The unofficial start of summer means it is one of the most popular weekends at Lake Pleasant in Peoria Arizona. Last year, the Memorial Day weekend became so busy, the Lake Pleasant Regional Park reached capacity and had to turn recreationists away. Let that be your sign to plan ahead, get to the lake early and be prepared to share the water with hundreds of other water play enthusiasts looking to have a fun, safe weekend and kickoff summer at one of the coolest spots in Arizona.

Each year around Memorial Day, the annual water levels at Lake Pleasant are at some of their highest points. Higher levels mean less shoreline to accommodate visitors. This can add to the challenges Maricopa County Parks and Recreation faces while prioritizing guest safety and working to prevent damage to the land or visitor experience through holiday restrictions or closures. Because there’s a high likelihood of this happening again, as Memorial Day continues to be one of the most popular lake days, it’s wise to plan ahead. 

As we approach Memorial Day 2024, here are some tips for a smooth visit to Scorpion Bay and Lake Pleasant:

1. Possible Park closures. This can happen any day throughout the weekend for up to six hours at a time. This means you can’t come in or out, so bring all your gear in, or stock back up at the Scorpion Bay General store rather than planning to run back into town for supplies.
2. Camping sites fill up fast. If you plan to camp at one of the many campgrounds, reserve your spot as early as possible.
3. Shoreline camping is not allowed. The shoreline is only available for day-use visitors.
4. Pay attention to fire bans and wildfire risk levels. Starting a campfire during a ban can result in a hefty fine.
5. Be aware of park hours: 5 a.m. to 9 p.m.
6. If you plan on enjoying alcoholic beverages, please do so responsibly.

If you plan on a day-use visit to the western shore of the lake, Scorpion Bay Marina is your source for fun and food. The marina has boats and kayaks available for rent for a half or full day and kayaks are available by the hour. 

You don’t need to worry about forgetting important items thanks to the wide variety of necessities at the Scorpion Bay General Store. There you can find food, beverages, ice, swim attire, sunscreen and several other frequently forgotten items. If you’d rather pack light, a meal at the Scorpion Bay Grille is a great option. Fuel up before or after your water adventure and enjoy masterfully created culinary creations on the West Valley’s most scenic patio.

Memorial Day is a great weekend to spend on the water and can be enjoyed by everyone when planning and safety are prioritized. We can’t wait to see you this year at the lake!

About Scorpion Bay

Located just 45 minutes from downtown Phoenix in Peoria, Arizona on Lake Pleasant, Scorpion Bay offers convenience and world-class marina services for the entire family. With hundreds of covered and uncovered wet slips, world-class food at Scorpion Bay Grill – as well as boat rentals including pontoons, fishing boats, ski-boats, kayaks and other water toys – you’re sure to find a full day of entertainment on the water. As part of Lake Pleasant Regional Park, visitors can venture out for hiking, picnicking and wildlife viewing in the area. Parking is easily accessible, and our no cost electric tram will take guests and their gear from the parking lot to the dock in minutes. Scorpion Bay is managed by Desert Troon Companies http://desert-troon.com/

Scorpion Bay is Arizona’s premier floating playground, offering everything from daily pontoon and ski boat rentals to slips for harboring your yacht (or dinghy). Come for the fishing or come for the frolicking—either way, incredible mountain views, fantastic dining and world-class marina services await less than an hour out of Phoenix. https://www.scorpionbayaz.com/