As Temperatures Rise, So Does Activity at Lake Pleasant and Scorpion Bay Marina

If you’re not paying attention, it’s easy to miss the subtle signs that Spring is on its way. A degree or two here and there, and before you know it, we will be basking in daytime highs in the 80s and 90s. Those changes mean activity is ramping up at area lakes including Lake Pleasant Regional Park, home to Scorpion Bay Marina. As they prepare for the annual increase in lake-goers, staff at the Maricopa County Parks and Recreation Department are planning several events to enhance safety and enjoyment of the lake.

Water Levels and Floating Debris

First up is a campaign on water levels, debris and buoy identification. “Water levels are fluctuating right now,” said Maricopa County Parks and Recreation Communications Officer Dawna Taylor. “As they drop, we’ll start seeing more rocks, logs and debris so if you’re on the water you’ll want to keep your eyes peeled for that.” She said the appearance of debris will continue through the spring months and hit peak levels in April when mountain run-off starts flowing.

“We start to see our boat rentals increase significantly in the springtime with visitors here for spring training and to enjoy our perfect weather, and we always warn them about the logs and other runoff they will likely see out on the water,” added Scorpion Bay General Manager Lynn Lovelady. 

Lifejacket Safety

Safety is always the most important aspect of spending time on or near the water. In 2023 MCPRD kicked off what turned out to be a very successful water safety campaign where local officials encouraged the regular use of lifejackets, boating classes and responsible recreation. “That was very effective for us and there’s a good chance we’ll do something similar this year. Any chance we can drive home the importance of not drinking and boating, knowing how to operate watercraft and other life-saving measures, we’re happy to do it,” she said. 

Scorpion Bay team members encourage responsible boating with their “Caught Being Safe” program. This small but meaningful effort acknowledges children who are seen wearing their lifejackets on the dock and on the boat. “They get a voucher for a free ice pop from the general store,” said Lovelady. “It’s nothing big but to them it means a lot and it reinforces the idea that anytime they’re around water, they need to have a lifejacket on. For us it’s a non-negotiable.”

Hiking Challenge

Just in time for spring break, the Parks Department is hosting an open house for visitors to enjoy vendors and learn about the various program partners. This is happening Saturday, March 9 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Discovery Center. This event will also celebrate the wrap-up of the 100 miles in 100 days campaign – a program to encourage park visitors to get outside and connect with nature on one of the more than 515 Miles of trails in the Maricopa County Regional Park system. 

Bald Eagle Protection

While the majority of Lake Pleasant is open to boaters year-round, there is an area where traffic is limited to protect the bald eagle habitat. “The bald eagle program is in effect through June 15 which means access to the lower arm of Agua Fria is restricted. You have to drive around through Table Mesa. Everything is well marked so it’s relatively easy to work around, but protecting these nests is important so we make sure they have their space away from people.”

Campground Upgrades

Those who choose to enjoy the lake’s many campgrounds will notice some significant upgrades including new electrical and water hookups at the Roadrunner Campground. “Roadrunner electric is now running to every site independently so now if the power goes out at one site we don’t have to cut power to all of them when we fix it.” Crews also worked during the slower season to improve the sewer system throughout the area. Upcoming projects include well repair and other infrastructure improvements. “It’s nothing glamorous but those who use those facilities will notice and appreciate the changes,” said Taylor. 

Scorpion Bay Marina is excited to welcome guests back for the 2024 season. With dozens of boats and kayaks to rent, great food and drinks at the Scorpion Bay Grille and luxury on the water available at the high-demand floating cabins, Scorpion Bay is the place to be when those scorching summer temperatures set in. We can’t wait to see you on the water this spring! Visit https://www.scorpionbayaz.com/ to book your boat rental, visit the restaurant or secure your floating cabin stay.

About Desert Troon Companies 

Based in Scottsdale, Arizona for more than 40 years, Desert Troon Companies manages a diverse portfolio of commercial, retail and lifestyle property investments. The company’s depth and breadth of experience includes corporate build-to-suit, office, retail, hotel, master-planned community, mixed use and historic preservation projects. Notable lifestyle projects include Scorpion Bay, Torreon Golf Community, Hassayampa Golf Club and Troon/Troon North Communities in Arizona, Cimarron Hills Golf and Country Club in Texas, and Red Mountain Resort in Utah. For corporate or leasing information please call 480-563-5247 or visit http://desert-troon.com/ 

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. Visit https://www.scorpionbayaz.com/ to book your boat rental today.

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/