Scan the lake for waterfowl, checking from several different vantage points. Bird the various picnic areas and meander along the lakeshore trail from the Lower Thumb Picnic Area. The edges often hold a surprise or two.

The extensive list of species recorded here gives one an idea of how spectacular the birding can be. In addition to regularly expected oak/grassland specialties such as Montezuma Quail, many mega-rarities have shown up - Least Grebe, Groove-billed Ani, Rufous-capped Warbler, and Yellow Grosbeak to name a few.

This medium-sized body of water fills 49 acres of Peña Blanca Canyon in the Pajarito Mountain foothills. It is surrounded by grassy, oak-dotted hills, some of which are topped with bluffs of limestone.

Peña Blanca Lake is a popular recreation spot for visitors from neighboring Nogales, Arizona, and nearby communities in Mexico as well. On weekends, and even weekdays, during the peak summer season, this area can be quite crowded. On holidays, especially Easter, it becomes extremely crowded.

Peña Blanca Lake was built in 1957 by the Arizona Game and Fish Department. It provides water-related recreation year-round, although its location so close to the Mexican border can be a bit deceptive. Frequently, people who come here during the winter expecting warm, balmy weather are surprised at how cool it can be. This is a mountain lake located at 4,000 feet above sea level and its climate reflects that fact.

The lake was drained and improved in 2009, but it has since been refilled. However, the boat ramp has not yet been replaced.

Turn west off I-19 approximately 8 miles north of Nogales at the Peña Blanca and Ruby Road (AZ-289) exit. Follow this road about 9 miles to Peña Blanca Lake Recreation Area. Turn right (north) on the paved road that leads to the lake and the boat launching ramp.