Have You Been To This Arizona Lake? Cool Off In Arizona’s Summer Oasis!

The state of Arizona is legendary for hot summer days, and as we make our way into the summer months, the heat is quickly becoming a reality.

This is about the time we begin to look for ways to escape the rising temperatures, and there's not better way than to find shelter next to a lake.

Visit Parker Canyon Lake

Parker Canyon Lake was founded in 1965. According to Wikipedia, "the lake is a reservoir formed by a dam in Parker Canyon in the south end of the Canelo Hills...it's a tributary to the Santa Cruz River."

Parker Canyon Lake is only an hour and a half from Tucson, and just over an hour from Sierra Vista.

Even though Parker Canyon Lake is located in Southeastern Arizona, it's nearly 20 degrees cooler throughout the year. Parker Canyon is at a higher elevation than either Tucson or Sierra Vista, which makes it a great way to escape some of the scorching summer weather.

When it comes to fishing, the Cochise County Tourism and Economic Council says Parker Canyon Lake offers both cold and warm water species of fish.

The lake is stocked with rainbow trout and resident bass, sunfish, and catfish. There's a fishing pier and paved boat ramp at the lake, a lakeside paved area, and a graveled path - along some of the best catfishing shoreline you can experience in Southeastern Arizona.

Camping at Parker Canyon Lake

Camping at Parker Canyon is a great experience. Generally speaking, the campground is usually less crowded than other popular camping areas. Don't worry if you forget something, the Marina's got you covered, with everything from extra marshmallows, to fishing bait and of other last minute supplies.

The Marina also handles boat and kayak rentals, fishing licenses, and camping and fishing gear.

Parker Canyon Lake is managed by the US Forest Service, and there is a fee for day use and camping. Find out more by visiting the website.

Special Thanks to Explore Cochise for information and photos in this article.