Pena Blanca Lake
This medium-sized body of water fills 49 acres of Peña Blanca Canyon
in the Pajarito Mountain foothills. It is surrounded
by grassy, oak-dotted hills, some of which are topped with bluffs of limestone.
Peña Blanca Lake is a popular recreation spot for visitors from neighboring
Nogales, Arizona and nearby communities in Mexico as well. On weekends, and
even weekdays, during the peak summer season, this area can be quite crowded.
On holidays, especially Easter, it becomes extremely crowded.
Peña Blanca Lake was built in 1957 by the Arizona Game and Fish Department.
It provides water-related recreation year round, although its location so close
to the Mexican border can be a bit deceptive. Frequently, people who come here
during the winter expecting warm, balmy weather are surprised at how cool it
can be. This is a mountain lake located at 4,000 feet above sea level and its
climate reflects that fact.
Location: 68 miles south of Tucson and 17 miles northwest of Nogales in
Peña
Blanca Canyon.
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 Recreation Area. Turn right (north)
on the paved road that leads to the lake and the boat launching ramp.
Season: * NOTE: The lake will be closed for an extended period of time starting October 6, 2008. This is due to a major joint agency lake restoration clean up project. Click here to for information regarding the lake project.
As of November 2009 the lake clean up work has been completed and the lake is currently in the process of naturally refilling.
Elevation: 4,000'
Attractions:
Year-round season
Fishing: Visit Arizona Game & Fish Website for current information
Lakeside hiking/birdwatching
Nearby campground/lakeside
Facilities:
Paved boat launch ramp
picnic areas Barrier-free fishing dock
A valid Arizona fishing license is required for fishing
at Peña Blanca.
Arizona Game and Fish Department rules and regulations
apply.
For further information contact: Nogales Ranger District.
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