Arizona has no shortage of lakes, pools, and streams to enjoy during the warmer months, but some deserve much more credit than they receive. Knoll Lake is one such place, nestled in a thick pine grove near Mogollon Rim. This giant, pristine lake in Arizona is worth seeing in person if you’re a fan of natural beauty or if you just want to have your mind blown for an afternoon.

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Mogollon Rim is an iconic destination in the Grand Canyon State, and for good reason. This 2,000-foot-long escarpment plunges from evergreen forestland to the rocky desert valley, showcasing panoramic views that appear to extend endlessly into the distance.
Flickr/Coconino National Forest, Ariz.
While the Rim itself undoubtedly deserves a spot on everyone's bucket list, there are plenty of closeby natural wonders worthy of a visit.
Tucked away in Leonard Canyon, Knoll Lake is easily one of the most underrated spots in Rim Country. Its sprawling 75 acres easily harbor some of the cleanest, most pristine water in Arizona.
Flickr/Coconino National Forest, Ariz.
A thick grove of towering ponderosa pine trees surrounds the lake, adding even more enchantment to the already spellbinding scene.
Knoll Lake is so named due to a rocky island located in its center. Remote and secluded, this picturesque landmass is a shining example of Mother Nature's unadulterated beauty.
Flickr/Coconino National Forest, Ariz.
With the fast-paced lives many of us lead, escaping to a peaceful environment every once in a while is so important.

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A boat ramp accommodates canoes and other small watercraft, so you can get out and explore the hidden grotto. The lake is well-stocked with trout; namely Rainbow, Brown, and Brook.
Flickr/Coconino National Forest, Ariz.
Take in the breathtaking scenery as you paddle gently forward, guided by the slow-moving current all the while.
Due to its elevation of more than 7,000 feet, Knoll Lake is closed to visitors during the winter months. It usually opens up in May, when roads are largely clear of accumulated snow.
Flickr/Forest Service, USDA
If the roads ever happen to stay open late into the winter season, you just might spot some bald eagles!
A nearby campground offers both single and double sites that sleep eight and 16 guests, respectively. Amenities include space for both tents and trailers, picnic tables, vault toilets, potable water, and a parking lot.
Flickr/Coconino National Forest, Ariz.
Single sites cost $20, while doubles are $40.
So if you're on the hunt for a new experience in the great outdoors, look no further than Knoll Lake. Both serene and exhilarating, it's a perfect family adventure during the warmer months.
Flickr/Coconino National Forest, Ariz.
If you're traveling from Flagstaff, the lake is about 100 miles to the southeast.

Knoll Lake is currently open, but the campground is closed due to COVID-19. Keep checking in with the Forest Service website for the latest information. Click here to learn more about the lake itself. Have you ever been to this pristine lake in Arizona? If so, is the water as pristine as the pictures suggest? Let us know, and check out our previous article for more crystalline swimming spots: 7 Swimming Spots With The Clearest, Most Pristine Water In Arizona.

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Pristine Lake In Arizona

Marisa Roman | June 01, 2021

Are there any good swimming holes in Arizona?

Beyond visiting Knoll Lake in Arizona, what other places can you visit to get in a good day’s worth of swimming? There are quite a few different swimming holes, lakes, and beaches to check out on a hot summer day to keep cool.  Some of the best swimming holes are in those tucked-away parts of the state, where you might need to do some hiking in order to get there. For instance, Bull Pen at West Clear Creek is about 15 miles east of Camp Verde, but it’s definitely worth the trek. Check out these 8 swimming holes in Arizona for more options.

What are the best outdoor activities in Arizona?

Sometimes enjoying the outdoors means visiting the most beautiful lakes in Arizona. Since Arizona isn’t a coastal state, there aren’t too many beaches that can be enjoyed but, that doesn’t mean that there aren’t any lakes or creeks to swim in. In fact, we have 20 gorgeous lakes in Arizona that are worth checking out. From Ashurst Lake in Coconino County to Canyon Lake in Maricopa County, you can easily spend the day fishing, boating, canoeing, and more. Even the beauty of Lake Havasu, one of the more well-known lakes in the state, is not to be missed!

How many Arizona parks are in Arizona?

Between the national parks and the national forests in Arizona, you’ll easily be able to fill your calendar with places to explore. In fact, there are 24 National Parks in Arizona that should be on your bucket list. From enjoying the beauty of the Grand Canyon to the magic of the Petrified Forest, you’ll have so many options to dive into the beauty of nature in Arizona. We also have one particular underrated national park that should also be part of your exploration - Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument.

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Knoll Lake, Arizona, USA