Rose Canyon Lake

Rose Canyon Lake is tucked away in a picturesque stand of mature ponderosa pines high on the slopes of the Santa Catalina Mountains. A paved road through Rose Canyon Campground leads to a small parking area a short walk from the water. Anglers fish in the lake throughout the summer, though rainbow trout are stocked only during the cooler months of the season. Fish large enough to catch and take home generally are released in the lake about once a month from early May through the end of June, when water temperatures become a little too warm for these cold water fish. In mid-September, stocking resumes after water temperatures moderate a bit and continues for another couple of months. All stocking and fishing regulations for Rose Canyon lake, as well as all the other lakes within the Coronado are managed by Arizona Game and Fish.

This is a beautiful place, and many people come here to enjoy the other features that it offers in addition to fishing. Tall trees and rocky slopes line the shore and are reflected in the lake’s sheltered waters. Rose Canyon Lake Trail #37 leads around the water’s edge and provides good opportunities for photography, bird watching, and just plain strolling. A few downed logs close to the water provide good places to sit and enjoy a snack or a bit of quiet meditation. - Coronado National Forest

The road to Rose Canyon can close in the winter but you can still access the lake by foot.

GPS:

Latitude: 32°23'12.52"N Longitude: 110°42'41.19"W

Phone Numbers for more information::

Tucson Game and Fish (520) 628-5376 or the Safford Coronado National Forest Safford Ranger District (928) 428-4150

Restrictions/Season of Use:

Open April 15 through October 15

Land Ownership:

Coronado National Forest

Ranger Station/District:

Tucson Game and Fish (520) 628-5376

Entrance Fees/Permits:

Lake Parking Lot fee is $8.00 per day OR $4.00 per day if vehicle is displaying a Coronado Recreational pass.

Elevation:

7000 feet

Max Surface Acres:

7

Average Depth:

44 ft

Bag Limit:

As Posted for trout, Usually between 4 and 6

Boat/Engine Restrictions:

No boat allowed at Rose Canyon Lake

Boats to Rent:

No

Swimming:

No

Camping:

Not on the Lake but there is nearby Rose Canyon Lake Campground

Barrier free Access:

No

Trailer Spaces:

Yes

Electricity:

No

Launching Area:

No

Water Skiing:

No

Cleaning Stations:

No

Marinas:

No

Northeast of Tucson, between mile posts 17 and 18 on the Catalina Highway.