Top 8 Lakes in Gila County

For extensive water recreation, Roosevelt Lake is the largest in Arizona and offers motorized boating, water skiing, and Jet Skiing, along with excellent fishing for largemouth bass and catfish. Apache Lake provides a more secluded experience for boating, kayaking, and fishing, while Canyon Lake is ideal for water sports and known for its scenic red rock formations. For trout fishing in cooler, forested settings, consider high-country lakes like Black Canyon Lake or Woods Canyon Lake.

Yes, several lakes in Gila County are suitable for families. Fossil Springs, a river with beautiful blue-green pools, is a popular spot for swimming and family hiking. Roosevelt Lake offers camping and water activities for all ages. Green Valley Park Lake and Fountain is another family-friendly option with facilities and trails.

The lakes in Gila County are set amidst diverse natural landscapes. You'll find the stunning Sonoran Desert terrain with saguaro cacti, dramatic canyon walls, and mountain views, particularly around Roosevelt Lake, Apache Lake, and Canyon Lake. Higher elevation lakes like Woods Canyon Lake are surrounded by forested settings, offering cooler temperatures and different scenery. Many areas provide opportunities to spot wildlife such as bighorn sheep, bald eagles, and various waterfowl.

Near Roosevelt Lake, you can visit the prehistoric cliff dwellings at Tonto National Monument, which offer views of the lake and a glimpse into ancient cultures. The Arizona Trail also crosses the Salt River on a bridge over Theodore Roosevelt Lake, providing a connection to a significant long-distance trail.

Beyond water sports, Gila County offers numerous outdoor activities. You can find various hiking trails, from easy strolls to more challenging routes. For example, there are many hiking trails in Gila County, including easy options like the Pine Creek, Anna Mae, Gowan, and Waterfall Loop. The area also has running trails, such as the Mount Ord Trail or the Reavis Gap Loop.

Yes, Roosevelt Lake offers several hiking opportunities. A half-mile trail leads to the prehistoric cliff dwellings at Tonto National Monument, providing scenic views of the lake. The Arizona Trail also crosses the Salt River on a bridge over the lake, offering longer hiking segments. You can also enjoy views from Inspiration Point - Arizona Trail, which overlooks the lake and the longest two-lane inverted arch suspension bridge in America.

On the south side of Roosevelt Lake, you can find Roosevelt Lake Marina & Shop. This full-service marina offers dining options like burgers and beer, and provides a refreshing waterfront break. While the shop has a limited selection, it can be useful for basic needs. Additionally, Windy Hill Campground offers facilities for visitors.

The lakes in Gila County offer year-round appeal, but the best time depends on your preferred activities. Cooler months (fall, winter, and spring) are ideal for hiking and exploring, as the desert temperatures are more pleasant. During these times, rainbow trout are often stocked in lakes like Apache Lake and Canyon Lake. Summer is popular for water sports, though temperatures can be very high, especially at lower elevation lakes. High-country lakes provide a cooler escape during the warmer months.

Yes, camping is a popular activity around the lakes. Roosevelt Lake offers hundreds of campsites along the water, including a 50-space RV park. Apache Lake Marina and Resort provides a range of camping options, from primitive sites to full hookup RV sites, along with motel rooms and other amenities. Many of the high-country lakes, such as Black Canyon Lake, also offer primitive camping opportunities.

The lakes are home to diverse wildlife. At Roosevelt Lake, you might spot migratory waterfowl, bald eagles, and osprey. Apache Lake is known for bighorn sheep on the cliffs, mule deer, javelina, and various bird species including bald eagles and herons. Canyon Lake also offers opportunities to see bighorn sheep, javelina, and deer along its scenic trails.

Yes, at Canyon Lake, you can take narrated cruises aboard the Dolly Steamboat. These cruises offer a unique perspective on the lake's stunning beauty, history, geology, and wildlife, making for a memorable experience.