LAKES SURROUNDING GILA COUNTY, ARIZONA

For desert dwellers and locals alike, roasting in the Arizona summer heat can be almost unbearable.  The good news  is there may be some relief that is relatively close by. Gila County is a respite for overheated adventure seekers looking to cool off and enjoy the water.  And it is about 90 minutes from Phoenix.

 

Featuring several high country lakes that are perfect for July and August temperatures and amazingly beautiful lakes stocked with great fishing opportunities it is no wonder that Gila County is the place to come when you are looking for some water fun. 

 

Weather it be fishing, boating, kayaking, swimming, paddle boarding or resting on the beach, Gila County means relief. Explore the Wild and enjoy the promise of cooler temperatures, shady pine forests, endless views and, of course, the refreshing lakes. 

MAP YOUR LAKE LOCATION

click on the "Blue" or "Green" icon to find your lake of choice

FIND YOUR LAKE ADVENTURE IN GILA COUNTY

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Bear Canyon
Lake

Best known for:

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Amenities are limited to primitive but the view is spectacular. In spite of the lake's remoteness and lack of access, you can use small boats on the lake and fish, picnic, camp and relax.

Credit:  David Pinter

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Chevelon

Lake

Best known for:

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Amenities are limited to primitive campsites. In spite of the lake's remoteness and lack of access, it is a premier trout fishing lake.

Credit:  Arizona Highways

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Point of Pines

Lake

Best known for:

 

One of the most pristine lakes in the entire Southwest.  With some nice sized trout, small boats and primitive camping spots.  Family lake. 

Credit:  Hike Arizona

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San Carlos

Lake

Best known for:

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Set state records for largemouth bass, black crappie and flathead catfish. Jet-skiing, water skiing and boating are also allowed.  Must have a permit to use.

Credit:  San Carlos Apache Tribe

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Willow Springs

Lake

Best known for:

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Very picturesque trout fishing lake.  Small boats with 10 hp or less are allowed on the lake. Fishing, picnicking, and site seeing. Sinkhole Campground is within walking distance of the lake.

Credit:  Cameron Davis

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Black Canyon
Lake

Best known for:

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This Lake offers Trout fishing throughout the Spring, Summer, and Fall months. A hiking path meanders along the edge of the lake from the parking area to the dam. Primitive camping is available.

Credit:  Delange.org

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Green Valley

Lakes

Species within this unit:

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Green Valley Lakes are part of the Arizona Game and Fishe's Urban Fishing program.  Electric motors only.  Very pretty setting with green grass.

Credit:  DJ Craig

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Potato

Lake

Best known for:

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Potato Lake is more of a lake to have a picnic at or a party at.  It is very picturesque and great for photography.  Limited fishing, kayaking and relaxing

Credit:  Cameron Davis

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Seneca Falls &

Lake

Best known for:

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Trophy largemouth bass, channel catfish and red-ear sunfish. Boat ramp and several fishing piers available.    Must have a permit to use.

Credit:  San Carlos Apache Tribe

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Woods Canyon

Lake

Best known for:

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One of Rim Country's most visited and accommodated lakes.  Boat rentals are available.  Amazing scenery, camping spots, fishing, access to forest Road 300 scenic byway, convenience store etc. 

Credit:  DJ Craig

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C.C. Cragin Reservoir
Blue Ridge Reservoir

Best known for:

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This narrow, winding body of water looks more like a canyon-bound river than a lake. Nestled between forested canyon walls it provides picturesque water recreation in a wooded setting.

Credit:  Delange.org

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Knoll

Lake

Best known for:

 

A medium-sized body of water tucked away in a picturesque setting. People come here to fish for trout and tour the lake in small boats.

Credit:  Cameron Davis

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Roosevelt

Lake

Best known for:

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Roosevelt offers just about everything including RVing, paid and primitive camping, boating, world class bass fishing, trails, marina and more.

Credit:  Curt Gilman

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Talkalai

Lake

Best known for:

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Known for its fishing, allowing anglers a chance at the big one.  Boat ramps are available, maximum of 25 horse power motors. Must have a permit to use.

Credit:  Scatrecreation.org

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GILA COUNTY ADVENTURE FORUM

Tell Us About Your Adventures In Gila County

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