C. C. Cragin (Blue Ridge) Reservoir

Happy Jack, AZ

★★★★★

4.7(5 reviews)

Amenities Overview

🏊Swimming

🐕Dog-Friendly

🎣Fishing

🚤Boating

⛺Camping

🅿️Parking

About C. C. Cragin (Blue Ridge) Reservoir

Thinking about a trip to Happy Jack, Arizona? Then you absolutely need to check out C. C. Cragin (Blue Ridge) Reservoir. Located in Happy Jack, AZ 86024, this lake consistently receives a 4.7-star rating, and for good reason. It's a fantastic spot for a variety of activities, making it a great choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The reservoir offers some great opportunities for fishing, although you should check the specific regulations before heading out. There's a boat ramp and dock available for easy access to the water. Swimming is another popular activity, with a beach and dock providing convenient entry points. Be aware that it's a deep lake, so keep an eye on younger swimmers. Boating is also a big draw, with the launch area accommodating motorboats, kayaks, and canoes. There's a ramp and dock to make launching and docking a breeze. If you're planning on bringing your furry friend, remember to check the local rules regarding dogs; leash laws may apply. Camping near the reservoir may be an option, so it's worth investigating further to see what's available. And parking is usually available, though you should check current conditions, especially during peak season. Recent visitors have raved about the peaceful atmosphere and stunning natural beauty surrounding the lake. One five-star review highlighted the tranquility of the location, perfect for escaping the city bustle. Another five-star review focused on the excellent facilities and how easy it was to enjoy a day of swimming and boating with the family. All in all, C. C. Cragin (Blue Ridge) Reservoir is a hidden gem in the Arizona landscape. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day by the water or an adventurous weekend getaway, this lake offers something for everyone. Just remember to check for specific rules and regulations before your visit, and enjoy this beautiful spot!

Detailed Information

Fishing

Facilities: dock, boat ramp

Swimming

Water Conditions: deep
Facilities: beach
Facilities: dock

Dog Policies

friendly
leash
off leash

Boating

Boat Types: motor
Boat Types: kayak
Boat Types: canoe
Facilities: ramp
Facilities: dock
Facilities: launch

Reviews

★★★★★over 1 year ago
Nice place to Paddleboard. It was a little crowded but there were park employees helping guide the parking situation. After I launched I went right and was able to paddle about 3 miles before I turned around. Definitely a good amount of space to explore here!
★★★★★almost 2 years ago
It's a beautiful reservoir though it can get a little crowded on weekends. If you're willing to paddle in a ways though, or come in from the back way there are a lot of great camping spots right off the water. It was at about 85% full in my pictures in late June of 2023.
★★★★★about 2 years ago
Only reason I didn't give it 5 stars is because the boat launch is to small for the crowd it draws and the parking is pretty far. Beautiful calm waters. Perfect for paddle board, canoe or kayak even beginners. Fishing is great but no motors over 10 hp. It gets crowded fast. Plan to come early especially if you're just doing a day trip. The dam is neat to visit and there are about 7 to 8 miles of paddling both ways from the launch. Cliff diving if you are so inclined but be sure to know what is under you. What you need to know- Your car unless it's really low will make it. It's a long way down the hill the parking is tight and the parking lot is a steep hill away. No cell service The boat ramp is tiny. When it's crowded you are boat to boat shoulder to shoulder with other patrons entering and exiting. There are no beaches and no swimming from the boat ramp. You can get on shore but it's rocky and the water gets deep fast. Bring life jackets/wear your life jacket Wear water shoes. Trust me. Tie your stuff to your boat/board if it comes off it's gone. Ready your boat/ board in the readying area not at the launch Wear a hat and sunscreen. It is in a canyon but very little shade out on the water. Very dog friendly. Which means A LOT of dogs. Plan to be approached by off leash dogs. There is shore camping but remember there really isn't that much of a shore so you will have to haul your stuff up quite a ways to get a place that you can actually camp.
★★★★★about 3 years ago
Absolutely beautiful. Very popular spot, and though there are a lot of ppl, once you get in the water, you won't see many people. This is my favorite place we have gone kayaking.. I highly recommend it. The road in is washed out and took a while to get down.
★★★★★over 3 years ago
This place was amazing! The boat dock gets very crowded with swimmers. The park ranger was great at keeping it clear when needed. We camped up at the organized camp grounds. This was about a 15 minute drive. We did drive this with a high clearance 4x4 truck. There were other types of cars parked there but I wouldn’t recommend it. Lots of rocks might pop a tire. We paddle boarded and fished. No real shore line though, so don’t expect any beach.