Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area

A quiet mountain paradise awaits in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest.

Pitch a tent or park your RV at one of the campsites nestled among tall pine trees just off the shore of the picture-perfect Fool Hollow Lake. After a cruise on the water, walk through a forest of ponderosas, pinyon pines, white pines, fir, aspen, and oak trees.

History & Nature

Where does a name like “Fool Hollow” come from, you ask? Back in 1885, a man by the name of Thomas Jefferson Adair settled in the area intent on farming. The locals thought only a fool would attempt to farm that land, and the joke stuck.

The lake eventually covered the land after the construction of a dam at the junction of Show Low Creek and Fool Hollow Wash. Surrounded by National Forest lands, including the world’s largest continuous belt of ponderosa pine forest, it became a state park in 1994.

Things To Do

Motorized and non-motorized watercrafts are allowed on the lake, and swimming is allowed from your boat or the shoreline. Be sure to bring a pair of binoculars, as there are plenty of waterfowl, raptors, and mammals to see.

With so much to do on and around the lake, it’s easy to fill a day or several. Fish in the morning, have a picnic lunch on a blanket or under a ramada, hike or swim in the afternoon, and then settle in at the campfire at your campsite in the evening.

For something special for the kids, the Amphitheater & Interpretive Area hosts special programs about the area. Children 6 – 12 years old can become a Junior Ranger by completing a booklet that teaches about preservation. Show a Ranger the completed booklet and they’ll be sworn in with the Junior Ranger Pledge. Get the booklet, instructions and special program details at the Visitors Center or Ranger Station.

Hotels, Lodging & Camping

Several campsites are available, including non-hook-up sites and electric RV sites. Reserve your spot by calling the Reservation Center at (520) 586-2283 or reserve online.

The non-hook-up sites offer concrete pads, a fire ring, picnic table, restrooms, and showers for 31 sites. A maximum of two vehicles and six adults is allowed per site.

Electric RV sites offer water and the Mallard and Redhead Loops have sewer hook-up. The 92 sites can accommodate up to 40-foot rigs and also allow a maximum of two vehicles and six adults per site.