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The lake offers recreational fishing. This 7 acre 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. Rainbow trout large enough to catch and take home generally are released in the lake about once a month from early April through the end of August, when water temperatures become a little too warm for these cold water fish. 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, which publishes the current stocking schedule . 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.
From the intersection of Grant Road and Tanque Verde Road. Head east on Tanque Verde Road approximately 5 miles to the intersection of Tanque Verde Road and Catalina Highway. Turn left heading north and continue 17 miles up Catalina Highway to Rose Canyon Campground. It is clearly marked and the campground is on the left.
This is a fun and beautiful campground! Unfortunately our experience was not great because of some very aggressive campground hosts. We reserved 5 camping spaces, and were told 2 vehicles were allowed per camping spot. The first day we arrived, there was no issue at all. The second day, a very aggressive lady named Laurie came onto our campground demanding that we pay day rates for any additional vehicles over 5 (1 per camp site). We were a bit confused and taken back by the aggressive manner in which she approached us, accusing us of trying to “break the rules”, etc. She called the sheriff to intervene after we stated what we were told and didn’t just hand over the extra money for the few additional vehicles that we had parked while we camped. At one point, one of the families leaving pulled their vehicle close to the campground to load their supplies as they were leaving, and she followed the vehicle in and called the sheriff again stating that we were breaking the rules, when we were told by a different host we could pull a vehicle in to load up our supplies. (They were pulled in for no more than 5 minutes before being aggressively approached by Laurie, and having the sheriff called again).
It was all very confusing, and their “rules” changed depending on the day and host that was there that day. If you question what they say, they call the sheriff immediately.
Anyways, I wouldn’t camp here with families or children. It was scary how Laurie approached our campsite- no introduction or anything just straight aggressive and rude from the first thing to come out of her mouth.
Hopefully this company can facilitate some communication training for their employees, and help their employees all get on the same page so it isn’t so confusing to campers. By reading others’ reviews, we aren’t the only ones who have had a poor experience with the Vista management company (and specifically Laurie).
Rose Canyon Campground is a lovely getaway into the cool forest. Lovely vegetation and some interesting critters can be found here. Great for a night or two away from the city.
It is quite popular so if you're plan to reserve a spot for the weekend do so at least a month in advance. First come first serve spots fill up fast on the weekend too. Due to it's popularity it might be hard to get away from all of humanity, tho most fellow campers are respectful.
The facilities are limited (pit toilets and drinking water spigots) but clean and well maintained. The staff here is respectful and courteous. Great spot to camp.
Fantastic escape.
Wow, what a great campground. From Richard, the very friendly and knowledgeable host, to the scenery and being close to lots of things, it's just perfect. There were some loud campers during the weekend, but being so close to Tucson, I expected as much. Great Place.
Wonderful place, many activities are driving distance. Lake are beautiful and full of fishers. I'd want swim spot, spring time was recommended. I would do 3 nights under cuz kids bored if we do a week camping up there. Night was beautiful. Skunk few times came to our campsite. No ice being sold when we there autumn season October.
Gorgeous spot, the drive up from Tucson is magical! You round a bend with rocks and desert all around, then suddenly … boom Pine Forest. Bullfrog tadpoles were all over in Rose Canyon Lake. Found a patch of snow at the top of the mountain in early May. Never thought that would happen in Arizona.
