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Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area: A Mountain Oasis

Escape to Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area for cool mountain air, abundant outdoor activities, and stunning scenery in Arizona's White Mountains.

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Nestled in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest near Show Low, Arizona, Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area offers a cool escape at 6,300 feet elevation. This 800-acre park features a 150-acre lake perfect for camping, fishing, boating, and enjoying the abundant wildlife.

A brief summary to Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area

Local tips

  • Reservations are essential for camping, especially during the summer months.
  • Bring binoculars for wildlife viewing, as the area is home to diverse bird and mammal species.
  • Fishing is best in the spring and summer when the lake is stocked with trout.
  • A day-use fee is required to enter the park.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Show Low, head west on Deuce of Clubs Avenue/ AZ-260 for approximately 0.3 miles. Turn right onto Old Linden Road and continue west for 2.5 miles. Turn right onto Fool Hollow Road and follow it for 0.7 miles to the park entrance. The day-use parking area is straight ahead, while the campground entrance is to the right. Park entrance fees are $20 per vehicle (2-4 people) or $10 per vehicle (1 person). An individual/bicycle is $5. Day-use parking is available in designated areas.

  • Public Transport

    While there is no direct public transportation to Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area, taxi or ride-sharing services are available from Show Low. From various points in Show Low, a taxi ride to the park will cost approximately $15-$25. Confirm the fare before you begin your trip. After arriving at the park entrance, follow the road to reach the day-use area or campgrounds.

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Discover more about Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area

Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area is a popular year-round destination in Arizona's White Mountains. The area's name originates from Thomas Jefferson Adair, who attempted to farm the land in 1885; locals jested that only a fool would try to farm the hollow, and the name stuck. The tiny town of Adair is now covered by the lake. The lake was created in 1957 by damming Show Low Creek and Fool Hollow Wash. Today, the recreation area is cooperatively managed by Arizona State Parks, the U.S. Forest Service, the Arizona Game and Fish Department, and the City of Show Low. Visitors can enjoy camping among the tall ponderosa pines, with options ranging from basic tent sites to RV sites with hookups. The lake is stocked with rainbow trout throughout the spring and summer, and also contains largemouth and smallmouth bass, walleye, and other fish species. Beyond the lake, visitors can explore the surrounding Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, with access to over 100 miles of hiking trails. The park also offers picnic areas, playgrounds, and interpretive programs. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot elk, deer, various bird species, and other animals in their natural habitat.

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