Lakeside Dam – Arizona’s Hidden Water‑Works Gem

Discover the quiet charm of Lakeside Dam, a modest yet captivating spot tucked away in the high desert of Arizona’s Lake of the Woods region.

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Introduction

If you think Arizona is only about desert canyons and sprawling cities, think again. Nestled at an altitude of 2,046 m (6,718 ft) above sea level, Lakeside Dam offers a refreshing splash of water‑front serenity amid rugged mountain scenery. With a modest height of 6.4 m (21 ft), this unassuming dam may not dominate the skyline, but it anchors a picturesque landscape that’s perfect for a day‑trip, a photo‑stop, or a quiet spot to unwind. Whether you’re a road‑tripper cruising through northern Arizona, a local looking for a new weekend escape, or a photography enthusiast hunting off‑the‑beaten‑path vistas, Lakeside Dam deserves a place on your itinerary.

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About Lakeside Dam

What is Lakeside Dam?

Lakeside Dam is a small gravity dam located at 34.158056° N, ‑109.982058° W in the community of Lake of the Woods, Arizona. Built to regulate water flow in the surrounding watershed, the dam creates a tranquil pond that mirrors the surrounding pinyon‑juniper forests and the distant peaks of the Colorado Plateau. Though it lacks a Wikipedia page, the dam plays a quiet but vital role in local water management and recreation.

A Brief History

While detailed construction records are scarce, Lakeside Dam was erected as part of early‑to‑mid‑20th‑century water‑resource projects that aimed to support agriculture, livestock, and the growing needs of nearby settlements. Its modest size reflects the practical engineering approach of the era: a sturdy concrete structure designed to hold back just enough water to sustain the local ecosystem without overwhelming the fragile high‑desert environment.

Why It Matters

Beyond its functional purpose, Lakeside Dam has become a low‑key gathering spot for anglers, birdwatchers, and hikers. The reservoir supports native fish species and provides a watering hole for desert wildlife, making it an important ecological node. For travelers, the dam offers an authentic slice of Arizona’s lesser‑known outdoor heritage—far from the crowds at the Grand Canyon or Sedona, yet equally photogenic.

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How to Get There

By Car

The most convenient way to reach Lakeside Dam is by personal vehicle. Here’s a straightforward route for most travelers:

1. From Phoenix – Take I‑17 North to Flagstaff (≈ 140 mi).
2. From Flagstaff, hop onto I‑40 East and travel about 30 mi to Exit 277 (the Lake of the Woods exit).
3. Follow State Route 89 north for roughly 5 mi, then turn onto Forest Service Road 23 (signs for Lake of the Woods).
4. After a short gravel stretch, you’ll see signage for Lakeside Dam on the right-hand side of the road.

Tip: The final segment is a paved county road, but a high‑clearance vehicle is recommended during winter snow or after heavy rains.

By Air

The nearest commercial airport is Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (FLG), about 45 mi away. From the airport, rent a car and follow the directions above. For those flying into Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX), the drive takes roughly 3 hours.

Public Transportation

Arizona’s regional bus services do not directly serve Lake of the Woods. If you’re relying on public transit, consider a combination of Greyhound to Flagstaff and a rideshare or local taxi for the last leg.

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Best Time to Visit

Season	Weather	Why Visit
Spring (Mar‑May)	Mild days (15‑25 °C), occasional showers	Wildflower blooms, comfortable hiking temperatures
Summer (Jun‑Aug)	Warm to hot (30‑38 °C), low humidity at altitude	Longer daylight hours, perfect for early‑morning fishing
Fall (Sep‑Nov)	Cool evenings, crisp mornings (10‑22 °C)	Stunning golden‑hour light, fewer crowds
Winter (Dec‑Feb)	Cold (‑5‑10 °C), occasional snow	Snow‑capped scenery, peaceful solitude (check road conditions)

Overall recommendation: Late spring and early fall provide the most pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities while keeping the landscape vibrant.

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What to Expect

Scenic Views

Approaching Lakeside Dam, you’ll first notice the calm, glass‑like surface of the reservoir reflecting the surrounding pinyon‑juniper forest. The dam itself is a low concrete wall, but the real star is the backdrop: distant mesas, occasional sagebrush, and, on clear days, the snow‑capped peaks of the San Francisco Peaks.

Activities

• Fishing: The pond is stocked with native trout and catfish. Bring a simple rod and a state fishing license for a relaxing afternoon.
• Birdwatching: Look for red‑tailed hawks, western meadowlarks, and waterfowl that frequent the water’s edge.
• Photography: Sunrise over the dam paints the water in pastel hues, while sunset creates dramatic silhouettes of the surrounding ridges.
• Picnicking: A few picnic tables sit near the parking area—ideal for a snack after a short hike.

Facilities

The site offers a small, paved parking lot (capacity ~15 cars), portable restrooms, and informational signage about the dam’s purpose and local wildlife. There are no food vendors, so pack your own meals and plenty of water.

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Nearby Attractions

While Lakeside Dam is a destination on its own, it sits in a cluster of interesting sites that can easily fill a day‑trip itinerary:

• Lake of the Woods Dam – Just 0.6 km away, this larger dam creates the main Lake of the Woods reservoir, perfect for kayaking and larger‑scale fishing.
• Unnamed Spring (2.4 km) – A natural spring bubbling from the hillside, offering a cool spot to dip your feet.
• Big Spring – Located 2.5 km from Lakeside Dam, this spring is known for its clear water and surrounding picnic area.
• Scott Dam – Another small dam 2.5 km away, surrounded by short hiking trails that lead to scenic overlooks.
• Unnamed Spring (2.6 km) – A second spring within walking distance, ideal for nature lovers seeking quiet contemplation.

Pro tip: Combine these attractions into a “Dam & Springs Loop”—start at Lakeside Dam, head to Lake of the Woods Dam, then explore the two springs before looping back via Scott Dam. The entire circuit is roughly 8 km, suitable for a leisurely bike ride or a moderate hike.

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Travel Tips

1. Check Road Conditions – The final stretch to Lakeside Dam can be affected by snow in winter or flash floods after monsoon rains. Visit the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) website before you go.
2. Bring Supplies – No shops are on site. Pack water (at least 2 L per person), snacks, a basic first‑aid kit, and sunscreen.
3. Leave No Trace – Preserve the pristine environment by packing out all trash and staying on designated paths.
4. Fishing License – If you plan to fish, obtain an Arizona Sportfishing License online or at any local retailer.
5. Wildlife Safety – Keep a safe distance from any wildlife, especially snakes and coyotes that may be active during dawn and dusk.
6. Timing for Photos – The best light is during the golden hour (30 minutes after sunrise or before sunset). Cloudy days can also produce soft, even lighting for landscape shots.
7. Cell Service – Coverage can be spotty. Download offline maps (Google Maps or Maps.me) before you head out.
8. Pet Policy – Leashed pets are allowed, but be mindful of wildlife and keep them hydrated.

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Wrap‑Up

Lakeside Dam may not boast the fame of Arizona’s iconic landmarks, but its quiet charm, easy accessibility, and surrounding natural wonders make it a perfect addition to any road‑trip or weekend adventure. From the reflective waters and gentle fishing spots to the nearby springs and sister dams, this high‑desert oasis offers a slice of tranquility that’s increasingly rare in today’s fast‑paced world. Pack your camera, load up the car, and discover why Lakeside Dam is quickly becoming a hidden favorite among Arizona’s outdoor explorers. Safe travels!