Knoll Lake

Kayaking, Paddleboarding and Camping at Knoll Lake

Knoll Lake is a secluded mountain lake located along Arizona’s Mogollon Rim in Coconino National Forest. The lake sits at approximately 7,300 feet in elevation and covers about 75 acres, with depths reaching nearly 50 feet. Surrounded by ponderosa pines and centered around a scenic island, Knoll Lake offers a peaceful setting for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, fishing and wildlife viewing.

Paddling Knoll Lake

Knoll Lake’s remote location and long gravel-road approach help make it quieter and less crowded than many of Arizona’s more accessible lakes. Paddlers can explore the forested shoreline, circle the island in the middle of the lake and fish for stocked rainbow trout. Only boats powered by a single electric motor are permitted, which helps create calmer water for kayaks, paddleboards and small boats. A developed boat ramp provides convenient access to the lake.

Camping at Knoll Lake

Knoll Lake Campground is located near the water and offers first-come, first-served campsites from approximately mid-May through early September. Single campsites cost $20 per night and double campsites cost $40 per night. The campground accepts cash only and provides picnic tables, vault toilets and potable drinking water. Reservations are not accepted, so arriving earlier is recommended during busy summer weekends.

The campground provides easy access to both Knoll Lake and the Mogollon Rim, where visitors can also enjoy hiking, mountain biking, sightseeing and views from the dramatic 2,000-foot escarpment. Forest roads leading to the lake are gravel but are generally suitable for passenger cars during good weather. Winter closures and seasonal fire restrictions may affect access.

Knoll Lake Map

Rent Before Driving to Knoll Lake

Redline Rentals & Sales is located in Mesa, Arizona—not at Knoll Lake. There is no Redline rental booth or equipment pickup location at the lake. Customers must reserve and pick up their kayak or paddleboard from Redline before driving to the Mogollon Rim.

Redline rentals include paddles, life jackets, foam-block roof racks and tie-down straps, and the team will help load and secure the equipment to your vehicle. Planning a longer Knoll Lake camping trip? Rent for two days and get the third day free, giving you more time to camp, fish and explore Knoll Lake’s peaceful pine-covered shoreline.