Picacho State Recreation Area

How does camping along the rugged Colorado River, surrounded by the arid beauty of the Sonoran Desert, sound? Picacho State Recreation Area campground in Winterhaven, California, offers unrivaled seclusion, natural splendor, and a rich historical atmosphere for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a remote getaway. Accessible via a 23-mile dirt road, this campground feels like an escape into another world, where towering desert cliffs meet the serene waters of the Colorado River.

This remote site features 54 campsites equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, and grills, making it perfect for both tent and RV campers (though no hookups are available). Amenities include potable water, vault toilets, solar showers, and a dump station, ensuring basic comforts in this off-the-grid location. The campground's rich history as a former gold mining town comes alive in the scenery and nearby hiking trails, such as the Stamp Mill and Red Rock Canyon Trails. Visitors often spot bighorn sheep, wild burros, and migratory waterfowl amidst the vivid beavertail cacti, adding to the area's unique allure.

Located about 24 miles from Winterhaven, California, and a short drive from the Colorado River's recreational opportunities, the campground is prime territory for boating, kayaking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. With clear desert skies, stargazing is an unforgettable experience here. Whether for a weekend getaway or an extended trip into nature, Picacho State Recreation Area delivers isolation, wonder, and a taste of history, leaving adventurers with memories of a lifetime.