Campground Overview:
Marshall Lake is a small marshy body of water that’s generally full of coots and other waterfowl splashing, flapping, and cooting around. Located across from Upper Lake Mary on the Coconino National Forest. During most years the lake has enough water in it to be stocked with trout by the Arizona Game and Fish Department. In dry years, however, it may temporarily disappear! Even when the lake is dry this area still offers excellent opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Campsites:
Dry or wet, a number of primitive campsites near the east side of the lake provide exceptional views of the peaks from pine sheltered locations. There are no amenities, come prepared to pack in, pack out all gear. The surrounding area also serves as a good place to come to see some of this area’s plentiful elk or its rare wintering bald eagles. The lake itself provides a hunting site for resident ospreys and a rest stop for migrating waterfowl.
Drive 9 miles south from Flagstaff on Forest Highway 3 (Lake Mary Road). Turn east (left) on Forest Road 128 about 3 miles to the lake. The last mile or so is unpaved and may be impassable at times due to wet conditions. The road is closed in the winter.
Campground at a Glance
Level: |
Dispersed |
Season: |
May – October |
Nearby City: |
Flagstaff |
Fishing: |
Lower Lake Mary/ Marshall Lake |
Campground Website: |
Marshall Lake |
Campground Map: |
Click Here |
Reservations: |
First-come, first-served basis |
Location: |
Nearby Attractions and Activities:
Coconino National Forest is one of the most diverse National Forests in the country with landscapes ranging from the famous red rocks of Sedona to Ponderosa pine forests, from southwestern desert to alpine tundra. Explore mountains and canyons, fish in small lakes, and wade in lazy creeks and streams.
The Lake Mary Recreation Corridor, located along Lake Mary Road, is a popular recreation area right outside of Flagstaff that gives vistors access to numerous recreational opportunities. Upper Lake Mary is the largest of Flagstaff’s twin lakes. This long, narrow reservoir is especially popular with power boaters and water skiers because there is no motor size limit on it. It’s also popular with those who prefer people-power or windpower over horsepower. For those who like fishing, the lake has northern pike, channel cat, crappie, and some trout. Upper Lake Mary Boat Launch and Picnic Area offers boat launch and picnic facilities. Lake Mary Narrows Boat Launch and Picnic Area provides excellent access facilities for disabled anglers by means of paved lakeshore ramps. Popular trails include the Wood Memorial and Arizona Trails, which take hikers on beautiful scenic tours of the surrounding area.
Ashurst Lake, located a few miles down Lake Mary road, is regularly stocked with rainbow and brook trout, it’s an excellent place to fish. It’s a good place to paddle your canoe, too, or to windsurf or enjoy any of a number of other water sports. A graveled road to the lake and around it provides a good place to ride your mountain bike. The setting is not bad either. The San Francisco Peaks stand picture perfect on the horizon. Other popular lakes in the area are Marshall Lake, Kinnikinick Lake, and Morman Lake.
Nearby Campgrounds:
Campground full or want to see what’s around? Try one of these campgrounds located nearby
