Woods Canyon Lake is about 20 minutes west of Forest Lakes and has its own store and boat rentals (http://woodscanyonlakeaz.com/). Stop at some of the many scenic overlooks along the route for some breathtaking views atop the Rim. This is one of the busier lakes during the summer and access is closed during the winter.
Willow Springs Lake is about 15 minutes west of Forest Lakes and is a popular fishing and kayaking spot. Fishing supplies and paddle board rentals are available at the General Store during the summer season. Or call Rim Country Recreation for kayak rentals at (928) 978-9903.
Black Canyon Lake is only about 7 miles east of Forest Lakes but expect a 20-30 minute drive due to windy dirt roads. It’s a smaller lake but all the Rim Lakes are stocked regularly.
Forest Lakes community pond is small enough to feel safe with smaller children around and is usually less busy than some of the surrounding lakes. You can fish or catch some wildlife around the pond. It’s also a popular sledding area in the winter months. You can also find some spots to sled around the property as well!
During the summer season, there are several community events to choose from. Free concerts, ice cream socials, community rummage sales, holiday parades and even an annual Labor Day ATV poker run. Visit the www.floa.club website to see what’s coming up next!
The Forest Lakes Library offers a variety of free activities for the kids throughout the summer season such as crafts, games, movie nights and fishing derbies. Visit their Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/FLLibrary) for current events or find it posted on their bulletin board outside the building.
The Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest and Tonto National Forest have 100's of trails to hike or ride on. Check out Tonto Natural Bridge just north of Payson! Trail maps are available on the US Forest Services website at www.fs.usda.gov/
In the summer months, the Rim Resort is a great place to grab one of their famous breakfasts to go. Go shopping in Heber for antiques and have a bite at June's Cafe. Payson is full of local and chain restaurants and cute shops. Christopher Creek is 20 minutes down the rim and has a wonderful bar & grill with great pizza.