Arizona is renowned for its vast deserts, majestic canyons, and iconic Saguaro cacti. Yet, hidden within this rugged landscape lies a stunning world of lakes, offering unforgettable wild camping experiences. Join us as we explore the best destinations to immerse yourself in nature, enjoying the tranquility and pristine beauty of Arizona. From expansive lakes perfect for water sports to serene smaller lakes ideal for absolute relaxation, Arizona has everything you need for a memorable camping trip.
Discover Arizona’s “Emeralds”
Arizona boasts numerous breathtaking lakes, each with its unique beauty and charm. Here’s a list of the best wild camping spots you shouldn’t miss when visiting this state:
Lake Powell: A Desert Marvel
Formed by the Glen Canyon Dam, Lake Powell is a premier camping and boating destination in the United States. With nearly 2,000 miles of shoreline and 96 major canyons, Lake Powell offers endless opportunities for exploration. You can rent boats, kayak, jet ski, sail, or simply immerse yourself in the cool water.
Lake Powell, Arizona, an ideal destination for boating and wild camping
Beyond water activities, you can explore magnificent red rock canyons, hike scenic trails, and admire the unique desert landscape. Lake Powell is truly a desert marvel, promising unforgettable experiences for anyone who loves nature and adventure.
Patagonia Lake: A Peaceful Camping Haven
Located about 15 miles north of the Arizona-Mexico border, Patagonia Lake State Park is a favorite destination for campers. The lake has 105 lakeside campsites for RVs and tents, 12 boat-in campsites, and seven rental cabins.
Visitors can boat, fish, and spot rare birds like Inca doves, hummingbirds, and canyon towhees. If you want to explore further, visit the wineries of Sonoita, just half an hour’s drive away.
Lake Mead: A Vast National Recreation Area
Lake Mead is the first and largest national recreation area in the United States, encompassing two impressive lakes: Lake Mead and Lake Mohave. Lake Mead stretches 110 miles long, covering 1.5 million acres with a surface area of 225 square miles.
Vibrant water sports activities on Lake Mead, Arizona
Boating, water skiing, kayaking, swimming, scuba diving, fishing, and camping are popular activities here. With its vast expanse and diverse scenery, Lake Mead is an ideal destination for those seeking exciting outdoor adventures.
Lake Havasu: A Boater’s Paradise
Lake Havasu, stretching 60 miles along Arizona’s northwestern border with California, is known as one of the state’s best boating lakes. The lake attracts crowds, especially in the spring, with its beautiful sandy beaches and clear blue waters.
Anglers also flock here hoping to catch record-breaking striped bass, smallmouth bass, and largemouth bass. If you are a fan of boating and water sports, Lake Havasu is a must-visit destination.
Theodore Roosevelt Lake: Central Arizona’s Largest Lake
With nearly 21,500 acres, Theodore Roosevelt Lake is the largest man-made lake in Central Arizona. The lake is popular with boaters, water sports enthusiasts, and anglers.
Theodore Roosevelt Lake, Arizona, with magnificent natural scenery
You can catch various fish species such as crappie, catfish, smallmouth bass, and largemouth bass. Nearby, the Tonto National Monument with its 20-room cliff dwelling offers stunning views of the lake.
Lake Pleasant: An Oasis Near Phoenix
Located northwest of Phoenix, Lake Pleasant is one of the closest lakes to the metropolitan area. The lake is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts enjoying boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and water skiing.
You can even scuba dive in the lake, considered one of the best inland dive locations in the West. If you’re looking for a refreshing oasis near Phoenix, Lake Pleasant is a perfect choice.
Watson Lake: Unique Granite Dells Beauty
Unique granite boulders surround Watson Lake, located 4 miles from downtown Prescott, making it one of the most scenic spots in the state. The lake is particularly popular with kayakers, canoers, and stand-up paddleboarders.
Watson Lake, Arizona, with unique granite boulders creating distinctive beauty
You can also boat and fish here. Additionally, Watson Lake features trails for hiking and mountain biking, an 18-hole golf course, and access to the Granite Dells rock climbing area.
Willow Springs Lake: A Trout Fishing Paradise
Willow Springs Lake is regularly stocked with rainbow trout from May to September, making it one of the state’s premier trout lakes. Boats are limited to electric motors or gas motors up to 10 horsepower, creating a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere.
Fishing on Willow Springs Lake, Arizona, an ideal spot for trout fishing enthusiasts
In winter, hardy anglers ice fish here. If you are a fishing enthusiast, especially for trout, Willow Springs Lake is the ideal destination.
Lynx Lake: A Green Oasis Near Phoenix
Lynx Lake is located in the Bradshaw Mountains, 15 minutes from Prescott and less than two hours from Phoenix. The lake attracts Phoenicians with its cool summer days and lush greenery.
Visitors can fish for rainbow trout, largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish or hike the 2-mile Lakeshore Trail. Small motorboats, kayaks, and canoes are also allowed on the lake.
Canyon Lake: Impressive Canyon Scenery
Although the smallest of the lakes created by dams on the Salt River, Canyon Lake still attracts many boaters and water sports enthusiasts.
Canyon Lake, Arizona, with impressive red rock canyon scenery
The lake is also popular with travelers driving the Apache Trail or taking a tour on the Dolly Steamboat. You can scuba dive, fish for various bass species, and hike in the area.
Plan Your Wild Camping Trip
To have a memorable wild camping trip in Arizona, you need to plan carefully and prepare adequately. Here are a few helpful tips:
- Choose the right time: The weather in Arizona can be very harsh, especially in the summer. Spring and fall are the best times to camp, when temperatures are pleasant and the natural scenery is beautiful.
- Book in advance: Campsites are often crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. Book in advance to ensure you have a desired camping spot.
- Prepare adequate equipment: Make sure you have enough tents, sleeping bags, cooking gear, drinking water, and other necessary supplies.
- Learn about regulations: Each campsite has its own regulations regarding campfires, waste disposal, and environmental protection. Learn these regulations carefully before arriving.
- Protect the environment: Maintain general hygiene, do not litter, and follow environmental protection rules.
Conclusion
Arizona is a fantastic destination for those who love wild camping and exploring nature. With stunning lakes and diverse landscapes, Arizona promises unforgettable experiences for anyone. Plan your trip today and discover the “emeralds” hidden in the Arizona desert!