Roosevelt Lake

Is Roosevelt Lake the biggest lake in Arizona?

Yes. Theodore Roosevelt Lake is the biggest lake located entirely inside Arizona. Lake Mead and Lake Powell are larger, but both cross the state line, into Nevada and Utah.

According to the Salt River Project:

• about 21,493 acres of lake surface
• about 22.4 miles long
• about 128 miles of shoreline

Theodore Roosevelt Dam was dedicated in 1911.

Roosevelt is the top reservoir in a chain of four lakes on the Salt River: Roosevelt, then Apache Lake, Canyon Lake and Saguaro Lake. The water at Saguaro is part of the same system.

The closer lake for a rental day

Your rental clock runs from our lot back to our lot, so every mile of towing comes out of your day. Roosevelt is about 80 miles, roughly 2 hours, from Apache Junction.

Saguaro Lake is about 30 minutes from our shop and is where we send water rentals now: about 1,200 acres, red canyon walls, calm mornings for wakesurfing and paddleboarding, and a full-service marina. Canyon Lake is closed to the public for the SRP drawdown. See Saguaro Lake boat rentals and the Tonto Pass guide.

About Roosevelt Lake

Roosevelt Lake (Theodore Roosevelt Lake) is Arizona's largest reservoir, covering over 21,000 acres. This massive body of water offers unlimited riding space, scenic beauty, and perfect conditions for those seeking a serious water sports adventure. Whether you're planning a full day, a multi-day trip, or just want endless open water to explore, Roosevelt Lake delivers.

The sheer size means fewer feeling of crowding. You can ride for hours and still have new water to explore. The surrounding landscape is rugged Arizona desert and mountain scenery—dramatic and beautiful.

Why Choose Roosevelt Lake

• Arizona's Largest: 21,000+ acres of water—unlimited riding space
• Perfect for Multi-Day Trips: Massive lake supports extended adventures
• Open Water Riding: Fewer constraints than smaller lakes, more space for speed
• Dramatic Scenery: Rugged mountains and desert canyons surround the lake
• Less Crowded: Despite its size, far fewer boats than Saguaro Lake
• Full Facilities: Marina with dining, stores, and complete amenities

Directions and Drive Time

From Apache Junction, take US-60 east through Superior and Miami, then AZ-188 north to the lake - about 80 miles, roughly 2 hours, and paved the entire way. This is the recommended route when towing. The scenic Apache Trail (AZ-88) looks more direct on a map, but it turns to steep unpaved road past Tortilla Flat and is not suited for trailers. The longer drive pays off with true Arizona backcountry. GPS: 33.6865° N, 111.1235° W

Practical Information