The Southwest is home to several gorgeous lakes and rivers serving as oases to visitors. These scenic waterways are popular recreational boating, fishing, and swimming hotspots. Let’s explore some of the Southwest region’s most incredible lakes and rivers.
Lake Meredith, TX
Lake Meredith, in West Texas, is about 30 miles north of Amarillo. Surrounded by the Lake Meredith National Recreation Area, the scenic lake is a vibrant recreational center in the heart of the Texas Plains. Lake Meredith is popular for boating, swimming, and fishing, boasting a standout walleye fishing scene. Also, several campsites and RV parks line the water for those looking to extend their stay.
Lake J.B. Thomas, TX
Lake J.B. Thomas is a Colorado River reservoir stretching over 7,200 acres in West Texas. The lake’s abundance of bass, catfish, and crappie attracts many anglers. It is also a haven for boaters, water sports enthusiasts, and swimmers.
Lake Havasu, AZ
Lake Havasu, likely the most popular body of water in Arizona, is a scenic lake along Arizona’s border with California. Lake Havasu is a mecca for water sports enthusiasts; the water is calm and deep, perfect for the many boaters, water skiers, wakeboarders, and jet skiers that frequent the lake. Lake Havasu, as the host of the annual Arizona Open fishing tournament and several other fishing events, is also a significant destination for anglers.
Lake Mead, AZ
Lake Mead, a large reservoir along Arizona’s northern border with Nevada, was created by the construction of the Hoover Dam along the Colorado River. Located in a desert and surrounded by canyons and valleys, Lake Mead offers visitors a deep blue lake in a unique setting with winding channels perfect for boating, fishing, and cooling off from the desert heat.
Lake Powell, AZ
Lake Powell, situated along Arizona’s border with Utah, attracts more than two million people annually. Surrounded by rusty red canyons, high-end resorts, and hiking trails, visitors enjoy swimming, fishing, and boating in and on this scenic waterway.
Pecos River, NM
The Pecos River is a famous waterway that starts in central New Mexico, passes through Texas, and ends in Mexico. It is known for its rugged canyons and meadows, along with its scenic flowing waterfalls. Visitors can float along this slender river on a raft, canoe, or kayak and immerse themselves in the beauty of New Mexico’s scenery.
Elephant Butte Lake, NM
Elephant Butte Lake, in Elephant Butte Lake State Park, is the largest lake in New Mexico. Although water levels have fallen in recent years, the lake is still one of the most popular natural destinations in the state. It offers numerous recreational options, including water sports, boating, and fishing. Elephant Butte Lake is also known for its variety of resident bird species, such as pelicans.
