Roosevelt Lake
Vast Arizona reservoir offering premier fishing, boating, and stunning desert mountain scenery, anchored by the historic Theodore Roosevelt Dam.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better fishing
Roosevelt Lake
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better fishing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Vast Arizona reservoir offering premier fishing, boating, and stunning desert mountain scenery, anchored by the historic Theodore Roosevelt Dam.
"Best lake in AZ. Water is always perfect, lake is huge and deep, there are several USFS campgrounds along the lake."
🎣 Catch Big Bass!
Anglers report catching dozens of fish, including a potential state record largemouth bass!
🚗 Scenic Drive Views
Enjoy gorgeous mountain views and saguaros on the drive around the lake.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Theodore Roosevelt Dam
Roosevelt Dam
Marvel at the historic Roosevelt Dam, a testament to early 20th-century engineering, offering stunning views.
Abundant Fishing Opportunities
Various spots around the lake
Cast a line for bass and other species; anglers report catching dozens of fish, including impressive large ones.
Scenic Drives and Views
Surrounding roads
Enjoy breathtaking mountain vistas and desert landscapes dotted with saguaros on scenic drives around the lake.
Water Sports Paradise
Open water areas
Perfect for boating, sailing, and jet skiing, Roosevelt Lake offers ample space for all your aquatic adventures.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Boating and Fishing Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎣 Catch Big Bass!
Anglers report catching dozens of fish, including a potential state record largemouth bass! 
🚗 Scenic Drive Views
Enjoy gorgeous mountain views and saguaros on the drive around the lake.
🚤 Boat Launch Pass
A weekly boat launch pass is $8, making it affordable for water sports.
🏕️ Dry Camping Options
Campgrounds like Schoolhouse offer boat launches and large sites, though services are limited.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎣 Catch Big Bass!
Anglers report catching dozens of fish, including a potential state record largemouth bass!
🚗 Scenic Drive Views
Enjoy gorgeous mountain views and saguaros on the drive around the lake.
🚤 Boat Launch Pass
A weekly boat launch pass is $8, making it affordable for water sports.
🏕️ Dry Camping Options
Campgrounds like Schoolhouse offer boat launches and large sites, though services are limited.
☀️ Beat the Heat
Visit during cooler parts of the day or year to fully enjoy the 109°F summer weather.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Roosevelt Lake's stunning natural beauty, from the majestic Roosevelt Dam to the picturesque mountain views and desert landscapes dotted with saguaros. The lake is celebrated as a top spot for fishing and boating, with many appreciating the affordability of activities like camping and boat launches. While some note the limited services at dry campgrounds, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, highlighting its status as a premier Arizona destination.
"The Roosevelt Dam was a fantastic view for us. The mountains around the area were gorgeous. This is a drive around area and free. To us, it was well worth a trip. I happen to catch the lake at the right time to catch the rainbow."
Marchelle
"Best lake in az. Water is always perfect, lake is huge and deep, there are several usfs campgrounds along the lake. We like to stay at the schoolhouse campground usually not so many people there and they have a boat launch and large campsites. No power or water but bring a generator you’ll be fine."
Rick
"Roosevelt Lake/Dam
Awesome views and scenic routes all around the lake! What's better than enjoying a nice lake in 109° AZ summer weather!"
Sam Rivera
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Roosevelt Lake is approximately a 2-hour drive from Phoenix. The drive offers scenic mountain and desert views, with roads like the SR 188 providing access. Be prepared for winding roads, especially as you approach the lake area.
Yes, the drive to Roosevelt Lake is considered very scenic, with rolling mountains and desert landscapes, including saguaro cacti. Travelers often describe it as a beautiful journey.
While generally accessible, it's always wise to check local road conditions before your trip, especially after significant weather events. Some mountain roads can be challenging for certain vehicles.
The most common route from Phoenix is via US-60 E to AZ-88 N, which leads to SR 188. This route offers beautiful scenery as you approach the lake.
Roosevelt Lake is generally accessible year-round, but weather conditions, especially during monsoon season or winter, can affect road access and water activities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to Roosevelt Lake itself is free. However, there are fees for specific activities like boat launching and camping.
A weekly boat launch pass for Roosevelt Lake is typically around $8, making it an affordable option for boaters.
Yes, you will need a valid Arizona fishing license to fish at Roosevelt Lake. Licenses can be purchased through the Arizona Game and Fish Department.
Roosevelt Lake is an open natural area and is generally accessible at all times. However, specific facilities like marinas or campgrounds may have their own operating hours.
While some campgrounds may offer reservations, many along Roosevelt Lake are first-come, first-served. It's advisable to check with the specific campground or US Forest Service for booking information.
🎫 🎣 Fishing & Boating
Roosevelt Lake is known for its excellent bass fishing, including largemouth bass. Anglers have reported catching numerous fish, with some impressive catches documented.
Yes, there are options for boat rentals, including jet skis and other watercraft, available through services like Suntex Marinas.
While specific spots can be a secret, many anglers find success in various coves and along the shorelines. Night tournaments are also popular for bass fishing.
Roosevelt Lake is a vast reservoir perfect for boating, sailing, and jet skiing. However, conditions can change, especially after storms, so it's good to be aware of the latest updates.
Yes, Roosevelt Lake has several boat ramps available for public use, including at campgrounds like Schoolhouse Campground.
📸 📸 Photography
The Roosevelt Dam offers a unique architectural subject. The surrounding mountains, desert landscapes with saguaros, and the lake itself provide stunning photographic opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Late afternoons and early mornings are ideal for photography at Roosevelt Lake, offering beautiful golden hour light that enhances the scenic views and creates dramatic shadows.
Many visitors find numerous spots to pull off the road around the lake to take photos. The dam area itself is a popular spot for capturing the scale of the structure and the surrounding landscape.
While not guaranteed, the desert environment around Roosevelt Lake is home to various wildlife, including birds and desert mammals. Keep an eye out during your visit.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check with the US Forest Service or relevant authorities regarding any restrictions on drone operation in the Roosevelt Lake area before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Camping at campgrounds like Schoolhouse offers a more immersive experience with large campsites, though it's dry camping. The scenic drives also provide opportunities for kids to enjoy the views without being cooped up in one spot. Remember to bring sun protection and be mindful of the desert heat, especially during summer months.
🎣 Anglers on a Mission
+2 Consider planning a trip around night fishing tournaments for a unique challenge and the chance to win prizes. Remember to secure your Arizona fishing license beforehand. While specific fishing spots can be a closely guarded secret, exploring different coves and structures is key. Many visitors recommend checking local fishing reports for the latest intel on where the fish are biting.
🚤 Boaters and Water Sports Enthusiasts
With multiple boat ramps, launching your vessel is straightforward. The $8 weekly boat launch pass is a great value for extended stays. Always stay informed about weather conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on the water.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Theodore Roosevelt Dam: A Historical Marvel
Standing at the dam provides a sense of the immense power and vision behind its creation. The surrounding mountains and the vast expanse of Roosevelt Lake create a dramatic backdrop. It's a popular spot for visitors to stop, take photos, and appreciate the historical significance of this engineering feat. The area around the dam is free to access, making it an easily incorporated stop for anyone visiting the lake.
Fishing Hotspots and Techniques
+2 Popular techniques include using Ned Rigs and targeting areas with good cover. Night fishing tournaments are also a common and exciting way to experience the lake's angling potential. Beyond bass, the lake supports a diverse fishery. Many visitors recommend checking local fishing reports or talking to locals at marinas for the most current information on where the fish are biting. The sheer size of Roosevelt Lake means there are numerous coves, points, and submerged structures that can hold fish. Anglers often find success by exploring different areas and adapting their strategies to the conditions.
Boating and Water Sports
Services like Suntex Marinas offer rentals, making it accessible for those who don't own their own watercraft. The lake's size ensures that even during busy periods, you can often find space to enjoy your chosen activity. For those bringing their own boats, Roosevelt Lake features multiple boat ramps, including those at campgrounds like Schoolhouse Campground, which also offers large campsites. A weekly boat launch pass is an affordable way to access the water.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit