From the Colorado River to secluded desert lakes, Arizona offers some incredible kayaking destinations. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or just dipping your paddle in for the first time, this guide covers 9 of the best places to kayak in Arizona: Roosevelt Lake, Apache Lake, Canyon Lake, Saguaro Lake, Lake Pleasant, the Colorado River (Hoover Dam to Willow Beach), the Colorado River (Topock to Castle Rock), Bill Williams National Wildlife Refuge, and Patagonia Lake.
You’ll also find helpful tips on choosing the right kayak and staying safe on the water.
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Finding some of the best places to kayak in Arizona
Some people think Arizona is just a land of dust and cacti.
Think again.
Hidden between rugged cliffs and sweeping desert landscapes are some of the most stunning kayaking spots in the Southwest. From the fiery canyon walls of Canyon Lake to the remote, cattail-lined channels of Bill Williams National Wildlife Refuge, Arizona offers a surprising variety of places to paddle.
Here are 9 of the best for your next adventure.
Record your kayaking adventures and bucket list paddles in this handy printable journal from TimeTravelTrek’s Etsy shop.
Roosevelt Lake: wide-open waters with hidden bays
As Arizona’s largest lake and the first of four Salt River reservoirs, Roosevelt Lake provides ample room to explore. A great launch spot is Windy Point Campground, where you can paddle around small islands and into hidden inlets.
- Paddle challenge level: Easy but watch for afternoon winds—they can make open-water paddling tricky.
- Hidden highlights: If water levels are high, you can paddle around a small island near the launch and weave through cattails.
- Wildlife to watch: Springtime is prime birdwatching season—bald eagles, ospreys, and herons are common sights.
Apache Lake: remote and wild
Nestled between steep canyon walls, Apache Lake is a quieter alternative to its more famous Salt River sisters. Accessible via a winding dirt road from Roosevelt Lake, this hidden gem rewards those who make the trek.
- Paddle challenge level: Easy in calm weather, but the lake’s long stretches can be tiring.
- Hidden highlights: Rocky bluffs and secluded coves—perfect for a picnic stop.
- Wildlife to watch: Keep an eye on the cliffs—desert bighorn sheep often make an appearance.
Canyon Lake: towering cliffs and secret waterfalls
Just 10 miles from Lost Dutchman State Park, Canyon Lake is a stunning mix of red rock cliffs and winding inlets. Start at Laguna Boat Ramp and paddle through Tortilla Creek before heading up La Barge Canyon.
- Paddle challenge level: Easy but be mindful of motorboat wakes.
- Hidden highlight: A small seasonal waterfall awaits at the end of La Barge Canyon.
- Wildlife to watch: Grebes, coots, turtles, and even eagles.
Saguaro Lake: cactus-studded shores and quiet bays
Launching from Butcher Jones Day Use Area, you’ll find calm waters and stunning views of towering saguaros clinging to the cliffs. This spot is a favorite for kayakers, paddleboarders, and even hikers following the shoreline. It’s an easy drive from Usery Mountain Regional Park campground.
- Paddle challenge level: Easy on calm days, but powerboats can create choppy conditions.
- Hidden highlight: The contrast of cacti against emerald-green water makes for incredible scenery.
- Wildlife to watch: Cormorants, hawks, and great blue herons frequent the lake.
Lake Pleasant: paddle away
Located northwest of Phoenix, Lake Pleasant offers plenty of paddling opportunities with designated no-wake zones. A great launching point is Castle Creek Boat Ramp.
- Paddle challenge level: Easy to moderate, depending on wind and boat traffic.
- Hidden highlight: Paddle past the launch to Fireman’s Cove—if water levels are low, you may need to portage a short stretch.
- Wildlife to watch: Look for wild burros posing along the shore.
Colorado River (Hoover Dam to Willow Beach): crystal-clear water and hidden caves
This scenic 12-mile stretch offers breathtaking canyon walls and clear water. You’ll need a permit and guide to launch from the dam, or you can paddle upstream from Willow Beach as far as you have arm strength and energy to go. Don’t miss remains of a wooden catwalk and cable car trams used by the “gauger” measuring river depths in the past.
Note: this section of river is closed to motorized boats on Sundays and Mondays – making it a peaceful paddle! Options for nearby basecamps include just over the state border in Boulder City, Nevada or up the big hill in Kingman.
- Paddle challenge level: Easy to moderate, depending on how far upstream you go.
- Hidden highlight: Paddle inside Emerald Cave for a striking green glow.
- Wildlife to watch: Coots, mallards, and even desert bighorn sheep along the cliffs.
Colorado River (Topock to Castle Rock): a river and marsh wonderland
This section of the river winds through scenic backwaters and marshes. We set up camp at Cattail Cove State Park and got a shuttle from Castle Rock – located in Havasu National Wildlife Refuge – to Topock with AZ Wacko (Western Arizona Canoe & Kayak Outfitters). Arranging a shuttle makes it a hassle-free, one-way float.
- Paddle challenge level: Moderate due to motorboat traffic and potential wind.
- Hidden highlight: Stop to check out the Hum-Me-Chomp petroglyphs.
- Wildlife to watch: Red-winged blackbirds fill the marshes with song.
Bill Williams National Wildlife Refuge: birding paradise
A hidden gem at the southern end of Lake Havasu, Bill Williams offers peaceful paddling through cattail-lined channels. Start near the interpretive center and explore the winding waterways.
- Paddle challenge level: Easy, unless winds kick up on Lake Havasu.
- Hidden highlight: Side channels provide a fun challenge to see how far you can paddle.
- Wildlife to watch: A haven for birders—herons, egrets, and kingfishers are common.
Patagonia Lake: a peaceful southern escape
Located in southern Arizona, Patagonia Lake is perfect for a relaxing paddle. You’ll find small islands, boat-in campsites, and plenty of birdlife.
- Paddle challenge level: Easy.
- Hidden highlight: Drift by an island rookery where herons nest.
- Wildlife to watch: Expect to see egrets, ducks, and maybe even a troop of coati along the shore.
Choosing the right kayak
Picking the right kayak can make or break your adventure. Here’s a quick rundown:
- Sit-on-top kayaks – Great for beginners and warm climates.
- Sit-in kayaks – Better for cooler weather and long-distance paddling.
- Inflatable kayaks – Portable and easy to store, but slower than hard-shell kayaks.
- Touring kayaks – Built for long, smooth paddles on flat water.
Essential kayaking gear & safety tips
Must-have gear
- PFD (Personal Flotation Device) – Non-negotiable for safety.
- Paddle – Choose the right length for your kayak type.
- Dry bag – Protects your valuables from water.
- Water shoes – Helps with rocky launch points.
- Sunscreen & hat – Arizona sun is serious (especially on the water where it feels cooler).
- Extra water & snacks – Stay hydrated!
Safety tips
- Check the weather – Arizona’s winds can turn a peaceful lake into a rough ride.
- Wear your PFD – Even strong swimmers should always wear one.
- Know your limits – Don’t overestimate your endurance.
- Avoid midday heat – Mornings and evenings are best.
- Watch for motorboats – Stick close to shore in high-traffic areas.
Ready to paddle Arizona?
Whether you prefer peaceful wildlife refuges or dramatic canyon scenery, these 9 destinations showcase some of the best places to kayak in Arizona.
Grab your gear, hit the water, and enjoy the adventure!
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