12 Jul Beat the Heat at Greater Phoenix Lakes
Phoenix may be a hot, dry desert, but there are a number of lakes just a short drive away to spend the day relaxing in the water and having fun with a variety of water sports!
Lake Pleasant
Lake Pleasant is located north of Glendale in the north west valley about 45 minutes from downtown Phoenix. The 10,000-acre lake is always busy with a variety of water sports such as windsurfers, boaters, sailors, water and jet skiers, and fishermen. Lake Pleasant Regional Park also offers camping and trails for mountain biking and hiking.
Saguaro Lake
Saguaro Lake is a beautiful spot for spending a day on the boat. Located 40 miles east of downtown Phoenix past Fountain Hills, Saguaro Lake is a great Arizona lake for water-skiers and wakeboarders or those looking for a relaxing day of fishing. No boat? No problem! Leave the captaining to Desert Belle paddle boat for a guided tour of the lake.
Bartlett Lake
Bartlett Lake is just 45 miles from downtown Phoenix and east of Carefree, it is the second-largest lake in the Tonto National Forest. No worries if you don’t have a boat, Bartlett Lake offers aqua lodge rentals and a party yacht that accommodates up to 20 guests.
Roosevelt Lake
Roosevelt Lake is about 80 miles northeast of Phoenix and is the largest of the lakes just outside the Greater Phoenix region. Like other lakes in the Greater Phoenix area, Roosevelt Lake provides plenty of space for a variety of watersports and boating activity. There is also 110 miles of shoreline with peaceful coves for those wishing to find a quiet spot to spend a day.
Canyon Lake
Located past Mesa in the Superstition Wilderness of Tonto National Forest, Canyon Lake (pictured) is about 50 miles east of Phoenix. The 950-acre lake is a great place for a variety of watersports, as well as camping and hiking. Boat rentals are available and the lake has a popular day-use campground with a large grass area, ramadas and a swimming-only section of the lake.
Apache Lake
Apache Lake is also located in the Tonto National Forest and is a good lake for boating, fishing and the scenic canyon walls that surround parts of the lake. Boat rentals are available and for those looking to explore the lake.