Natural swimming hole
Madera Canyon
Creek · Arizona
Community-reported spot. Details below are compiled from public sources and are reported to be accurate — always verify locally before visiting.
About this swimming hole
A Santa Rita Mountain canyon with a year-round stream, waterfalls, and swimming holes beneath sycamore and oak. Madera Canyon is Tucson's mountain escape, and its pools are a bonus on top of world-class birding. The upper canyon pools are the deepest.
Good to know
| Water type | Creek |
|---|---|
| Depth | wading to ~6 ft |
| Best season | March-June |
| Fees | Coronado NF day-use fee |
| Reservations required | No |
| Hours | sunrise-sunset |
| Parking | Trailhead lots |
| Amenities | restrooms, picnic tables |
| County | Santa Cruz County |
| Nearest town | Green Valley |
| Safety notes | No lifeguard |
Map
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Madera Canyon?
Yes — Madera Canyon is listed as a natural swimming spot in Arizona. Heads-up: No lifeguard. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does Madera Canyon require reservations?
No reservations are required at Madera Canyon based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Madera Canyon?
Reported fee info: Coronado NF day-use fee. Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Madera Canyon?
The best season is typically March-June.