Woodland Lake In Pinetop-Lakeside, Arizona

Originally written by Tony Subia

Reviewed and updated by AZ Leisure Staff Writers on September 8, 2026.

Woodland Lake in Pinetop-Lakeside is a small, family-friendly recreation lake in Arizona's White Mountains. Located within Woodland Lake Park, the lake offers shoreline fishing, kayaking, canoeing, walking trails, picnic areas and other outdoor activities close to the shops and lodging of Pinetop-Lakeside. Water levels and fishing conditions can vary significantly from year to year, so anglers and boaters should check current conditions before visiting.

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.

• Why Visit Woodland Lake
• Fishing
• Boating & Kayaking
• Park Amenities
• Walking & Recreation
• Best Time To Visit
• Directions
• FAQ

Why Visit Woodland Lake

Woodland Lake is especially convenient for families and visitors who want outdoor recreation without leaving Pinetop-Lakeside. The lake and surrounding park combine fishing, paddling, walking, picnicking, playgrounds and other activities in one easily accessible White Mountains setting.

Lake Size. Woodland Lake covers approximately 18 acres when full and reaches a maximum depth of about 20 feet. Because the lake is connected with a local irrigation system, its water surface can become substantially smaller during drawdowns and drought conditions.

Fishing Conditions. Rainbow trout have traditionally been the lake's primary stocked sport fish, with largemouth bass and channel catfish also reported. 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. Rainbow trout have historically been the primary stocked species, while largemouth bass and channel catfish may also be present. In drought years, low water levels can reduce both stocking and fishing opportunities.

• Primary fish: Rainbow trout have traditionally been the principal stocked sport fish.
• Other fish: Largemouth bass and channel catfish may also be present.
• Fishing access: Shoreline areas, the dam area and fishing dock provide convenient places to fish when lake conditions permit.
• Popular trout baits: Worms, PowerBait and small artificial lures are commonly used for stocked rainbow trout.
• 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

Arizona Game and Fish announced that Woodland Lake would not receive its usual spring and summer trout stockings in 2026 because of drought-related low water levels and water-quality concerns. The department also reported that the Woodland Lake boat ramp was not usable until water levels improve. Anglers and boaters should check current conditions 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. Watercraft using motors are generally limited to electric-powered boats, helping preserve the lake's quiet park setting.

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, so boaters should check conditions before visiting.

• Good choices: Kayaks, canoes and other small watercraft.
• 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.

Woodland Lake Park Amenities

Woodland Lake Park provides a variety of family-oriented recreation facilities surrounding the lake. Amenities may include picnic areas and ramadas, restrooms, children's playgrounds, sports courts, ball fields, walking paths, fishing access and a boat ramp. Facilities and access can change with maintenance, seasonal conditions and park projects.

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

• Spring: Mild temperatures make spring pleasant for walking, picnicking and fishing when water levels and stocking conditions are favorable.
• Summer: Woodland Lake Park is popular for family outings, paddling, picnicking and enjoying cooler White Mountains temperatures than Arizona's desert communities.
• Fall: Cooler weather, changing foliage and generally lighter crowds make fall an attractive season for walking, fishing and relaxing by the lake.
• Winter: Cold temperatures, snow and ice are possible. Park and lake access may be affected by winter weather, so check 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.

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 fish are in Woodland Lake?

Rainbow trout have traditionally been the primary stocked sport fish at Woodland Lake, while largemouth bass and channel catfish may also be present. Fish populations and trout stocking can vary substantially with water level and water quality.

Is Woodland Lake stocked with trout?

Woodland Lake has historically received rainbow trout, but stocking is dependent on water levels, water quality and other conditions. Arizona Game and Fish may reduce or suspend stockings during drought or other unfavorable conditions.

Can you boat on Woodland Lake?

Yes, small watercraft such as kayaks and canoes can be used when lake conditions permit. Boat-ramp access depends on water level, and visitors should check current boating restrictions before launching motorized watercraft.

Is Woodland Lake good for kayaking?

Yes. When water levels are adequate, the lake's small size and park setting make it suitable for recreational kayaking, canoeing and quiet paddling.

Is Woodland Lake good for families?

Yes. Woodland Lake Park provides a convenient setting for family outings with walking areas, picnic facilities, playgrounds, fishing access and other outdoor recreation.

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 elsewhere in 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. Because the lake is connected with an irrigation system, its surface area can become substantially smaller during drawdowns and drought conditions.

What is the best time to visit Woodland Lake?

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

More Information

Town of Pinetop-Lakeside
Woodland Lake Park

Arizona Lakes