Watson Lake Prescott AZ

Watson Lake

Watson Lake at Watson Park is conveniently located about 4 miles from Prescott Arizona and features fishing, boating, kayaking, canoeing, hiking, rock climbing, camping and day picnicking. Watson's water surface is about 380 surface acres and distinguished by its sky blue calm waters surrounded by huge granite boulders with protruding vegetation.

Climate and Weather. See our Prescott Weather Chart for current weather and average high and low temperatures by month.

Hours of Lake Use. From Memorial Day through Labor Day, hours are 6 AM to 10 PM. From Labor Day to Memorial Day hours change from 7 AM until Sunset.

Watson Lake

Boating. Boats with gas powered and electric powered motors are permitted on Watson Lake, but there is a maximum 5 miles an hour "no wake" speed limit on the lake. Kayaks and canoes are available during open hours. Call Prescott Outdoors at (928) 925-1410 for more information.

Types of Fish. Visitors can fish from boats or from the banks of Watson Lake. Fish varieties include largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, bluegill and sunfish. State laws regarding fishing licenses apply.

Watson Lake

Hiking at Watson Lake. The Peavine Trail runs along the southeastern side of the lake into the scenic Granite Dells region. The trail is level and easy and caters to hikers, joggers, horseback riding and bicycling. Peavine runs into Iron King Trail and runs about 4 miles toward Prescott Valley.

Bird Watching at Watson Lake. Bring your birding book. Both Watson Lake and Willow Lake are Audubon endorsed bird watching areas where you will spot hundreds of bird species including eagles and pelicans. The 140 acre Watson Woods Riparian Preserve is located near the Peavine Trail.

Swimming. Swimming at Watson Lake is prohibited.

Granite Boulders Rock Climbing. Test your rock climbing skills at the same places where mountain rescue groups train.

Camping at Watson Lake. Campsites are available during the summer season. Restrooms, showers, picnic tables, grills, ramadas, fish cleaning stations, boat ramp and children's playground are provided.

Directions To Watson Lake. An easy 4 mile drive from downtown Prescott AZ. Drive east form Courthouse Plaza on Gurley Street for about 1.2 miles. Turn north Highway 89 and proceed about 3,5 miles. Enter the traffic circle, take the first right into the park.