About this place

This medium-sized lake fills nearly 50 acres of Pe?a Blanca Canyon in the foothills of the Atascosa and Pajarito Mountains. It is surrounded by grassy, oak-dotted hills, some of which are topped with bluffs of limestone. Pena Blanca Lake is a popular recreation spot for visitors from neighboring Nogales, Arizona and nearby communities in Mexico. On weekends, and some weekdays, during the peak summer season, this area can be quite crowded. On holidays, especially Easter, it becomes extremely crowded. Pena Blanca Lake was created in 1957 when the Arizona Game and Fish Department constructed a dam. This is a mountain lake located at 4,000 feet elevation. Anglers can find Largemouth Bass, Bluegill and Redear Sunfish, and Channel Catfish within the lake. With the newly renovated fishing docks in Fall 2023, anglers interested in Rainbow trout will enjoy the freshly stocked lake each fall and late winter. Turn west off Interstate 19 approximately 8 miles north of Nogales at the Pe?a Blanca-Ruby Road (AZ Hwy 289) exit. Follow this road about 9 miles to Pe?a Blanca Lake Recreation Area. Turn right (north) on the paved road that leads to the lake and the boat launching ramp.