I have camped in Prescott before, but never at this lake. I had heard great things about Lynx Lake and have always wanted to check it out. This lake was formed in the 1960s when they dammed Lynx Creek. It is stocked for fishing and has a campground and hiking trails around it. There are lots of animals that are native to this area like mule deer, osprey and bald eagles. I booked a campsite here during the summer because I own a kayak and wanted to get out on the water. After setting up my site, I headed over to Lynx Lake. I was a little disappointed to see the water so low. I guess in late 2024, the lake was partially drained to fix a mechanical failure in the dam's outlet valve. It has to rely entirely on natural rain and snow to be refilled and could take years to get back to normal. So we just did a hike around the lake and headed back to our campsite. Lynx Campground has around 35 campsites with a picnic table, fire ring and a grill at each site. There are no RV hook-ups, but they do have drinking water and toilets. The campsite is about half a mile directly south of Lynx Lake. We enjoyed our campsite and had a fun time. We had to partially share our site with another family because their giant tent spilled onto our site (which was annoying). But we made the most of it. The nice thing is that the Town of Prescott isn't too far away if you need any food or supplies. As for kayaking, we were able to do that over at Watson Lake. You can book a campsite ahead of time on Recreation.gov. read more

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I've been to Lynx Lake a few times, and this recent visit was pretty similar to my past experiences. I'm giving it a 3-star review mainly because the lake has recently been drained and they want it to refill naturally, so it's unclear when water levels will return to normal. There is also a $5 day-use fee to enter the park. You can pay cash or card. Currently, the park opens at 7:00 AM and the gates close at 5:00 PM. The trail around the lake is about 2.5 miles and offers a few different routes, including at least one path that leads to a small waterfall (or what would be a waterfall if the lake wasn't drained). The west side of the lake is more paved and level, making it easier for walking, while the east side is more rugged with a dirt trail. One thing to add, the bathrooms were clean, but they had smell in them was hard to ignore and really unpleasant. Overall, it's still a nice area for a casual walk around the lake, especially if you're in the area. read more

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We hiked around this lake while we were visiting Prescott. It is mostly flat and dirt on one side. The opposite side was a bit more rocky, but still a doable hike. There was quite a bit of shade as we hiked. It was unclear at the parking lot if we could use our Federal Park pass or not, so we purchased the daily one. The lake wasn't completely filled, which would've been nice to see. There were people fishing and some in small boats. It was a nice getaway for a bit of healthy outdoor exercise. read more

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We decided to load up the labs and take a road trip. We went to Lynx Lake in Prescott, AZ. The weather was 80's, overcast, and a nice breeze. The lake was down quite a bit, but we had a nice 2.5 mi hike around it. It is paved on one side and rocky on the opposite side. There are areas that are slippery and easy to trip. Heading back to the valley and dogs are down for a nap. read more

Lynx Lake - Lakes Near Me - Prescott, Arizona

I wouldn't call this place a lake more like a pond. We live in Surprise. AZ and decided to drive up with our two golden retrievers for the day. The weather was nice and the drive took only about 1 1/2 hours. The pictures on their website show creeks, there are no longer any creeks as they are all dried up. The water was very dirty and murky. read more

We love coming here to camp each year but the lake right now just breaks my heart they had to drain it for repairs and it will take years to refill back up naturally! read more

Lynx Lake - Lynx Lake has been drained for repairs and will take YEARS to refill naturally! - Lakes Near Me - Prescott, Arizona

Great looking lake with a good-looking boat launch. A lot of people on the lake today and more people getting ready to explore. Plenty of picnic tables, grilling areas and hiking trails. it was a beautiful day in the neighborhood. I WOULD RECOMMEND read more

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I decided to go for an easy hike and was recommended lynx lake. There is a trail that goes all the way around the lake that is dirt and uneven, but not strenuous at all.... There were plenty of people walking along with their dogs, but otherwise it was not very crowded . There are multiple areas you can park along the trail. Their is usually a five dollar entrance fee - but on Wed it is free! read more

Lynx Lake - Lynx lake from parking lot - Lakes Near Me - Prescott, Arizona

So pretty and one of the cleanest lakes in Prescott! You can rent paddle boats, paddle boards, etc. Parking is $5. Our dog loves the trails! Gorgeous area! read more

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It was a perfect beautiful day at Lynx lake! To enjoy it even more, I definitely recommend a paddle board. Everyone has their own preference but I'd prefer paddle board to canoe. Why? It's hot, I want more easy access of getting in and out, I prefer to be wet while paddle boarding given the heat. During the summer, I highly recommend coming first thing when it opens and going to the south shore: boating dock area, parking spots fill up fast. We went on a Friday, perfect time to go because it wasn't that bad at all, we got a good parking spot and a great spot. I'll admit I forgot to pay the $5 parking fee when we arrived about 8:45 AM. I only remembered because it wasn't till around 1:00 PM when they went to go check every car for a receipt that you have to display on your dashboard. There was a lady who would put a notice on each car that did not have it, I was worried it would be a fine but it was only a warning notice to please pay, so I immediately went and paid. There were some spots that had trees near the lake where some people set up their chairs. I brought our EZ Up and it was sunny in the beginning but by 1:00 the clouds came out. If you do bring an EZ Up, bring stake's because it did get windy and my EZ up did blow away when I was swimming in the lake. Luckily 2 nice guys grabbed it and helped me put it back where it was. Also, for easy access, bring a trash bag for all your trash and another bag/trash bag to put all your dirty towels/clothes in when you get ready to leave. I would also bring water shoes as yes all the rocks hurt any time you're trying to get in and out of the water. A friend told me watch out for fish hooks as you take your steps, luckily we did not encounter any. This lake is definitely worth a visit! Come and bring your canoe, paddle board or floaters. read more

Lynx Lake - Lakes Near Me - Prescott, Arizona

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My daughter Zoe rented Loop B at Lynx Lake from 8/23/24 - 8/26/24. Rich & Jenny are AWESOME Volunteers who take care of the area & they are amazing folks. Very helpful & ready to tell you any helpful information you need while staying. We left a night early because my daughter rented the amount of days just in case we wanted to stay longer. Yet the 25th(today) is my 54th birthday & I was ready to be home for the week. We came home very rested with plenty of beautiful pics & cool experiences to tell friends & family. read more

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Lynx Lake is a great recreational area for kayaking canoeing and swimming. It's nestled in the pine forests and has a large picnic area. You must follow the rules on open fires here as it's mostly not allowed in the summer. You must get here early to save a nice picnic table. But once here it's a great setting for all to enjoy. There are trails around the lake for hikers and there is fishing allowed seasonally. read more

Lynx Lake - Lakes Near Me - Prescott, Arizona

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Love Lynx Lake. Easily accessible from town and while parking can be challenging on weekends or holidays, we've always found a spot, sometimes after a brief wait. We use my husband's senior America the Beautiful national parks pass. There are 2 lots, one on each side. The larger lot is where you find picnic tables and BBQs. Both lots have restrooms. They are rudimentary but clean. Beware of the wasps that circle the restrooms! We hiked the perimeter late this morning on a beautiful mid-70's day. It was 82 by the time we finished. There is shade on the rockier side of the trail but lots of open areas exposed to the sun on the smoother side. We did the rockier side first, finishing with the easier smooth side, for a total of 2.93 miles. I had both knees replaced last year and had no trouble with the trail, though I definitely need my hiking stick. The lake is beautiful. In addition to hiking, there is fishing, playing on the small beach or kayaking/paddle boating. Many people bring dogs. Bring plenty of water! And sunscreen & a hat. read more

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We went there on Easter. It's open from 7 AM to 7 PM and the parking fee for the whole day is $5 We arrived around 10 o'clock, and both south and north shore parking was full! We had to wait for a while for a group to leave! We enjoyed the view very much, but it was warm if you couldn't find a shadow for resting. Two more reasons for not giving 5star is the cafe that doesn't serve coffee if you don't buy food and there is no soap in the restrooms. read more

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This used to be a beautiful lake to fish on. Now it is a muddy pond. I understand it used to be managed by the Federal government, and was well managed, now it is managed by the Prescott local government, shamefully managed, they added swimming to this small lake, changed it forever. Prescott also has allowed the creek feeding the lake to dry up, no effort to keep (maintain) this water right,no water is now entering the lake like it had been for the last 10 years I have been fishing there. read more

Great lake just two miles from town hidden from everything! Fishing and hikes as well. They have a boat dock at the south shore of the lake, there is a park entrance fee. Lots of parking in the areas. Tables and covered picnic areas around the area for eating! What a beautiful place to visit read more

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This review is for Salida Gulch trail #95 in the Lynx Lake Park area. The trail is a 4.1 mile loop that starts along a creek bed and comes up to a high point with views of the Bradshaw mountains. The east side of the loop is mostly shaded and also quite lush along the stream bed area. As you turn to loop back to the north the trail becomes more open so if you are doing this on a warm day plan accordingly. Parking is free and even though the road is gravel, it is easily driven by any vehicle type. The trail is very popular and we encountered several groups of hikers on a weekday. read more

Lynx Lake - East side of Salida Gulch trail in December - Lakes Near Me - Prescott, Arizona

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This is for our Campground and the Lake area recent stay... We were in campsite #5 for a week of tent camping with friends. It is a double site, so it does costs a little more, but we had plenty of room for 3 tents, and they were spaced with plenty of room for a little privacy. This site does have a fire ring and 2 picnic tables. It is about 200 feet from the toilets (men's & women's flush toilets), and that was also the closest water hose-bib. (Note: the restrooms are not cleaned daily, just 3 times a week; Monday, Thursday,Saturday) The campground was mostly quiet, even with the 2 campsites close to us full. We did have morning traffic noise from Walker Road. The lake was nice, even though the Lynx Lake Store and Marina was not renting boats during our stay due to "COVID" we did really enjoy the Lake Loop Trail, and walked it daily. The seemed to have people fishing and just enjoying water sports daily. (Small boats, paddle boards, kayaking) During our stay, the Lynx Lake Cafe, Store & Marina was only open Thursday-Sunday (And if you forget anything, Costco & Walmart are less than 30 minutes away) read more

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We have a little place we like to go to get away down from Pink Car Hill. Lynx Lake has always been a go to spot for us for easy going hike which wraps around this small quaint lake and camping. Thr entry fee is $5 and camping is $18 a night. They actually are allowing swimming now. I was really surprised to hear that! Now oo lifeguard is on duty and it is full of broken lines and fish hooks so swim at your own risk. There is a cute little store with information, bait, refreshments, and snacks. Bring drinking water in case the store is closed as there is no running water in the fountains right now. You can also enjoy Cafe. They have limited hours right now and are hiring! They are open Thursday-Saturday 8am-2pm. They have a website you can check out the details. Want something simple, this is a great little spot to experience. read more

We enjoyed a beautiful day out at Lynx Lake last weekend. It was our first time visiting and we had a wonderful time. It was very busy, but we were expecting that due to the weather and all of the social distancing and people needing to get out. Even though it was busy there was still plenty of space for everyone. We first checked out the north shore parking area, but there is very limited parking and was full by the time we got there, which was around 11am. We then drove to the south shore parking area, which was also busy, but did have a few parking spaces free. Once parked we enjoyed walking around and scouting an area to fish from the shore. The established picnic areas were all taken, but we found a great shady spot that wasn't too far of a walk (huge bonus with a 5 and 2 year old! We stayed for a few hours and enjoyed the gorgeous weather and clear skies. We did not catch any fish, but there was quite a bit of activity around, so that was not surprising. Pros: *Beautiful lake *Fishing *Boating *Spacious Cons: *Busy *Not enough parking COVID-19 Measures: *Open, but no services *No bathrooms *No fee read more

Lynx Lake - Shore fun at the south shore of Lynx Lake - Lakes Near Me - Prescott, Arizona

There are two ways to get here, through the campground or picnic area. My review will be on the campground which is about a 5-10 minute walk away from the lake. We took off early in the morning on a mid-October Saturday and drove up here from Mesa. Easy 2 hour drive. When our GPS indicated that we were 10 minutes away, some eyebrows were raised because there was no forest in sight. The USDA website also noted Costco as a landmark which was interesting. Let me tell you though, the moment you pass the store, it's nothing but a line of trees from there and in about 5 minutes, we were backing up to our space. The campgrounds were very well maintained, bathrooms were very clean and sites were frequently monitored by park rangers. While unloading our gear, one of them pulled up and took the time to give us a little welcome spiel, briefing us on rules, check in/out and quiet times, which I thought was a nice little touch. It made our stay a bit more personal. Walked the short trail down to the lake and stayed there for a bit. It was beautiful and peaceful, water was calm with plenty of water fowl and families on canoes/kayaks. Across, we could see the picnic area. The only thing to keep in mind is that sites don't have grills, they have fire rings. Our food took forever to cook. 2 hours for burger patties that cooked to a medium but never came out warm. You might want to bring your own grill or else, prepare to learn what true patience really means. Worse comes to worse, there's always pizza at Costco! We do wish we had more time. Being avid bird watchers, we enjoyed the variety of species that surrounded the area: white-breasted nuthatches, juncos, spotted towhees, red tailed hawks, steller's jay, hairy woodpeckers, and ravens. At night, we heard the eerie howls of (what sounded like) a pack of coyotes in the distance. It woke us up but knowing the park was actively being monitored, we felt safe. I will never forget our experience here and if we have time, we will try to check out the area again! read more

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Beautiful lake surrounded by pines. Walking path around lake. Easy to find off of Hwy 69.

This is a delightful, easy hike around a small reservoir. It's completely in the pines which makes it beautiful. The trail goes all the way around the lake. The east side is is a dirt trail that follows closely along the shore. The west side is paved which is not my favorite way to hike, but it's wheelchair accessible. The site I found said it was a 45 minute hike, but it took my husband and I 90 minutes. We were quite leisurely. We saw lots of canoes and kayaks. I suspect motors are not allowed. There were lots of people fishing from boats and along the shore. Apparently the lake is stocked with rainbow trout. read more

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The water level was really low but it was a beautiful day out and nice to be surrounded by pine trees. Also went for a nice little stroll around the lake to get some steps in. read more

This was such a nice hike and great to get away for a few hours. First bring cash, you'll need to pay to park. Parking lot was full on a Saturday, just had to be patient to park. Decided to go clockwise, rugged trail first, finished off by the paved part. Glad we went that route because halfway going the other way, I feel would have been hard to find the trail. Scenic, shaded a lot of the time and so nice to be around water the whole time. read more

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Picnic Perfect 4th of July. While all the Rodeo fans were flooding into Downtown Prescott, we stopped at Trader Joe's for all our picnic refreshments and headed to the lake. It was $5 for parking and not crowded....much to my surprise! We loved our little spot and enjoyed the much needed break from Phoenix July Heat. read more

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Lynx Lake is absolutely beautiful the water is so crystal blue the sky was blue the trees were green there is people out on the Lake in their boats and their kayaks and canoes fishing dogs being walked on the past people were everywhere is the perfect weather for a wonderful day at the Lake read more

I always enjoyed eating at Lynx Lake. However went to breakfast Sunday we waited 1 hour to get our food. Mine was over cooked like it sat under the heat lamps for to long. My friends eggs were dried out like hers were under the heat also. Don't know if I will go back or recommend them to anyone again. So sad I really always look forward to going there!!! read more

We've only ever hauled our own kayaks here & put in at the South shore...what a different experience to park at the North shore! The view of the lake is much more stunning than from the other side due to the elevation at the North lot. After you walk down some concrete stairs / ramp, you can start a trail around the lake or branch off. We went the 2.3 mi around the lake and it was an easy hike though a little tight in places and depending how high the water, you may wet the footwear when you cross the inlet. You also may piss off - classic pissed off faces - some trout fishermen (lake is stocked) if they're fishing the shallows and you're rustling about. We must've actually brought good mojo because we heard a new one floppin in the bucket by the time we got to the other side. Notes: -wind seems to kick up regularly in early afternoon (requires more energetic paddle) -kayaks/boats rentable at shop on North shore (see Lynx Lake Marina listing - limited hours) but if bringing your own, put-in on South shore - paved path on west side of lake - no swimming - parking is free on Wed - I've never camped here, but some spots are right next to path (maybe you get better dish reception that way ;) - others have written great reviews re: camping! read more

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My husband & I camped at Lynx Lake on a weekend. The experience is mixed. The campsite area is lushly forested, but there is a $9 reservations service charge added to the $18 campsite reservation (so Ticketmaster) and many of the campsites feel right on top of each other. I made the mistake of trying to get a campsite as close to the lake as possible, thinking we'd have a lake view, but you probably won't have one because you're in a forest of trees and the "close" sites are all packed together. I think if you'd like to feel like you have some space at your campsite, pick one that's a little further back and more on it's own than loop C and D. The lake is tiny but there is a nice path around it. There were a lot (A LOT) of children there while we were there, and while I like the sound of kids, the endless screaming and yelling sort of took away from the relaxing peace & quiet I was looking for. We were unable to get/find a trail map around the campsite, so do your research ahead of time on additional walking paths if you want to do more than just the short loop around the lake. There are no showers at this campsite. read more

Lynx Lake - Walking around the lake - Lakes Near Me - Prescott, Arizona

Nice place right off Walker road in Prescott. Boat,paddle boat and canoerentals and place just to drive and have a bite to eat. The lake has a nice trail around it with plentiful benches. We took our boat out for 5 fee for parking and boat ramp . plenty of.places to not pay and just walk in too;) Saw two water turtles,bald eagle and mallards. No fish to be found but a great spot read more

Lynx Lake - Watson Lake view - Lakes Near Me - Prescott, Arizona

We love this lake. Easy hike, breath taking views and pet friendly! We bring our dog here all the time and the hike is great for him and he gets to interact with other great pets. The lake is clean and the smell of pine trees is wonderful. It's also surrounded by some great food restaurants and grocery stores, it makes it convenient for last minute picnics. Quiet and beautiful! read more

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We went to Lynx Lake and took a walk on the trail around the lake. It is half paved and half dirt. A nice easy trail for a nice walk. The lake was very pretty. read more

Lynx Lake - Lakes Near Me - Prescott, Arizona

Wow.....These campgrounds have to rank in my all-time top 5 campgrounds ever. SUPER well maintained and supervised. Plenty of space around each campsite. Easy trails to Lynx Lake. BUT, for "glampers", as you do your final 3 mile approach to the campgrounds....surprise...there is a Costco nearby! Plus, like 50 other of your fav restaurants. I was prepared to cook breakfast and dinner but it turned out I just boiled water in the morning for coffee and oatmeal and I spent the rest of the days out adventuring. I camped in A-3 which was a really great site but, I did find a PERFECT other location but I cannot tell you that site number. hahahahhaha read more

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Great spot to enjoy nature! Absolutely beautiful!!! We camp out here in our RV in summer and really enjoy the peaceful surroundings. read more

Absolutely lovely lake. We enter at the north side and walk down the path to the lake. Stroller friendly on this concrete path. We want to try the restaurant nearby and boat next time. The north side is great for pictures. Wish I took more photos. read more

Lynx Lake - Lakes Near Me - Prescott, Arizona

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If you're a campground kinda person with kids in tow, I recommend this place. The campsites are far enough apart that you have some kind of privacy. Believe me, you'd want to be far away as possible from our group! Darn, we're loud! I prefer dry camping in the middle of the forest so you don't have to worry about quieting the kids down after 10pm...party's just begun then! There are many well kept unlit restrooms. If you don't mind looking like a dork, wear a headlight to free up your hands. Drinking water is also available if you need to fill up the water cooler. The campgrounds closer to the lake are always full, so last minute campers like us, went to the highest ground. My little cutie pie was happy for finding a Palo Verde Borer. He is still a little disappointed about not finding the elusive June Bug and Rhino Beetle. We found quite a few last year, but it's been quite dry--thus the campfire restriction. Come monsoon, we might be able to find what he's looking for. Back to the restriction, I completely understand. But, was it boring not having a campfire at night and to take the chill off during the early morning while sipping your coffee. What I missed most of all was my sister's cast iron dutch oven meals!!! Cooking over a butane range is just not the same. The kids enjoyed fishing in the lake. The little ones were so busy catching and releasing crawdaddies! I dared my hubby to hook one up to his nipple...he just gave me the stink eye. Bring fish, like anchovies, to lure the little shellfish. The hardest part is having to tell the kids that they can't swim or wade in the water. It is still $5 day pass or $18/$36 a night or double campground. Well kept grounds, easy hiking trails, great fishing for kids and a short drive from Phoenix. Check it out! read more

This is a phenomenal campground. Water and restrooms are close to each site! I wish the trails were a little better Mar getting to and from the campground you can definitely get lost on your way to the lake. All in all I would recommend this to people with dogs as well since the campgrounds are large and spread apart read more

I come here quit often as my friends camp up here all the time. I always make a trip out to the lake. At the top of the lake is a restaurant and gift shop. The camping grounds are always immaculate. The bathrooms (no showers) are always clean and opened 24 hours a day. Bring a flash light with you because there is no light in the bathrooms at night. Lynx Lake is tucked just a mile or two off Highway 69, yet feels like a million miles away, as it is tranquil, quiet, and serene. The best part is if you need something, Walmart and other stores is just a few miles away. The single camp ground is $18/day and the double is $36/day. You will get a picnic table and fire pit. Find a post and they will have envelopes. In the envelope, you have to mark which camp # you are at and enclose a check. They make take cash, I don't know. Enclose the fees in envelope and drop off in box. The camp host does pick up the envelopes daily that are in the box. read more

Lynx Lake - I'm beat - Lakes Near Me - Prescott, Arizona

This is an awesome campground! We have stayed here 2 times. It's very clean and the lake is within walking distance! We were very shocked to see that the water level had dropped about 6' from two years ago! We tried our hand at some fishing. No fish for dinner! The biggest thing biting was 3" long! (But the lake hasn't been stocked with trout for several months) The trail around the lake is about 3 miles long. Most of it is an easy trail, but there are a few spots on the east side of the lake where you need to watch your footing. The camp hosts are friendly. There are several pull thrus and other sites big enough for those who have 5th wheels or large pull trailers. There are also great sites for tent campers. It seems like every site has a flattened area specifically for your tent! We had our trailer, so I only used one of the restrooms on our way back from a hike and it was clean. The only reason I didn't give them 5 stars is because of the SKUNKS! The skunks are not afraid of people, so they wander right into your camp! The 2nd night we were there, a skunk got into a fight with another animal, right next to where we were sleeping. The skunk sprayed and the area really smelled awful for an extended period of time! The next evening, we were sitting around the fire when my husband warned me not to move. I looked to my left and there was a juvenile skunk 2 feet away from me! After sitting very still for a few minutes, he left but kept coming back. It was very difficult to enjoy sitting around the fire when we were worrried about skunks! Every evening, the skunks come and visit. We asked the hosts about the skunks. We were told that the only time people have issues with the skunks is if the guests have dogs. In fact, the night following this conversation, our neighboring campers, who had a dog, were sprayed by a skunk! Skunks don't like bright lights, so we went into town and purchased a flashlight that had a strobe option. When we heard the rustling in the bushes, we would point the flash light in that direction. It kept them at bay! The last evening, we had also purchased some moth ball flakes and sprinkled them around the perimeter of our camp as skunks supposedly don't like the smell. We did not have any wonder into the camp. During our first camping trip, we saw no skunks! We now have knowledge about the skunks, so we will arm ourselves with the strobe flash light and moth ball flakes the next trip! They are nocturnal animals, so we only saw them after the sun went down. We had left our dogs at home this trip and I don't know if we would chance bringing them now! We'll be back though! read more