Bear Canyon Lake
Bear Canyon Lake is a stunning, secluded body of water in Arizona's wilderness, perfect for fishing and nature retreats, with challenges like steep access paths and camping crowd management.
Things to Do Near Bear Canyon Lake
Lake Activities
Nearby Attractions
Map of Bear Canyon Lake
Reviews for Bear Canyon Lake
View all reviews
AZ
a year ago
Camp ground is not near the lake. Dirt road going to the parking lot. From there, it's a little hike going down the lake. There's really no trail, you just kinda figure out how to go down. There were a lot of people fishing on a Sunday. We didn't do much, just sit and enjoy3d and tried to talk quietly trying not to disturb people fishing. Stayed for 20mins and left. Going back, we took our time, it's a short hike up but very steep.
C L
4 months ago
Really disappointed in our visit. It’s really nice now much more accessible this area is since Rim Rd is now paved. Unfortunately we will never be camping near the lake again as we had, not one but, THREE groups of 20+ pull into the campsite area (which clearly states on the signs 10 people max per campsite) after dark and set up camp. They were all blasting music, one was blasting karaoke until 2am. Then we were woken up by 6:30am- which wouldn’t be an issue necessarily, but they’re all revving up their 4 wheelers and blasting music again. I really hope they do some patrolling on weekends to enforce rules and keep inconsiderate people out of these campsites. I spent a substantial amount of my time just picking up garbage from the previous. campers.
Bonnie Brown
3 months ago
Absolutely Incredible 💯 Plenty of dispersed camping and day parking. Dirt roads, some a little rough but nothing anyone couldn't drive.
About Bear Canyon Lake
Nestled amidst the lush forests and rugged terrains, Bear Canyon Lake is an isolated gem in the Arizona wilderness, ideal for those seeking a blend of tranquility and adventure. Known for its pristine beauty and an abundance of wildlife, this lake offers a serene getaway from the bustling world. Although the path to the lake involves a bit of a challenge—a steep hike down dirt roads, often without a well-marked trail—those who make the effort are greeted with shimmering waters and a sense of peaceful solitude. Bear Canyon Lake is a fishing paradise, stocked with trout six times a year. This diverse aquatic life makes it a favorite spot for anglers. The peaceful environment is enhanced by a notable absence of engines, promoting a naturally clean and quiet setting. Camping around the lake, however, can be a mixed experience. Some visitors have faced disturbances due to large groups ignoring regulations on campsite limits, resulting in noise and crowding. These issues highlight a crucial need for better patrols and enforcement to preserve the area's tranquility. Additionally, visitors can contribute positively by ensuring they leave no trace, which helps maintain the lake’s remarkable setting for everyone to enjoy. For outdoor enthusiasts, the surrounding area offers great opportunities for wildlife watching, with eagles often gracing the skies overhead. A hike around the lake presents splendid views and makes it a favorite spot for nature lovers. Whether you seek a quiet day by the water, an exhilarating fishing trip, or a simple retreat into nature, Bear Canyon Lake offers a rejuvenating escape with its raw, untouched beauty.
Weather Forecast for Bear Canyon Lake
Tonight at Bear Canyon Lake
43°F
Friday at Bear Canyon Lake
69°F
Friday Night at Bear Canyon Lake
43°F
More Lakes in Payson, Arizona
Bear Canyon Lake is a stunning, secluded body of water in Arizona's wilderness, perfect for fishing and nature retreats, with challenges like steep access paths and camping crowd management.
Potato Lake, a quaint and secluded spot in Arizona, offers a peaceful escape with its picturesque surroundings, abundant crawdads, and opportunity to unplug.
Green Valley Lake, nestled in Payson, provides stunning views, great fishing, and easy trails within a welcoming community park. Enjoy a day of picnics, exploration, and cultural sites.
Baker Lake, a tranquil forested retreat, offers visitors a peaceful escape for geocaching, nature walks, and seasonal observations of the area's unique landscape.
Discover the serene beauty of Lake One on the Mogollon Rim, perfect for boating, fishing, and winter landscapes.
Discover serenity at Horseshoe Lake in Payson, Arizona, where rugged adventure leads to tranquil beauty.
Bean Patch Tank is a charming, secluded lake offering fishing, camping, and picnic opportunities, though it can be challenging to access due to a washed-out trail.
Bear Canyon Lake is a stunning, secluded body of water in Arizona's wilderness, perfect for fishing and nature retreats, with challenges like steep access paths and camping crowd management.
About Bear Canyon Lake
Nestled amidst the lush forests and rugged terrains, Bear Canyon Lake is an isolated gem in the Arizona wilderness, ideal for those seeking a blend of tranquility and adventure. Known for its pristine beauty and an abundance of wildlife, this lake offers a serene getaway from the bustling world. Although the path to the lake involves a bit of a challenge—a steep hike down dirt roads, often without a well-marked trail—those who make the effort are greeted with shimmering waters and a sense of peaceful solitude. Bear Canyon Lake is a fishing paradise, stocked with trout six times a year. This diverse aquatic life makes it a favorite spot for anglers. The peaceful environment is enhanced by a notable absence of engines, promoting a naturally clean and quiet setting. Camping around the lake, however, can be a mixed experience. Some visitors have faced disturbances due to large groups ignoring regulations on campsite limits, resulting in noise and crowding. These issues highlight a crucial need for better patrols and enforcement to preserve the area's tranquility. Additionally, visitors can contribute positively by ensuring they leave no trace, which helps maintain the lake’s remarkable setting for everyone to enjoy. For outdoor enthusiasts, the surrounding area offers great opportunities for wildlife watching, with eagles often gracing the skies overhead. A hike around the lake presents splendid views and makes it a favorite spot for nature lovers. Whether you seek a quiet day by the water, an exhilarating fishing trip, or a simple retreat into nature, Bear Canyon Lake offers a rejuvenating escape with its raw, untouched beauty.
Reviews for Bear Canyon Lake
View all reviewsAZ
a year ago
Camp ground is not near the lake. Dirt road going to the parking lot. From there, it's a little hike going down the lake. There's really no trail, you just kinda figure out how to go down. There were a lot of people fishing on a Sunday. We didn't do much, just sit and enjoy3d and tried to talk quietly trying not to disturb people fishing. Stayed for 20mins and left. Going back, we took our time, it's a short hike up but very steep.
C L
4 months ago
Really disappointed in our visit. It’s really nice now much more accessible this area is since Rim Rd is now paved. Unfortunately we will never be camping near the lake again as we had, not one but, THREE groups of 20+ pull into the campsite area (which clearly states on the signs 10 people max per campsite) after dark and set up camp. They were all blasting music, one was blasting karaoke until 2am. Then we were woken up by 6:30am- which wouldn’t be an issue necessarily, but they’re all revving up their 4 wheelers and blasting music again. I really hope they do some patrolling on weekends to enforce rules and keep inconsiderate people out of these campsites. I spent a substantial amount of my time just picking up garbage from the previous. campers.
Bonnie Brown
3 months ago
Absolutely Incredible 💯 Plenty of dispersed camping and day parking. Dirt roads, some a little rough but nothing anyone couldn't drive.
Things to Do Near Bear Canyon Lake
Lake Activities
Nearby Attractions
Map of Bear Canyon Lake
Weather Forecast for Bear Canyon Lake
Tonight at Bear Canyon Lake
43°F
Friday at Bear Canyon Lake
69°F
Friday Night at Bear Canyon Lake
43°F
More Lakes in Payson, Arizona
Bear Canyon Lake is a stunning, secluded body of water in Arizona's wilderness, perfect for fishing and nature retreats, with challenges like steep access paths and camping crowd management.
Potato Lake, a quaint and secluded spot in Arizona, offers a peaceful escape with its picturesque surroundings, abundant crawdads, and opportunity to unplug.
Green Valley Lake, nestled in Payson, provides stunning views, great fishing, and easy trails within a welcoming community park. Enjoy a day of picnics, exploration, and cultural sites.
Baker Lake, a tranquil forested retreat, offers visitors a peaceful escape for geocaching, nature walks, and seasonal observations of the area's unique landscape.
Discover the serene beauty of Lake One on the Mogollon Rim, perfect for boating, fishing, and winter landscapes.
Discover serenity at Horseshoe Lake in Payson, Arizona, where rugged adventure leads to tranquil beauty.