The lake is currently experiencing historically low water levels. Visitors, be advised that both boat launch ramps are closed and fishing docks are out of the water. Kayaks and personal vessels must be carried by hand and launched, and shore fishing is still welcome — though access to the lake is difficult and ADA access is unavailable. Protected historical sites at the lake prohibit staff from creating easier access points at this time. Thank you for your understanding and patience.
Starting April 7, 2026, the U.S. Forest Service will be removing hazard trees in the park. This project may continue for several months. During this time, please excuse the noise from saws and work crews in the camping loops.
The park entrance gate opens at 5 a.m. and closes at 8 p.m. Campers with current reservations coming after hours will need to enter the gate code on the PIN pad to gain access. The gate code is included with your camping reservation confirmation.
In 1879, Thomas Jefferson Adair moved into the area with the intention of farming. The locals joked that only a fool would try and farm the place. The name stuck! The tiny town of Adair has long since been covered by the lake, but it was Adair who was responsible for the name Fool Hollow.
The park along the lake, located in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, opened in 1994 as a result of cooperation between the U.S. Forest Service, Arizona State Parks, Arizona Game and Fish and the city of Show Low in partnership with Arizona Public Service and McCarty Construction Company. Today, visitors can camp among the tall pines and hike along the lake at a cool 6,300 feet in elevation. Year-round camping, fishing, picnicking, boating and wildlife viewing opportunities make Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area a popular place.
Explore Fool Hollow Lake
Ranger Nik will be at the Adair Amphitheater every Wednesday at 2 p.m. Stop by to learn about the park, wildlife and the natural world and other wonders. fascinating fo
READ MOREExplore the park's diverse plants, wildlife, and ecosystems while learning about the natural history and unique features of the area.
READ MOREJoin a U.S. Forest Service ranger for a walk at Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area! Learn about the park and spot birds and wildlife along the way.
READ MORECheck out this children's program and meet the Superhero American Beaver!
READ MOREJoin us to learn about black bears.
READ MORECheck out this children's program that teaches about wildlife in the area.
READ MORECome and learn more about bats!
READ MOREPonderosa are more than just a trees, they affect every aspect of White Mountain habitats. What is a ponderosa pine? Why does the Southwest have the largest contiguous ponderosa pine forest in the world?
READ MOREEver wondered if you could have Ocean Front Property in the White Mountains? Come and learn about Fool Hollow's connections to the coast.
READ MOREPark is open year-round
November - March
Gates open from 7:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
April - October:
Gate open 5:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m..
*Camping guests with current reservations arriving after 8:00 p.m. must enter the gate code on the PIN pad to gain access. Codes are included in the reservation confirmation email.
Day Use
8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. daily
Visitor Center/Park Store
8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. daily
Thanksgiving: 8:00 a.m.- 2:00 p.m.
Christmas Eve: 8:00 a.m.- 2:00 p.m.
Christmas: Contact station is closed. Please use self-pay stations.
Per vehicle (1 person): $10.00
Per vehicle (2-4 people): $20.00
Individual/bicycle: $5.00
