|
Thumb Rock Picnic Area
There are actually two Thumb Rock Picnic Areas, upper and lower. Both of them are located within a few steps of Peña Blanca Lake. Upper Thumb Rock is situated on a low hill overlooking this 49-acre body of water that provides year-round fishing for bass, catfish, bluegill and sunfish, and in cooler weather, for stocked trout. Lower Thumb Rock is located along a seasonal stream that flows into the lake at the base of the hill topped by Upper Thumb Rock.
Both of these picnic areas have tables sheltered by ramadas and both have their own restrooms. A set of stone steps leads down to the shore from Upper Thumb Rock, which is the more open of the two areas. Lower Thumb Rock is more sheltered than its hilltop neighbor and provides access to the lake via a short trail that is barrier-free. The public boat launching ramp is only a short distance away as well.
Though these two lakeside picnic areas are open year-round, the 4,000 foot elevation of the area means the weather can be quite cool here during the winter and early spring. That may come as a surprise since the Mexican Border is only a few miles away. But cool weather makes the trout fishing better, and since the area is so much less crowded when it is cool, that may be the best time to visit.
Location: 68 miles south of Tucson and 17 miles northwest of Nogales near Peña Blanca Lake.
Access: Turn west off Interstate 19 approximately 8 miles north of Nogales at the Peña Blanca/Ruby Road (AZ Hwy 289) exit. Follow this road about 9 miles to Peña Blanca Lake. Turn right (north) on the paved road that leads to the lake and drive about 0.5 miles to the picnic area parking lot.
Elevation: 4000'
Season: Year-round.
| Attractions: |
Facilities: |
| Close to the lake |
12 sites in Upper Thumb Rock area |
| Access to lakeside trail |
5 sites in Lower Thumb Rock area |
| Good views of the lake (Upper Thumb Rock) |
Tables and fire grills |
| Paved access road |
toilets (some barrier-free) |
| |
No water |
Fee: None.
Notes:
- No trailers allowed.
- Pets must be on a leash.
- No overnight camping.
- Pack and saddle stock are not permitted in picnic area.
- Firewood is not available. Bring your own wood or bring charcoal or a camp stove for cooking.
- The nearest medical facilities and additional supplies are in Nogales.
- A paved boat launch ramp is available. Only electric trolling motors are permitted.
- A valid Arizona fishing license is required. Arizona Game and Fish Department rules and regulations apply.
 |
In the same area: |
|
|
