Patagonia Lake State Park

Patagonia Lake State Park encompasses a 275-acre reservoir that is the perfect backdrop for hiking, fishing, water skiing, camping and picnicking. The lake was created by damming up Sonoita Creek and is 2.5 miles long. It is tucked into the rolling grasslands of Sonoita Valley. The Arizona State Parks Department manages the State Park. The park is at an elevation of 4,000 feet, making the climate ideal all year round. Although, the best times to make your visit is in the spring or fall. Fishermen will enjoy dropping their line in search of largemouth bass, channel catfish, crappie or bluegill.

You will find rainbow trout in the winter, when they are released into the lake. There is a no wake area designated on the lake for fishing. A marina is available, along with a level fishing pad for wheelchairs. Hiking trails circle the lake. You should find a ranger, who can point out where you can see the petroglyphs on the far side of the lake. You can get to the petroglyphs by hiking or by boat. Campers will enjoy the lake too.

Campsites range from undeveloped to ones with water and electric hook-ups. The campground fee is $5.00 a day and $7.00 for hook-ups. If you want to make your visit in the day only, the charge is $2.00. The lake is a favorite among water lovers. It has a boat ramp, swimming beach, picnic ramadas, gas pumps, supplies and boat rentals. During the summer months, the lake attracts so many people. This influx of people has caused the park to prohibit water skiing and jet skiing on weekends and holidays from May to October.

If you would like more information on the park and its services, call 520-287-6965. You can get to Patagonia Lake State Park from Nogales by taking State Highway 82 east out of town. It is approximately 12 miles north of Nogales. Just before you get to the town of Patagonia, you will come across signs to Patagonia Lake State Park. The turn off is going to be heading to the west. You can get to the park from Patagonia by taking State Highway 82 southwest out of town.

It is approximately 10 miles out of town. You will see signs directing you to the park. This state park is a fun place to visit and enjoy the outdoor activities available.

Parker Canyon Lake is a 133-acre fishing lake, east of the Huachuca Mountains. It is set in a grassy, rolling hill country. It is the prefect backdrop for a variety of outdoor activities for visitors. The lake offers fishing, boating, camping and picnicking. Parker Canyon Lake has a small marina to meet the needs of the fishermen. A 65-unit campground is also located near the lake.

If you would like more information on the lake, you may call 520-455-5847 or 520-378-0311. You can get to Parker Canyon Lake from Patagonia by taking State Highway 82 northeast out of town. You will travel to the town of Sonoita. Here you will take State Highway 83 south, until you come to Parker Canyon Lake. Parker Canyon Lake is approximately 40 miles away from town.