Arizona may not be the first state that comes to mind when thinking of pristine lakes. However, hidden amidst the desert terrain lie some stunningly clean lakes. With their crystal-clear waters, surrounded by stunning natural beauty, these lakes offer a refreshing respite and a chance to reconnect with nature. Whether you’re an avid angler or seeking some time away from the cities, check out 8 of Arizona’s cleanest lakes.
1. Lynx Lake
Lynx Lake is one of the cleanest lakes in Arizona.
Discover the pristine beauty of Lynx Lake, Arizona’s gem in the Bradshaw Mountains. Renowned for its crystal-clear waters, this man-made lake offers a peaceful escape for nature lovers. It’s arguably the clearest lake in the state, with its deep blue waters drawing in visitors from far and wide.
The clarity of Lynx Lake can be attributed to the fast-draining and healthy soils that encompass its shores. These favorable conditions create a low-algae environment, ensuring the water remains clean and inviting.
Spanning around 55 acres, Lynx Lake draws an impressive number of visitors, welcoming over 125,000 people annually. Situated at 5,500 feet, this lake provides a cool retreat from the scorching desert heat, particularly for those traveling from Phoenix.
Boating, camping, fishing, hiking, and more – the possibilities are endless at Lynx Lake. While swimming is, unfortunately, not permitted, the calm waters are perfect for sailing, kayaking, and canoeing enthusiasts.
Anglers will find joy in the diverse aquatic life thriving within Lynx Lake. Cast your line and reel in largemouth bass, crappie, rainbow trout, and catfish, adding an exciting element to your visit.
For those with a taste for adventure, explore the nearby Salida Gulch Trailhead, where a designated gold panning area awaits. Take up the challenge and try your luck at finding specks of gold, but remember to bring your own pan. And, of course, it’s essential to respect the environment. So, fill any holes you create, as the use of motorized equipment is strictly prohibited.
2. Lake Mohave
Bordering Arizona and Nevada is Lake Mohave.
Lake Mohave, formed on the Colorado River in 1951, stretches approximately 67 miles. Named after the Mohave people, who once inhabited this region, it is known for its cleanliness. With a surface area of 28,260 acres and an elevation of 647 feet, Lake Mohave offers a vast expanse of crystal-clear water.
Less than 50 miles from Kingman, AZ, Lake Mohave straddles the border between Arizona and Nevada. This makes it easily accessible to visitors from both states. Its remarkable water quality is evident in the declining bacterial levels and the absence of swim advisories, highlighting the exceptional standards maintained in this lake.
Lake Mohave not only offers thrilling outdoor adventures but also treats visitors to breathtaking scenery. Surrounded by mountains, the majority of the lake lies within steep canyons. As you admire the landscape, you may even spot petroglyphs on the rocks and cliff walls. They bear witness to the rich cultural history of the Mohave people dating back over 3,000 years.
For those seeking a close connection with nature, numerous campgrounds along the shoreline provide opportunities for camping. Furthermore, RV sites with full hookups cater to those traveling with recreational vehicles. Alternatively, if you prefer lodging, the Katherine Landing area offers a range of accommodations to suit your needs.
Fishing enthusiasts will also love the abundance of largemouth and striped bass, promising an unforgettable angling experience.
3. Lake Mead
Lake Mead is the largest reservoir in the USA and is one of the cleanest lakes in Arizona.
Situated along the Arizona-Nevada border, Lake Mead proudly claims the title of the largest reservoir in the United States. Its sparkling waters span an incredible 9 trillion gallons, showcasing a deep blue hue that will instantly captivate you.
With a surface elevation of 1,229 feet and covering an expansive area of 2,338 square miles, Lake Mead offers an abundance of space for endless adventures. Even though Lake Mead is close to busy metropolitan areas, it still maintains an impressive level of cleanliness. This is largely due to the waters of the Colorado River, which contributes about 97% of the lake’s water supply.
At Lake Mead, the opportunities for enjoyment are seemingly endless. Take a plunge into the waters for sun-drenched beach days. Or try your hand at water sports like boating, water skiing, wakeboarding, and tubing. And for those passionate about golf, nearby Arizona boasts exceptional courses that offer a sporty experience.
On the western coast of Lake Mead, you’ll discover a range of comfortable accommodations to suit your preferences. Whether you prefer the luxury of resorts or the rustic charm of tent and RV camping, you’ll find the perfect spot to unwind. For a unique experience, consider renting a houseboat and enjoy the opportunity to stay right on the tranquil waters of the lake.
4. Lake Powell
A man-made reservoir, Lake Powell is still one of the cleanest lakes in Arizona.
Lake Powell is a man-made reservoir that spans the Utah-Arizona border. Stretching an impressive 186 miles in length and boasting nearly 2,000 miles of shoreline, Lake Powell covers a vast territory that surpasses the entire west coast of the United States. With its 96 remarkable canyons, some spanning 15 to 20 miles in length, Lake Powell has become a favored national recreational destination.
While the water of Lake Powell may not be as clear and blue as it once was, it still stands as one of the cleanest lakes in Arizona. As the second largest reservoir in the country, Lake Powell is surely a wonder created by men!
At the southwest end of Lake Powell, you’ll discover the Wahweap Marina and Lake Powell Resort, conveniently located just a few miles from Page, Arizona.
Glen Canyon Dam, situated at the southern end of Lake Powell, is a must-visit spot. This remarkable structure is open for tours throughout the year. Additionally, this area serves as a home base for numerous expedition and excursion companies. They offer thrilling activities such as 4×4 tours, horseback riding, mountain biking, and scenic air tours, too.
South Lake Powell, in Arizona, serves as a hub for an array of fun activities both on and around the lake. For those not staying on a houseboat, camping along the shoreline is an incredible way to immerse yourself in the beauty of Lake Powell. Numerous campgrounds in the vicinity offer options for RV parking or tent camping.
5. Theodore Roosevelt Lake
Interestingly, Theodore Roosevelt Lake is slightly more difficult to get to.
Theodore Roosevelt Lake is the oldest man-made reservoir in the state. It came into existence in 1911 following the construction of a masonry dam on the Salt River. With a water surface spanning over 21,000 acres when full, this magnificent lake stretches 22 miles in length and boasts an impressive 128 miles of shoreline. Its maximum depth exceeds 300 feet, making Theodore Roosevelt Lake the largest reservoir entirely within Arizona.
Renowned as a premier destination, the lake is a major hub for boating, fishing, camping, and leisurely vacations. Despite its proximity to Phoenix, the most direct route to reach the lake is via the partly unpaved Apache Trail. This results in a slightly fewer number of visitors compared to other easily accessible water-based recreational sites in the Tonto National Forest.
Furthermore, anglers flock to Roosevelt Lake, seeking the thrill of reeling in trophy largemouth bass. The lake is also home to channel catfish, smallmouth bass, and crappie, offering a diverse fishing experience. With its expansive size, high-power bass boats can zip across the lake, allowing enthusiasts to explore various sections of the water, expanding their fishing horizons.
Multiple marinas and fee-based camping sites dot the shores of Roosevelt Lake, providing convenient amenities for visitors. Additionally, the lake features a wildlife refuge area.
6. Canyon Lake
Canyon Lake offers many activities, from fishing to camping and more!
Among the four lakes formed by the damming of the Salt River, Canyon Lake, with its 950-acre surface area, is the smallest.
Canyon Lake offers a huge variety activities to suit everyone, from boating and fishing to even jet skiing. What sets it apart is its reputation as one of the best swimming lakes in Arizona, providing a perfect setting for a refreshing dip in its pristine waters.
When it comes to accommodation options, Canyon Lake Marina & Campground has you covered. You can dock your boat or spend the night in your RV, complete with water and electric hookups. Alternatively, waterfront tent sites are available, equipped with showers, restrooms, a swimming area, and a convenient boat ramp.
What makes Canyon Lake truly special are its stunning shorelines adorned by red rock cliffs. Boaters seeking scenery and a secluded experience should explore the east end of the lake, where it winds its way through steep canyon walls. Keep your eyes peeled, as you may catch a glimpse of big horn sheep and other fascinating wildlife that call this area home.
7. Lake Havasu
It’s hard to beat the beautiful landscapes of Lake Havasu.
Nestled in the heart of the desert, Lake Havasu attracts more than 8 million visitors each year. Lake Havasu stretches across an impressive 619,400 acre-feet and spans a surface area of approximately 30.5 square miles.
One of the greatest appeals of Lake Havasu is its clean, freshwater environment. Unlike the ocean, this clean and inviting lake is free from riptide currents and dangerous aquatic species, allowing you to bask in the beauty of its open waters. With a breathtaking 400 miles of stunning coastline, Lake Havasu offers a remarkable backdrop for all of your water adventures.
Have fun on the sandy beaches, perfect for sun-soaked relaxation and refreshing swims. The park also boasts nature hiking trails, providing opportunities for exploration and connection with the surrounding landscape. Boating enthusiasts will appreciate the three convenient boat ramps, enabling you to set sail and indulge in thrilling water sports.
Whether you’re seeking camping under the stars with 54 available campsites, renting one of the 13 beach cabins, or enjoying a delightful picnic in designated areas, Lake Havasu State Park offers a range of options to suit your preferences.
Furthermore, don’t miss the chance to embark on the Mohave Sunset Trail, a tranquil 1.75-mile walk that meanders through the desert, allowing you to savor the scenic beauty of the Lake Havasu shoreline.
The lake also hosts exciting fishing tournaments and provides ample opportunities to reel in the catch of a lifetime.
8. Lake Pleasant
Try your hand at fishing in Lake Pleasant, one of the cleanest lakes in Arizona!
Lake Pleasant, situated near Phoenix, is formed by the Waddell Dam on the Agua Fria River. Spanning an impressive 7,500 acres, this lake offers a tranquil oasis with its clear waters and depth of 170 feet.
The clarity of Lake Pleasant is unparalleled, allowing you to peer into its depths even at depths of 50 feet. As an essential source of drinking water for the area, the lake is primarily supplied by the Colorado River. Beyond its role in water supply, Lake Pleasant beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its abundant recreational opportunities.
Here, you can cast your line and reel in a diverse array of fish species, including largemouth bass, white bass, channel catfish, striped bass, and black crappie. Moreover, the lake is a playground for water sports enthusiasts, and its surrounding trails and campgrounds are perfect for hiking, biking, and camping adventures.
To ensure your comfort and enjoyment, Lake Pleasant offers a wide range of amenities. With 165 campsites available, you can choose between tent sites, primitive spots, or improved sites with full hookups. Additionally, the lake boasts 450 picnic sites, 14 group-use areas, and four overlooks, all strategically positioned to enhance your experience and provide breathtaking views. What more could you want?
