In the captivating landscapes of the American Southwest, Nogales-Santa Cruz County invites travelers to slow down and truly connect. Framed by the snow-dusted peaks of the San Rafael Valley, the peaceful flow of Sonoita Creek, and the calm waters of Patagonia Lake, this region offers a rare blend of natural beauty and timeless charm. Outdoor adventure is part of everyday life here, whether hiking scenic desert trails, biking through rolling grasslands, birdwatching along riparian corridors, or camping beneath vast, star-filled skies.
The towns of Nogales, Tubac, Amado, Patagonia, and Sonoita each offer their own distinct character and sense of place. Visitors can explore historic landmarks and centuries-old stories, stroll through art galleries and locally owned shops, and savor authentic regional cuisine that reflects the area’s rich borderlands heritage. Rooted in Nogales’ global produce industry, the local food scene celebrates authentic Mexican cuisine passed down through generations, alongside creative new fusion dishes that reflect the region’s evolving culinary culture.
A drive through Elgin and Sonoita reveals the heart of Southern Arizona’s Wine Country, where rolling vineyards create a stunning backdrop for relaxed tastings and leisurely afternoons. Award-winning wineries dot the landscape, producing exceptional reds and crisp whites that have earned national recognition. Paired with sweeping views and open skies, these vineyard experiences offer a taste of Southern Arizona that is both refined and deeply rooted in the land.

Ghost towns with names like Harshaw, Mowry and Washington Camp near Patagonia and Oro Blanco and Ruby along route 289 (Ruby Road) bear mute witness to the boom and bust of the railroads and mining industry.
Some, like Ruby, are so perfect that it seems the residents mysteriously disappeared while having breakfast. Ruby is the best of the
Ghost towns with names like Harshaw, Mowry and Washington Camp near Patagonia and Oro Blanco and Ruby along route 289 (Ruby Road) bear mute witness to the boom and bust of the railroads and mining industry.
Some, like Ruby, are so perfect that it seems the residents mysteriously disappeared while having breakfast. Ruby is the best of the hundreds of Arizona ghost towns or at least the best-preserved of the many in Southern Arizona. Ruby Arizona is about 12 miles south of Arivaca.
Washington Camp is one of the ghost towns being restored and some have fallen into disrepair with only remnants to remind us
of their once bustling past.

If never-ending adventure is more your speed, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to chase the thrill and excitement of enjoying water activities lakeside at Patagonia Lake State Park or Peña Blanca Lake, hiking historic nature trails including Anza Trail or horseback riding along the rugged mountainside in the Santa Rita Mountains.
Beg
If never-ending adventure is more your speed, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to chase the thrill and excitement of enjoying water activities lakeside at Patagonia Lake State Park or Peña Blanca Lake, hiking historic nature trails including Anza Trail or horseback riding along the rugged mountainside in the Santa Rita Mountains.
Begin your outdoor adventure at Las Lagunas marshland, then head east to the Sonoita Creek State Natural Area where there are year-round springs and creeks that feature distinctive areas to catch a glimpse of the rare, migrating birds and hummingbirds.
Come see the abundance of wildlife activity within the wetlands hidden right in the Southern Arizona desert.

Elgin and Sonoita is home to Southern Arizona’s Wine Country where several wineries offer some of the best wines found outside of France. These vineyards represent a rapidly growing industry, which began some four decades in the Sonoita Valley.
Each vineyard produces unique vintages, which reflect the personalities and attitudes of their
Elgin and Sonoita is home to Southern Arizona’s Wine Country where several wineries offer some of the best wines found outside of France. These vineyards represent a rapidly growing industry, which began some four decades in the Sonoita Valley.
Each vineyard produces unique vintages, which reflect the personalities and attitudes of their owners, from colorful picnic-style wine to serious award-winning varietals.
The Sonoita area's 4,970-foot elevation, high rolling grasslands, surrounded by spectacular mountains and canyons, provide some of Arizona's most beautiful weather and landscapes. Mount Wrightson, one of the tallest peaks in Arizona, dominates the horizon.
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