The Grand Canyon State is landlocked, but luckily there are plenty of lakes in Arizona to cool off at. In fact, spending some time at a lake is one of the best things to do in the summer in AZ. While not every lake is natural, they are all great options for beating the heat and participating in a variety of water activities.

1. Bear Canyon Lake
Bear Canyon Lake, Arizona 85541, USA
Devin/Flickr
This AZ lake is located about one hour northeast of Payson, just over the Mogollon Rim. It’s a popular fishing location and camping is available on a first come, first served basis. Learn more about visiting Bear Canyon Lake from the USDA Forest Service.
2. Black Canyon Lake
Black Canyon Lake, Arizona 85928, USA
Babs/Flickr
Another AZ lake located along the Mogollon Rim, Black Canyon Lake is a short drive from Heber. It’s a beautiful area that was heavily affected by the Rodeo-Chediski fire back in 2002, and is still recovering. Get all the details on recreating at Black Canyon Lake from the USDA Forest Service.
3. Blue Ridge Reservoir
C.C. Cragin Reservoir, Arizona 86024, USA
Coconino National Forest/Flickr
Although not exactly a lake in Arizona, this beautiful reservoir is another water spot found on the Rim, just northeast of Clints Well. Check out this kayaking writeup about Blue Ridge Reservoir.
4. Fool Hollow Lake
Fool Hollow Lake, Show Low, AZ 85901, USA
Emily/Flickr
One of the best lakes in AZ, this large lake is found near Show Low and has a large fish population. It’s a perfect choice for many things to do in the summer in AZ, such as fishing, boating, camping, or even just an afternoon picnic. Get all the details about visiting Fool Hollow Lake.
5. Goldwater Lake
Goldwater Lake, Arizona 86303, USA
DieselDemon/Flickr
Named for our former senator, Goldwater Lake is a reservoir located a little south of Prescott. Find the most up-to-date information on Goldwater Lake from the city of Prescott.
6. Hawley Lake
Hawley Lake, Arizona 85930, USA
Arizona Traveler/Flickr
This lake in Arizona is located on the White Mountain Apache Reservation, about 15 miles southeast of Pinetop. If you visit, keep in mind that this place gets a lot of precipitation. You might want to pack for rain just in case. Learn more about Hawley Lake.

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7. Knoll Lake
Knoll Lake, Arizona, USA
Coconino National Forest/Flickr
This picturesque AZ lake is located about six miles directly north of Kohls Ranch, just over the Rim. Wondering where the name came from? That small island in the middle of the lake. Get all the details about visiting Knoll Lake.
8. Lynx Lake
Lynx Lake, Arizona 86303, USA
Kevin Dooley/Flickr
Another one of the best lakes in AZ and a cool spot near Prescott, this lake always makes me think there's a bobcat sauntering nearby. While definitely possible, most people tend to see deer, fish, and ducks. Check out this writeup to help plan your visit to Lynx Lake.
9. Lake Mary(s)
Lake Mary, Arizona 86001, USA
Casey Myers/Flickr
I'm including both Upper and Lower Lake Mary in this since they are about two miles away from each other and share the same name. These AZ lakes are located just south of Flagstaff, near Walnut Canyon. Head to the USDA Forest Service website for the latest info on Lake Mary.
10. Rainbow Lake
Rainbow Lake, Arizona 85929, USA
Terri Ellis/Flickr
From the picture of this man-made lake, you wouldn't guess it was sitting right in the middle of Pinetop. Check out some additional lakes in Arizona.
11. Rose Canyon Lake
Rose Canyon Lake, Arizona 85619, USA
Alan English CPA/Flickr
Located in the Santa Catalina Mountains, this lake in Arizona is a surprisingly cool spot in the summer, and makes for a great nearby escape when the summer temperatures really start kicking up. Read more about why you should make a visit to Rose Canyon Lake.
12. Watson Lake
Watson Lake, Prescott, AZ 86301, USA
Ljudevit Andres/Flickr
This lake near Prescott is also home to the Granite Dells, striking granite boulders that make for a great rock climbing or photography experience, both awesome things to do in the summer in AZ. See why Watson Lake is a must-visit spot.
13. Willow Springs Lake
Willow Springs Lake, Arizona 85931, USA
Alan Levine/Flickr
Willow Springs Lake is located between Payson and Heber, on the north side of Route 260. What better way to cool off in the pines than by floating on one of the best lakes in AZ? Learn more about Willow Springs Lake.

How many of these lakes in Arizona have you visited before? Did we miss one of your favorites? Let us know in the comments! And if you’re looking for more summer fun, check out this list of things to do in the summer in AZ.

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lakes in arizona

Rachel Raimondi | May 20, 2022

What is the weather like in Arizona in the summer?

The short answer to this question is just plain HOT. Ranked the 10th hottest state in America, expect the highest temperatures in July. Averages hit the triple digits, usually somewhere between 100 and 106, with the hottest city of all being Phoenix. And even though it’s more of a dry heat than some other states and you won’t have to battle too much with humidity, that’s still pretty hot. Good thing there are plenty of lakes in Arizona to cool off in.

Where can I find the bluest water in Arizona?

Although it’s a landlocked state, there is plenty of water and splashing around in it is one of the most enjoyable things to do in the summer in AZ. But if you are looking for the very bluest water of all (due to calcium carbonate in the water), you’ll need to head to Grand Canyon National Park’s Havasu Creek. The creek also features gorgeous waterfalls, such as the glorious 100-foot Havasu Falls. Reaching the falls is not easy at all (you need to arrange transportation or make a 20-mile out-and-back strenuous hike) and requires a permit, as it’s not part of the park, but it’s definitely worth it. If you’re looking for some easier-to-access waterfalls, check out these no hiking required waterfalls.

Which state parks should I visit in Arizona?

There are over 30 state parks within Arizona as well as three national parks. If you are in or around Tucson, check out the 5,500-acre Catalina State Park. Explore the saguaros, look out for unique birds, or hop on one of the eight trails within the park. In Pine, Arizona, you’ll find Tonto Natural Bridge State Park, which features (you guessed it) a stunning 183-foot natural bridge. There are only a few short trails here and each will provide views of the bridge. If you’re looking for other things to do in the summer in AZ, check out this neat Arizona summer bucket list.

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