Phoenix Metro River Access
Lower Salt River (Mesa area)
Just outside Phoenix and Mesa, the Lower Salt River offers a peaceful escape into Arizona’s desert landscape. With calm waters and shaded banks, it’s perfect for beginners, families, and anyone looking to float through cottonwoods and canyon views. Wildlife is part of the magic here—wild horses, herons, and turtles are often spotted along the shoreline.
Whether you're out for a short paddle or a full-day float, this river blends desert stillness with riparian life, making it one of the most rewarding ways to explore the Sonoran outdoors.
What to Know Before You Go
- Permits: A Tonto Daily Pass ($8-10) is required, available at local vendors.
- Difficulty: Mostly gentle current with occasional riffles—great for beginners with basic paddling skills.
- Best Time: Early morning for calm water and wildlife; weekdays are quieter than weekends.
Main Access Points (East to West)
*Some of the sites may be dry during parts of the year so always do research before a trip.
• Water Users Recreation Site (Water not available year round)
Best for: Short paddles, wildlife sightings, and early morning launches
Notes: Closest to Stewart Mountain Dam; great for spotting wild horses and herons
• Blue Point Recreation Site (Water not available year round)
Best for: Easy access and mellow floats
Notes: Popular with beginners; shaded shoreline and good parking
• Pebble Beach Recreation Site (Water not available year round)
Best for: Mid-length paddles and tubing crossovers
Notes: Often busy on weekends; good for launching or taking out
• Coon Bluff Recreation Site (Water not available year round)
Best for: Wildlife viewing and shaded rest stops
Notes: Ideal for take-outs or picnics mid-route
• Phon D Sutton Recreation Site
Best for: Longer floats and end-of-day take-outs
Notes: Wide shoreline and good parking; often used as a final stop
*Float times depend on water levels and so do access points
Places to Eat Nearby
- Post-paddle bites: Stop at Jalapeño Bucks for BBQ, pulled pork, brisket, and sandwiches at a funky walk-up joint not too far away.
- Quick snacks: Stop at the Chevron on Bush Highway or pack a picnic to enjoy riverside..
Things to Do Before or After
- Watch for wild horses, herons, and turtles along the riverbanks
- Swim or relax at Pebble Beach or Water Users Recreation Site
- Hike the nearby Hawes Trail System for desert views
- Visit Saguaro Lake for a scenic boat cruise or lakeside picnic
The Lower Salt River blends desert stillness with rippling water—perfect for a peaceful float, wildlife sightings, or a quick escape just beyond the city
Find your rental gear to visit HERE or contact us to join a tour!
Lower Verde River (North Scottsdale Area)
Tucked between the McDowell Mountains and the Mazatzal Wilderness, the Lower Verde River near Rio Verde offers a peaceful, scenic escape just northeast of Scottsdale. This stretch of river winds through mesquite groves with views of Four Peaks as you make your way there. It’s a quieter alternative to the Salt River, ideal for those with paddling experience looking to paddle in solitude or spot wildlife like egrets, hawks, and the occasional javelina.
The water here is seasonal and flow-dependent, fed by releases from Bartlett Dam. When conditions are right, it’s a beautiful place for a mellow paddle, especially in spring and early summer.
What to Know Before You Go
- Permits: A Tonto Daily Pass ($8-10) is required, available at local vendors.
Difficulty: Gentle current when flowing; best for paddlers with basic skills and good water awareness. - Best Time: Spring and early summer after dam releases; early mornings offer the best wildlife sightings and calmest water.
Main Access Points (North to South)
Water levels vary—check flow rates before heading out
Some areas may be too low to use seasonally
• Needle Rock Recreation Area
Best for: Short paddles and shaded picnics
Notes: Popular with locals; good for launching or taking out
• Box Bar Recreation Area
Best for: Scenic floats and birdwatching
Notes: Wide shoreline with easy launch; great views of Four Peaks
• Verde River Greenway (Rio Verde Drive area)
Best for: Exploring quiet desert stretches
Notes: Limited facilities; check access conditions before arrival
*Float times depend on water levels and so do access points
Places to Eat Nearby
- Post-paddle bites: Head to Honey & Sol for tasty food and cold drinks.
- Quick snacks: Pack a picnic or stop at the Shell station on Rio Verde Drive for drinks and trail mix.
Things to Do Before or After
- Hike the nearby McDowell Sonoran Preserve for sweeping desert views
- Visit Bartlett Lake for boating, fishing, or a lakeside lunch
- Watch for desert wildlife along the riverbanks and trails
- Explore the scenic drive along Rio Verde Drive toward Fountain Hills
The Lower Verde River near Rio Verde offers quiet desert beauty and wide-open skies—ideal for a mellow paddle, wildlife watching, or a serene escape just beyond the city.
Find your rental gear to visit HERE or contact us to join a tour!
Phoenix Metro LAKES
Butcher Jones - Saguaro Lake
EAST VALLEY
Butcher Jones Recreation Site is a stunning launch point for paddling adventures on Saguaro Lake—surrounded by desert cliffs, calm coves, and the occasional wild horse sighting.
Located about 40 minutes from Scottsdale, this scenic spot offers a peaceful escape for kayakers and stand-up paddleboarders looking to explore for an hour or two. You’ll launch from the sandy beach area, with easy access to quiet inlets and dramatic canyon views. It’s a favorite for nature lovers and photographers, especially in the early morning when the lake is glassy and serene.
What to Know Before You Go
- Permits: A Tonto Daily Pass ($8-10) is required, available at local vendors.
- Difficulty: Calm waters near the launch make it beginner-friendly; wind and boat traffic can pick up midday.
- Best Time: Early morning or sunset for smooth water, cooler temps, and fewer crowds.
Places to Eat Nearby
- Post-paddle bites: Head to Goldfield Ghost Town for a quirky bite with a view.
- Quick snacks: Pack your own or swing by Bashas’ in Fountain Hills for grab-and-go options.
Things to Do Before or After
- Hike the Butcher Jones Trail for lake views and desert blooms
- Swim or relax at the beach area
- Spot wildlife—wild horses, herons, and desert critters
- Visit Saguaro Lake Marina for boat tours or lakeside dining
Butcher Jones blends natural beauty with easy access—perfect for a peaceful paddle, a scenic hike, or a full day of lakeside adventure.
Find your rental gear to visit HERE
Tempe Town Lake
EAST VALLEY
Tempe Town Lake is a perfect spot for a quick paddle and easy to access, beginner-friendly, and surrounded by great food and fun.
Just minutes from downtown Tempe and ASU, this two-mile urban lake offers calm waters ideal for a one- to two-hour outing on a kayak or stand-up paddleboard. You’ll launch from Tempe Beach Park, where you’ll find wide paths, shaded seating, and views of the city skyline. It’s a favorite for locals and visitors alike, especially during golden hour when the water reflects the desert light.
What to Know Before You Go
- Permits: You’ll need a $10 day pass available online through Tempe’s recreation portal.
- Difficulty: The lake is flat and easy to navigate, perfect for beginners or casual paddlers.
- Best Time: Early morning or sunset paddles are cooler and less crowded.
Places to Eat Nearby
- Post-paddle bites: Try Postino Annex for bruschetta and wine, Culinary Dropout for laid-back vibes, or Snakes & Lattes for food and board games.
- Quick snacks: Grab a smoothie at Jamba or coffee at Cartel Roasting Co. just a few blocks away.
Things to Do Before or After
- Walk the lake path or rent a bike to explore the shoreline.
- Visit Tempe Center for the Arts for exhibits and performances.
- Shop or stroll Mill Avenue’s boutiques and bookstores.
- Catch a sunset from the pedestrian bridge or beach park.
Tempe Town Lake blends convenience with charm—whether you’re squeezing in a paddle between meetings or making it the centerpiece of a laid-back afternoon.
Find your rental gear to visit HERE
Kiwanis Park
EAST VALLEY
Kiwanis Park Lake is a peaceful, beginner-friendly spot for a short paddle—easy to reach, mellow in pace, and surrounded by family-friendly fun.
Nestled in south Tempe, this small lake is perfect for a one-hour outing on a kayak or stand-up paddleboard. You’ll launch from the park’s boat dock near the recreation center, with grassy areas, shaded picnic spots, and walking paths all around. It’s a favorite for low-key paddlers, especially in the morning when the water is quiet and the park is waking up.
What to Know Before You Go
- Permits: You’ll need a $10 day pass available online through Tempe’s recreation portal.
- Difficulty: Calm, contained waters make it ideal for first-timers and kids.
- Best Time: Mornings or late afternoons offer cooler temps and fewer crowds.
Places to Eat Nearby
- Post-paddle bites: Head to The Porch Tempe for burgers and games, or Perfect Pear Bistro for fresh, local fare.
- Quick snacks: Grab ice cream at Sweet Republic or coffee at Dutch Bros just down the road.
Things to Do Before or After
- Play at the splash pad or playgrounds
- Walk or bike the park’s paved paths
- Try tennis, volleyball, or batting cages
- Visit the rec center for indoor activities
Kiwanis Park Lake is a great choice for relaxed paddling and easygoing adventures—whether you’re squeezing in a morning glide or pairing it with a full day of park fun.
Find your rental gear to visit HERE
Canyon Lake
EAST VALLEY
Canyon Lake is a breathtaking spot for paddling—surrounded by steep canyon walls, sparkling blue water, and desert wildlife.
Located about an hour east of Scottsdale, this reservoir offers a more adventurous feel than nearby lakes, with winding coves and dramatic scenery perfect for kayaks and stand-up paddleboards. Launch from the Boulder Recreation Site or the marina area, and explore for an hour or two along the shoreline or into the quieter eastern fingers of the lake.
What to Know Before You Go
- Permits: A Tonto Daily Pass ($8-10) is required, available at local vendors.
- Difficulty: Calm near the shore, but boat wakes and wind can make midday paddling more challenging.
- Best Time: Early morning for smooth water and fewer boats; sunset paddles offer stunning canyon light.
Places to Eat Nearby
- Post-paddle bites: Try Tortilla Flat Superstition Saloon for rustic charm and burgers
- Quick snacks: Pack your own or stop at Gold Canyon Café on the way in.
Things to Do Before or After
- Drive the scenic Apache Trail for epic views
- Visit Tortilla Flat for souvenirs and prickly pear ice cream
- Swim or relax at the Boulder Recreation beach
- Spot bighorn sheep and desert birds along the cliffs
Canyon Lake is perfect for paddlers craving a mix of adventure and beauty—whether you’re gliding through quiet coves or pairing your paddle with a scenic drive.
Find your rental gear to visit HERE
Bartlett Lake
NORTHEAST VALLEY
Bartlett Lake is a scenic, beginner-friendly escape for paddlers—just far enough to feel like a getaway, yet close enough for a half-day adventure.
Tucked into the Tonto National Forest, this sparkling reservoir offers wide-open water, desert vistas, and peaceful coves perfect for kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding. Launch from the main marina or shoreline pull-offs and enjoy a tranquil paddle framed by saguaros and sky.
What to Know Before You Go
- Permits: A Tonto Daily Pass ($8-10) is required, available at local vendors.
- Difficulty: Calm near the shore, but boat wakes and wind can make midday paddling more challenging.
- Best Time: Early morning for smooth water and fewer boats; sunset paddles offer golden canyon light.
Places to Eat Nearby
- Post-paddle bites: Grab a lakeside burger at The Cove at Bartlett Lake Marina.
- Quick snacks: Stop in Cave Creek for coffee at Local Jonny’s for a tasty bite.
Things to Do Before or After
- Swim or relax at Rattlesnake Cove or SB Cove
- Hike the Jojoba Trail for lake and desert views
- Watch for bald eagles, herons, and desert wildlife
- Pack a picnic and enjoy shaded ramadas near the water
Bartlett Lake is a perfect blend of serenity and scenery—ideal for a peaceful paddle, a nature-filled outing, or a spontaneous desert escape.
Find your rental gear to visit HERE
Lake Pleasant
NORTH VALLEY
Bartlett Lake is a scenic, beginner-friendly escape for paddlers—just far enough to feel like a getaway, yet close enough for a half-day adventure.
Tucked into the Tonto National Forest, this sparkling reservoir offers wide-open water, desert vistas, and peaceful coves perfect for kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding. Launch from the main marina or shoreline pull-offs and enjoy a tranquil paddle framed by saguaros and sky.
What to Know Before You Go
- Permits: A Tonto Daily Pass ($8-10) is required, available at local vendors.
- Difficulty: Calm near the shore, but boat wakes and wind can make midday paddling more challenging.
- Best Time: Early morning for smooth water and fewer boats; sunset paddles offer golden canyon light.
Places to Eat Nearby
- Post-paddle bites: Dine lakeside at Dillon’s Bayou for BBQ and live music.
- Quick snacks: Grab coffee or sandwiches at Wild Horse West just outside the park entrance.
Things to Do Before or After
- Swim or relax at Pleasant Harbor or Sunset Ridge
- Hike the Pipeline Canyon Trail for lake views and wildflowers
- Rent a pontoon or take a scenic cruise from the marina
- Watch for burros, hawks, and desert wildlife along the shoreline
Lake Pleasant offers a mix of serenity and adventure—perfect for paddlers looking to explore Arizona’s desert waters.
Find your rental gear to visit HERE
NORTHERN ARIZONA LAKES & RIVER
Blue Ridge Reservoir
NORTHERN ARIZONA
Blue Ridge Reservoir is a serene, pine-fringed escape perfect for beginner paddlers seeking cool water and quiet canyon views.
Tucked into Arizona’s high country near the Mogollon Rim, this narrow, winding reservoir feels like a hidden alpine lake—ideal for kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding in summer’s heat.
What to Know Before You Go
- Permits: A Coconino National Forest parking pass may be required—check current guidelines before you go.
- Difficulty: Calm, narrow, glassy water ideal for beginners and those seeking a peaceful, scenic paddle.
- Best Time: Early mornings or weekdays offer the most solitude; summer weekends can fill up quickly due to limited parking.
Places to Eat Nearby
- Post-paddle bites: Head to That Brewery in Pine for burgers and craft beer.
- Quick snacks: Stock up at the gas station in Clint’s Well or pack a picnic to enjoy lakeside.
Things to Do Before or After
- Camp at Rock Crossing Campground (2 miles from the boat ramp)
- Hike the Rim Lakes Vista Trail for sweeping forest views
- Watch for osprey, elk, and other wildlife along the shoreline
- Explore nearby forest roads for dispersed camping or scenic drives
Blue Ridge Reservoir (also known as C.C. Cragin Reservoir) is a cool, quiet gem—perfect for a half-day paddle or a full weekend of forested retreat.
Find your rental gear to visit HERE
Woods Canyon Lake
NORTHERN ARIZONA
Woods Canyon Lake is a cool, pine-shaded retreat perfect for beginner paddlers and peaceful lake days.
Located atop the Mogollon Rim near Payson, this small, no-wake lake is ideal for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. With forested shores, calm water, and frequent wildlife sightings, it’s a favorite for families, anglers, and anyone looking to escape the desert heat.
What to Know Before You Go
- Permits: A daily parking pass ($10) is required and available at the lake entrance or online.
- Difficulty: Calm, protected waters make it perfect for beginners and kids.
- Best Time: Early mornings for glassy water and fewer crowds; summer weekends are busy.
Places to Eat Nearby
- Post-paddle bites: Stop at Woods Canyon Lake Store for burgers, snacks, and ice cream.
- Quick snacks: Pack a picnic or grab food in Payson before heading up the Rim.
Things to Do Before or After
- Hike the Woods Canyon Trail for rim views and shaded forest paths
- Fish for rainbow trout from shore or boat
- Camp at Aspen or Spillway Campgrounds nearby
- Watch for osprey, deer, and bald eagles around the lake
Woods Canyon Lake is a high-country gem—perfect for a relaxing paddle, a weekend camping trip, or a refreshing day in the pines.
Find your rental gear to visit HERE
Watson Lake
NORTHERN ARIZONA
Nestled just outside Prescott, Watson Lake is a paddler’s dream—where calm blue water winds through towering granite boulders and hidden coves. The lake’s surreal rock formations and mirror-like reflections make it one of the most photogenic paddling spots in Arizona. Whether you're gliding past ancient granite dells or pulling ashore to explore rocky outcroppings, every turn offers a new view worth savoring.
Watson is a flatwater lake, making it ideal for beginners, families, and anyone looking for a peaceful day on the water. It’s also a favorite for birdwatchers, with herons, eagles, and ducks often spotted along the shoreline.
Main Access Points
Water levels are generally stable year-round, but check for seasonal closures or special events
• Watson Lake Park Boat Launch
Best for: Easy access and scenic loops
Notes: Paved parking, restrooms, and picnic areas; rentals available seasonally on-site
• North Shore Day Use Area
Best for: Exploring coves and rock formations
Notes: Great for launching inflatables; less crowded than the main boat ramp
What to Know Before You Go
- Permits: A small day-use fee is required for park entry; pay at the kiosk or online.
- Difficulty: Calm, flat water—perfect for beginners and families.
- Best Time: Spring through fall; early mornings offer glassy water and cooler temps.
Places to Eat Nearby
- Post-paddle bites: Head into downtown Prescott for local favorites like The Raven Café or Bill’s Pizza.
- Quick snacks: Grab drinks and sandwiches at the nearby Safeway or pack a picnic to enjoy lakeside.
Things to Do Before or After
- Hike the Peavine or Watson Lake Loop Trails for stunning views of the dells
- Try a bit of bouldering or rock scrambling along the shoreline
- Visit Lynx Lake or Goldwater Lake nearby for more paddling or fishing
- Explore historic downtown Prescott for shops, galleries, and live music
Watson Lake is one of Arizona’s most iconic paddle spots, surrounded by dramatic granite boulders, calm water, and winding channels perfect for exploring by kayak or SUP. It’s beginner-friendly, incredibly scenic, and offers countless photo opportunities among the famous Prescott Dells.
Find your rental gear to visit HERE
Upper Verde River - (Camp Verde)
NORTHERN ARIZONA
Flowing through cottonwood groves, red rock canyons, and high desert plains, the Verde River is one of Arizona’s last free-flowing rivers—and one of its most scenic paddling routes. With stretches that range from calm and meandering to swift and splashy, the Verde offers something for everyone, from peaceful birdwatching floats to more adventurous runs through Class I-II rapids.
Just a short drive from the Verde Valley, Camp Verde, and the towns of Cottonwood and Clarkdale, this river is a favorite for those looking to combine paddling with wildlife viewing, fishing, or a weekend getaway in wine country.
Main Access Points (North to South)
Flow levels vary seasonally and after storms—check conditions before you go
*Some sections may require portaging or may be impassable during dry months
• White Bridge River Access (Camp Verde)
Best for: Easy put-ins and short scenic floats
Notes: Great for beginners; wide access point with nearby parking and restrooms
• Beasley Flat
Best for: Longer floats and light rapids
Notes: Popular launch for the Wild and Scenic stretch; permits required for overnight trips
• Clear Creek Confluence
Best for: Wildlife sightings and shaded rest stops
Notes: Look for herons, otters, and migratory birds; limited access depending on water levels
• Tuzigoot River Access (Clarkdale)
Best for: Calm water and cultural tie-ins
Notes: Near Tuzigoot National Monument; great for pairing paddling with a history stop
• Bignotti Beach (Cottonwood)
Best for: Relaxed paddles and riverside picnics
Notes: Sandy beach, good for families; limited facilities
What to Know Before You Go
- Permits: No permit needed for day use in most areas, but check for fire restrictions and seasonal closures.
- Difficulty: Varies by section—some stretches are calm and beginner-friendly, others have light rapids and can be technical.
- Best Time: Spring and early summer offer the best flow; fall brings cooler temps and golden cottonwoods.
Places to Eat Nearby
- Post-paddle bites: Try Verde Brewing Company in Camp Verde for burgers and craft beer, or head to Pizzeria Bocce in Cottonwood for wood-fired pizza and patio seating.
- Quick snacks: Grab supplies at Bashas’ in Camp Verde or pack a picnic to enjoy riverside.
Things to Do Before or After
- Visit Tuzigoot or Montezuma Castle National Monuments for a glimpse into ancient Sinagua culture
- Explore the Verde Valley Wine Trail with tastings in Cottonwood, Jerome, or Cornville
- Hike the Jail Trail in Cottonwood for a mellow riverside walk
- Watch for bald eagles, river otters, and great blue herons along the banks
The Verde River offers gentle flow, shaded banks, and beautiful desert greenery—making it a relaxing and beginner-friendly place to paddle by kayak or SUP. With calm stretches, cool water, and plenty of wildlife, it’s an easy, scenic escape that’s perfect for families and first-time paddlers.
Find your rental gear to visit HERE