If you’re looking to switch it up for your next camping trip, you can’t go wrong by choosing Roper Lake State Park. Roper Lake State Park has something for everyone in the family, from the angler who is looking for largemouth bass to the relaxer who is looking to read their book from the sandy shores.
If you’re interested in learning more about Roper Lake State Park, keep reading! This article has all of the information you could possibly need. We’ll touch on what Roper Lake State Park is known for, the area’s top spots to see, hiking trails, park and camping information, and nearby lodging recommendations.
1. What is Roper Lake State Park Known For?
Located just outside of Tucson, Roper Lake State Park is a quaint getaway spot for individuals, couples, and families alike. No matter the time of year, you’ll find happy visitors enjoying the fishing, swimming, boating, and camping opportunities at Roper Lake State Park.
Fishing
Roper Lake contains a healthy population of largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, sunfish, and channel catfish. Although this 32-acre lake is smaller than those at other Arizona state parks, the fishing game is still top-notch.
Swimming
Bring your swimming suit! On the west side of the park, Roper Lake State Park offers a designated swimming area with a sandy beach. Swimmers are safe from fishing lines and speeding boats in this area. However, there is no lifeguard on duty. Swimming is always at your own risk and is prohibited outside of the designated area.
Boating
All types of watercraft, other than those with gas motors, are welcome to enjoy Roper Lake. However, before setting out, you must ensure that your watercraft meets all of the Arizona regulations for motorized and non-motorized watercrafts. To learn more about the required registration and safety equipment you should bring, visit the Arizona Game and Fish’s watercraft information page or call the park office at 928-428-6760.
Boat Rentals
Roper Lake State Park rents kayaks out for day-use. Please call the park at 928-428-6760 or visit the park’s Visitor Center for more information and pricing.
Boat Ramp
Roper Lake State Park has one boat ramp available for guests to utilize. There is also a boat trailer parking located on the east side of the park. Non-motorized boats may launch at the boat ramp or from the shore.
2. What are the top Spots to see at Roper Lake State Park?
So you’ve fished, boated, swam… Now, what else do you need to check off your list during a weekend at Roper Lake State Park? We recommend checking out Dankworth Pond and taking a scenic drive to see the full glory of the surrounding Pinaleno Mountains!
Dankworth Pond
Dankworth Pond is a large nature reserve with a picnic site, a re-created American Indian village, and a 15-acre pond that is home to bass, crappie, bluegill, and catfish year-round. In addition, trout are stocked seasonally from November through March by the Arizona Game and Fish Department. This unique getaway spot is only a 3-mile hike from Roper Lake State Park and is a great way to round out your visit! Ask a Park Ranger where to begin the hike.
Pinaleno Mountains
If you’re spending the weekend at Roper Lake and are curious about the surrounding area, we think there’s no better way to get a feel for it than by taking a scenic drive. Take your car up Highway 366 to the top of Mt. Graham to get unbeatable views of the surrounding Pinaleno Mountains. Don’t forget your camera!
3. Hiking and Trails Information
Roper Lake State Park offers five miles of walking paths inside of the park for their visitors to enjoy. The Mariah Mesa Trail is a .75 mile loop trail that will lead you to the area’s famous natural hot spring tubes, while the rest of the trails in the park connect the campgrounds and day-use areas together.
If you’re looking to walk a little further, you can also take the three-mile hike to Dankworth Pond.
4. Park and Camping Information
Park and Facility Hours
Roper Lake State Park is open every day from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm. Please note that the park observes shorter hours on Thanksgiving and is closed on Christmas. The Roper Lake Visitor Center and Park Store are both open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 pm.
Park Entrance Fees
- Per vehicle (up to four adults): $10.00
- Individual/bicycle: $3.00
Roper Lake State Park Visitor Center and Park Store
The Roper Lake Visitor Center and Park Store offer souvenirs, local area information, Junior Ranger programs, restrooms, fishing equipment, and bait.
Picnic Areas
There are a good number of quality picnic areas spread throughout the park for visitors to use on a first-come, first-served basis. A majority of these picnic tables are located near the fishing and swimming areas and include a picnic table, a barbecue grill, and a shade ramada.
Large Group Day-Use Areas
There are three large group day-use areas at Roper Lake State Park that are available to reserve in advance. If they are not pre-reserved, they are available on a first-come, first-served basis to all park visitors.
- Island Group Ramada – Large group ramada located near a grassy area and the swimming beach. Offers six picnic tables, a handful of barbecue grills, and water spigot access. There is no electricity. Maximum group size of 50 people.
- East Mesa Group Ramada – Large group ramada overlooking the lake. Offers six picnic tables, a barbecue grill, water spigot access, electric outlets, and is near restroom facilities.
- West Hill Group Ramada – Large group ramada with lake access. Offers six picnic tables, a barbecue grill, water spigot access, a fire ring, and vault toilets.
Camping Information
There are three different campgrounds at Roper Lake State Park:
- Hacienda Campground – Offers 20 sites with water and electricity. Each site includes a fire ring and a picnic table. Hacienda campground has a bathroom with hot showers near the entrance of the campground.
- Cottonwood Campground – Offers 25 sites with water and electricity. Each site includes a fire ring, picnic table, and a small shade ramada. Cottonwood campground has a bathroom with hot showers.
- Gila Campground – Offers eight cabins, five non-electric sites, and a 14 site group camp area. All non-electric sites include a fire ring and a picnic table. Water is available at most sites.
To make a Roper Lake campground reservation, call the Arizona State Park reservation desk at (877) MY-PARKS during normal office hours or visit the Roper Lake State Park website.
5. Where to Stay Near Roper Lake State Park
Roper Lake State Park Cabins
Looking to stay near Roper Lake, but prefer air conditioning? Why not check out one of the cabins located right inside the park! Roper Lake State Park has eight variably furnished cabins available to reserve. All cabins have electricity, air-conditioning, and heating. In addition, there are picnic tables and charcoal grills located right outside as well as restrooms and showers within a short walking distance.
To make a Roper Lake cabin reservation, call the Arizona State Park reservation desk at (877) MY-PARKS during normal office hours or visit the Roper Lake State Park website.
Safford, Arizona
If you are hoping to stay outside of Roper Lake State Park, we recommend checking out the nearby community of Safford, Arizona. Here, you will find unique antique stores, delicious restaurants, a luscious golf course, and a number of high-quality accommodation options.
No matter where you stay, Roper Lake State Park will have you counting down the days until you can return for more fun. Whether you enjoy the lake, a walk to Dankworth Pond, or a quiet afternoon on the beach, this special place will leave you ready for more!