Within the boundaries of the Prescott National Forest, 'watch for wildlife' signs provide warning that mountain lions are a possibility. Access Senator Highway via Mount Vernon Street, south of Gurley, to get there. Named after Morris Goldwater, a former city mayor and uncle to the late Senator Barry Goldwater, it is located less than 5 miles south of Prescott. Goldwater LakeĪt 25 acres, Goldwater is the smallest of Prescott's four lakes. Just a few miles from downtown Prescott, more adventurous travelers will find fresh mountain air at four of the city's surrounding lakes. Of the many things to do in Prescott, Arizona, two of the most popular attractions are the Courthouse Plaza and Whiskey Row, so named after the saloons that once populated Arizona's first territorial capital.You can still pony up to plenty of bars in this historic city, but on your next trip, mosey on out those swinging saloon doors and try lake hopping instead. Enter the traffic circle, take the first right into the park.Approximately 20 degrees cooler than Phoenix in the summer, the mile-high city of Prescott is surrounded by mountains, giant boulders, and a national forest. Turn north Highway 89 and proceed about 3,5 miles. Drive east form Courthouse Plaza on Gurley Street for about 1.2 miles. An easy 4 mile drive from downtown Prescott AZ. Restrooms, showers, picnic tables, grills, ramadas, fish cleaning stations, boat ramp and children's playground are provided.ĭirections To Watson Lake.

Campsites are available during the summer season. Test your rock climbing skills at the same places where mountain rescue groups train.Ĭamping at Watson Lake. The 140 acre Watson Woods Riparian Preserve is located near the Peavine Trail. Both Watson Lake and Willow Lake are Audubon endorsed bird watching areas where you will spot hundreds of bird species including eagles and pelicans. Peavine runs into Iron King Trail and runs about 4 miles toward Prescott Valley.īird Watching at Watson Lake. The trail is level and easy and caters to hikers, joggers, horseback riding and bicycling. The Peavine Trail runs along the southeastern side of the lake into the scenic Granite Dells region. State laws regarding fishing licenses apply. Fish varieties include largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, bluegill and sunfish. Visitors can fish from boats or from the banks of Watson Lake. Call Prescott Outdoors at (928) 925-1410 for more information. Kayaks and canoes are available during open hours.

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. From Labor Day to Memorial Day hours change from 7 AM until Sunset.īoating. From Memorial Day through Labor Day, hours are 6 AM to 10 PM. See our Prescott Weather Chart for current weather and average high and low temperatures by month. 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.Ĭlimate and Weather. 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.

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