Arizona lakes and seasonal high-country waters including Mormon Lake near Flagstaff

Mormon Lake Arizona Near Flagstaff

Originally written by Tony Subia

Reviewed and updated by AZ Leisure Staff Writers on August 22, 2026.

Mormon Lake is a large natural, seasonal lake approximately 29 miles southeast of Flagstaff in Coconino National Forest. At roughly 7,000 feet elevation, the area offers cool summer temperatures, ponderosa pine forests, wildlife viewing, camping, hiking and scenic high-country recreation.

The lake's appearance changes dramatically with precipitation. During wet periods Mormon Lake can hold enough water for fishing, boating and windsurfing, while during drought it may become very shallow, resemble a broad marsh or even dry completely. Visitors should therefore think of Mormon Lake as both a lake and a seasonal wetland rather than expect dependable open water year-round.

Even when water levels are low, the surrounding forests, grasslands, overlooks, trails and wildlife make Mormon Lake a worthwhile recreation area near Flagstaff.

Mormon Lake Quick Facts
Lake Conditions
Things To Do
Fishing & Boating
Camping
Wildlife Viewing
Hiking & Scenic Views
Best Time To Visit
Directions
Area Map
FAQ

Mormon Lake Arizona Quick Facts

Location: Approximately 29 miles southeast of Flagstaff
National forest: Coconino National Forest
Elevation: Approximately 7,000 feet
Lake type: Natural seasonal lake and wetland
Water source: Primarily rain and snowmelt
Water levels: Highly variable and sometimes completely dry
Boating: Possible only when sufficient water is present
Fishing: Possible only when sufficient water is present
Nearby camping: Dairy Springs and Double Springs Campgrounds
Popular activities: Hiking, camping, wildlife viewing, photography and seasonal water recreation
Nearby community: Mormon Lake Village

Mormon Lake Water Levels & Seasonal Conditions

Seasonal Mormon Lake near Flagstaff Arizona surrounded by ponderosa pine forest

Mormon Lake does not behave like a typical permanent Arizona lake. It occupies a shallow natural basin that depends heavily on rain and snowmelt, so its surface area and depth can change dramatically from year to year.

During wetter periods, the basin may contain broad areas of shallow open water. During dry periods, much of the lake can become marsh, grassland or exposed lakebed, and the lake has occasionally dried completely.

Because conditions change so much, visitors planning specifically to fish, boat, kayak or windsurf should verify current water conditions before making the trip.

Why Visit Mormon Lake Near Flagstaff?

Mormon Lake is especially appealing for travelers who enjoy high-country scenery, wildlife and forest recreation. The broad lake basin, surrounding meadows and ponderosa pine forests create excellent habitat for elk, mule deer, pronghorn, hawks and other wildlife.

The area also provides convenient access to camping, hiking, horseback riding, photography and seasonal winter recreation. Even when the lake itself has little or no open water, the surrounding Mormon Lake recreation area remains a scenic destination.

Things To Do At Mormon Lake

Wildlife Viewing: Look for elk, mule deer, pronghorn, hawks, bald eagles and other wildlife around the lake basin and nearby meadows.
Camping: Stay at nearby Dairy Springs or Double Springs Campgrounds beneath ponderosa pine and oak.
Hiking: Explore forest trails leading to overlooks of Mormon Lake and surrounding volcanic country.
Photography: Photograph wildlife, forests, seasonal wetlands, sunsets and changing weather.
Fishing: Fishing may be possible when the lake contains sufficient water and fish are present.
Boating: Small boats, kayaks and other watercraft can be used only when lake levels permit.
Windsurfing: Windsurfing is possible only during periods when sufficient open water is present.
Winter Recreation: Snow can provide opportunities for cross-country skiing, snowmobiling and winter scenery in the surrounding forest.

Fishing & Boating At Mormon Lake

Fishing and boating at Mormon Lake are entirely dependent on water conditions. When the basin holds sufficient water, visitors may be able to fish or use small boats and other watercraft. During drought years, however, the lake may be too shallow or dry for either activity.

Mormon Lake should therefore not be considered a dependable year-round fishing destination. Anglers visiting the Flagstaff area may also want to consider nearby Upper Lake Mary, Ashurst Lake or Kinnikinick Lake when Mormon Lake conditions are poor.

Camping Near Mormon Lake

Dairy Springs and Double Springs Campgrounds provide national forest camping near the northwest side of Mormon Lake. Dairy Springs currently has 30 individual campsites plus two group sites, while adjacent Double Springs has 15 individual campsites.

Campsites are set among ponderosa pine and oak and generally include picnic tables and cooking grills. Vault toilets and drinking water are available when campground services are operating. There are no RV hookups.

Individual site sizes vary, so RV and trailer users should check the specific campsite dimensions before reserving. Some Dairy Springs sites can accommodate RVs or trailers up to approximately 40 feet, while other sites are smaller.

Mormon Lake Village & Lodge

Mormon Lake Village on the western side of the lake provides additional traveler services and private lodging. Mormon Lake Lodge offers cabins, dining, a country store and seasonal recreation services.

The lodge area also includes a private RV park and campground with full-hookup RV spaces, restrooms, showers and laundry facilities, providing an alternative for campers who want amenities not available at the Forest Service campgrounds.

Wildlife Around Mormon Lake

Mormon Lake's combination of shallow wetland, grassland and surrounding forest supports excellent wildlife viewing. Elk and mule deer are common throughout the surrounding Coconino National Forest, while pronghorn can be seen in open grasslands around the lake basin.

Birdlife can also be excellent, particularly when water is present. Hawks, ospreys, waterfowl and bald eagles use the lake and surrounding habitat at different times of year. Early morning and evening are generally the best times to watch wildlife from roads, trails and overlooks.

Hiking & Scenic Views Near Mormon Lake

Several trails near Dairy Springs and Double Springs Campgrounds lead through ponderosa pine and oak forests to scenic viewpoints above the lake basin.

The Ledges Trail No. 138 is an easy route approximately 0.6 mile each way with about 112 feet of elevation gain. The trail climbs gradually to a rocky overlook with broad views of Mormon Lake, surrounding forests and nearby volcanic hills.

Best Time To Visit Mormon Lake

Spring: Cool temperatures, snowmelt and active wildlife make spring scenic, although campground and road services may still be limited early in the season.
Summer: The most popular season for camping, hiking and escaping Arizona's desert heat. Water recreation depends entirely on lake levels.
Fall: Crisp temperatures, changing vegetation and fewer visitors create excellent conditions for hiking, wildlife viewing and photography.
Winter: Snow transforms the forest and lake basin, with seasonal opportunities for cross-country skiing, snowmobiling and winter photography.

Campground Season & Fees

Dairy Springs and Double Springs are seasonal campgrounds. Opening and closing dates, fees, water availability and reservation status can change from year to year because of weather, staffing and forest conditions.

Check the current Recreation.gov and Coconino National Forest listings before planning an overnight stay, particularly during spring and fall.

Directions To Mormon Lake From Flagstaff

From Flagstaff, travel southeast on Lake Mary Road for approximately 25 miles to Forest Road 90 near the north end of Mormon Lake. Turn west on Forest Road 90 and continue approximately four miles toward the lake, Dairy Springs Campground and Mormon Lake Village.

The main route is paved, although some campground and forest access roads are gravel and may be seasonally affected by snow or weather.

Official Mormon Lake Information

Mormon Lake - Coconino National Forest
Flagstaff Ranger Station
5075 N. Highway 89
Flagstaff, AZ 86001
928-526-0866

Other Lakes Near Mormon Lake

Mormon Lake Area Map

Mormon Lake Arizona map showing roads and recreation areas southeast of Flagstaff

Map courtesy of Coconino National Forest

Mormon Lake Arizona FAQ

Where Is Mormon Lake Arizona?

Mormon Lake is located approximately 29 miles southeast of Flagstaff in Coconino National Forest.

Is Mormon Lake The Largest Natural Lake In Arizona?

Mormon Lake is generally described as Arizona's largest natural lake by surface area when it contains substantial water, but its size changes dramatically because it is a shallow seasonal lake.

Does Mormon Lake Always Have Water?

No. Mormon Lake depends heavily on rain and snowmelt and can become very shallow, resemble a marsh or dry completely during drought.

Can You Fish At Mormon Lake?

Fishing is possible only when the lake contains sufficient water and fish are present. Mormon Lake should not be considered a dependable year-round fishery.

Can You Boat At Mormon Lake?

Boating and kayaking are possible only when water levels are high enough to support water recreation.

Can You Camp Near Mormon Lake?

Yes. Dairy Springs and Double Springs Campgrounds provide Forest Service camping near the lake, and Mormon Lake Lodge also offers private RV camping and lodging.

What Wildlife Can You See At Mormon Lake?

Visitors may see elk, mule deer, pronghorn, hawks, ospreys, bald eagles and other birds and wildlife around the lake basin and surrounding forests.

What Is The Elevation Of Mormon Lake?

Mormon Lake sits at approximately 7,000 feet elevation.

What Is The Best Time To Visit Mormon Lake?

Summer is the most popular season for camping, hiking and cooler temperatures, while fall is excellent for wildlife viewing and photography. Water recreation depends on current lake levels rather than season alone.