Lakes Near Yuma
The weather is warm and that means it’s time to pack up and head out for your upcoming family vacation. There aren’t many better options than a lake near Yuma. Lucky for you, when you come to Yuma there are quite a few great spots when it comes to spending time on the lake.
There are many great motivations to visit a lake in Yuma during the warmer months – the cool water for swimming, relaxing summer entertainment like paddle boarding, kayaking, or swimming. Some of the lakes in Yuma have beaches that are perfect for a relaxing day. Don’t you deserve an enjoyable getaway? Load up the car with your beach goodies and a cooler then set out your next day off and discover your own favorite spot on a lake!
Nearby Lakes for Yuma
Things to Do at the Lake
A day trip, or a longer trip gives you a nearly limitless list of things to do for couples or families.
Here are some of our top picks for activities when you arrive at a Yuma lake:
Water sports. If you’re able to get access to a fast boat, why not spend the day flying around the water showing off your water sports talents? Take the family out for some tubing or skiing as the local lakes provide you with a number of options.
Grab a board. If you like to paddle around, strap your favorite kayak or paddleboard to the top of your vehicle and chart your course to a lake with a public launch and get out and soak up the scenery on the waterfront.
Catch some fish. For those that love to fish, you shouldn’t have too much trouble finding a good fishing spot to help you have a relaxing day with a line in the water whether you’re roaming the lake in a killer fishing boat or tossing a line in from the dock.
Lake Checklist
A lake day itinerary can vary quite a bit depending on the specific lake you’ll be visiting, when you decide to go, and the activities on your to-do list. For your convenience we’ve assembled a rundown of popular lake items that you can use as a checklist before you hit the road.
Lake basics
For a day spent on the water you’ll probably want to bring along many of these items so that you’ll be safe, comfortable, and relaxed.
- Food
- Beach blanket
- Sneakers
- Bug spray
- Cooler, ice, beverages (always remember water!)
- Towels and dry clothes
- Cords and a charger for portable devices
- A sunhat or glasses
- Bathing suits
- Trash bags (one for trash, one for wet items)
More lake stuff
Consider the itinerary at the lake and your guests, the items below might also prove useful and worth packing prior to leaving.
- Wine key
- Tackle box and lures
- Books
- Toys for the beach
- Legal flotation devices
- Pool noodles, rafts, floats
- Bait
- Goggles or masks
- Fishing poles
- Something to clean up with like sanitizers or wet wipes
Lake Safety Tips
Yes, being on the water can make for a memorable day, everyone’s safety is the most important part of your getaway. Here are some general tips that should make sure that your whole group are always safe on the water.
- Use sunscreen, even if it’s cloudy outside
- Make sure children have swimmies or other approved flotation devices
- Don’t swim alone
- Make sure you have a life jacket for every person on the boat
- Avoid swimming near rocks or shallow water areas that may not be deep enough to dive underneath and escape from waves
- Avoid alcohol consumption before swimming, as it can impair judgment and result in drowning
- Have an emergency plan if you run into trouble on your watercraft
More Ideas for Lake Fun
Not everyone has had a chance to make their way to the amazing lakes around Yuma and might have a lot of questions on ways to maximize their fun. Certainly, each lake near Yuma will have their own character and surroundings, but it’s worth noting a few things to review when making plans that might help start your trip on the right foot.
- Pay attention to the beaches. Depending on the time of year, sometimes the beaches near Yuma might be really busy. To find a little more privacy, research a variety of nearby beaches and lakes to see if you can find one that’s less crowded if you want a more relaxing vibe. To get in on the party, search out the biggest, most happening beach!
- Rent a boat. If you’re near the water you’ll often find nearby marinas that offer boat rentals. Just because you don’t own a boat to enjoy a day fishing on the lake or taking the kids out for some wakeboarding or tubing. Doing a quick Google search can usually help you locate a marina that has what you need.
- Maximize unique local resources. If there’s time for a lengthier getaway, look for local recreational areas, state parks, and campgrounds that offer the option to stay directly on the water without breaking the bank.