Kiwanis Lake: An Urban Oasis
Escape to Kiwanis Lake in Tempe: Fish, boat, and relax in this urban oasis surrounded by lush park amenities and community spirit.
Kiwanis Lake, a 12-acre man-made lake, is the centerpiece of Kiwanis Park in Tempe, Arizona. This urban oasis provides a welcome respite from the surrounding desert landscape, offering a variety of recreational activities and a scenic environment for relaxation. The lake is regularly stocked with fish, making it a popular spot for urban fishing. Anglers can try their luck at catching rainbow trout, largemouth bass, and catfish. Non-motorized boating is also permitted, and paddleboat rentals are available seasonally for those who want to enjoy the water at a more leisurely pace. Swimming and wading are prohibited. Kiwanis Park itself spans 125 acres and offers a wide range of amenities. Visitors can enjoy sports fields, batting cages, playgrounds, and a recreation center with a wave pool. Paved paths wind around the lake, perfect for walking, jogging, and biking. Ramadas and picnic tables provide shaded areas for gatherings and picnics. The Cloud, a 5,000-square-foot splash pad, offers water-based fun for kids and families. Kiwanis Park was established in 1972, with the Kiwanis Club donating funds for its development. The lake and surrounding park have become a central gathering place for the Tempe community, hosting events, festivals, and recreational activities throughout the year. Kiwanis Lake offers a unique blend of outdoor recreation and community engagement in an accessible urban setting.
Local tips
- Bring your fishing gear and try your luck at catching some of the regularly stocked fish in the lake.
- Rent a paddleboat for a relaxing way to explore the lake and enjoy the scenery.
- Take advantage of the park's many amenities, including playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas.
- Visit The Cloud splash pad for a fun way to cool off during the warmer months.
- Enjoy a walk or bike ride around the paved path that circles the lake.
A brief summary to Kiwanis Lake
- Tempe, Kiwanis Park, Arizona, US
Getting There
-
Public Transport
Kiwanis Park is accessible via Valley Metro bus routes. Several bus routes, including 66, 77, and the free Orbit Saturn circulator, stop near the park. Use the Valley Metro trip planner to find the quickest and most affordable route from your location. A single bus fare is typically $2.00.
-
Walking
If you are near Baseline Road and Mill Avenue, Kiwanis Park is a short walk away. From the intersection, head southwest. The park will be on your left. There are multiple entrances, so choose the one that best suits your desired destination within the park.
-
Taxi/Ride-share
From downtown Tempe or Arizona State University, a taxi or ride-share to Kiwanis Park will typically cost between $10 and $15, depending on traffic and surge pricing.
