Arizona mountain lakes for fishing boating and outdoor recreation

Show Low Lake Arizona: Fishing, Boating & Camping

Originally written by Tony Subia

Reviewed and updated by AZ Leisure Staff Writers on September 2, 2026.

Show Low Lake is a popular fishing, boating and camping destination in Show Low, Arizona, surrounded by the recreation opportunities of the White Mountains. Anglers visit for rainbow trout, walleye, bass and catfish, while campers and families enjoy convenient access to the lake, shoreline recreation and nearby outdoor activities.

Lake Overview
Fishing
Boating
Camping & Amenities
Best Time To Visit
Visitor Planning Tips
Directions
FAQ

Show Low Lake fishing and boating destination in Arizona's White Mountains

Why Visit Show Low Lake?

Show Low Lake is valued for its accessibility and range of amenities, making it ideal for families and visitors seeking a convenient outdoor experience. Its location near town, combined with excellent fishing and recreation opportunities, makes it one of the most visited lakes in the White Mountains.

Location & Description. Show Low Lake is located in Show Low, Arizona, near Show Low Lake Road and Highway 260. The lake is especially well known for walleye and trout fishing and provides convenient access to outdoor recreation near town. Seasonal weather can affect travel and lake conditions, so visitors should check the Show Low Weather Chart when planning a trip.

Lake Size. Show Low Lake covers approximately 100 surface acres and reaches depths of about 50 feet. The lake sits at roughly 6,500 feet elevation in Arizona's White Mountains.

Fish Species. Show Low Lake supports walleye, rainbow trout, channel catfish, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, bluegill and green sunfish.

Fishing at Show Low Lake is one of the primary reasons visitors come to this popular White Mountains destination, offering year-round opportunities for trout, walleye, bass and catfish.

Fishing At Show Low Lake

Show Low Lake is one of the best-known fishing lakes in Arizona's White Mountains, especially for anglers targeting walleye, rainbow trout, bass and catfish. The lake has a long reputation for producing large walleye and remains a popular fishing destination throughout much of the year. Shore fishing is available from accessible portions of the shoreline, while boat anglers can troll, cast or work deeper water as seasonal conditions change. Nearby Rainbow Lake and Fool Hollow Lake are additional fishing options.

Popular species: walleye, rainbow trout, channel catfish, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, bluegill and green sunfish.
Trout tactics: PowerBait, nightcrawlers, spinners and small trolling lures can be productive.
Catfish: Summer and early fall evenings can provide good opportunities using natural or prepared catfish baits.
Walleye: Areas near the upper end of the lake and the Show Low Creek inflow can be worth exploring, particularly during spring.

Boating At Show Low Lake

Show Low Lake is suitable for small-boat recreation and fishing. Motor restrictions and boating regulations can change, so boaters should confirm current posted rules and Arizona boating requirements before launching.

Camping & Amenities At Show Low Lake

Camping is available near Show Low Lake for visitors who want convenient access to fishing, boating and outdoor recreation. Campground facilities may include RV and tent sites, restrooms, drinking water, picnic areas and other visitor amenities.

Campsite availability, electrical hookups, group-site policies, fees, showers, dump-station access and other services can change. Campers should confirm current facilities, reservations and operating information before traveling.

Best Time To Visit Show Low Lake

Spring: A strong season for trout and walleye fishing as water temperatures begin to warm.
Summer: Popular for boating, camping, family recreation and evening fishing in the cooler White Mountains climate.
Fall: Cooler temperatures, changing foliage, lighter crowds and good fishing conditions can make fall an enjoyable time to visit.
Winter: Cold temperatures, snow and ice can affect access and recreation, so check current weather and lake conditions before traveling.

Planning A Visit To Show Low Lake

Check current weather and road conditions before traveling during winter or stormy periods.
Confirm current boating and motor restrictions before launching a boat.
Review Arizona fishing regulations and license requirements before fishing.
Confirm campground availability, fees and reservation policies before an overnight stay.
Bring layers because temperatures can change quickly at White Mountains elevations.
Pack out trash and help protect shoreline, forest and wildlife habitat around the lake.

More Lakes & Recreation Near Show Low

Visitors can combine a trip to Show Low Lake with other nearby White Mountains destinations. Fool Hollow Lake, Rainbow Lake and Woodland Lake provide additional fishing and outdoor recreation opportunities, while the White Mountains lakes guide covers more waters throughout the region.

Directions To Show Low Lake

Show Low Lake is reached from the Show Low area by way of Show Low Lake Road near Highway 260. Visitors should use current navigation and check local road conditions when traveling during winter weather or other periods when conditions may affect access.

Show Low Lake FAQ

Where is Show Low Lake, Arizona?

Show Low Lake is located in Show Low, Arizona, in the White Mountains near Highway 260 and Show Low Lake Road.

What fish are in Show Low Lake?

Fish species include walleye, rainbow trout, channel catfish, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, bluegill and green sunfish.

Is Show Low Lake good for walleye fishing?

Yes. Show Low Lake has a long-standing reputation as one of Arizona's better-known walleye fishing destinations.

Can you boat on Show Low Lake?

Yes. Boating is available at Show Low Lake, but visitors should check current motor restrictions and boating regulations before launching.

Can you camp at Show Low Lake?

Yes. Camping is available near Show Low Lake. Campsite facilities, hookups, fees and reservation policies should be confirmed before traveling.

Is Show Low Lake open year-round?

The lake can provide recreation during multiple seasons, but winter snow, ice and weather conditions may affect access and activities. Check current conditions before traveling.