Ciudad Camargo is an old but progressive Mexican town. Operating from a modern headquarters building, the cattlemen's association is central to the town's activities. A large meat packing plant, located at the southern edge of town, refrigerates and ships meat throughout Mexico and the United States. It also sends hides to Leon and utilizes the rest of the animal in making fertilizer. Other industry in the area includes a textile plant, a flour mill, and several cotton gins.
In this bustling and businesslike town, the highlight of the year is the fiesta for its patron saint, Santa Rosalia. Starting early in September, the 8 days of celebration include dances, horse races, cockfights, and other entertainment. An 18th century, mission style parish church named after Santa Rosalia is 4 blocks east of the highway.
Three miles from Camargo are the hot springs (Ojo Caliente and Ojo de Jabali) whose waters were known to the Indians for their curative power.
Many sportsmen visit Camargo for the black bass fishing at nearby Boquilla Dam. The Boquilla Dam blocks the Conchos River to create an irregular body of water some 40 miles in length. Water from the dam turns the turbines of the big hydroelectric plant that furnishes part of the power for cities as far distant as Juarez. This body of water was named Lake Toronto after it was stocked with fish brought from Canada, but the area is better known as La Boquilla.
Spring months are considered best for fishing.
During July and August the lake is closed to fish. ermen; strong winds in February and March often make the water too rough for small boats. Many sportsmen bring their own boats which can be easily launched from the sloping shore. Boats may also be rented by the day. The best fishing spots are several miles up the lake from the dam.
