What comes to mind when you think of Arizona? The Grand Canyon? Probably. Lake Oasis? Probably not. Arizona is a great place for aquatic adventures. Whether you’re fishing for striper and catfish or taking the boat out on the water to enjoy some water skiing and wakeboarding, there are plenty of water activities to enjoy. Check out Lake Powell, the nation's second-largest manmade lake, Lake Havasu in Western Arizona, or Rainbow Lake in High Country's White Mountains.
Where To Plan A Lake Vacation In Arizona
1. Lake of the Woods Resort - Lakeside
You can't go wrong with the resort that's been voted Best Cabin Resort in the White Mountains for 15 years. This 25 acre resort has its own private lake which means you don't need a fishing license. It's a resort for the whole family, including your furry friends! There's no swimming in the lake, but the resort stocks the lake with rainbow trout, blue gill, catfish and large mouth bass to make your fishing success a sure bet. Choose from one of the 26 cabins or 7 condo-style units. The closest big city is Flagstaff, two and a half hours away.
2. Lake Havasu City
Today, Lake Havasu City is one of the most popular vacation destinations in Arizona and offers a range of recreational activities for families, couples and single travelers. Lake Havasu, the centerpoint of Lake Havasu City, was formed in 1938 after the Parker Dam was built. The lake is most famous for the actual London Bridge, bought by the city's founding father, Robert McCullough, for $2,460,000, after the city of London put it up for auction in 1968. While you're there, be sure to check out Sarah Park, an 1100-acre regional park, with hiking and mountain bike trails and Havasu 95 Speedway, an ASA-sanctioned paved oval track and one of the biggest attractions in Lake Havasu City.
3. Bullhead City
City of Bullhead is a city of all seasons. It's known for 360 days of sunshine a year that allows numerous outdoor recreation activities year round. The City is home to the largest tube float, Bullhead City River Regatta, that takes place the second weekend in August of each year, where 30,000 participants float a 2.5 mile stretch of the beautiful Colorado River. You can also play at Lake Mohave which is located approximately fifteen minutes north of the City with plenty of activities available. Take a break afterwards on the sandy beaches of Community or Rotary Park.
4. Page
Page is known as the Gateway to Lake Powell. Located in Northern Arizona, two and a half hours away from Flagstaff and near the Utah border, Page was created in the 1960s as the base camp for construction workers on Glen Canyon Dam. It is now the center hub of Northern Arizona attractions and things to do and see for visitors, tourists, and vacationers. For all you history buffs, Page's location is ideal for exploring many of the American Southwest's renowned national parks and monuments, and discovering the unique culture of the Navajo Nation.
5. Peoria
Beautiful and scene Lake Pleasant calls Peoria home. It's the perfect place to relax with friends and family with great shoreline picnic spots and hidden coves for your favorite water sports. The water is clear and beautiful and delivered directly from the Colorado River. Enjoy the many different camping sites, located next to the boat docks, and when you're tired of the water, you can learn about the Maricopa County wildlife.
This article was written by Lauren Gaw.