Our state might not have any “real” beaches, but there are still plenty of opportunities to take a dip in Arizona lakes! If you’re looking for the clearest lake in Arizona, definitely check out Lynx Lake in the Prescott National Forest. This pristine oasis is almost too beautiful to be real. It’s widely regarded as one of the best lakes in Arizona and is home to the best hike near Prescott, Arizona. The next time you want to get out and go swimming, you need to head to this gorgeous clear lake in Prescott, AZ – and bring the whole family!

Lynx Lake, a 55-acre reservoir located within Prescott National Forest, is surrounded by the majestic Bradshaw Mountains.
AllTrails/J. Grant
This deep blue oasis is widely regarded to be among the clearest lakes in Arizona. The surrounding topography contributes to ranking it among the most beautiful lakes in Arizona, too!
With an elevation of over 5,000 feet and waters fully stocked for fishing, Lynx Lake is one of the most popular outdoor recreation spots in central Arizona.
AllTrails/Kenneth Link
Nature-loving visitors flock to its pristine waters because of the temperate climate, fascinating archaeological sites, and plenty of shade from an endless ponderosa pine grove. This is the perfect place to go to escape the heat and the glaring sun in the middle of the summer.
Several challenging, yet fun, trails wind through the landscape.
AllTrails/Jimmy 22
Lynx Lake Loop is a short-but-sweet, 2.4-mile hike that showcases all the highlights of this beautiful area. With all the activities to do in Lynx Lake, this might be the best outdoor park in Arizona to visit all year long.

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The trail runs parallel to the water for nearly its entire duration.
AllTrails/Tony Sanchez
It features a mixture of paved and unpaved walkways, with varying grades, and a few mild hills, making for an exciting and incredibly varied hike. Pack a picnic and make a day of exploring not just the lake, but all the surrounding trails, too.
A nice mixture of wildlife and vegetation ensures breathtaking views everywhere you look.
AllTrails/Paul Vo
Plan your visit in the morning or evening hours for smaller crowds and more time to take in all the sights. Most of these trails are very easy to do, which means everyone in your family will enjoy a trip here.
This hike is kid-friendly and accessible to most skill levels, as it's essentially just a leisurely stroll around the lake.
AllTrails/Paul Vo
Since you won't be expending too much energy, plenty of mental space will remain to simply sit in the peace and tranquility. You’ll have a chance to sit and gaze at the water, and the sights will convince you that this is indeed the clearest lake in Arizona!
There are plenty of benches to stop and rest for a spell, in addition to covered picnic areas perfect for munching on a packed lunch.
AllTrails/Paul Vo
Bring the whole family along (leashed four-legged friends are welcome, too!) and enjoy a day in the great outdoors. Arizona is gorgeous, and this lake highlights some of the interesting and diverse places that you can visit when traveling around our great state.

 

Have you ever visited Lynx Lake in Prescott, AZ? Do you think it’s one of the best lakes in Arizona? Share your thoughts in the comments!

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More to Explore

Best Lakes In Arizona

Megan McDonald | February 05, 2021

Are there a lot of Arizona lakes?

Yes! There are 128 lakes, and 5 major rivers, in the state of Arizona. But there are lots of man made lakes, too. In the Phoenix area, you’ll come across somewhere between 900 to 1400 man made lakes to visit. These reservoirs are some of the best lakes in Arizona and also great places to go and visit, and play in the water.

How how hot does it get in Arizona?

Really hot. Summers in Arizona are hot and dry, and temperatures can average between 90 degrees Fahrenheit and a sweltering 120 degrees Fahrenheit. And the southern desert can occasionally shoot up and over 125 degrees Fahrenheit. This is a state where you don’t want to be caught out without a good source of water at all times!

What are some of the best state parks in Arizona?

Arizona has some pretty spectacular state parks. Red Rock State Park is one of our very favorites; here you'll get an up-close look at the iconic red landscape that The Copper State is known for. The park covers 286 acres of hills, buttes, meadows, and the flowing Oak Creek. It is so stunningly beautiful, it doesn't look real (but luckily for us, it is!).

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Lynx Lake, Arizona 86303, USA