This shallow lake frequently dries up after particularly dry weather but is a favorite of dabbling ducks, grebes, and waders when it holds water. Check in the summer for breeding waterfowl, along with grebes, ibis, and rails.

Marshall Lake is a small marshy body of water that’s generally full of coots and other waterfowl splashing, flapping, and scooting around. It is such valuable wildlife habitat that it is managed in partnership with Ducks Unlimited and the Arizona Game and Fish Department.

During most years the lake has enough water in it to be stocked with trout by the Arizona Game and Fish Department. In dry years, however, it may temporarily disappear! Even when the lake is dry this area still offers excellent opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Working closely with Natural Channel Design and other wetland experts, the Department and partners from the US Forest Service, Arizona Wildlife Federation, Trout Unlimited, and Northern Arizona Audubon Society have developed a plan to improve wetland habitat and secure better water accumulation into the lake bed. 

Dry or wet, a number of primitive campsites near the east side of the lake provide exceptional views of the peaks from pine-sheltered locations. The surrounding area also serves as a good place to come to see some of this area’s plentiful elk or its rare wintering bald eagles. The lake itself provides a hunting site for resident ospreys and a rest stop for migrating waterfowl.

About 12 miles southeast of Flagstaff on paved and unpaved road. Access: Drive 9 miles south from Flagstaff on FR-3 (Lake Mary Road). Turn east (left) on FR-128 about 3 miles to the lake. The last mile or so is unpaved and may be impassable at times due to mud or snow.