Patagonia Lake State Park
A trip down to Patagonia Lake State Park may lead you to believe that you've somehow ended up in Tuscany or some other idyllic Mediterranean location, even though you've traveled less than 2 hours from Marana! Leave the saguaros and high peaks behind for gentle, rolling hills and the closest water recreation site to Marana (it's actually 10 minutes closer than Phoenix's Salt River - and much less crowded and more calm!)
Water Recreation
Patagonia Lake State Park is sought after for people looking to beat the heat the best way possible - getting out on the water!
Boating and Paddling
Both motorized and non-motorized boats are allowed, you can either bring your own boat and launch it from two boat ramps, or rent a pontoon boat from the marina. A day use or camping permit will cover boat launching with no additional fees.
If you prefer human-powered watercraft, you can also either bring your own, or rent a kayak, canoe, paddleboard, or inner tube from the marina! The lake offers several secluded coves, including Hangman's Canyon, that are best accessed by kayak or paddleboard.
All boats, motorized and non-motorized, must have life jackets on board for all passengers.
Fishing
Patagonia Lake is a popular location for fishing, with large populations of largemouth bass, channel and flathead catfish, crappie, sunfish, and rainbow trout. Huge catfish, up to 60 pounds, have been caught at Patagonia Lake! The park is quickly becoming one of Arizona's premier destinations for flathead catfish.
A valid fishing license, which can be purchased on the Arizona Game and Fish Website, is required for all anglers 10 years of age and older. Make sure to visit the park's fishing page for fishing conditions, helpful tips and tricks, and the best times of year to go fishing depending on what you're looking to catch!
Swimming
Swimming is permitted in all areas of Patagonia Lake, except for in boat launch areas. Swimmers swim at their own risk, and should exercise caution. There is a roped-off beach and swimming area at Boulder Beach (near the marina, campground, and Lakeside Market), but there is no lifeguard on duty.
Hiking
The park offers a 0.5-mile spur trail that connects with Sonoita Creek State Natural Area, which contains 20 miles of hiking and equestrian trails. The 1.5-mile Overlook Trail is located close to Patagonia Lake State Park, and is a great way to get 360-degree views of the area's spectacular scenery. Please note that Sonoita Creek State Natural Area may close during the summer months due to extreme heat. Make sure to check the park's website for updates and advisories.
Camping and Amenities
The park offers 105 developed RV and tent campsites across 2 campgrounds, with picnic tables, fire rings, parking for up to 2 vehicles, and electric hookups. There are also 12 boat-in campsites. Group sites and day-use ramadas are available for rental. Restroom and shower facilities are located in each of the campgrounds. Visit the park's website for detailed camping information and to reserve a site or cabin.
Also available are seven air-conditioned cabins with excellent views of the lake. The cabins include a queen-sized bed and two sets of bunk beds (Campers must supply their own linens), a table and chairs, a mini-fridge, microwave, and ceiling fan with overhead light. Restroom and shower facilities are located a short walk from the cabins.
The Lakeside Market is also located near the marina and campgrounds, and sells groceries, ice cream, soda, beer and wine, camping supplies, firewood, fishing licenses and supplies, and bait.
Getting There
Patagonia Lake State Park is located about 90 miles (or 1 hour, 35 minutes' driving time) from Marana, just northwest of Nogales. From Marana, take Interstate 10 east to Interstate 19 south, take the Ruby Road exit, and take connector roads to Arizona State Highway 82. From Highway 82, the turn-off to the park is clearly signed. Click here for the Google map directions.
Along the way, you'll pass by several historic sites in the Santa Cruz Valley, including the San Xavier del Bac Mission, the Tubac Presidio, and Tumacacori National Historic Park.
