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ARIZONA NEWS

Patagonia Lake State Park in southern Arizona approaches 50-year milestone

Patagonia Lake State Park, which is Arizona's fourth most visited state park in Arizona, will reach its 50th anniversary next Tuesday, officials said.

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PHOENIX — Arizona’s fourth most popular state park will reach its 50th anniversary next Tuesday.

Patagonia Lake State Park, which sits around 11 miles northwest of the border city of Nogales, officially opened on April 1, 1975. A widespread community-driven effort back in the 1960s paved the way for its opening.

Arizona State Parks and Trails Executive Director Bob Broscheid said he’s excited to witness the state park achieve this bicentennial milestone.

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“We’re proud to celebrate 50 years of this incredible park and look forward to welcoming visitors for decades more,” Broscheid said in a Tuesday news release.

What’s there to do at Patagonia Lake State Park?

Today, more than 235,000 annual visitors boat, swim and fish in its waters or hike and birdwatch in the adjacent Sonoita Creek State Natural Area.

It has cabins, restrooms and electric and water hookups.

During the winter months, guided hikes, bird walks and boa tours are popular, and throughout the year, 60% of visitors camp their RVs in the area.

It’s also home to the yearly Mariachi Festival, which has been going for 30 years. It will take place on May 17.

Officials with Arizona State Parks and Trails are currently launching various upgrades, including the installation of three new restrooms and shower buildings, in addition to improving the infrastructure of the park’s wastewater facility.

“From rolling hills and diverse wildlife to on-the-water fun, secluded boat-in campsites and cozy cabins, Patagonia Lake is a cherished oasis in southern Arizona,” Broscheid said.

Serena O'Sullivan KTAR News Reporter and Editor

Serena O’Sullivan is a Phoenix-based news reporter and content editor for KTAR.com, where she covers local and national stories with a digital-first approach. Her reporting has appeared in major outlets including USA Today, Arizona Republic, Phoenix… Read more

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