Tucson, AZ

Silverbell Lake is an oft-overlooked gem on the West Side of town off Silverbell, just south of El Camino del Cerro. Tucked off the road, in what is officially Christopher Columbus Park, it is a lake complete with boats and people fishing.

On a recent trip we set up some chairs and spent most of the time watching the kids play by the water and witnessing the excitement when those fishing caught their fish for the day. There were about two dozen people out casting their lines; some stay out all day. The standard catch seemed to be catfish and they were plentiful. The lake is man-made and obviously stocked with fish, but that doesn’t seem to make a difference to the loyal regulars.

On the north side of the lake is a playground, perfect for smaller children. Something about being near water gives one the sense of being on vacation. Senses are heightened. I noticed sights I would have otherwise ignored. I heard chirping of birds and the gentle splash of fishing lines entering and exiting the water.

For people raised near the water, this lake will do little to remind them of home. But for those of us who are not used to the joys of living in close proximity to the water, Silverbell Lake does a fine job of substituting.