Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area Campground

Star4.73
126 reviews
Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area Campground, Show Low, AZ, USA
Summer Destination

Quick Facts

6,302 ft

Price

$3 - $9/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

241578 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area Campground
$3.00 - $9.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Recreation use fees vary based on reservation method: $8 online/app, $9 through the contact center, $3 for in-person reservations. Additional fees...
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Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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What Campers Say

4.73

Top-Rated

Based on 126 reviews

124 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewscleanlake

"The Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area Campground receives overwhelmingly positive feedback, with reviewers praising its cleanliness, natural beauty, and well-maintained facilities. Some negative feedback highlights privacy concerns and the cramped layout of certain sites."

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Campground Map

Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area Campground, Show Low, AZ, USA

Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area Campground

Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area Campground, Show Low, AZ, USA

Driving directionsThe Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area is located in east-central Arizona, two miles north of US 60 off Highway 260 in Show Low.
The campground is accessible from major highways, located just off Highway 260. Roads leading to the campground are paved and suitable for all vehicle types.
Nearby places
Show Low (approximately 4 miles), Pinetop-Lakeside (approximately 18 miles), Snowflake (approximately 28 miles)
Nearby supplies
Groceries and camping supplies are available in Show Low, AZ, approximately 4 miles away. Major stores like Walmart and local shops are accessible.

Best Time to Camp at Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area Campground

Experience the magic of Arizona's high country through every season at Fool Hollow Lake. Summer days bring perfect camping weather with warm sunshine filtering through the pine canopy, though late May and early June paint the forest in a golden haze of pine pollen – nature's own seasonal spectacle. When winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, the campground remains accessible to well-prepared adventurers seeking solitude and snow-dusted pine views.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Peak season; cooler high-country summer temps make it popular for campers.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

High-country forest setting likely pleasant in fall; fewer explicit mentions but generally positive.

Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5

Positive spring reviews; open and pleasant though late-May/early-June pine pollen can be heavy.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
3.0 / 5

Open year-round but winter activities not detailed; some evidence of reduced lake levels in low-snow years.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: Summer months (June to August) are most popular; late May and early June may experience heavy pine pollen.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: The campground is open year-round, but specific seasonal conditions (e.g., heavy pine pollen late May to early June) may affect usability.
  • Current Alerts: No specific alerts or advisories at this time.

About Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area Campground

Nestled among towering ponderosa pines, Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area beckons outdoor enthusiasts to its 150-acre mountain lake paradise. This premier destination seamlessly blends modern camping comforts with pristine wilderness, featuring spacious loops with concrete pads perfect for both tent campers and RV adventurers. Explore winding hiking trails, discover secluded wildlife islands, or let the kids run free in well-maintained playgrounds while you relax in shaded picnic areas overlooking the sparkling waters.
The campground caters to a variety of camping preferences, including RV camping, tent sites, and areas for group camping.
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Amenities available

Showers
Potable water
Electricity hookups
Flush toilets
Picnic tables
Water hookups

Activities you can enjoy

The campground provides various recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. Its serene environment and close proximity to nature make it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
HikingA couple of hiking trails are available within the park, with additional trails accessible in the nearby area. Trails are described as easy to follow and located within the forested surroundings of the campground.
FishingFishing is a popular activity here, with the lake being regularly stocked. Trout and largemouth bass are among the catches reported, although fishing success can be variable and may require persistence.
BikingBikers can explore the roads and trails within the campground. The terrain is suitable for a range of skill levels.
BoatingCanoes and kayaks are available for rent at the park, providing visitors with the opportunity to explore the 150-acre lake.
Wildlife viewingWildlife sightings include geese, trout, squirrels, deer, and even wolves. The lake's 'wildlife islands' contribute to the abundance of fauna.
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsCold nights during off-seasons, high pine pollen levels late May to early June, and occasional tight campsite layouts are concerns.
Active AlertsNo specific alerts or advisories at this time.

Weather at Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area Campground

Reviews

4.7
126 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
The Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area Campground receives overwhelmingly positive feedback, with reviewers praising its cleanliness, natural beauty, and well-maintained facilities. Some negative feedback highlights privacy concerns and the cramped layout of certain sites.
Review Summaries
Based on 126 reviews

What Campers Love

Users frequently highlight the cleanliness of the facilities, the stunning views of the lake, and the abundance of recreational activities. The campground's proximity to Show Low and its well-kept...
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Based on 126 reviews

Common Concerns

Some users mention that the 'double' sites are too small to accommodate two trailers comfortably. Others note that certain campsites are too close together, affecting privacy. One user criticized the...
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Based on 126 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Select campsites carefully if privacy is important as some are quite close together. Plan visits well in advance, as the campground is very popular. Spring and fall are recommended for visits to...
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Based on 126 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Late May and early June see thick pine pollen, which may impact enjoyment. Summer is popular for its cooler temperatures compared to other Arizona areas. Winter activities are not specifically...
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Based on 126 reviews

Camper Quotes

'The best camping spot we have discovered yet.' - VDDesi. 'Hands down best campground in Arizona in the pines.' - Georgina Lucas. 'Lovely campground, very quiet with tons of tall trees.' - Jenise...
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Based on 126 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #28 offers complete privacy. Sites near the lake provide excellent views. Double sites are noted for being overly cramped.
Based on 126 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

The campground is dog-friendly, with users mentioning their positive experiences camping with pets.
Based on 126 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026
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