Fool Hollow Lake State Recreation Area

Looking out from under a pine tree and across Fool Hollow Lake with a boater close to the near shore

Fool Hollow Lake is a 150-acre lake included in 800 acres of prime recreation area in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest near Show Low. This very popular recreation area offers fishing, camping, boating, and wildlife viewing galore. The lake sports brown trout, large- and small-mouth bass, green sunfish, black crappie, walleye, and channel catfish. Arizona Game & Fish also stocks catchable-sized rainbow trout from mid-May through September.

While access to Fool Hollow Lake is restricted from 10:00 PM to 5:00 AM, the recreation area is open 365 days a year. Fool Hollow Lake is located off of State Highway 260, about 2 miles north of US Highway 60. The recreation area offers 123 campsites, some with hookups and some without. There are picnic tables, cooking grills, shade ramadas, boat launch ramps, a fish cleaning station, a dump station, and private restrooms and showers. There are 5 picnic areas and a couple of playgrounds available for folks with kids. The White Mountain Trail System is close by, offering some 103 miles of inter-connected hiking trails in Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest.

To get there: From Show Low, head west to the intersection of Highways 260, 77 and 60, then head toward Payson (west) on SR 260. Go 2.0 miles to Old Linden Road, then turn right and go .6 miles to Fool Hollow Lake Road which will take you to the main entrance to the Recreation Area.

Elevation: 6,280'

Facilities:

  • 92 RV hookup sites with water, sewer and electric available
  • 31 other developed campsites
  • Tents, trailers and motor homes up to 45 feet long are welcome
  • 5 restroom/shower buildings
  • Designated fish cleaning stations
  • 2 boat launching ramps

Other notes:

  • There is a pay phone at the State Parks office
  • Nearest gas, groceries and restaurants are in Show Low
  • 15 day stay limit during any 30-day period
  • Reservations not accepted
  • Boat motors limited to 10 horsepower
  • Camp only in designated sites.
  • The recreation area contains many natural hazards. Use with caution.