Lyman Lake State Park sits along the shores of a 1,500-acre reservoir fed by the Little Colorado River, making it one of the few lakes in Arizona where there are no restrictions on watercraft size. Located just south of St. Johns in Apache County, this 1,200-acre park offers a refreshing contrast to the desert landscapes most visitors associate with the state. At nearly 6,000 feet elevation, the high country setting delivers cooler temperatures and wide-open views of the surrounding grasslands and mesas.

The lake is the main draw, popular with boaters, water skiers, kayakers, and anglers chasing catfish, bass, walleye, and northern pike. A seasonal boat ramp and rental services make it easy to get on the water. On land, hikers can explore the Peninsula Petroglyph Trail, a guided route showcasing rock art left by ancestral Puebloan people hundreds of years ago — one of the park’s most distinctive features.

Camping options include developed sites with electric hookups, water, and restroom access, as well as a group-use area. Several sites sit close to the shoreline, so waking up to lake views is a real possibility.

The best time to visit is late spring through early fall, when water levels are typically highest and daytime temperatures hover in the 70s and 80s. Winters are quiet and cold, with occasional snow.

With a 4.5-star rating across 131 reviews, Lyman Lake is a well-regarded stop for anyone exploring northeastern Arizona’s high plateau country.

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