Hawley Lake

By AZ Leisure Staff Writers

Last updated on May 3, 2026.

Hawley Lake on the White Mountain Apache Reservation

Hawley Lake, located on the Fort Apache Reservation in Arizona’s White Mountains, is a stunning high-elevation lake known for its excellent trout fishing and dramatic mountain scenery. Stocked with rainbow, brook, and cutthroat trout, the lake is a top destination for anglers seeking quality fishing in a peaceful setting. Boating, kayaking, and camping are popular activities, with surrounding forests providing opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing.

This 260 acre lake is located on the White Mountains Apache Indian Reservation near Pinetop-Lakeside in Arizona's White Mountains. At a high altitude of about 8,200 feet, the climate during late spring, summer and early fall are cool and refreshing making it a popular getaway spot for the desert dwellers in the Phoenix and Scottsdale area.

Why Visit Hawley Lake

Visitors are drawn to Hawley Lake for its natural beauty, cooler climate, and outstanding fishing opportunities. Its more remote location and permit system help maintain a quieter atmosphere, making it ideal for those seeking a less crowded and more immersive outdoor experience.

Hawley Lake is simply beautiful. It is surrounded by high mountain peaks covered with thick forests of spruce, pine and aspen. Despite the cold temperatures and frequent heavy snowfall during the winter, Hawley Lake and the access road is open year-round. Ice fishing is popular in the winter when the lake freezes over.

Fishing at Hawley Lake

Hawley Lake is one of the most scenic trout fishing lakes in Arizona’s White Mountains, with rainbow trout, brook trout, cutthroat trout and brown trout found in its cool high-elevation waters. Because the lake is located on the White Mountain Apache Reservation, anglers should check current tribal permit and fishing rules before visiting. Fishing is popular from shore, boats, canoes and kayaks, and ice fishing may be possible during winter when conditions allow.

• Best fish species: Rainbow trout, brook trout, cutthroat trout and brown trout.
• Best fishing access: Shoreline areas, boat dock, canoes, kayaks and small electric boats.
• Permit note: White Mountain Apache Reservation fishing permits and rules apply.
• Winter fishing: Ice fishing is popular when the lake safely freezes and conditions permit.

As with all lakes on the Fort Apache Indian Reservation, a special Indian Reservation fee is required and a special permit is required to fish Earl Park Lake which is about one-half mile southeast of Hawley Lake.

Boating at Hawley Lake

Boating at Hawley Lake is quiet and scenic, with dramatic mountain backdrops and forested shorelines. Gas-powered motors are not permitted, making the lake best suited for electric boats, canoes, kayaks and small sailboats.

• Motor rules: Electric motors only; gas-powered motors are not permitted.
• Best boats: Canoes, kayaks, small sailboats and electric-powered fishing boats.
• Boat rentals: Boat rentals are typically available on-site during the main recreation season.
• Best use: Trout fishing, paddling, wildlife viewing and scenic lake recreation.

Services include a boat dock with boat rentals. There is a combination service station and grocery store on property where you can purchase fishing licenses, camping and RV Park fees. Laundry facilities are available.

Camping, Cabins & Amenities

In addition to campgrounds and an RV Park, there is a lodge and many cabins that are available for rent from about mid-May to the end of September. At this White Mountain Lake, swimming is not permitted. Firearms of any kind are prohibited. Campfires are also prohibited. RV vehicles, trailers and tents are not permitted in the cabin areas. There are Black Bear in the area. Do not leave food outside and do not approach a bear.

Nearby Lodging

Accommodations include a lodge and many cabins of varying size from one to five bedrooms that will accommodate from 2 to 14 people. The fees vary per cabin size. Most cabins are within walking distance of the both Hawley and Earl Park Lake and are fully furnished including bed linens, pillows, towels, dishes, pans, utensils, coffee makers and toasters. There are no telephones, televisions, microwaves or radios, but guests may bring their own. Guests may consider bringing extra blankets, pillows, extra towels, coffee filters, small BBQ grills and lawn chairs. For more information, call (928) 335-7505.

If you prefer not to camp or rent a cabin on Hawley Lake, you might also consider other cabins or a bed and breakfast inn in the White Mountains area.

Best Time to Visit Hawley Lake

• Spring: Late spring is a good time for trout fishing as access improves and warmer weather returns to the high country.
• Summer: Summer is popular for fishing, boating, cabins, camping and escaping desert heat in the cool White Mountains.
• Fall: Fall brings cooler weather, colorful forest scenery, fewer crowds and excellent mountain lake conditions.
• Winter: Hawley Lake may remain accessible and is known for winter scenery and ice fishing when conditions are safe.

Directions To Hawley Lake

From Phoenix. About 210 miles. Take Highway 260 Northeast through Payson, Show Low and Pinetop-Lakeside. Upon reaching Hon Dah Resort Casino, drive about another 11 miles to Highway 473 and turn south for about 11 miles of which the first 9 miles are paved.

Hawley Lake FAQs

Where is Hawley Lake Arizona?
Hawley Lake is located on the White Mountain Apache Reservation in Arizona’s White Mountains, near Pinetop-Lakeside.

What fish are in Hawley Lake?
Hawley Lake has rainbow trout, brook trout, cutthroat trout and brown trout.

Do you need a special permit to fish Hawley Lake?
Yes, Hawley Lake is on the White Mountain Apache Reservation, so tribal fishing permits and reservation rules apply.

Can you boat on Hawley Lake?
Yes, boating is allowed, but gas-powered motors are prohibited. Electric motors, canoes, kayaks and small sailboats are permitted.

Can you stay overnight at Hawley Lake?
Yes, Hawley Lake offers camping, RV areas, cabins and lodge accommodations during the main recreation season.

For More Information

Lodge & Cabins (928) 369-1753
Grocery Store (928) 335-7511

Arizona Lakes