Mormon Lake

By AZ Leisure Staff Writers

Last updated on May 11, 2026.

Mormon Lake Arizona is located about 29 miles southeast of Flagstaff in the scenic Coconino National Forest. Known as the largest natural lake in Arizona, Mormon Lake offers cool mountain temperatures, fishing, boating, camping, wildlife viewing, hiking, and peaceful high-country recreation surrounded by tall ponderosa pine forests.

Why Visit Mormon Lake Near Flagstaff

Visitors travel to Mormon Lake for its cool summer climate, scenic mountain setting, outdoor recreation, and peaceful forest atmosphere. Located at approximately 7,000 feet in elevation near Flagstaff, Mormon Lake is popular for fishing, camping, kayaking, boating, wildlife viewing, hiking, photography, and winter recreation. The surrounding Coconino National Forest provides a relaxing escape from Arizona desert heat while offering easy access to nearby lakes and attractions.

Mormon Lake, 29 miles southeast of Flagstaff Arizona is the largest natural lake in Arizona. Often during severe droughts, the lake recedes and sometimes even completely dries up. It is fed from the rain and snow melt in the nearby mountains. Mormon Lake is surrounded by Ponderosa Pine forests in a lush setting. At an elevation of about 7,000 feet, the summer temperatures are cool and refreshing and rarely reaches 90 degrees F.

It is only about 17 miles southeast of Upper Lake Mary. If you are an outdoor enthusiast and love fishing, camping and hiking, Mormon Lake is a great choice. There is an abundance of wildlife including herds of elk and deer with Pronghorn antelope grazing the prairies of the southern points of the recreation area. There are even nesting pairs of bald eagles in the area. The area features some the finest cross-country skiing during the winter months. Also enjoy boating and windsurfing.

Fishing & Things To Do At Mormon Lake

• Fishing: Fish for stocked trout, northern pike, and catfish in one of Arizona’s largest natural lakes.
• Camping: Enjoy forest camping at nearby campgrounds surrounded by ponderosa pine trees.
• Boating: Launch small boats, kayaks, and canoes when lake water levels permit.
• Wildlife Viewing: Watch for elk, deer, bald eagles, and pronghorn antelope throughout the area.
• Hiking: Explore nearby forest roads, trails, and scenic mountain landscapes.
• Photography: Capture mountain scenery, wildlife, forests, and seasonal weather conditions.
• Windsurfing: Seasonal winds and open water conditions can create good windsurfing opportunities.
• Winter Recreation: Enjoy cross-country skiing and snow-covered forest scenery during winter months.

Best Times To Visit Mormon Lake

• Spring: Mild temperatures and active wildlife make spring a beautiful time to visit the lake area.
• Summer: Cool mountain weather creates ideal conditions for camping, fishing, boating, and hiking.
• Fall: Crisp temperatures and colorful forest scenery provide excellent outdoor recreation opportunities.
• Winter: Snowfall transforms the area into a peaceful mountain landscape popular for winter sightseeing and cross-country skiing.

Boating, Camping and Facilities

There are 43 single unit campsites at Dairy Springs and Double Springs Campgrounds with picnic tables, fire rings, and cooking grills, Drinking water and vault toilets at the campgrounds, Hiking trails are nearby and equipment rentals are available at Mormon Lake Village.

Wildlife Around Mormon Lake

The Mormon Lake area supports abundant wildlife throughout the Coconino National Forest, surrounding forests and grasslands. Visitors frequently see elk, mule deer, pronghorn antelope, bald eagles, hawks, and other bird species. Early mornings and evenings are often the best times for wildlife viewing near the lake and surrounding meadows.

Season and Fees

Campground season is May 1 to the end of September. Fees apply during the season.

Getting To Mormon Lake

From Interstate 17 in Flagstaff, travel southeast on Lake Mary Road to Forest Road 90. Turn west on FR 90 and continue about 4 miles to Mormon Lake. The scenic drive passes through beautiful ponderosa pine forests and high-country meadows south of Flagstaff Arizona.

More Information
Mormon Lake Ranger District
4825 S. Lake Mary Road
Flagstaff AZ 86001
(928) 774-1147

Other Lakes Nearby

• Upper Lake Mary
• Ashurst Lake
• Kinnikinick Lake

Mormon Lake Area Map

FAQ

Where is Mormon Lake located?
Mormon Lake is located about 29 miles southeast of Flagstaff Arizona in the Coconino National Forest.

Is Mormon Lake the largest natural lake in Arizona?
Yes, Mormon Lake is considered the largest natural lake in Arizona, although water levels can vary greatly during drought years.

What fish species are found at Mormon Lake?
Fishing at Mormon Lake may include stocked trout, northern pike, and catfish depending on water conditions.

Can you camp at Mormon Lake?
Yes, camping is available at nearby campgrounds including Dairy Springs and Double Springs Campgrounds.

What elevation is Mormon Lake?
Mormon Lake sits at approximately 7,000 feet in elevation near Flagstaff Arizona.

When is the best time to visit Mormon Lake?
Summer and fall are especially popular because of cool temperatures, camping, fishing, and outdoor recreation opportunities.

Arizona Lakes