Agua Fria Conservation Area
The Agua Fria Conservation Area, located south of Table Mesa Road within Lake Pleasant Regional Park, was designated as a protected area in the 1995 Lake Pleasant Regional Park Master Plan*. The designation was developed with input from multiple natural resource agencies and members of the public to help protect important desert and riparian habitats.
In the years leading up to 2007, the area experienced significant impacts from illegal dumping, unauthorized shooting, and off-highway vehicle use. During a cleanup effort in 2007, approximately 32 tons of trash were removed from the conservation area. These activities damaged sensitive habitat and created safety concerns for visitors and the surrounding public lands.
Conservation Area Protections
To protect the natural resources and improve public safety, Maricopa County Parks and Recreation, the Bureau of Reclamation, and other partner agencies began enforcing restrictions on motorized vehicle use in the conservation area on July 1, 2007, in accordance with Park Rule R-107 and the park’s master plan.
Motorized vehicles are not permitted within the conservation area.
Visitors may still enjoy several low-impact recreational activities, including:
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Picnicking
Please note that all equipment and supplies must be brought into the area without motorized vehicles.
Reporting Illegal Activity
Protecting the Agua Fria Conservation Area helps preserve important wildlife habitat and ensures a safe environment for visitors.
If you witness illegal dumping, shooting, or other prohibited activity, please contact the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office at (602) 876-1011.
Your cooperation helps protect this important conservation area for future visitors.
*A copy of this document may be obtained by completing a Public Records Request: Maricopa County Public Records Request Portal for Commercial and Non-Commercial