Patagonia Lake Near Nogales

By Tony Subia

Patagonia Lake. © Alan Stark

Patagonia Lake is located in the foothills about 15 miles from Nogales and about 70 miles south of Tucson, Arizona. The lake is nestled in the foothills of a riparian setting and is the center attraction of Patagonia State Park. The lake, which was created by the damming of Sonoita Creek covers about 250 acres of water surface and is 2.5 miles long.

The lake is a popular Southern Arizona water recreation destination for water-skiing, fishing, picnicking, camping, and hiking. The Patagonia Lake Marina provides boat rentals including paddle boats, rowboats, kayaks and pontoon boats. It also features a market offering food, snacks, ice, and fishing tackle as well as picnic and camping supplies.

Fishing At Patagonia Lake

The east half of the Patagonia Lake is designated as a no wake area to the benefit of anglers. The lake is a natural habitat for crappie and bass and is stocked with rainbow trout during the winter months. Fishing docks for handicapped fishermen are located at the marina just behind the visitor center.

Camping and Day Use Picnic Areas

Its campground includes 105 developed camping sites with a fire-ring, picnic table, barbecue grill and electrical with 20/30 amp and 50 amp voltage. Parking is provided for two vehicles per camp site. Ramadas are included with some camp sites and most campsites accommodate any size RV.

The campground is ofen full from May to September. Reservations should be made by calling the reservation center at (502) 586-2283. Fees are paid upon arrival at the park. A non-refundable reservation fee applies.

A picnic area is available for day use and the ramada covered area can be reserved for up to 60 guests. The park is open every day of the year except Christmas Day. Regular gate hours are 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. On Fridays from April through October the hours are extended from 7:00 Am to 10:00 PM.

Directions and Map

Take I-10 East to Highway 83 South then to Highway 82. proceed 7 miles past the town of Patagonia to the lake.

Contact Information

Please note that all information was accurate at the time of posting. Information is subject to change without notice. We recommended that you call and verify latest information. Visit the Patagonia Lake State Park Website for fees, policy and guidelines.

• Marina, Store and Boat Rental: (520) 287-5545
• Campground Information: (520) 287-6965
• Campground Reservations: (520) 586-2283

Patagonia Lake State Park
400 Patagonia Lake Road
Patagonia, Arizona 85624
(520) 287-6965

Arizona Lakes