However, kayaking on that lake is pretty good, and there are some other lakes in the area that would work (Ashurst, others by Williams like Kaibab). Picnic tables, barbecue grills and fire rings are standard at each site, and pit toilets are available in the campground. Indulging her passion for vacation vagary through the written word on a full-time basis since 2010, travel funster Jodi Thornton-O'Connell guides readers to the unexpected, quirky, and awe-inspiring.During years of drought, Lower Lake Mary can dwindle in size until it disappears altogether. The access roads start out rough and get worse – this keeps many visitors away, but the brave and well-equipped will find an oasis of cool, turquoise water with few other visitors to spoil the view. Get to know the area. Best nearby.
A spur trail near the beginning leads to “the crack,” a large, flat rocky spot that is sometimes crowded during the summer. Shallow it may be, it still holds the title of being the largest lake in the state of Arizona, because of its expanse. This spot gets a little busy in the summer, but it's well worth the trip. Backpackers, be aware that camping is not allowed in certain areas of Parson's Spring Trail.Drive to the Beaver Creek Campground for an easy place to cool off. This is where you can disconnect from a hectic life and focus on yourself. Smaller local lake great for boating, swimming, and water skiing. Not crowded like some lakes. The beach is rocky. The hike is 11 miles total, though most of the swimming holes lie within the first few miles of trail. I think the only body of water suitable for swimming is Upper Lake Mary, and some would argue with that point, because it gets really muddy at times. Flagstaff is home to Humphreys Peak, Arizonaâs tallest mountain. Location: 7 to 17 miles southeast of Flagstaff on paved roads. Mormon Lake is surrounded by Ponderosa Pine forests in a lush setting. Upper Lake Mary is one of two manmade lakes near Flagstaff, AZ. Its ponderosa pine covering, Gambel oak, and Arizona white oak all create a sight to remember.Lake Mary is definitely one of the two major reservoirs located in the southeast part of Flagstaff.
Just remember to purchase a parking pass – a day pass is $5.The adventurous will want to head to Sycamore Canyon, near Cottonwood. It is considered to be among a handful of natural lakes in Arizona. Located along the highway between Sedona and Flagstaff, it is easy to access and extremely popular on summer weekends. Smaller local lake great for boating, swimming, and water skiing.
Canyon Vista Campground (fs.usda.gov) is an excellent place to access the lake when it exists, as well as nearby Walnut Canyon. Creek access is just outside the parking lot, and it's easy to bring coolers, towels, and anything else for a relaxing day by the water. 0 Restaurants within 5 miles. The far end of Upper Lake Mary and Pinegrove Campground are approximately 17 miles.