Presa El Ancón

Description

Heads up, adventure seekers and quiet wanderers—the Presa El Ancón isn’t just another dot on the map in the State of Mexico. This place feels like a local secret; it’s not overwhelmed with bustling tourist traps (thank goodness). Think rolling hills hugging a calm reservoir, families picnicking under tall trees, and a subtle hush in the air that’s perfect if you need to take a breather from city noise. And for all you parents: kids run around here like it’s their own world—always a good sign.

Okay, I’ll admit, I’m a sucker for off-the-radar places like this. The kind where you can actually hear birds, not just engines. Imagine standing along the water’s edge early in the morning—mist hovering, fishermen silently casting lines, your breath fogging (just a little). There’s no fancy resort, but that’s part of its draw. It’s raw, mostly untouched. Nature gets to be nature, and you get to relax—sometimes that’s all you really need.

Locals use the presa for all sorts of things—relaxing walks, family outings, impromptu soccer games on the grass, or chess matches at the picnic benches. There’s a communal spirit among visitors: sharing snacks, waving hellos, offering tips if you’re new. And if you’re lucky, you might catch a local telling stories about the old days: the water level used to be higher, some say, but the magic never faded. Sunshine glimmers on the surface, dragonflies hover, and for a minute, you forget about your phone. Not kidding, I once left my phone in my backpack for two whole hours. Miracles happen here.

While it’s not plastered all over Instagram (yet?), it’s precisely these imperfections—a little bit wild around the edges, the occasional muddy path after rain—that make it memorable. If you value authenticity over polish and want a place where your mind can stretch out, Presa El Ancón might just be your jam.

Key Features

• Scenic Reservoir: The heart of the spot. It’s wide, tranquil, and clean—ideal for reflective moments or that lakeside selfie (it’s okay, snap one for mom).
• Family-Friendly: Bring the kids. There’s loads of open space for running, flying kites, or playing catch. No stress about cars zooming by or too many crowds.
• Excellent Picnicking: Shady spots under mature trees, often with benches. I’ve seen families unpack entire feasts and let’s be real—food just tastes better outdoors.
• Wildlife Watching: Birds, dragonflies, and the odd frog chorus at dusk. Bring binoculars if you’re into that—it’s surprisingly good for local fauna sightings.
• Lakeside Walks: Several informal trails loop around the reservoir. They’re not paved, some a little bumpy, but that’s half the fun.
• Photography Opportunities: Sunsets get wild here—purples, oranges, and those crazy reflections off the water. If you’re into photography, even with just your phone, you’ll have plenty to play with.
• Fishing Spot: Regulars come early and settle in for a solid day—just be sure to follow local guidelines if you cast a line.
• Peace & Quiet: It’s generally calm, especially on weekdays. Even on weekends, you get little pockets of solitude. If you’re after rest, you found it.

Best Time to Visit

Full disclosure, I’ve been here in every season, and honestly, it’s got a different charm at every turn. But in my humble opinion, the sweet spot is late winter through late spring—think February to May. Clear skies, mild temps (no scorching midday sun), blooming wildflowers. Decent chance of sharing the place with a handful of local families and not much else. Lovely.

Rainy season (June to September), the landscape turns lush green, and the air smells faintly of wet earth. You might catch fog hovering on the water in the early mornings, and if you don’t mind a bit of mud on your shoes (I never do), it’s a unique vibe. The reservoir can swell with runoff; makes the scenery a smidge more dramatic.

Mornings are golden—literally and figuratively. Early sun, gentle breeze, and the light glints like a million tiny mirrors on the water’s surface. Sunsets get competitive: come with a thermos of coffee, or that little bottle of mezcal you’ve been saving, and just drink it all in. Avoid midday in high summer unless you’re heat-proof; there’s shade, sure, but the sun is no joke.

How to Get There

Alright, here’s where the rubber hits the road (sometimes literally). Getting to Presa El Ancón is half the adventure—especially if you live for little journeys that snake through Mexico’s backcountry. Most travelers are driving in; it’s easiest with your own wheels or renting a car. Public transport is a bit patchy out here—I tried that once and ended up sharing a ride with a cheerful farmer and his goats. Would recommend if you’re feeling bold, but for straightforward trips, bring a car.

If you’re coming from Mexico City, carve out about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and your driver’s… let’s say, “interpretation” of posted speed limits. The main road is paved, but as you get closer, the side roads can be uneven—so keep an eye out for potholes, and don’t rush. It’s easy to get lost in conversation and miss your turn (been there, done that).

Parking is informal but generally easy—just find a patch of dirt under some trees, roll down your windows, and you’re good. Sometimes local folks will wave you toward convenient spots, sometimes not. And hey, band together with other car groups if you’re unsure.

For the record: Don’t sweat the lack of public buses right at the gates. If you’re tech-savvy, some rideshare apps work around here, but it’s hit or miss. Frankly, that little bit of extra effort to get here is what keeps it feeling real and unspoiled.

Tips for Visiting

Now for my favorite part—the little nuggets of advice picked up from more than a few afternoons lounging at Presa El Ancón (and one very memorable trip when I forgot sunblock… ouch).

• Pack a Picnic: Trust me, bring food and water—there’s no bustling marketplace or snack shack around. Go full old-school picnic: sandwiches, fruit, plenty of drinks. Don’t forget a trash bag to leave the place clean; it’s part of the magic!
• Sun Protection: Maybe I’m a stickler, but sun hats and sunscreen are your friends here. There’s shade, but you’ll want to stroll around. I’ve seen a few folks with creative makeshift sun shelters—use what you’ve got.
• Keen Footwear: The trails skirt the reservoir, but they’re not manicured. Sneakers or hiking shoes are best. Flip flops? Brave, but not recommended.
• Bring Binoculars: Or at least a phone with a good zoom camera. Lots of interesting birds, butterflies, and, occasionally, foxes if you’re super lucky.
• Arrive Early or Late: Want the place almost to yourself? Early mornings and late afternoons are serene. Plus, the lighting is a photographer’s dream.
• Respect Local Customs: Say hi, smile, ask before plopping down next to someone else’s setup. This is a family haunt; a little politeness goes a long way.
• Check the Weather: Rain can roll in quickly and make the paths quite slippery. Download a weather app—seriously, clouds build fast in the mountains.
• Stay Safe: Swimming isn’t recommended—the water’s deeper than you think, and there aren’t lifeguards. Stick to the shore, let the kids run wild, but keep an eye out for them all the same.

In sum, Presa El Ancón gives you space to breathe—both literally and figuratively. It’s no overproduced amusement park, just honest, subtly beautiful landscape, happy families, and the kind of peace you thought you’d lost in the bustle of modern life. Bring your own sense of wonder, maybe a blanket and a bottle of something cold, and don’t be surprised if you linger long past sunset. Sometimes, that’s where the best memories take root.

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