Tucson Water Sports

It might surprise you to know that Tucson has an abundance of options for enjoying water sports. Fishing and boating are just two of the sports that are available. Swimming and splash pads are an option that the whole family can enjoy while visiting this city.

With three lakes available from the City of Tucson, you can enjoy a range of activities, from model boats to fishing, kayaking, canoeing, sailing and more.

Silverbell Lake

Located at Christopher Columbus Park, there is boating and fishing here. Canoes and boats under 14 feet are allowed, but swimming is not allowed. Bring the family for its playground and dog park as well as model plane area and model boating on Archer Lake. Archer Lake does not allow fishing or boating; only model boats are permitted.

Kennedy Lake

Located at John F. Kennedy Park, canoes and boats 14 feet and under are permitted as well as fishing. The park also offers a swimming pool, group ramadas, playground and sports field. You’ll be able to cool off at the swimming pool after a day of fishing or boating.

Lakeside Lake

Located at Chuck Ford Lakeside Park, canoes and boats under 14 feet are allowed. In addition to fishing, Lakeside Park also offers playgrounds, walking trails and sports fields.

These Tucson lakes permit properly licensed boats with proper flotation devices on board. Live baitfish is prohibited and gasoline motors are not allowed. You are also not allowed to feed the ducks and geese, so your family should be aware.

Pools and Splash Pads

Year round pools include:

Catalina Pool
Clements Pool
Edith Ball ARC
Sunnyside Pool

Take the kids for fun at the Catalina Park Splash Pad or the Naida Jane Baker Splash Pad.

Patagonia Lake State Park

Located south of Tucson, this park offers boat rentals and supplies at its Lakeside Market. Fishing as well as camping, hiking and picnicking are popular. There is also a beach for swimming and a trail around the lake. Tables and grills make family picnics fun here. For the birdwatchers in the family, a plethora of birds, such as the vermilion flycatcher, Inca dove and a variety of hummingbirds, can be spotted.

Enjoy stand up paddle boarding, canoeing and kayaking while in this city or at one of the surrounding state parks nearby.

Vacation rentals allow you to relax in the comfort and privacy of your own home after a busy day on or in the water. With mountain views and nearby lakes, you will enjoy a truly memorable vacation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the weather like in Tucson and when is the best time to visit?

Fall, winter, and spring are the most popular times to visit Tucson due to mild weather, outdoor activities, cultural festivals, and ideal conditions for hiking and sightseeing.

With 350+ days of sunshine annually, Tucson ranks as one of most radiant cities in the United States! As a result, there are fun events all year long, including sports and outdoor activities, even in mid-winter. Yes, it’s hot in the summer, but the nights are cooler, and like they say, “it’s a dry heat,” which means you’ll rarely break a sweat. Thanks to showers in late summer and early winter, it’s a different kind of desert — a lot greener than you might think.

What are the top things to do in Tucson?

Tucson’s top attractions come from the natural landscapes of the Sonoran Desert. Sabino Canyon, Catalina State Park, Saguaro National Parks East and West, Colossal Cave Mountain Park, the Tohono Chul Botanical Gardens, and Kartchner Caverns State Park are all well worth the visit and hiking opportunities.

You won’t want to miss the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, which houses a zoo, walk-in aviary, botanical garden, and natural history exhibits.

Does Casago have pet-friendly vacation rentals in Tucson?

Yes! We have some pet-friendly properties, contact us for more details. We want to be able to accommodate you as much as possible, and that’s why we’ll strive to offer you a pet-friendly vacation rental that will work for your pet.

What are the biggest main events in Tucson?

Did you know Tucson is recognized as one of the best cities in the world for events and festivals? Many of these center on Tucson’s eccentric character, gem shows, and rodeos. Don’t forget sporting events at the U of A, plus seasonal arts & cultural highlights.

Tucson Gem, Mineral & Fossil Showcase (Jan - Feb)
Tucson International Mariachi Festival (Spring)
All Souls Procession (early November)
Tucson Festival of Books (Spring)
Tucson Rodeo (Feb - March)
El Tour de Tucson (November)

Is it easy to do day-trips from Tucson?

Definitely! Tucson is a convenient home-base for day trips to: the Biosphere II in Oracle, the famous “Old West” boom town of Tombstone, Bisbee, Flagstaff, Mount Lemmon, Phoenix, and Nogales, Mexico.

How do I get around downtown Tucson?

Tucson’s Sun Link Streetcar links the University of Arizona to the Mercado neighborhood by way of downtown Tucson and the popular Fourth Avenue dining, shopping, and entertainment district, following the main artery of Tucson’s Urban Core.