Three group sites at Rock Bluff are just a short distance from Parker Canyon Lake. Tables and grills are clustered on small, walled patios in a rocky little canyon dotted with oaks and junipers. Group site reservations can be made online at www.recreation.gov. Use is by reservation only.
Most people who come here do so with the intent of enjoying not only the facilities at the campground, but the fishing and boating at the lake as well. A lakeside developed recreation site, including a boat ramp, fishing pier, general store and boat rentals, is located just a short drive from the group area.
Lakeshore Trail #128, just a quarter-mile walk from Rock Bluff, leads all the way around the lake. This nearly level trail is well maintained and easy to follow. Trailside benches and interpretive signs are located at some of the best wildlife viewing areas. Watch for the waterfowl that are generally bobbing on the waters of the lake. Bald eagles are regularly sighted during the winter, and osprey sometimes are seen migrating through the area in the fall.
Location: Adjacent to Parker Canyon Lake at the southern end of the Canelo Hills.
Access: From Tucson: Drive east on Interstate 10 to the Arizona Route 83 exit. Drive south to Sonoita, then continue on AZ 83 approximately 25 miles to Parker Canyon Lake.
From Sierra Vista: Travel through Fort Huachuca’s west gate to State Route 83. Turn south and travel 10 miles to Parker Canyon Lake. Alternate from Sierra Vista: Travel south on State Highway 92 about 17 miles to Coronado Memorial Road (FR 61) and drive 25 miles over Montezuma Pass along the south side of the Huachuca Mountains to Parker Canyon Lake.
Elevation: 5,400'
Season: Open year-round.
Attractions:
Facilities:
Picnicking and hiking
3 group sites with 2 tables and 2 fire rings each
Year-round fishing
Drinking water, toilets and garbage bins
Boating (8 hp motor limit)
General store and boat rental
Scenic views
Fishing pier and fishing path at lake
Watchable wildlife
Paved launch ramp, boat dock at lake
Self-guided nature trail
Fee: $25.00 per night for 50 people, one dollar per person over that number. 14-day stay limit.
Notes:
No utility hookups. Pets on leash at all times.
Pack and saddle stock are not permitted in day use area.
Motorbikes may be used only for entering or leaving campgrounds.
Parker Lakeshore Trail #128 encircles Parker Canyon Lake.
