Stoneman Lake facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Stoneman Lake |
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 Stoneman Lake
Location in Arizona
Stoneman Lake
Location in the United States
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| Location | Coconino County, Arizona, United States |
| Coordinates | 34°46′59.3″N 111°31′17.2″W / 34.783139°N 111.521444°W |
| Type | crater lake (possible) |
| Basin countries | United States |
| Surface area | 80 acres (32 ha) |
| Max. depth | 10 ft (3.0 m) |
| Surface elevation | 6,719 ft (2,048 m) |
Stoneman Lake is a small lake in northern Arizona, United States. It is about 30 mi (48 km) south of the city of Flagstaff. Along with Mormon Lake, it is one of the few natural lakes found in Arizona.
Stoneman Lake is not very big or deep. Its surface area is usually less than 100 acres (40 ha). The lake is also less than 10 ft (3.0 m) deep on average.
Contents
How Stoneman Lake Changes
Because it is shallow, the lake's size and depth can change a lot. This depends on how much rain and snowmelt the area gets. Sometimes, if there isn't enough water, the lake can even dry up completely.
Fish in the Lake
Since the lake can dry up, it's not always a reliable place for fish. However, in years with plenty of water, certain fish are added to the lake. These include northern pike and yellow perch. In fact, the state record for a yellow perch was caught here in 1984!
Fun Activities at the Lake
People who visit Stoneman Lake can enjoy different outdoor activities. These usually include boating on the water. It's also a great spot for watching wildlife. Many visitors also enjoy camping near the lake.
How Stoneman Lake Formed
Scientists who study geology are very interested in how Stoneman Lake came to be. The lake sits in a basin that is almost perfectly round. This area has also had volcanic activity in the past.
Possible Origins
Because of its shape and location, scientists think the lake might be a crater lake. This means it formed in the bowl-shaped top of an old volcano. Another idea is that it's a sinkhole that filled with water. A sinkhole is a hole in the ground that forms when rock below the surface dissolves.
Evidence for Both Ideas
There is evidence that supports both of these ideas. The lake is located right in the middle of the Mormon volcanic field. This area is known for its many volcanoes. Scientists continue to study the lake to learn more about its interesting past.
