Arizona has plenty of lakes to take a dip in during the hot summer months, some more well-known than others. Patagonia Lake is among the most underrated warm-weather destinations in the state, perfect for fishing and other water recreation activities.

With a population of just under 1,000 as per the 2010 census, Patagonia is a sleepy little town in the rolling hills of southern Arizona.
Google/Patagonia Lake State Park
Patagonia Lake State Park, established in 1975, is easily among the most underrated summer destinations in the state.
Water recreation is the most popular activity at the park, proven by several boat ramps and a marina for visitors to take advantage of.
Google/Patagonia Lake State Park
You'll also find a creek trail, campground, beach, picnic area with ramadas, tables, and grills.
If ever the urge to stretch your land legs strikes, the pedestrian bridge is perfect for a stroll.
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Get a 360-degree, bird's-eye view of the water, as the wind pushes a gentle current along.

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Paddle underneath the bridge, with grassy hillsides rising up on either side.
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Scenery like this is hard to come by, so we're lucky to have such a little slice of heaven right here in the Grand Canyon State.
On the 2.9-mile Sonoita Creek Trail, expect to see all sorts of birds and other wildlife.
TripAdvisor/Patagonia Lake State Park
There are plenty of benches, so feel free to sit down, relax, and take in the beautiful surroundings.
Anglers catch crappie, bass, bluegill, catfish, and trout in the well-stocked lake.
TripAdvisor/Patagonia Lake State Park
Nothing quite compares to the tranquility of casting a line and reveling in the peace and quiet as you wait for a bite.
Did you know a historic railroad lies beneath these waters? The New Mexico/Arizona line met a watery demise, and remnants of the tracks can be found at the Nature Conservancy in Patagonia.
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Visit the lake’s website to learn more. Here is the AllTrails page for Sonoita Creek Trail.

Have you ever visited Patagonia Lake? If so, what’s your favorite thing about it? Let us know, and check out our previous article for more lakes that deserve a spot on your summer bucket list: There’s Something Magical About These 14 Arizona Lakes In The Summer.

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Patagonia Lake State Park, Patagonia Lake Road, Nogales, AZ, USA