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Alright, it's time to quiz the brain-trust that is HAZ. I've convinced my wife to go "camping" for our anniversary in the middle of May. I say "camping" because i'm looking for a nice campgrounds preferably with at least outhouses. I haven't been to a campground in over 12 years, I prefer to backpack, but she's not much of a camper, so the nicer the better. Money is tight, so the cheaper the better as well. Also joining us will be our son Jack who is just over a year and a half. Kid loves the outdoors, so entertainment is not an issue. Looking for warmish weather, but would prefer to escape the valley. Lake is required as my kayak will be joining us as well. 4wd access is fine. The dog might come along, too. We'll see. Suggestions? Post 'em up!

Sounds like you be going to one of the small lakes above the rim or on the salt. Chumley and others will surely fill in the details, as I'm clueless

Watson Lake in Prescott has a nicely developed campground and some pretty impressive scenery. You're practically in the city though... Goldwater Lake, also in Prescott, is in the pines away from the city and also has campgrounds. There is also playground equipment there, although you said your kid loves the outdoors already. I suggest the Prescott lakes because I'm pretty sure they are at a lower elevation than the lakes above the rim and would be a bit warmer.

Forgot all about 'em, Goldwater & Lynx are pretty cool for your objectives!

No clue on your quiz, do know that mighty mouse is stronger than superman according to Stand by Me

I would recommend any of the rim lakes (Woods Canyon, Black Canyon, Bear Canyon) EXCEPT you want "warmish" weather. Up on the rim in May, it's still in the 30s at night, so that limits you to lower elevations. If the chilly overnights are ok, you might also check out Ashurst or the Lake Mary's. I assume there's water up there after the winter snows. Mormon Lake might also be full right now? Anybody know for sure? Also, Blue Ridge Reservoir is the most entertaining lake for kayaking, and has a developed campground (Rock Crossing - NOT Blue Ridge) a short distance up the road.For warmer weather however, the Prescott-area lakes listed above are likely your best suggestions.

To put the weather in a bit of perspective, portions of the Rim Road (FR300) are still closed today because they are impassable due to deep snow!

If there continues to be no rain, it's possible that there will be fire restrictions by then, though in a developed campground you'll probably be ok until Memorial Day weekend.

Search for the appropriate National Forest (Rim Lakes - Sitgreaves NF; Ashurst, Mary, Blue Ridge - Coconino NF; Lynx/Goldwater - Prescott NF) and then search for campgrounds. Most of the developed campgrounds near lakes require a reservation and a nightly fee. (Usually about $15).

So it's looking like Goldwater. Anyone been there? Suggestions? Comments? We're planning on leaving Phoenix Friday and coming back on Sunday.

Goldwater is very nice. Tall pines, cool temps, small lake. I don't know if camping is allowed there or not. You may want to call the Prescott Ranger District.

errr, good point
looks like it's a city "park"
Park Hours (Summer**): 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM

I am leaving Tuesday for my 4th camping trip of the year (not counting overnighters) and I will be in the area of Blue Ridge Reservoir. Since this is yor wifes first trip and you would like to visit a lake, you may consider Woods Canyon and Willows Springs Lake. They are close to one another and you could visit both lakes during your trip. As for camping I don't know if you are tent camping, staying in a vehicle, rv or if you prefer campground or dispersed camping. Overnight lows may dip in the teens, so be prepared. Canyon Point has electric hookups and you could take a small portable electric heater if you don't have or don't like to use a fuel powered one. I just checked and was advised Rock Crossing Campground is still closed until the middle of the month. I use Blue Ridge Campground quite a bit for base camp, its small and in a great location and lots of wildlife. The road to Knoll and Bear Canyon is still quite muddy. For boating I prefer Blue Ridge and it can get quite windy at Willow Springs. Have a great trip.

Soldier & Long Lakes

Many forest visitors come here to set up primitive camps and enjoy other forest activities besides fishing, such as off highway vehicle riding and wildlife watching. The lakes are located in an area of open grasslands dotted with pinyon and juniper trees.

Kinnikinick Lake

Kinnikinick Lake is a relatively out of the way, open country body of water where people come to camp and fish for trout. The surrounding area also provides excellent Photo of Kinnikinick Lakeopportunities for wildlife watching, with good populations of elk and a smaller number of antelope. In fall and winter keep an eye out for bald eagles.
The San Francisco Peaks standing on the horizon, along with the prairies and pinyon and junipers surrounding this lake, make it a picturesque place to enjoy your favorite outdoor activity. Don't forget to bring your canoe and your camera.

and why not Stoneman Lake

Stoneman has no fish unless someone has stocked it secretly. It has been dry for several years until this winter it might have some water in it, but most likely more mosquitoes than youre willing to toloerate. Try Ashurst instead> my 0.02
The absolute best trout fishing ive had in any area lake is Chevelon, but its a hike to the wa-wa. You could always backpack the short distance to the water and then set up camp on the far side of the dam. Native rainbows await! (remember, there are unique regulations regarding fishing at chevelon.)

Definite no-go on Stoneman Lake. I haven't seen much more than mud there in a few years, plus it's got lots of private land around it making camping difficult (or impossible). Kinnikinick is nice because it's out-of-the-way, but the campground is very primitive and fairly small. If you're going to be in that area, Ashurst is definitely the best choice (IMO).

I went to Stoneman Lake 5 years ago for our 10 year anniversary. ... It was a nice time of year for Stoneman Lake. ...sorry! ..it was 5 years ago