Our Community

Thatcher is a town located in the heart of the Gila Valley in Graham County, Arizona. It has an elevation of 2,914 feet and has approximately 5400 residents. The founding of Thatcher is attributed to Christopher Layton. In the summer months, the hottest months of the year are July and August with an average high of 106^oF. In the winter months, the lowest temperatures are reached in the months of December and January. During these months, average high temperatures range from the mid-50s to low 60s Fahrenheit, with lows often dropping into the 30s. Thatcher is also the home of Eastern Arizona College, a college that offers two year degrees and includes a nursing school.

Coronado National Forest provides many recreational opportunities. Southwest of the town are the Pinaleno Mountains and the 10,720 foot Mount Graham. Swift Trail provides a route to the summit featuring picnic and camping sites and to the Mount Graham International Observatory. At alpine elevations above Thatcher lies Riggs Lake, an excellent camping and fishing destination. Scenic U.S. 70 connects Thatcher with recreation areas at San Carlos Lake and Coolidge Dam. To the west are Klondyke and Aravaipa Canyon, a designated primitive area. To the south, Roper Lake State Park features natural mineral water hot springs along with developed camping sites and excellent fishing. Other recreational opportunities include Dankworth Pond State Park, Hot Wells Dunes, Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area and BlackHills Back Country Byway. Thatcher is on the famous "Salsa Trail."

Residents may enjoy the comprehensive facilities of Eastern Arizona College with its gymnasium, wellness center, conference facilities, swimming pool and Discovery Park. In addition to its academic and vocational courses, EAC offers a wealth of diverse cultural events from concerts to a summer arts program. Bachelor's and master's degree programs are offered through Northern Arizona University, located on the EAC campus.

A variety of recreational facilities are available in Thatcher ranging from:

5 tree-filled parks
a splash pad
a skate park
tennis courts
basketball courts
a sand volleyball court
pickle ball courts
baseball/softball fields
Mt. Graham Golf Course
and more!

Additionally, the Town offers Summer Baseball, Softball, Women's Volleyball, Jr. League Volleyball, Men's Basketball, Children's Choir, Swim Team, Children's Orchestra, Community Choir and Basketball and Tennis Camps. Register at Thatcher Rec Desk.