Black Canyon Lake

By AZ Leisure Staff Writers

Last updated on May 4, 2026.

Black Canyon Lake is one of the most secluded and scenic Rim Lakes in central Arizona, known for quiet trout fishing and remote forest surroundings.

Black Canyon Lake is a remote and lightly developed lake located along the Mogollon Rim in central Arizona, offering a quiet retreat surrounded by dense pine forest. Known for its excellent trout fishing and rustic setting, this small lake provides a true back-to-nature experience. Accessed via forest roads near Payson, Black Canyon Lake is part of the Rim Lakes recreation area and is popular for anglers seeking less crowded conditions.

Location and Description. Like all Mogollon Rim Area Lakes, Black Canyon Lake is scenically forested. Although the surrounding forest was adversely affected by the 2002 Rodeo-Chediski Fire and some trees around the lake were charred, a sizeable portion of the lake is lushly forested. Because of the danger of falling trees damaged by the fire, the entire area around the lake is limited to day use. Overnight camping is prohibited in the immediate area. Check with the Arizona Game and Fish Department for future changes. The lake sits at an elevation of about 7,000 feet in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests about 15 miles southwest of Heber-Overgaard, Arizona. Roads to the lake are generally closed from December to early April due to snow.

Things To Do At Black Canyon Lake

• Trout fishing from shore
• Primitive camping and day-use visits
• Wildlife viewing in a forested setting
• Exploring remote forest roads and Rim Lakes
• Photography and nature observation

Lake Size. The lake's water surface is 78 acres with an average depth of 35 feet and a maximum depth of 60 feet.

Fish Variety. Primarily Rainbow Trout with some illegally introduced Largemouth Bass and Green Sunfish. Varying sizes of rainbow trout are stocked in the spring and early summer.

Fishing At Black Canyon Lake

Fishing at Black Canyon Lake is centered around stocked rainbow trout, making it a popular destination for anglers looking for a quiet Rim Lakes experience. The lake’s cooler elevation and forested surroundings provide ideal conditions for trout throughout much of the year.

• Rainbow Trout: Regularly stocked in spring and early summer, providing consistent fishing opportunities.
• Best Techniques: Fly fishing, trolling, and bait fishing with nightcrawlers or PowerBait are all effective.
• Shore Fishing: Good shoreline access makes it ideal for anglers without boats.
• Evening Surface Action: Dry flies can be productive during evening hatches.
• Warmwater Species: Largemouth bass and green sunfish are present in smaller numbers.

Boating At Black Canyon Lake

Boating at Black Canyon Lake is limited, helping preserve the lake’s quiet and remote atmosphere. Small watercraft are best suited for this location.

• Motor Limit: Boats are restricted to 10 horsepower or less.
• Boat Types: Kayaks, float tubes, and small aluminum boats are most common.
• Boat Ramp: A single primitive launch area is available.
• Quiet Setting: Limited boat traffic enhances fishing and wildlife viewing.

Camping & Amenities

Camping is permitted only at two nearby campgrounds with the closest being Black Canyon Rim Campground near the junction of Forest Roads 300 and 86. It includes 21 camping sites, water and chemical toilets. Gentry Campground is 2 miles further down FR 300 and has 6 camping sites with water and a vault toilet. The campgrounds are fee-based and you cannot make reservations. At the lake, there is one boat ramp and 2 barrier toilets.

Why Visit Black Canyon Lake

Visitors come to Black Canyon Lake for its peaceful atmosphere and quality fishing. The lake is stocked with trout and offers good shoreline access, making it ideal for anglers. Its remote location and limited development appeal to those looking for a more secluded outdoor experience away from busy recreation areas. Its close proximity to Woods Canyon and Willow Springs provide anglers with options for fishing multiple lakes on a single weekend trip.

Best Time To Visit Black Canyon Lake

• Spring: Prime trout stocking season with excellent fishing conditions.
• Summer: Cooler temperatures than lower elevations, making it a popular escape from the heat.
• Fall: Fewer crowds and scenic forest colors create a peaceful outdoor experience.
• Winter: Access is typically closed due to snow and road conditions.

Tips For Visiting Black Canyon Lake

• Check Road Conditions: Forest roads may be rough or impassable after storms.
• Plan For Day Use Only: Overnight camping is not allowed directly at the lake.
• Bring Supplies: There are no stores or services nearby.
• Arrive Early: Limited space and remote access can fill quickly on weekends.
• Respect Fire Restrictions: The area is sensitive due to past wildfire damage.

Directions. Take Highway 260 southwest of Heber-Overgaard to Forest Road 300. Go south on 300 for about 2.4 miles. Turn east (left) on Forest Road 86 about 3 miles to the lake turnoff. If you are driving from Payson, take Highway 260 northeast and follow same directions.

Nearby Rim Lakes To Explore

• Woods Canyon Lake: One of the most popular Rim Lakes with easy access and strong trout fishing.
• Willow Springs Lake: Known for boating, kayaking, and fishing near the Mogollon Rim.
• Bear Canyon Lake: A quieter hike-in lake offering a more secluded fishing experience.
• Knoll Lake: A peaceful forest lake ideal for camping and relaxation.

Nearest Lodging. See Payson Area Hotels with the closest town to the lake being Heber-Overgaard. Also see Payson Area Cabins and Payson Area Bed and Breakfast Inns.

Black Canyon Lake FAQ

Where is Black Canyon Lake Arizona?
Black Canyon Lake is located along the Mogollon Rim in central Arizona, about 15 miles southwest of Heber-Overgaard, within the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests.

Is Black Canyon Lake good for fishing?
Yes, Black Canyon Lake is known for excellent trout fishing, especially during spring and early summer stocking periods, and offers a quieter experience than many other Rim Lakes.

What kind of fish are in Black Canyon Lake?
The lake is primarily stocked with rainbow trout, with some largemouth bass and green sunfish also present.

Can you camp at Black Canyon Lake?
Camping is not allowed directly at the lake due to safety restrictions, but nearby campgrounds such as Black Canyon Rim Campground and Gentry Campground offer primitive camping.

Is Black Canyon Lake open year-round?
No, access is typically seasonal, with roads often closed from December through early April due to snow.

Can you boat on Black Canyon Lake?
Yes, boating is allowed, but boats are limited to 10 horsepower or less, with kayaks, float tubes, and small fishing boats most common.

Do you need a fishing license at Black Canyon Lake?
Yes, anglers age 14 and older must have a valid Arizona fishing license and trout stamp.

Is Black Canyon Lake crowded?
No, Black Canyon Lake is one of the quieter Rim Lakes due to its remote access and limited facilities.

Are there facilities at Black Canyon Lake?
Facilities are minimal and include a boat ramp and basic restroom facilities, so visitors should plan ahead.

What is the elevation of Black Canyon Lake?
The lake sits at approximately 7,060 feet in elevation along the Mogollon Rim.

Payson Area & Rim Lakes

• Bear Canyon Lake - 60 acres
• Black Canyon Lake - 78 acres
• Blue Ridge Reservoir - 70 acres
• Chevelon Canyon Lake - 208 acres
• Knoll Lake - 75 acres
• Willow Springs Lake - 158 acres
• Woods Canyon Lake - 55 acres

Arizona Lakes