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At two and a half miles long and 250 surface acres, Patagonia Lake is popular for a variety of recreational activities, including water skiing, fishing, camping, picnicking, and hiking. Created by the damming of Sonoita Creek, the lake is habitat for bass, crappie, bluegill, and catfish, and is stocked with rainbow trout during the winter. For anglers' sake, the east half of the lake is designated a no wake area. A handicap fishing dock is located at the marina and behind the Sonoita Creek visitor center. Because the lake attracts a multitude of water sports enthusiasts during summer months, water skiing and jet skiing are prohibited on weekends and holidays from May 1 through September 30th. Camping ranges from undeveloped spots to sites with water and electric hookups. Park conveniences include picnic ramadas, a swimming beach, and a marina store with boat rentals. Entry to the park is allowed from 4:00 am until 11:00 pm and access is from State Route 82 between Patagonia and Nogales. Within Patagonia Lake State Park is the Sonoita Creek Natural Area. Totaling almost 5,000 acres, Sonoita Creek is Arizona's first major state natural area. Designated as a significant riparian area, it is home to giant cottonwoods, willows, sycamores and mesquites, nesting black hawks and endangered species. Arizona State Parks is currently developing hiking trails and wildlife viewing areas along the creek and throughout the property. Environmental educational programs for all ages will be offered as well as research opportunities for the universities. To get to Patagonia Lake State Park, take I-10 east of Tucson and exit onto Hwy 83 heading south 27 miles to Hwy 82. Head west on Hwy 82, and drive about 17 miles to the turnoff. The turnoff is about 5 miles past the town of Patagonia. Please note that during peak visitor months, park closures are not uncommon. .
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