Arizona is home to several beautiful lakes that offer a wide range of recreational activities. Whether you’re interested in water sports, fishing or simply enjoying the scenic beauty of the desert landscapes, Arizona’s lakes have something for everyone! 

These are just a few of the best lakes in Arizona for recreation. Each offers its own unique attractions and opportunities for outdoor adventure, making them popular destinations for visitors and locals alike.  

Here are some of the best lakes in Arizona for recreation: 

Lake Powell

Lake Powell is one of the largest reservoirs in the United States, situated along the Arizona-Utah border. It offers a vast expanse of water for boating, water skiing, jet skiing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. With over 2,000 miles of shoreline, Lake Powell also provides opportunities for fishing, hiking, and exploring stunning slot canyons. 

Lake Havasu

Lake Havasu is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy boating, jet skiing, water skiing, wakeboarding, and tubing on the lake’s expansive waters. The lake’s sandy beaches and clear blue waters are ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Additionally, Lake Havasu is known for its annual events, including the London Bridge Days and the Havasu Balloon Festival. 

Saguaro Lake

Saguaro Lake is northeast of Phoenix in the Tonto National Forest. It offers opportunities for boating, fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The lake’s scenic surroundings, including towering saguaro cacti and rugged desert landscapes, make it a popular spot for outdoor recreation and photography. Scenic boat tours are also available for visitors to explore the lake and learn about its natural history. 

Lake Pleasant

Lake Pleasant is a large reservoir northwest of Phoenix, surrounded by the Sonoran Desert. It offers a variety of recreational activities, including boating, sailing, water skiing, fishing, and swimming. The lake’s numerous coves and beaches provide opportunities for picnicking and hiking. Lake Pleasant is also home to the Lake Pleasant Regional Park, which offers amenities such as campgrounds, hiking trails, and scenic overlooks. 

Patagonia Lake

Patagonia Lake is in southern Arizona, near the town of Patagonia. It is surrounded by rolling hills and lush riparian vegetation, making it a haven for wildlife and birdwatching. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, and picnicking at the lake’s designated recreation areas.  

Bartlett Lake

Bartlett Lake is situated northeast of Phoenix in the Tonto National Forest. It offers opportunities for boating, fishing, water skiing, jet skiing, and swimming. The lake’s remote location and rugged desert scenery make it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking solitude and serenity.  

Enjoy Lake Days with REBL Rentals

We have an impressive collection of vacation rentals to suit all sizes and budgets in some of Arizona’s most desirable vacation destinations. Book one of our rentals to be your home base as you explore some of Arizona’s best lakes for recreation. We hope to see you out on the water soon. Come stay and play with us!