Arizona mountain lakes for fishing boating and outdoor recreation

Show Low Lake Arizona Guide

Originally written by Tony Subia

Updated by AZ Leisure Staff Writers on October 5, 2026

Kayakers near the dock at Show Low Lake in Arizona's White Mountains

Show Low Lake is a popular fishing, boating and camping destination near Show Low, Arizona, at an elevation of about 6,500 feet in the White Mountains. Anglers come for walleye, rainbow trout, bass and catfish, while kayakers, boaters, campers and families enjoy convenient lake access, pine-covered surroundings and a cooler mountain setting for outdoor recreation.

Lake Overview
Fishing
Fish Species
Boating
Camping
Lake Amenities
Best Time To Visit
Visitor Planning Tips
Nearby Lakes
Directions
Map
FAQ

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

Show Low Lake is one of the best-known fishing lakes in Arizona's White Mountains. Bank 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.

Fish Species In Show Low Lake

State record walleye caught by Gregg Munck out of Show Low Lake Arizona

Anglers target walleye, rainbow trout, largemouth and smallmouth bass, catfish and sunfish. The lake has a long reputation for producing large walleye, including the long-standing state record, and remains a popular fishing destination throughout much of the year.

Fish populations and stocking schedules can change with lake conditions, so anglers should check current Arizona Game and Fish information before visiting.

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.

Kayakers near the campground dock at Show Low Lake in Arizona's White Mountains

Boating At Show Low Lake

Show Low Lake is suitable for small-boat recreation, fishing, kayaking and canoeing, with a developed boat ramp providing convenient lake access. Motor restrictions and boating regulations can change, so boaters should confirm current posted rules and Arizona boating requirements before launching.

Camping At Show Low Lake

Camping is available near Show Low Lake for visitors who want convenient access to fishing, boating and White Mountains recreation. The lake area includes campsites, some electric sites and group camping, making it suitable for both individual trips and larger gatherings.

Campground availability, site types, fees, reservation policies and seasonal services can change. Campers should confirm current operating information and reservations before traveling.

Show Low Lake Amenities

Visitor facilities at Show Low Lake can include restrooms, showers, a dump station, picnic and day-use areas, fishing docks, a pavilion, playground and a small store. The store has offered boat rentals, fishing licenses, bait, tackle, drinks and snacks. Individual facilities, rentals and services can change seasonally, so visitors should confirm current availability before a trip.

Best Time To Visit Show Low Lake

Is Spring A Good Time To Visit Show Low Lake?

Yes. Spring is a strong season for trout and walleye fishing as water temperatures begin to warm. Weather can still change quickly at this elevation, so visitors should be prepared for cool mornings and occasional late-season storms.

What Is Show Low Lake Like In Summer?

Summer is popular for boating, kayaking, camping, family recreation and fishing. The lake's roughly 6,500-foot elevation generally provides cooler conditions than Arizona's lower deserts, although afternoon thunderstorms can occur during the summer monsoon.

Is Fall A Good Time To Visit Show Low Lake?

Yes. Fall brings cooler temperatures, changing foliage, lighter crowds and good fishing conditions, making it an enjoyable season for camping, boating and lakeside recreation.

Can You Visit Show Low Lake In Winter?

Yes, but cold temperatures, snow and ice can affect roads, lake access and recreation. Visitors should check current weather, road and lake conditions before traveling during winter.

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.

Map of Show Low Arizona, Show Low Lake and major routes through the White Mountains

Show Low Lake FAQ

Where Is Show Low Lake, Arizona?

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

How Big Is Show Low Lake?

Show Low Lake covers approximately 100 surface acres and sits at an elevation of about 6,500 feet in Arizona's White Mountains.

What Fish Are In Show Low Lake?

Fish species include walleye, rainbow trout, channel catfish, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, bluegill and green sunfish. Fish populations and stocking can change, so anglers should check current Arizona Game and Fish information before visiting.

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 and has produced exceptionally large walleye.

Can You Boat Or Kayak On Show Low Lake?

Yes. Show Low Lake is used for boating, fishing, kayaking and canoeing and has a developed boat ramp. 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, including some electric sites and group camping. Facilities and services can include restrooms, showers and a dump station. Confirm current campsite availability, fees, reservations and services before traveling.

What Amenities Are Available At Show Low Lake?

Show Low Lake facilities can include fishing docks, picnic and day-use areas, restrooms, showers, a pavilion, playground, boat access and a small store. Rentals and individual services may vary seasonally.

Is Show Low Lake Open Year-Round?

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