Goldwater Lake is located at 2900 S Goldwater Lake Road and is a true gem tucked back in the pines in Prescott, Arizona. With its pristine waters, towering pine trees, and kid friendly amenities like a jungle gym, it is fun for the whole family! There are gazebos and grills for your family picnic, docs for fishing, a boat ramp for electric motors only, kayaking and canoeing (also for rent if you don’t have your own), multiple picnic tables and benches, a sand volleyball court, horseshoe pits, and even a pad site for weddings! Imagine coming for the afternoon with your loved ones, grilling up some good food while your kids play on the play ground, and then taking a nice walk on one of the many trails in the area. Goldwater Lake is a place you can come to have fun, relax, and enjoy the great outdoors.
In addition to Goldwater Lake, the city of Prescott has now announced that they are working on plans to open up Lower Goldwater Lake as well, which lies just beyond Goldwater Lake to the West. This lake was created back in 1923 to retain water runoff for drinking water for the growing Prescott. Since then, this lake has been closed the public because of its proximity to the water treatment plant located below the dam. This was a liability and therefore why the lake has been kept closed to the public, however, Prescott’s Recreation Services and Public Works Department have been trying to moderate those concerns and have begun the process of getting the lake open to the public.
This project is still pending city approval, but if it goes through, construction will begin in late 2019 and be completed in 2020. Construction will include adding parking areas, ramadas, restrooms, a hiking trail system, and fishing. The trails that get put in will connect Upper and Lower Goldwater Lake, allowing residents and visitors to easily enjoy both lakes with ease while taking in the surrounding beauty of the area.
Prescott is known for being a great town for outdoor living. As stated in a previous blog, in 2018 we were named in Time magazine as one of the top ten happiest and healthiest cities in the nation (time.com). We love our outdoors and all the outdoor activities our town allows with its mild seasons and diverse landscapes. We are so excited for the Goldwater lake recreation area to expand and contribute to more outdoor living and activities.
Here is some more info on Goldwater Lake for those looking to visit:
Directions: Go south on Mount Vernon Street, which becomes Senator Highway. It’ll be about 4 miles until you reach the entrance to the lake on your right hand side. Turn right into the area and there are many designated parking spots.
Fees: There is a $3 parking pass fee, or if you frequent the lakes and trails a lot that require payment, you can buy an annual parking pass. On Wednesdays, parking is free.
Summer Hours: 7 AM to 10 PM
Winter Hours: 7 AM to Sunset
For more information on Goldwater Lake and other recreational activities in Prescott, click here to visit the City of Prescott’s website.