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Lake Pleasant: Phoenix's Backyard Oasis

John Flanders, Phoenix Scuba Diving Examiner
February 8, 2010
jflanders@academyofscuba.com

I was at a recent planning meeting being held by the Maricopa County Parks and Recreation Department. They had submitted a questionnaire and request to frequent users of the lake to help them identify current and prospective markets (users) for the lake itself. Approximately 15 people, who I would like to think are community leaders, attended the meeting. Out of the 15 people, Scuba diving was clearly represented as a majority area of use and interest. Other interests included hiking, boating, kayaking, and even a local pilot who believes a piece of the lake should be authorized for sea plane landings.

During the meeting, the organizers asked about what drew people to the lake, beyond the individual activities of which were being represented. Some of the discussion points included (1) proximity, (2) cleanliness, (3) friendly staff, (4) safety, (5) facilities, and of course, (6) the water itself. Being in the middle of the desert a lake as attractive and large as Lake Pleasant is a real treat.

Although, I have been diving and camping at Lake Pleasant for ten years, I learned a lot during that meeting. But, one of the biggest lessons was subtle and understated. Lake Pleasant is “our” oasis in the desert. Every weekend thousands of people come to the lake to enjoy “their” activity which could include everything from Scuba diving to sea plane flying. Lake Pleasant is public access and open to everyone. That means we need to respect each other. During peak times (like weekends and holidays), the quiet lake turns into a crowded mecca. Tolerance, respect, and courtesy are essential. Just because you are there first doesn’t give you any more right to the lake than anyone else. Shore access, while bountiful, is not infinite. During busy times, you can expect to have some close to your “space”. Lake Pleasant is just a few miles north of Phoenix. There are millions of people in the metro area and regardless of how much you pay in taxes, this is their lake too.

Following are some tips to help us all get along:

• Follow the rules. Rules are set up for everyone's safety and enjoyment. There are no exceptions.


• Get there early. If there is a specific spot that you like, get there early. If you wait until noon on Saturday to get your favorite space, it will most likely be gone. First come, first serve.


• Meet the neighbors. When someone pulls up next to your spot (or you pull up next to someone), go over and greet them (hand extended and smile on your face helps). Tell them what you are up to and discuss any concerns you may have. A great example is if someone is fishing and you are Scuba diving, discuss where and how you are entering the water. Or, if someone is jet-skiing while you are Scuba diving, explain to them what your dive flag is and how they should observe it.


• Pick up your trash and more. Leave your spot cleaner than you found it. Does anymore need to be said about this? If everyone picked up their trash and one extra piece, we would have the cleanest lake in the world.


• Turn your music down. You have every right to enjoy your music and your neighbor has every right to enjoy their music. Keep your music at a level that contains it to your immediate area. Or, you could just listen to the sounds of nature.


• Patience. Patience at the lake can be tested from time to time. When that happens, remember you are there to have a good time. Don’t create anymore stress in your life, that is why you are there to off-gas.

For Phoenix area Scuba divers, Lake Pleasant is a true oasis. Great boat diving, unlimited shore access, fast and easy to get to, relatively inexpensive, great facilities and infrastructure, and friendly staff are just a few reasons to head up to the lake. Yes, we have all had challenges when dealing with jet-skis and fisherman who think they own the cove. None of this needs to keep us from blowing bubbles and enjoying what we love to do locally.

Have fun and dive safe!