Weekends in December: Pontoon Boat Tours at Patagonia Lake SP
Tucked away in the rolling hills of southeastern Arizona is the hidden
treasure of Patagonia Lake State Park, with a 265-acre man-made lake
where anglers catch crappie, bass, bluegill and catfish. Pontoon boat
tours will be offered on the lake on Saturdays and Sundays in December.
Avian tours will be offered at 9 a.m. and 10:15 a.m. and will go to the
east end of the lake. An experienced birder will be on board to point
out, identify, and talk about the birds seen.
At 11:30 am the Lake Discovery Tour goes to the west end of the lake. The guide on board will point out geological formations, discuss the dam which created Patagonia Lake, and provide a brief history of the area.
A Twilight tour just before dark on Saturdays. The sunsets can be
spectacular from the lake and seeing the shoreline from the water is a
delightful experience.
The cost for each one-hour boat trip is $5, payable at the beginning of the trip in the Visitor Center. Reservations are advised. Call 520-287-2791. Plan to arrive at the Visitor Center 15 minutes before departure to sign in, pay and be outfitted with a life jacket.
Saturday Evening Programs
Saturday evening programs will cover a wide range of topics. Programs start at 7 p.m. and usually last an hour. Meet at the Sonoita Creek Visitor at Patagonia Lake.
Dec. 1: Ghost Towns of Santa Cruz County
Dec. 8: Discover Patagonia Lake & Sonoita Creek – Past & Present
Dec. 15: Birds of Patagonia Lake and Sonoita Creek
Dec. 22: Ghost Towns of Santa Cruz County
Dec. 29: An Introduction to the Sonoita Creek State Natural Area
Park Entrance Fees:
Per Vehicle (1-4 Adults): $10-$15
Individual/Bicycle: $3
Camping Fees:
Non-Electric site: $17
Electric site: $25-$28
Cabana or Boat Site: $17-$20
