Despite being a desert, Tucson Arizona, actually has a ton of great kayaking spots nearby! Check out the urban sites in West Tucson, or make a drive to one of the states parks to explore the state on the water!
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Silverbell Lake is an urban recreation area in West Tucson, loved for its fishing and kayaking in Christopher Columbus Park!
Silverbell Lake
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Kennedy Lake is another urban lake in West Tucson and it has picnic tables and grills, and a swimming pool! Life vests are required for kayaking!
Kennedy Lake
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Just south of Tucson is Sahuarita. At the lake, visitors can enjoy kayaking or strolling along the pathway. You can rent a kayak on the weekends if you don't have your own!
Sahuarita Lake
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Near the Nogales and Mexico border, this lake is open recreationally for kayakers year round!
Pena Blanca Lake
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Patagonia Lake was one of my favorite day trips and you can rent kayaks to enjoy the lake, too!
Patagonia Lake State Park
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This two hour kayaking spot near Tucson is perfect for a day trip or weekend camping trip! Tranquil and breathtaking.
Parker Canyon Lake
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This lake sits at the base of Mount Grahm, so kayakers can get beautiful mountainous views. Kayakers can launch from the boat ramp on the east side of the park.
Roper Lake
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Located on the lower salt river and Saguaro Lake, you can rent kayaks from Saguaro Lake Guest Ranch seasonally.
Saguaro Lake Guest Ranch
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This 900-acre recreation area along the Apache Scenic Byway gives kayakers scenic views of the Superstition Mountains.
Canyon Lake
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Just north of Phoenix, Lake Pleasant gives desert views for boaters, hikers, kayakers, and swimmers alike!
Lake Pleasant Regional Park
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In the quaint town of Show Low you'll find Fool Hollow, a perfect relaxing spot for any kayaker. Check out the wildlife islands to beat the crowd!
Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area
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Cattail Cove is a quieter part of Lake Havasu, great for kayaking!
Cattail Cove State Park
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This year-round, 24-hour park is on the Colorado River with water access to all sorts of water activities, including kayaking!
Lake Havasu State Park
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This is one of the most popular spots to kayak, with routes for all experience levels! Wind through the Colorado River through Antelope Canyon.
Horseshoe Bend
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Lake Powell is a fantastic (and might I add beautiful) getaway for all water sports, but kayaking! Just look at the picture to see what I mean!