ARIZONA STATE PARKS

For Immediate Release

Managing and conserving Arizona's natural, cultural and recreational resources for the benefit of the people, both in our Parks and through our Partnerships.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Ellen Bilbrey at (602) 542-1996 (Parks) or (602) 228-8518, ebilbrey@pr.state.az.us or Monica Enriquez at (602) 364-0391, menriquez@pr.state.az.us

GREAT PHOTOS AVAILABLE!

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ROPER LAKE STATE PARK FEATURES OUTDOOR HOT TUB AND REDUCED RATE ON CAMPING CABIN

(Phoenix, Arizona - May 6, 2005) - Visit Roper Lake State Park and enjoy its new features including an outdoor hot tub and reduced rate on the "camping cabin."

After a long day of driving or hiking, the natural hot springs at Roper Lake are not only inviting, they're invigorating! Cabins at Roper Lake are variably furnished with bunk beds with mattresses and/or full size beds with mattresses. Because the cabins are not electrified, visitors are provided with a lantern. Open flame as produced by candles and stove burners are not permitted in the cabins. Picnic tables and charcoal grills are available for an outdoor setting. Restroom and showers are within walking distance. Cabins are $35 per night and are available by reservation only. For reservations call Roper Lake at 928.428.6760. These rates are in effect from Memorial Day until Labor Day weekend.

Roper Lake State Park provides a great place to spend a few days or a few hours with opportunities for fun for the entire family. Boats are limited to only small electric motors, creating ideal conditions to bring a sail board and hit the water. Five miles of trails throughout the park let you stretch your muscles and view the wildlife. Desert vegetation, a peaceful lake and a view of Mount Graham, just a few miles away, frames a beautiful picture for visitors to enjoy. There are two different sections to the park; the main unit, Roper Lake, and the Dankworth Pond unit, three miles south. Arizona State Parks began managing Roper Lake in December 1974 through a cooperative management agreement with the Arizona Game and Fish Department.

In addition Roper Lake offers special events. Heart Healthy Walks are each Friday through Wednesday at 10 a.m. and are approximately 2 miles. On Saturdays at 9 a.m. "Fishing with Sammy" will help anglers of all ages learn how and where to fish when Arizona lake temperatures rise. Anyone interested should RSVP by calling 928.428.6760.

Roper State Lake Park is located off U.S. Route 191, six miles south of Safford. Park hours are 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Park is open 365 days a year. Park entrance fee is $3 per vehicle; non-electric camp fees are $10 per vehicle per night; electric sites are $15 per vehicle per night.