. This lake offers swimming areas, fishing spots, and scenic hiking trails.
- Best time to visit: Spring and fall (avoid summer heat)
- Key facts:
+ 5,000 acres of water surface + Over 20 species of fish + Swimming areas available during spring and fall months
Practical Information
Before visiting any of these lakes, be sure to check the following:
- Hours: Varying hours depending on the lake; check with Arizona State Parks or local authorities for specific information.
- Fees: Some lakes charge fees for swimming, fishing, or boating; check with Arizona State Parks or local authorities for specific information.
- Location hints:
+ Be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen when visiting any of these lakes. + Respect private property and follow all posted signs and regulations.
Arizona's dam-created lakes offer a unique opportunity to experience the state's natural beauty while enjoying recreational activities like swimming and fishing. From the bustling crowds of Lake Pleasant to the peaceful tranquility of Fain Lake, there's something for every outdoor enthusiast in these hidden gems.