Woodland Lake Arizona Guide

Originally written by Tony Subia

Updated by AZ Leisure Staff Writers on October 6, 2026

Woodland Lake is a small recreation lake within Woodland Lake Park in Pinetop-Lakeside, Arizona. The surrounding park offers walking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, sports facilities, wildlife viewing and other family recreation, while fishing, kayaking, canoeing and boating are available when lake levels permit. Woodland Lake is especially sensitive to drought and seasonal runoff, so visitors planning water-based activities should check current lake conditions before traveling.

Woodland Lake covers approximately 18 acres when full and sits at an elevation of about 6,900 feet in the heart of Pinetop-Lakeside, Arizona. The lake is surrounded by Woodland Lake Park and is convenient for both residents and visitors exploring the Arizona White Mountains. Its high-country elevation provides cooler summer temperatures than Arizona's desert regions, while spring, fall and winter can bring rapidly changing mountain weather. See the Pinetop-Lakeside Weather Chart.

• Current Lake Conditions
• Why Visit Woodland Lake
• Fishing
• Fish Species
• Boating & Kayaking
• Park Amenities
• Walking & Recreation
• What To Bring
• Best Time To Visit
• Directions
• Map
• FAQ

Current Woodland Lake Conditions

Woodland Lake has been severely affected by drought and low runoff. In September 2026, the Town of Pinetop-Lakeside reported that the lake was nearly empty following below-normal winter snowfall, limited monsoon precipitation and reduced natural spring flows. Park facilities and land-based recreation remain important attractions, but fishing, kayaking, boating and boat-ramp access depend on current water levels. Visitors planning lake activities should check current conditions with the Town of Pinetop-Lakeside and Arizona Game and Fish before traveling.

Why Visit Woodland Lake

Woodland Lake Park is especially convenient for families and visitors who want outdoor recreation without leaving Pinetop-Lakeside. The park combines walking paths, picnicking, playgrounds, sports facilities, wildlife viewing and scenic open space in one easily accessible White Mountains setting. When lake levels are adequate, fishing and paddling add to the recreational opportunities.

Lake Size. Woodland Lake covers approximately 18 acres when full and reaches a maximum depth of about 20 feet. Because the lake depends heavily on natural runoff and is connected with a local irrigation system, its water surface can become substantially smaller during drought and low-water periods.

Fishing Conditions. Stocking and fishing opportunities vary with water levels and water quality, so anglers should check current Arizona Game and Fish information before visiting.

Fishing At Woodland Lake

Woodland Lake provides convenient shoreline fishing within Pinetop-Lakeside, but fishing quality can change considerably with water level, water temperature and stocking conditions. In drought years, low water levels can reduce both stocking and fishing opportunities.

Fish Species In Woodland Lake

Rainbow trout have historically been the primary stocked sport fish at Woodland Lake. Largemouth bass, channel catfish, bluegill and green sunfish have also been associated with the lake, although fish populations can change substantially with water levels, water quality and stocking conditions.

• Primary fish: Rainbow trout have traditionally been the principal stocked sport fish.
• Fishing access: Shoreline areas, the dam area and fishing dock provide convenient places to fish when lake conditions permit.
• Popular trout baits: When trout are present and conditions are suitable, anglers commonly use worms, PowerBait and small artificial lures.
• Fishing license: Current Arizona fishing-license requirements and regulations apply.
• Current conditions: Check Arizona Game and Fish stocking and fishing reports because stocking may be reduced or suspended when water conditions are unsuitable.

2026 Woodland Lake Fishing Conditions

Severe drought and low runoff significantly affected Woodland Lake during 2026. In September, the Town of Pinetop-Lakeside reported that the lake was nearly empty, substantially limiting fishing and boating opportunities. Fish stocking and boat-ramp usability depend on water levels and water quality, so anglers and boaters should check current Town and Arizona Game and Fish information before making a special trip.

Boating & Kayaking At Woodland Lake

Woodland Lake's small size makes it suitable for kayaks, canoes and small fishing boats when water levels allow. Low-water and drought conditions can substantially limit or prevent boating, so visitors should verify current lake conditions before transporting watercraft to the park.

A boat ramp is located at the lake, but its usability depends on current water levels. During drought and low-water periods, launching trailered boats may not be possible.

• Good choices: Kayaks, canoes and other small watercraft when water levels permit.
• Motor use: Check current local boating rules before launching a motorized craft.
• Boat ramp: Available when water levels are sufficient for launching.
• Best use: Fishing, paddling, wildlife viewing and quiet lake recreation when lake conditions are suitable.

Woodland Lake Park Amenities

Woodland Lake Park provides a variety of family-oriented recreation facilities surrounding the lake. Park features include walking paths, hiking and biking trails, picnic ramadas, playground areas, softball fields, tennis and pickleball courts, volleyball, fishing access and opportunities for birdwatching. Water-dependent recreation such as fishing, kayaking and boating varies with current lake levels.

Camping is not available directly at Woodland Lake Park. Visitors who want to stay overnight can find Forest Service campgrounds, RV parks, cabins and other lodging throughout the Pinetop-Lakeside and White Mountains area.

Walking, Picnicking & Family Recreation

Woodland Lake Park is popular for more than fishing. Walking paths around the lake and park provide an easy setting for exercise, wildlife viewing and casual family outings. Picnic areas, open recreation spaces and playground facilities make the park particularly convenient for families spending a day in Pinetop-Lakeside.

Visitors can combine a walk around Woodland Lake with shopping, dining and other attractions in Pinetop-Lakeside, making the lake an easy stop during a White Mountains vacation.

What To Bring To Woodland Lake

• Drinking water for walking and outdoor recreation
• Sun protection, including sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat
• A light jacket or layers for changing mountain temperatures
• Rain protection during Arizona's summer thunderstorm season
• Fishing license and tackle when fishing
• Life jackets and required safety equipment when paddling or boating
• Comfortable walking shoes for park trails
• Binoculars or a camera for wildlife and scenery

Best Time To Visit Woodland Lake

Is Spring A Good Time To Visit Woodland Lake?

Spring brings mild temperatures that can be pleasant for walking, picnicking and park recreation. Fishing and boating opportunities depend on current water levels, water quality and stocking conditions.

What Is Woodland Lake Like In Summer?

Summer is popular for walking, picnicking, playgrounds and other family activities at Woodland Lake Park. Pinetop-Lakeside's high elevation provides cooler temperatures than Arizona's desert communities, although afternoon thunderstorms can occur during the summer monsoon.

Is Fall A Good Time To Visit Woodland Lake?

Yes. Cooler weather, changing foliage and generally comfortable daytime temperatures make fall an attractive season for walking, picnicking and enjoying the park. Water-based recreation still depends on current lake levels.

Can You Visit Woodland Lake In Winter?

Yes, but winter can bring freezing temperatures, snow and ice to Pinetop-Lakeside. Park and lake access may be affected by winter weather, so check current local conditions before visiting.

Directions To Woodland Lake

Woodland Lake Park is located just west of White Mountain Boulevard in Pinetop-Lakeside, Arizona. From White Mountain Boulevard, turn onto Woodland Lake Road and follow signs into the park and lake recreation area.

Park hours, lake access and facilities may change seasonally or during maintenance projects. Check current Town of Pinetop-Lakeside information before visiting if access to a specific facility is important to your trip.

Map To Woodland Lake

This regional map shows Woodland Lake and surrounding Rim Country communities, highways and recreation areas. Use it for general orientation together with current navigation and road-condition information when planning individual trips.

Nearby Lodging. Visitors will find hotels, cabins, vacation rentals and other accommodations throughout Pinetop-Lakeside. Also see White Mountains Area Bed and Breakfasts and White Mountains RV Parks and Campgrounds.

Woodland Lake FAQ

Where Is Woodland Lake In Arizona?

Woodland Lake is located within Woodland Lake Park in Pinetop-Lakeside, Arizona, in the White Mountains. The park is just west of White Mountain Boulevard and is convenient to lodging, restaurants and other Pinetop-Lakeside attractions.

What Are Current Conditions At Woodland Lake?

Woodland Lake has been severely affected by drought and low runoff. In September 2026, the Town of Pinetop-Lakeside reported that the lake was nearly empty. Water levels can change with precipitation, snowmelt and watershed conditions, so visitors should check current information before planning fishing, kayaking or boating activities.

What Fish Are In Woodland Lake?

Rainbow trout have historically been the primary stocked sport fish, while largemouth bass, channel catfish, bluegill and green sunfish have also been associated with Woodland Lake. Fish populations and stocking opportunities can vary substantially with water levels and water quality.

Is Woodland Lake Stocked With Trout?

Woodland Lake has historically received rainbow trout, but stocking depends on water levels, water quality and other conditions. Arizona Game and Fish may reduce, postpone or suspend stocking when lake conditions are unsuitable.

Can You Boat On Woodland Lake?

Boating is possible when water levels are adequate. Kayaks, canoes and other small watercraft are well suited to the lake, but boat-ramp usability and boating opportunities can be severely limited during drought and low-water periods.

Is Woodland Lake Good For Kayaking?

When water levels are adequate, Woodland Lake's small size and park setting make it suitable for recreational kayaking and canoeing. Check current lake conditions before transporting watercraft to the park.

Is Woodland Lake Good For Families?

Yes. Woodland Lake Park provides walking paths, picnic areas, playgrounds, sports facilities, birdwatching and other outdoor recreation. Many park activities remain available even when low water limits fishing and boating.

Can You Camp At Woodland Lake?

No. Camping is not available directly at Woodland Lake Park, but campgrounds, RV parks, cabins and other lodging are available throughout the Pinetop-Lakeside and White Mountains area.

How Large Is Woodland Lake?

Woodland Lake covers approximately 18 acres when full and has a maximum depth of about 20 feet. Its surface area can become substantially smaller during drought and low-water periods.

What Is The Best Time To Visit Woodland Lake?

Spring through fall generally offers comfortable conditions for walking, picnicking and other park recreation. Fishing, kayaking and boating depend on current water levels, while winter can bring snow, freezing temperatures and ice.

More Information

Woodland Lake Park - Town of Pinetop-Lakeside
Arizona Game and Fish Stocking Schedule

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Arizona Lakes