Blue Ridge Reservoir

Blue Ridge Reservoir offers a scenic paddling experience in the Coconino National Forest of central Arizona. This narrow, winding reservoir is situated high atop the Mogollon Rim, providing a peaceful escape surrounded by forested hills.

While the boat ramp is currently closed to trailers due to low water levels exposing hazardous conditions, kayakers and canoers can still access the water by carrying their boats to the shoreline. The access point is located about 55 miles south of Flagstaff, or 27 miles north of Payson, along a gravel forest road. Nearby campgrounds provide options for overnight stays.

Paddlers should plan their trip carefully, as this reservoir may experience changing conditions and access restrictions over time. Checking the latest information before your visit is recommended. Those looking to enjoy the serene waters of Blue Ridge Reservoir by human-powered craft can find a rewarding experience amidst the Rim Country scenery.

NOTE!! The boat ramp at the reservoir is currently closed to trailers, as low water levels have exposed boulders and large rocks that make it unsafe and impossible for a trailer to be backed down the boat ramp. People may still access the water and carry kayaks and canoes to the water edge, but trailers with boats are not yet able to be backed down the boat ramp.This narrow, winding body of water...

NOTE!! The boat ramp at the reservoir is currently closed to trailers, as low water levels have exposed boulders and large rocks that make it unsafe and impossible for a trailer to be backed down the boat ramp. People may still access the water and carry kayaks and canoes to the water edge, but trailers with boats are not yet able to be backed down the boat ramp.This narrow, winding body of water looks more like a canyon-bound river than a lake. Be aware that this is a canyon lake--meaning there is very little shore access around the entire reservoir. The sides of the canyon that create this reservoir are steep and there are not any sandy shores like you might expect at a traditional lake with shoreline, which makes this reservoir a destination mainly for people kayaking, canoeing, and fishing.Fishers can catch rainbow, brown or brook trout here, stocked by the Arizona Game and Fish Department. Other types of recreation include sightseeing, wildlife watching, hiking, and mountain biking, but don't expect any wide open shores for sunbathing and swimming.C.C. Cragin Reservoir is an important water source for the town of Payson, Arizona. Forest thinning and prescribed burning in the area under the Cragin Watershed Protection Project is helping to protect this valuable water source and improve forest health in the area. C.C. Cragin Dam was built in 1965 by Phelps Dodge, and later transferred to the Salt River Project (SRP). Learn more about the reservoir's history on SRP's history of C.C. Cragin dam and reservoir.  View album on Flicker 

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