Arivaca Lake is best known for fishing, but you can also enjoy canoeing, small sail boating, wildlife viewing and rock climbing. You will probably spot other desert dwellers, including doves and roadrunners. Luckily, there are a few great lakes within two hours of Tucson, making them the perfect option for a day trip or quick weekend getaway. The last 12 miles are a narrow, winding gravel road passable to sedans. Patagonia Lake is a little slice of paradise. Immediate access to your member benefits. Reverence pairs Lambrechts embroidered photographs on linen with Schneiders gilded photographs, highlighting recent directions in object-based photography. One of the beautiful mountain lakes near Tucson, Arivaca Lake, a 90-acre reservoir lake at about 3800 feet elevation, is one of the best lakes near Tucson if you are up for a beautiful drive and secluded lake day in the summer. Where: Take I-19 toward Nogales until you get to the Pea Blanca - Ruby Road (Hwy 289) exit. Mooney Falls, Supai, AZ. Cost: $10 per vehicle. If its lake life youre after youll find that too. The boat ramp at Pea Blanca Lake, which was created in 1957 by the state game and fish department, makes it easier for boats to enter and exit the lake. With that in mind, were going to take a look at some spots around the state that feature lovely, crystal clear water that is perfect for a mid-day swim from now through early October. There are three campsites, RV hookups, and eight well-maintained cabins for families with general bathrooms with showers, public phones, grills, vending machines, picnic tables, and other necessary camping amenities. The state-owned 788-acre former ranch is a local secret tucked down a dirt road about 6miles outside of Pima. Related: 12 Fantastic Lakes near Payson, AZ. Grasshopper Point Christine Riggle/Flickr The 7-acre lake is stocked with rainbow trout from April through August. Dont stop when you reach the first pools, as most people do. If youre renting an RV for a lake trip, this is one of the top spots on the list. Roper Lake is a 400-acre state park on the Gila River, surrounding a lovely 32-acre lake at the foot of gorgeous Mount Graham, a part of the Pinaleo Mountains. Kennedy lake is also a community fishing lake and attracts anglers on the weekends and holidays. You can even do so from the middle of the lake while riding a small boat. Also, check out the Model Boat Lake, also known as Archer Lake). Monica is a Din (Navajo) freelance writer and photographer based in the Southwest. Or head towards Mt Lemmon to find the pine-studded Rose Canyon Lake. WebTucson, Arizona 12.6 miles NE. Families and schools reporter for #ThisIsTucson. 15 Best Swimming Holes in Arizona: Grasshopper Point, Sedona, AZ. Among the animals, you can spot whitetail deer, mule deer, javelina, coyotes, bobcats, mountain lions, and jack and cottontail rabbits. It is between the borders of the Maricopa and Yavapai counties. The park is tightly managed and has restrictions on any recreations activities except walking, picnics, and BBQs. There are plenty of picnic tables in large shaded areas for relaxing picnics where you can enjoy the beautiful surroundings of the lake and its views. Fossil Creek Greg Walters/Flickr Its not difficult to see why Fossil Creek is such a popular spot because this place really has it all: waterfalls, hiking trails, wildlife, and crystal clear water. Beautiful and secluded, this lake sits along the Mogollon Rim and is quite the treat for campers at the nearby Knoll Lake Campground and hikers passing through. The communities have fishing and swimming holes at Roper Lake State Park and its sub-unit, Dankworth Pond. 15 Stunning Recreational Lakes near Greer, AZ, 11 Incredible Recreational Lakes near Phoenix, AZ, 7 Amazing Lakes and Ponds near El Paso, TX, 230+ Funny and Inspirational Hiking Quotes. Discounts on travel and everyday savings. Its not the beach place to go to if you want to go swimming, but the hike and the views are well worth the trip. Bell Trail follows Wet Beaver Creek to one of the most sought-after swimming holes in the region: The Crack. Still, the area offers plenty of shade, picnic tables, and playgrounds. Just about two hours east of downtown Tucson, you'll find Roper Lake State Park. The campground contains 31 campsites, tables, grills and vault toilets. WebJoin or Renew Today. Free membership for your spouse or partner. Cost: It's currently free to go here, but an $8 fee to use the developed fishing and picnic areas will be implemented in late summer or early fall. You have the option of fishing from the pier and or on boats. You can rent and go boating at the boat ramp, and there is a campground and a picnic area with tables and grills. You can also spot spring warblers and hummingbirds in season. There are tons of picnic tables in the area for you to use. The views you get from this picturesque lake are enough reason to visit it. Recommended Hotel Near Roper Lake State Park: SpringHill Suites Thatcher. About 3.5 miles into the hike, you'll stumble upon this picture-perfect desert oasisa clear, cold, deep pool wedged in Fossil Creek, Phoenix, AZ. The campground sits at waters edge. It is primarily a fishing lake, and summer months attract anglers for bass, trout, catfish and sunfish, while families can enjoy boating, kayaking and canoeing in the lake. If you want to check out some other water spots in Arizona, be sure to read our previous article, 6 Gorgeous Arizona Waterfalls Hiding In Plain Sight With No Hiking Required. Butthe beautiful 130-acre lake sits at 5,400 feet elevation. Chuck Ford Lakeside Park 14 Lakeside Park 15 Best Swimming Holes in Arizona: Grasshopper Point, Sedona, AZ. Roper Lake State Park contains the 32-acre Roper Lake. WebTucson, Arizona 12.6 miles NE. You can also display America the Beautiful Pass. Recommended Hotel Near Puerto Peasco: Peasco del Sol Hotel & Conference Center-Rocky Point, 28085 AZ-188Roosevelt, AZ 85545(602) 977-7170. Love Arizona? Wow, such a pretty lake area, and water is usually crystal blue! So even if you are not into water activities, you wont get bored here. Crescent Moon Ranch, AZ Wet Beaver Creek, Sedona, AZ Clear Creek Reservoir, Winslow, AZ Youll be surprised by the many pools and falls youll encounter. Apart from the familiar bass and sunfish, the lake is stocked with trout, but you will have to get lucky to hook one. Details:Admission is $15 per vehicle on weekdays, $20 on weekends. Hike, Mountain Bike, Rock Climb, Swim swim Swimming Hole rock climb Rock Climbing Wall mountain bike Then head east on Forest Road 39, about 5 miles and take a road that turns left (east) and follow that to the lake. So, despite the distance, its certainly worth the visit. Here, you can enjoy spending the day fishing and boating. If you're thinking more along the lines of a weekend away, you can camp or rent a cabin at Patagonia Lake and Roper Lake State Parks. Lying at the base of the Pinaleos, the wildlife area contains desert upland and riparian habitats along with wetlands and ponds. It is one of the high-desert sanctuaries located 75 miles south of Tucson. Montezumas Well is a popular hiking spot. Related: 12 Fantastic Lakes near Payson, AZ 3. Camping and day-use fee at White Rock is $10. Related: 11 Incredible Recreational Lakes near Phoenix, AZ. Head south of Tucson for a leisurely day of fishing at Patagonia Lake State Park. Take a dip at these awesome places to swim in and around Tucson, AZ. It is one of the most crowded lakes near Tucson AZ despite its remote location thanks to its cool weather and many activities with something available for everyone. Staying in the park varies in cost; however, bathing in the spring is free. Its like witnessing a mirage coming to life. On the way to Roosevelt Dam, there are two other lakes - Canyon Lake, Apache Lake and then Roosevelt Lake. Each shorefront is known for something unique. The lake is a popular fishing destination known for sunfish, bass, trout, and catfish. Its no white sand beach, but youre sure to love your time here regardless. Details: 520-378-0311, www.fs.usda.gov/coronado. Mountain Lakes is currently for rent for $945 per month, and offering 6, 12 month lease terms. Related: 12 Fantastic Lakes near Payson, AZ 3. Riggs Flat Lake, spanning 12 acres, is located at the end of Swift Trail, and you have to continue along Forest Roads 803 and 287 for about 5 miles to the campground. Theres plenty of shady spots and the water stays a refreshing 70-degrees. An easy trail circles the lake and additional trails and campgrounds are nearby. Just be careful as the terrain can be rocky and slippery at times. Just remember, even if youre hiking to water make sure you bring plenty of your own to drink. We and our partners share information on your use of this website to help improve your experience. Swimming in local lakes, hiking in the mountains, getting a nice, crispy burn because you forgot sunscreen; these are all activities that Arizonans get to experience at least a month longer than our friends in other parts of the country. You can hike, fish, swim, boat and view wildlife. Etherton Gallery is pleased to present its new exhibition, Reverence, highlighting the work of photographers Laurie Lambrecht and Wendi Schneider. Tucson AZ 85713 (520) 791-4863 John F. Kennedy Pool is: CLOSED Summer Season Facility (June to August) Kennedy Pool is located in John F. Kennedy Park. It is a famous relaxation spot offering many activities ideal for families. For thrill-seekers, youll definitely love diving from the designated cliffs, some going as high as 15 feet. 5 Amazing Water Trails You Need To Try Right Now! Havasu Falls, Supai, AZ. So, despite the distance, its certainly worth the visit. on your way to Patagonia State Park. During the summer, Patagonia Lake becomes Tucsons unofficial beach. Campground reservations can be made online. Roper Lake State Park contains the 32-acre Roper Lake. Although the lake remains closed for any activity, during the winter, you can still fish in Rose Canyon with a valid fishing license. But you will be surprised to learn that there is a selection of lakes around the city. Turn right and drive 35 miles, following the signs. Like, really hot. A concessionaire-operated campground has a store, vault toilets, picnic sheltersand campsites with picnic tables and fire rings. At the end of Swift Trail, this lake is a worthy reward for hikers. Also, the town of Patagonia is pretty cute, so you could explore a little before or after you hit the lake. Subscription to the award-winning AARP The Magazine. JOIN NOW. 15 Best Beaches Near Tucson, AZ Closest Lake & Ocean Beach Spots, Peasco del Sol Hotel & Conference Center-Rocky Point, La Posada Lodge & Casitas, Ascend Hotel Collection, Bluegreen Vacations Cibola Vista Resort and Spa an Ascend Resort, Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Nogales, Lost in Translation: The New England accent most misunderstood when traveling abroad, 35 Best Places to Visit in August in the USA, 35 Best Places to Visit in July in the USA, 35 Best Places to Visit in June in the USA, 35 Best Places to Visit in May in the USA. The Pinaleos are Arizonas mightiest mountains with over 7,000 feet of vertical relief, anchored by MountGraham, at 10,720 feet. Besides the lake itself, you can also go camping and hiking around Lake Pleasant. Cattail Cove State Park is located on the shore of Lake Havasu, which is about 4 hours and 29 minutes away from Tucson. Plus, there are plenty of BBQ and picnic spots, and the area is known to be family-friendly. For some good ol family fun, take a trip to Lake Pleasant. Tall trees and rocky slopes line the shore and are reflected in the lakes sheltered waters. A gentle 5-mile trail loops around the shoreline, never venturing more than a few steps from the water. Fossil Creek, Phoenix, AZ. Water laps at limestone bluffs and hillsides dotted with oaks. Recommended Hotel Near Pea Blanca: Fiesta Inn Nogales, 101 East Roper Lake RoadSafford, AZ 85546(928) 428-6760. Tucked away amid rolling hills, the 265-acre lake makes a shimmering oasis in the high desert. Some of the best beaches near Tucson, AZ, are the ones along a lake, and this one is no exception. Nearby Dankworth Pond contains 15 acres of water that once served as a fish hatchery. Apart from the remote location, the final stretch to the reservoir is a bumpy gravel road that will test your cars suspension. Temperatures go down as you leave the saguaro-clad slopes behind and climb through grasslands, oak forests and finally into the tall pines and firs up top. Fishing and boating are the two popular activities visitors prefer, as the lake is frequently stocked with Rainbow Trout, Channel Catfish, Bluegill, Redear Sunfish, and Largemouth Bass. What are people saying about lakes in Tucson, AZ? WebYou can hike to a variety of desert streams and pools to take a dip in places like Sabino Canyon, Bear Canyon, and Catalina State Park. And in the summer months the locally loved monsoon rains bring a much-needed quench. It is rather primitive with no drinking water or hookups, but there is plenty of space even for RVs. The lake and the park attract many species of wildlife, including beautiful migrating birds, the blue herons, canyon towhee, vermilion flycatcher, and Inca pigeon. You can enjoy swimming and kayaking as well if you do not want to go boating or fishing. 520-749-8700, www.fs.usda.gov/coronado. Arivaca Lake is a famous bird-watching hotspot, and you can spot hawks, eagles, ospreys, canyon wrens, white-breasted nuthatches, eastern phoebes, flycatchers and lark sparrows. The lake goes down 50 feet, so you may not be able to see the bottom well but the water does become a lovely shade of blue-green here. Lake Havasu is a pretty sought-after vacation spot near Tucson, and you can enjoy it a lot from Cattail Cove State Park. It is also a popular spot for bird-watching, including blackbirds, Great horned owls, Cardinal, flycatchers, Kingfisher, Herons, and Egrets, and admiring the stunning views of Mount Graham. WebJoin or Renew Today. Mountain Lakes is located in Tucson, the 85713 zipcode, and the Tucson Unified District. One of the most beautiful beaches in Arizona is Patagonia Lake State Park, a stunning park located around the 265-acre artificial Patagonia Lake. Sahuarita Lake is one of the famous urban fishing lakes near Tucson. Driving U.S. 70 through the communities of Pima, Thatcher and Safford feels like a return to a Norman Rockwell version of America. Montezumas Well is about 3 hours and 10 minutes away from Tucson and is located in Camp Verde. Southeast of Tucson, State Route83 cuts through rolling grasslands past sprawling ranches into the wine country of Sonoita and Elgin. Just about two hours east of downtown Tucson, you'll find Roper Lake State Park. Another disadvantage at Silverbell is that swimming isnt allowed. So, take a look at these lakes and swimming holes to find your next favorite retreat: Since its still hot outside, visiting any of these places seems like the perfect solution to a hot day! Since the lake is classified as fragile, no swimming, boating and other water activities are allowed. Riggs Flat Lake is located inside the Coronado National Forest in Willcox. Ringed by cattails and framed by the rising bulk of the Pinaleo Mountains, Pond #3 is a lovely spot. Keep reading with a digital access subscription. Recommended 14 Tucson Sunset Spots To Admire The Stunning Views. Agua Caliente Parkis a highly-rated destination on the outskirts of Tucson. But that doesnt mean you cant enjoy others like Roosevelt Lake. Get the StepOutside Newsletter specially curated by Outdoor experts. the marina where you can rent boating and fishing equipment and buy last-minute supplies like food, snacks and cold drinks. You are allowed to swim here, but there isn't a designated swimming area. Model Airplane Area. However, the area has a selection of top-rated hiking trails and a campground with RV sites (without hookups). Public Swimming Pools. Its known for the hot spring, a lake, and beautiful palm trees that contribute to the oasis atmosphere. You can rent kayaks, pedal boats, stand-up paddle boards and fishing gear. Grasshopper Point is a popular local swimming hole inside Coconino National Forest in Sedona. Open year-round, Patagonia Lake is a popular destination for sunbathing, swimming, camping, boating, kayaking, jet skiing, paddle boarding, water skiing, and hiking. Reverence pairs Lambrechts embroidered photographs on linen with Schneiders gilded photographs, highlighting recent directions in object-based photography. 15 Best Swimming Holes in Arizona: Grasshopper Point, Sedona, AZ. 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