Arizona's Best High-Elevation Lakes for Summer Camping (Part Three: Water + Cool Air)
If elevation is the key to comfortable summer camping in Arizona, adding water makes it even better.
Cool air is great.
Cool air + a lake you can swim, paddle, or fish in? That's peak Arizona summer strategy.
These high-elevation lakes sit above 6,000 feet, offering manageable temperatures, forest shade, and water access that turns a camping trip into a full-on summer escape.
Woods Canyon Lake (7,000 ft)
Tucked along the Mogollon Rim, Woods Canyon Lake is one of the most accessible high-elevation camping destinations in central Arizona. Surrounded by tall ponderosa pines, it offers both developed campgrounds and nearby dispersed options along Rim Road (FR 300).
Activities:
- Kayaking and canoeing
- Fishing (stocked regularly)
- Easy shoreline trails
- Wildlife watching
Why it's perfect in summer:
- Evenings cool into the 50s-60s
- Shaded campsites
- Calm water ideal for families
This lake strikes a balance between convenience and forest immersion.
Big Lake (9,000 ft)
Big Lake sits high in the White Mountains and feels almost alpine. At 9,000 feet, it stays significantly cooler than the Rim and rarely feels oppressive even in July.
Activities:
- Excellent trout fishing
- Paddleboarding
- Lakeside camping
- Wildlife sightings (elk frequent the area)
Access via:
- FR 249
- FR 273 corridor
Why it's elite:
- True mountain temperatures
- Wide open meadow views
- Consistently cool nights
If you want Arizona camping that doesn't feel like Arizona summer, this is it.
Lake Mary (6,800 ft)
Located just southeast of Flagstaff, Lake Mary offers easy access with plenty of dispersed camping along forest roads.
Activities:
- Kayaking and small sailboats
- Shoreline hiking
- Birdwatching
- Sunset photography
Access roads:
- FR 3
- FR 125
- Multiple spurs off Lake Mary Road
Why it works:
- Close to town amenities
- High-elevation cooling
- Reliable breeze across open water
This is ideal for quick weekend escapes from the Valley.
Luna Lake (8,000 ft)
Located near Alpine in eastern Arizona, Luna Lake is smaller and quieter than Big Lake but equally cool. It's perfect for relaxed camping without heavy boat traffic.
Activities:
- Canoeing
- Fishing
- Lakeside relaxation
Access:
- FR 56
- Alpine area forest roads
Why it's great:
- Peaceful atmosphere
- High elevation
- Less crowd pressure
Hawley Lake (8,200 ft)
Hawley Lake, located on the White Mountain Apache Reservation, offers some of the coolest summer camping in Arizona. Permits are required, which helps control crowd levels.
Activities:
- Paddleboarding
- Fishing
- Lakeside camping
- Wildlife viewing
Why it's different:
- Controlled access
- Strong monsoon cloud drama
- Cooler temps than most Rim locations
What Makes Lake Camping Different?
Water changes the experience:
- Air temperatures feel cooler near lakes
- Afternoon swims break up the heat
- Kids stay entertained
- Campsites feel less dusty
- Sunsets reflect off water for dramatic views
However, be aware:
- Afternoon monsoon storms build quickly
- Lightning risk increases near open water
- Mosquitoes can be present (pack accordingly)
Final Thoughts
High-elevation lake camping is Arizona's summer cheat code. When you combine altitude with water, the state transforms. Instead of enduring summer, you actually enjoy it.
If your goal is restful sleep, cool mornings, and days spent in or near water, aim high -- and aim for blue on the map.
Arizona summer doesn't have to be miserable. You just have to know where to go.