Storavan is the large lake immediately west of Arvidsjaur — part of the chain of waterways that drains the eastern slopes of the mountains into the Skellefte river. In summer it is one of the main swimming and canoeing lakes of the region, with several small sandy beaches, sheltered bays, and islands.
In winter it freezes solid and is criss-crossed by snowmobile trails and ice-fishing routes. From the main beach at Glommersträsk you can walk straight out onto the ice. A car ferry from Arvidsjaur reaches some of the more remote villages on the lake's western shore.