Watson Lake Park, Prescott AZ

Watson Lake park is part of the Granite Dells. The dells are a unique area, with amazing Granite formations, boulders, and balanced rocks. Canyons, cliffs, lakes, open fields, riparian preserves, and more are all right in front of you throughout the park. If you only have one day to spend in Prescott AZ, we hope you include a visit to the Dells and Watson Lake Park.

The park is accessible from Route 89 in Prescott AZ. Coming from downtown Prescott you'll be driving North on Route 89. You'll see the Granite Dells in the distance as you approach from downtown. There's even a pull off on the highway where you'll often find many visitors to the area stopping in and taking pictures. We don't recommend this area for parking. Continue North from the pull off and you'll soon reach a traffic circle which offers access to the full day parking area at Watson Lake Park.

There is a parking fee at the park, and an automated kiosk to receive a parking pass for the day. If you plan on visiting the park often the city does offer extended passes which will save you a lot of money in the long run! If you're only up for a day or two, the day passes are worth the expense.

Things to do at Watson Lake Park

The video on this page covers most of the recreational opportunities available at Watson Lake Park, but we'll include a quick run down of the main features at the park.

  • Two boat launches available at the park. Kayaking, canoeing, fishing are all fun things to do while visiting.
  • Hiking Trails around the park. The Prescott Circle Trail runs right through Watson Lake Park. There are also many trails around the park, and a full loop trail if you're feeling adventurous and looking to hike several miles.
  • The popular Peavine Trail runs along the eastern side of the lake.  It's great for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. A great non-strenuous activity is cruising down the trail on an ebike(electric bike).  Prescott Ebike has hourly and full day ebike rentals.  They deliver and pick up the bikes.  You just show up and ride.
  • Mountain Biking Trails. Many of the hiking trails are also open to Mountain Bikers as well. From single track to wide open well graded trails, the park offers something to all skill levels.
  • Camping in the park itself. During the summer season there are campsites available in the park. Be sure to check seasonal restrictions before driving your RV up for a stay. It's very busy during the summer season, and you should check in advance before taking the trip.
  • Covered Picnic Areas. If you're looking to spend the day at Watson Lake there are many covered areas for group picnics.
  • Children's Play area. Swings, slides, and safe fun for your little ones.
  • Covered Gazebo at the top of the park. You'll often see wedding parties, graduation parties, and family events. You can reserve the gazebo for your special occasion with the City of Prescott.
  • Disc Golf Course. If you're looking to play 18 holes in some an incredibly scenic area, you're in luck. The newly updated disc golf course has a full 18 holes now, and the terrain changes from hole to hole.
  • Horse Shoes and Bocce Ball. There's a horse shoe area if you're looking to have a little competitive fun and a Bocce Ball area as well.
  • Incredible scenery where ever you look. Granite boulders stacked on top of granite rock formations, balanced rocks, and more. The beauty of this location leaves one surprised that it isn't National Forest or a National Monument. This is a rare gem to be sure, and there are very few places across the country with such an incredible city park!

Click here for information on facility rentals courtesy of the city of Prescott.

Watson Lake Virtual Tour

A video tour of Watson Lake Park