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We camped here when we had a permit to fish at nearby Christmas Tree Lake. Christmas Tree Lake is a beautiful little lake nestled in the White Mountains of Arizona on Apache land. It boasts some amazing fishing for the native trout species- the Apache trout. The fish are stocked, so it may not be a true experience for some but most of the access to the native fish in their native habitat is restricted or non existent to protect these beautiful creatures. The lake offers paid access on a day to day basis. A total of 25 permits per day are offered to keep fishing pressure in check. But these permits are non refundable so don't reserve too early.
Permits and information can be found on the website but customer service can be difficult. Camping is available on a first come basis at Hawley Lake which also offers great fishing and beautiful scenery. Be aware that I did experience some free range cattle snooping through the camp at 2am which was a bit unexpected. Also, being in the mountains, it was pretty cold at night.
The area we camped in was open and the roads were well marked. Campsites were situated near fire rings with only the occasional picnic table. There were four pretty well maintained portable toilets near our camp as well. Be sure to review the rules and regulations on the website as some areas are off limits and to make sure you have all the proper permits for fishing and/or camping.(State and local licenses required for fishing)
Great place with lots to do for just about any age! Camping, dry or with hookups.Some of the pads are made for two campers though, which means the other camper could be less than a foot away. That's fine if it's family/friends, may not be so nice for someone you don't even know. The lake is nice with kayaks, canoes, and paddle boards for rent. Heard fishing is also great, with catfish, walleye, trout and bass.Lots of piers, as well as the lakeshore that you could fish from. And a boat ramp if you have your own boat. we really enjoyed all there was to do on the water!
Stayed here for two nights and was impressed by the staff, availability of ice and firewood, and the quick jaunt to Woods Canyon Lake.
If you’re expecting dense pine and privacy, this isn’t your place. The network of campgrounds up here combined with the sparse tree growth sometimes makes for a parking lot-like feel. I’ll look for something a bit less trafficked next time.
Boondocking at its finest! Quiet, large campground, easy access to lake, wildlife. Close to town but far enough that it feels like your way out.
There's only about 3 camp spots with ranch on the other side of the campground. Constant noise from the trucks and no amenities. Very long drive down rough road with no cell service
We have camped at a lot of the Arizona State Parks and Fools Hollow was one of our favorites yet. Everything is very clean and well kept. We stayed in Mallard 8 which has full hook ups, great shade and views of the lake from your campsite. We were advised to go up the channel for fishing as during summer time they rent boats at the boat dock and that scares the fish up stream. We fished with both powerbait and catfish bait. Had success with catfish.
Show low is 2 miles away if you forget any essentials.
Hawley Lake is the perfect escape when you want to get out of the heat. Pristine views, cool weather during the summer and clean facilities almost make you feel like your not in Arizona anymore. Campsites are first come first serve and both times we went in August and there were plenty of spots to chose from. Be sure to get your fishing license and permits in town, it’s a long drive into town from the lake. Bring rope to protect your campsite from wild horses and wandering cows. Overall one of favorite places to camp!
The speed humps in this place are MONSTERS! We had to crab over them so that we didn't leave our plumbing with them (and very nearly did leave some plumbing the first time over the first one). The biggest suggestion I would have for management is to get some DOT specifications for speed humps and use those (The ones in our home neighborhood do a more than sufficient job of slowing people down without threatening RV plumbing systems).
The spaces are pretty close together and you get to know your neighbors pretty well (fortunately most are the friendly type). Most people seem to be staying for the season (and not just a few days like us).
The setting is a nice Pine forest. There was a group of wild horses roaming around while we were there. The roads are gravel and packed gravel that handle the rain nicely (we had no problems with mud).
There are 30 and 50 Amp electrical hookups, water and sewer in each space.
The cost is VERY REASONABLE when compared to other RV parks in the area.
Shower facilities are nice, but could use more ventilation (no windows, no openings other than the door and vent fan).
The walk to the Casino is, at most, 1 mile (furthest spot). The close ones are right across the street from the Casino. Road noise might be a problem on these close spaces, but we were most of the way to the back and heard no road noise at all.
There is a self pay machine, but did not work. The campsites are nice and roomy. Says there is a host, but there is not. Overall nice place and has cell phone service.
