Roper Lake State Park
Located about eight miles south of Safford, AZ, this state park’s namesake is a 32-acre lake. As the largest body of water in the region, Roper Lake is a huge draw for birds and other wildlife. Ring-billed and Bonaparte’s gulls are occasionally spotted here as are a few species of terns (Forster’s, black, and least). Common mergansers and several duck species are common visitors. The state park also offers several amenities including camping, cabins, and 5 miles of hiking trails.
Admission to Roper Lake also includes admission to nearby Dankworth Pond, another great birding location with hiking trails.
Site Information
Region: Tucson and Southern
County: Graham
Directions: The park entrance is about seven miles south of Safford, AZ, off of Hwy 191.
Latitude: 32.755673
Longitude: -109.705465
Operational Hours: Other
Other Operational Hours: Operational hours: 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. (gate closes at 9 p.m.) Visitor Center open 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (M-Th) and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (F-Sun)
Admission or Fees: $10 per vehicle (1-4 adults), $3 bicycle/individual
Best time to visit: Year round
Habitats: Desert, Marsh or Wetland, Lake or Pond, Stream or river, Urban or Suburban park
Know Before You Go
Fishing and boating are also available. Check out the park's website for occasional programs and other events.
Safety First! Arizona has many beautiful places to explore and we’d like to help you make it a safe and enjoyable experience. Check out our recommendations for hiking precautions.
Species Highlights
Speciality: Broad-billed Hummingbird, Costa’s Hummingbird, Pyrrhuloxia
Charismatic: Gambel’s Quail, Loggerhead Shrike
Contact Information
Arizona State Parks
101 E. Roper Lake Road
Safford, Arizona 85546
Phone: 928-428-6760
Website: https://azstateparks.com/roper-lake/
Additional Resources
Learn more about birds reported at this location at eBird:
https://ebird.org/hotspot/L301028
