Willow Springs Lake

Willow Springs Lake launch ramp

Willow Springs Lake is located just north of SR 260 about 30 minutes east of Payson, AZ.  The air temperature at 7,500' is about 20 degrees cooler than in Phoenix, AZ.

The lake has a good launch ramp area and floating dock with adequate parking facilities.  The largest motors allowed are 10 h.p., although most of the fishermen opt for electric trolling motors, so there is rarely any wakes and the serene environment is relaxing.

Also, most of the fishermen tend to stay at the west end of the lake nearer the dam, leaving the more primitive east end of the lake to canoes and kayakers.  Stumps and some taller dead trees are abundant as you paddle east, giving the whole area a more remote and primitive feel.

Although the shore is a gentle slope from nearby woods, it is mostly large sandstone deposits and rocky beaches.  It is easy to find places to beach your kayak, step out onto a sandstone shelf, and explore deeper into the woods.

Blue heron, ducks, osprey, and the occasional bald eagle are seen around the lake.  It is exciting to see the osprey soar above the water and upon sighting a fish dive at high speed to the surface and come away with a fish.  Eagle nests can be seen high in the ponderosa pine trees that surround the lake.

East end of Willow Springs

Bring good binoculars if you are interested in seeing the nesting birds.  Paddle quietly and you can glide up close to the blue heron as they feed along the shores.

During the monsoon season (July - August) in the high country you need to keep an eye out for building clouds.  Lightening, high winds, and torrential rains can come up quickly  These storms rise up out of the Valley, come up over the Rim, and can catch you out on the water.

Gathering storm clouds

For more information on Willow Springs Lake
follow this link:
https://sites.google.com/site/herbskayak/places-to-go-kayaking/willow-springs-lake