Kayaking at Watson Lake- Prescott, Arizona - Your Ultimate Guide
dec 18, 2023Watson Lake, in Prescott Arizona is one of the best small lakes for kayakers of all skill levels. Watson Lake is a “no wake lake”, meaning that motorized boats can be on the lake, but they can’t go fast enough to create waves. The waters are always smooth and calm, perfect for that relaxing, back to nature paddle adventure.
Watson Lake, just four miles from downtown Prescott, Arizona, sits right at the heart of the Granite Dells and is a breathtaking kayak adventure to soothe the soul. Here is a comprehensive guide to some of the best paddling in Arizona:
Mornings
Watson Lake can be chilly in the morning, as the sun peeks over the Dells and starts to warm up the water. In the heat of the summer, mornings are a great time to get ahead of the sun as the boulders offer brief respites of shade. Wildlife is more active in the mornings and offers the chance to witness some amazing creatures such as mule deer, foxes, and an incredible array of birds. Watson Lake in Prescott is an Important Bird Area (IBA).
Evenings
As the day winds down, this is the time Wild-Tumbleweeds come to kayak on the lake. The sunset reflects off the Granite Dells onto the water in a way that is indescribable and will leave you breathless and your Instagram followers begging for more! It's an amazing way to conclude your day on the serene waters of Watson Lake.
Hours and Fees for Kayaking at Watson Lake
Watson Lake is one of the best small lakes in Arizona for kayaking. At just over 70 acres, there are two launch spots, both accessible from the Watson Lake Park
As of January 2023, these are the fees at Watson Lake in Prescott Arizona, and they may be subject to change. It's essential to check or visit the official website for the most up-to-date information. Here's a general overview:
Hours
Spring Hours: 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Summer Hours: 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Winter Hours: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Parking Fees
$3
Kayak Rental Fees
If you're renting a kayak, prices range from $20 to $40 per hour, depending on the type of kayak and how long you take it out. Check out Prescott Outdoors to rent your kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddle board.
More Information about Watson Lake
Formation and Purpose
Watson Lake, along with Willow Lake, are the two reservoirs at the Granite Dells in Prescott, Arizona. In the early 1900s, the Chino Valley Irrigation District built a dam on the Granite Creek. In 1997, the City of Prescott bought the reservoir and surrounding land to preserve it as recreational land.
Watson Lake Park features a ton of amenities for summer fun including camping and hiking trails. The Granite Dells are well known in the rock climbing community as well, and there are significant opportunities to see the lake from above, before or after your kayak adventure.
What are the Granite Dells?
The Granite Dells are rocks and boulders made of granite that have eroded over time to have a very unique rippled look. You may feel like you have left Arizona and have been transported to an alien world. Keep your eyes peeled for some of the most amazing formations hidden deep in the coves of the lake.
Fishing
Kayaking on Lake Watson is not just about paddling; it's also a great destination for fishing. The lake is stocked with various fish species, including bass and catfish. Bring your fishing gear on your kayak and enjoy the thrill of catching fish surrounded by the scenic beauty of the Prescott wilderness. The combination of kayaking and fishing adds an extra element of excitement to your outing, making Lake Watson perfect for a Wild-Tumbleweed to spend the day.
Visit Watson Lake for your Next Kayaking Trip!
Today, Watson Lake continues to be a focal point for Wild Tumbleweeds, providing kayaking, picnicking, camping, and photography against the backdrop of amazing granite boulders and the tranquil waters of the lake. It is one of our “let's get out of the city right now spots”!
Don’t Let the Dust Settle on Your Boots!
