Best Arizona Swimming Holes for Recreation, Hiking, and Relaxing
We have not explored every water spot in Arizona, but we’ve pulled together a list of some of the best Arizona swimming holes we’ve visited so far. From lakes and rivers to creeks and hidden swimming holes, these destinations are perfect for cooling off and connecting with nature. Some are great for weekend getaways, while others are close enough to Phoenix for a quick day trip. Before heading out, be sure to plan ahead, stay safe around water, and always practice Leave No Trace. We’ll keep updating this post as we discover more of the best Arizona swimming holes around the state.
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Top Arizona Swimming Holes
Lake Powell
Lake Powell, located along the Arizona and Utah border, is one of the most iconic water destinations in the Southwest. While the nearby city of Page gets hot during the summer, the lake itself is a great place to cool off. As the second largest reservoir in the country, there is no shortage of ways to enjoy the water.
You can swim, kayak, jetski, fish, or rent a boat to explore the scenic canyons and hidden coves. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day by the water or an adventure-filled weekend, Lake Powell has something for everyone.
Interested in how we spent a weekend exploring Lake Powell and Glen Canyon National Recreation Area? Check out our blog post all about it here.
Lake Havasu
Lake Havasu is a classic Arizona water destination, especially during the summer. While the area gets extremely hot, the lake offers plenty of ways to cool off. You can swim, rent a boat or jetski, and explore the surrounding coves and shoreline.
We rented a jetski and rode down the Colorado River — it was such a fun way to spend the day. If you are interested in what our Lake Havasu trip looked like, you can check out our blog post about it here.
For entrance fees and more information, visit the Arizona State Parks website.
Saguaro Lake and Canyon Lake
Located along the Salt River, Saguaro Lake and Canyon Lake are both popular spots for water activities east of Phoenix. We have kayaked on Saguaro Lake and hiked near Canyon Lake, and while we still have more to explore, these areas offer beautiful desert views and a chance to cool off on the water.
Keep in mind that summer temperatures here are extreme. Being on the water helps, but sun protection, hydration, and early start times are essential. If you are curious about what kayaking on Saguaro Lake looks like, you can check out our Instagram reel for a quick look at the experience.
There is a recreation fee required for both lakes, but you can use your America the Beautiful Pass. Just south of Saguaro Lake, you will also find Lower Salt River day use areas that are great for floating, picnicking, or short hikes.
Roper Lake
Roper Lake State Park sits at the base of Mount Graham in southeastern Arizona and offers a peaceful, scenic spot for water recreation. The lake is popular for fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, and there is also a designated swimming area for cooling off during warmer months.
It is a quieter alternative to some of Arizona’s bigger lakes, making it a great option if you are looking for a more relaxed getaway surrounded by mountains and desert views.
For current park hours and entrance fees, visit the Arizona State Parks website.
Gila Box
We visited the Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area and were blown away by how peaceful and underrated it is. The Gila River winds through rugged desert cliffs and lush riparian habitat, creating a perfect setting for paddling, relaxing, or floating in the water.
In the spring, this is a great spot for canoeing and kayaking thanks to snowmelt runoff. During summer months, people float sections of the river in inflatable kayaks or simply wade in to cool off. There is no entrance fee, and the area is managed by the BLM.
Want a deeper look at what it’s like? Check out our full blog post on Gila Box for camping tips, river access points, and what we loved most about this hidden gem.
For official park updates and river conditions, visit the Gila Box BLM page.
Patagonia Lake
If you’re planning a weekend getaway in the southern part of the state, Patagonia Lake is one of the best Arizona swimming holes to add to your list. Located an hour south of Tucson near the town of Patagonia, Patagonia Lake State Park is a scenic and well-loved spot for water recreation. The lake is surrounded by rolling hills and desert vegetation, offering a peaceful place to unwind or explore by boat.
We visited during the winter, so we did not get out on the water, but this lake is very popular for kayaking, boating, and fishing during warmer months. There are also shaded picnic areas, hiking trails nearby, and a beach area for swimming in the summer.
For current park conditions, entrance fees, and amenities, visit the Patagonia Lake State Park website.
Lake Mary
Located just outside of Flagstaff, Lake Mary is a long and narrow reservoir that is popular for a variety of water activities, especially when water levels are high. While we have not had the chance to spend time on the water here yet, it is well known for power boating, water skiing, kayaking, and swimming.
Unlike many other lakes in Arizona, there is no motor size restriction, which makes it a favorite for boaters and skiers. Fees are required at developed day use areas during the busy season, which usually runs from mid April through mid October.
For current conditions and recreation updates, visit the Coconino National Forest website.
Slide Rock State Park
Slide Rock is one of the best Arizona water spots for families thanks to its natural water slide and scenic canyon setting. Located in Oak Creek Canyon near Sedona, this natural water slide draws huge crowds thanks to its slick red rock formations and refreshing pools.
The park fills up quickly, and the parking lot is limited, so we highly recommend arriving early. As the day goes on, expect long lines to get into the park, especially on weekends and holidays.
For hours, entrance fees, and current conditions, visit the Slide Rock State Park website.
Lyman Lake
Lyman Lake State Park is an underrated water destination tucked away in northeastern Arizona near the town of St. Johns. Unlike many lakes in Arizona, there are no motor restrictions here, making it great for all types of boating, from kayaking and paddleboarding to jet skis and wakeboarding.
When we visited, we loved how uncrowded and laid back the atmosphere was, especially compared to other popular lakes. There is a sandy beach area that is perfect for swimming and relaxing by the water, plus camping options right on the lake, including RV hookups and tent sites.
We spent time paddleboarding and floating. It was peaceful and scenic with distant mountain views and a wide open sky. Check out the state parks website for more information.
Lake Pleasant
Lake Pleasant is one of the largest and most popular lakes near Phoenix, located just north of the city. It is a go-to spot for boating, jet skiing, wakeboarding, paddleboarding, and kayaking. With more than 10,000 acres of water and over 100 miles of shoreline, there is plenty of space to spread out and enjoy.
We visited in the spring, and while the water was still a little chilly, it was a great time to explore without the intense summer crowds. You can bring your own gear or rent equipment at the marina. There are also designated swimming areas, picnic spots, and trails if you want to hike before cooling off in the water.
Other Arizona Lakes to Consider
- Roosevelt Lake (Globe, AZ)
- Apache Lake (Apache Junction, AZ)
- Alamo Lake State Park (Western Arizona)
- Lake Mead (Kingman, AZ)
- Lake Mohave (Colorado River, AZ)
Arizona Swimming Holes for Boating
Horseshoe Bend & The Colorado River
We booked a backhaul trip with Kayak Horseshoe Bend, which dropped us off at Petroglyph Beach along with our rental kayaks. We chose the earliest time slot and were on the water by 6:15 in the morning. From there, we paddled nine miles down the Colorado River to Lees Ferry.
Along the way, we passed several beaches — some designated for day use and others for camping. A few sites have composting toilets, but it is important to use them properly. Only human waste should go into the toilets, otherwise they can’t function as intended. For more things to do in the area check out our detailed blog post.
Watson Lake
Watson Lake is a scenic and popular destination near Prescott, surrounded by granite boulders and unique rock formations. While swimming is not allowed, it is still a great place to enjoy the water by kayak, canoe, or paddleboard.
Prescott is typically five to ten degrees cooler than Phoenix, which makes this a great summer escape. We loved kayaking here and soaking in the views.
Want to see what our experience looked like? Check out our full blog post on kayaking Watson Lake.
Fool Hollow Lake
Located near Show Low in eastern Arizona, Fools Hollow Lake is a peaceful spot for low speed boating, fishing, and paddling. In the summer, there is a designated outfitter offering lakeside canoe and kayak rentals, making it easy to get out on the water.
Only boats with gasoline engines up to ten horsepower are allowed, which helps keep the lake quiet and calm. Fishing is permitted, and the park has restrooms and shower facilities available for day users and campers.
For entrance fees and current hours, visit the Arizona State Parks website.
Willow Lake
Willow Lake, located north of Payson, is a quiet spot popular for fishing, kayaking, and paddle boarding. While swimming is technically allowed, there are no designated beach or wading areas, so water access is best enjoyed from a boat or board.
There is no fee for day use or boat launching, and boats with motors up to ten horsepower are permitted. An Arizona state fishing license is required to fish here.
Please remember to pack out everything you pack in. There is no trash service at this site, and when we visited, we unfortunately found and removed a lot of litter. Let’s all do our part to keep these places clean and open.
For more information, visit the Forest Service website.
Knoll Lake
Knoll Lake, located along the Mogollon Rim, is a peaceful retreat and a great way to escape the Phoenix heat. The cooler temperatures and pine forest setting make it a popular summer getaway.
Motorized boats are allowed, but they must use a single electric motor. Swimming is allowed, but there are no sandy or easy-entry areas along the shoreline. For that reason, we recommend paddle boarding or kayaking as the best way to enjoy the water.
For updates on lake access, road conditions, and seasonal closures, visit the Forest Service website.
Bear Lake
Located north of Payson, Bear Lake is a quiet spot popular for paddle boarding, kayaking, and enjoying cooler temperatures in the forested rim country. Swimming is allowed, but there are no sandy shoreline areas, so entering the water is best done from a boat or board.
Only electric motors are allowed on boats here, which helps keep the lake calm and quiet. There are no trash services, so please pack out everything you bring in. When we visited, we saw firsthand how important it is to take care of these lesser known spots.
For more information and current access conditions, visit the Forest Service website.
Goldwater Lake
Tucked into the pine-covered hills of Prescott, Goldwater Lake is a scenic spot perfect for paddling, picnicking, and escaping the heat. The lake is surrounded by ponderosa pines and has a peaceful, mountain feel that makes it a great place for a day outdoors.
We rented a tandem kayak through Born To Be Wild Adventures, and it was a fun and easy way to explore the lake. Rental prices at the time were:
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Single kayak or stand up paddleboard: 25 dollars per day
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Tandem kayak or canoe: 50 dollars per day
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Pedal boat (seats four): 75 dollars for up to three hours
Goldwater Lake is managed as a city park, and there is a three dollar entrance fee per vehicle. Swimming is not allowed, but fishing is permitted with a valid Arizona fishing license. You will also find picnic tables, restrooms, and a calm shoreline perfect for launching a kayak or paddleboard.
Best Swimming Hole Hikes in Arizona
Summer is monsoon season in Arizona, especially near the Mogollon Rim and high country areas. Afternoon storms are common and can quickly lead to flash flooding, especially near rivers, creeks, and narrow canyons.
Flooding can happen even if it is not raining where you are — water can travel from higher elevations and fill canyons in minutes. Always check the forecast in the surrounding region, not just at the trailhead. If storms are expected, plan to hike early in the day and avoid low-lying areas.
Stay safe, be prepared, and never take chances when water is involved.
Fossil Springs via Bob Bear Trail
Fossil Springs, accessed from the Bob Bear Trailhead near Strawberry, is one of the most beautiful water hikes in Arizona — but it is also one of the most challenging and regulated.
You must have a permit to hike this trail. Permits are available on recreation.gov and are required both in your vehicle and on your person at all times. Make sure to reserve ahead, especially during peak months.
We hiked to the Fossil Creek Dam from the Strawberry side, completing an eight point seven mile out and back hike with over fifteen hundred feet of elevation gain on the way out. The hike out of the canyon is steep and demanding — this is not a casual water hike. Please plan accordingly and know your limits.
We each carried three liters of water plus an extra bottle, and we both drank every drop. Even with an early start, we did not finish until around one twenty in the afternoon. To stay safe, we recommend avoiding the hottest part of the day and wearing sturdy hiking shoes with good grip.
This trail offers incredible beauty but requires preparation and respect for the environment and your body. Hike smart and plan ahead.
Wet Beaver Creek: "The Crack"
Wet Beaver Creek is home to one of the most popular swimming holes in Arizona, known as The Crack. Reaching it requires a hike along the Bell Trail, and while the reward is amazing, the hike is not easy.
The trail is approximately seven point eight miles round trip, with very little shade and intense heat during the warmer months. If you plan to visit, bring at least one gallon of water per person, wear sturdy footwear, and protect yourself from the sun.
Even with the challenge, The Crack is absolutely worth it. The water is refreshing, the scenery is stunning, and the red rock cliffs make for a fun spot to swim and jump in. Just know that it can get very busy, especially on weekends, so we recommend starting early.
For more trail details and safety tips, check out our full blog post on Wet Beaver Creek.
Water Wheel Falls
Water Wheel Falls, located near Payson, is a short but very popular hike that leads to a scenic swimming hole and small waterfall. We started the trail around eight thirty in the morning, and by the time we were heading out, the parking lot and trail were already getting busy.
The hike is about one point six miles out and back to reach the main waterfall. It is relatively short, but you will be walking over rocks and along the creek, so wear proper footwear and take your time.
Flash floods are a real risk in this area, especially during monsoon season. Always check the forecast for the broader region before hiking here — even if it looks clear where you are.
There is a day use fee to park at the trailhead, but we were able to use our America the Beautiful pass. Dogs are allowed, but must be kept on a leash at all times.
West Fork Trail
