On-Going Events

To Register Call (520) 287-2791. See also Upcoming Events.

Avian Adventure Pontoon Boat Tour

Wed., Sat., & Sun. at 9 am & 10:15 am. One hour birding tour of the east end of Patagonia Lake. Help us locate and identify resident and migratory birds of the Sonoita Creek area. Call to register. Until April 15.

Lake Discovery Pontoon Boat Tour

Wed., Sat., & Sun. at 11:30 am. One hour exploration of the west end of Patagonia Lake. Discover the vegetation, history, and beauty of Sonoita Creek and Patagonia Lake as we explore Ash Canyon, the dam, and Deep Cove. Call to register. Until April 15.

Bird Walk

Mon., Tues., Wed., Thurs., call ahead for times. Meet at the Birding Trail Trailhead, located within Patagonia Lake State Park, to experience this two-hour birding adventure. Wear comfortable shoes and bring binoculars, field guide, and water. Until April 15.

Junior Ranger Activity

Sat. at 2 pm & Sun. at 10:30 am. Kids and their adults are welcome to join us for an hour of discovery as we learn about nature, create fun nature crafts and learn how to become a Junior Ranger. Held at the Visitor Center. Until April 15.

Twilight Pontoon Boat Tour

Saturdays, time varies. Enjoy the evening sights and sounds of Patagonia Lake’s riparian wildlife while exploring the entire lake. Call to register and for meeting time. Until April 15.

Evening Program

Jan. 22, Asst. Manager, Jen Parks, will present an overview of the Natural Area. at 7 pm.

On Tuesday and Thursday evenings volunteers, staff, and local experts present a variety of programs covering a wide range of interesting and enjoyable topics. Programs start at 7 pm and are approximately one hour. They are free and open to the public.

Moonlight Hike

Feb. 9, Mar. 10, and Apr. 9, times and days vary. Experience the wonderful view of the Sonoita Creek riparian ribbon with the colors of an Arizona sunset and a glowing moon serving as the backdrop. Wear sturdy shoes, bring water, and a flashlight and perhaps a walking stick. Trail is moderately difficult with a 350 ft. elevation gain. Call ahead for meeting time.

Five-mile Bird Hike

Jan. 23, Feb. 20, Mar. 20, Apr. 10 at 8:00 am. See a variety of birds in several different habitats with a guide. Hike begins in desert uplands and reaches Sonoita Creek. Bring sturdy shoes, binoculars, water and snacks. Hike is about five miles and five hours long. Meet at the Visitor Center. Limited to 12 people, call to register.

George Wise Spring Hike

Feb. 19, Manager Steven Haas will take you into the uplands of the watershed of Sonoita Creek. Some bush whacking and a pontoon boat ride. 8:30 - 3:00.

Plant Walk

Feb. 6, Mar. 6, Apr. 3, join ranger Ken Morrow on a stroll through several vegetation zones. Wear boots, prepare for lots of sun and bring your questions.

Nature & History Hike

Jan. 20, Feb. 13, Feb. 27, Mar. 27, Apr. 10 - Retired Nogales teacher, Greg Scott, will share some of the rich history of the area and some geography and botany. Some hikes start in Rio Rico (5 miles), some meet in the Sonoita Creek/Patagonia Lake Visitor Center (3 miles). Call for information.

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