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Squaw Lake (BLM)
Overview
Squaw Lake (BLM) is a serene destination for travelers seeking a rustic waterfront experience along the lower Colorado River. Located near Winterhaven, California, this recreation area provides a peaceful setting for RVers who enjoy being close to nature without the noise of a commercial resort. It is managed by the Bureau of Land Management, offering an affordable alternative to traditional parks while maintaining a sense of community among seasonal visitors. It is an excellent spot to witness the raw beauty of the Southwest desert while staying near the cooling presence of the water.
Location & Surroundings
The campground is situated on the shores of a quiet backwater, surrounded by dramatic desert landscapes and rugged mountain peaks. Its location near the Imperial Dam creates a unique environment where the arid California desert meets a lush riparian corridor. Travelers will appreciate the stark beauty of the sun setting over the water and the relative seclusion from major highways. The surrounding area is part of the Yuma Field Office management zone, known for its expansive public lands and diverse geological features that draw winter visitors from across the country.
Amenities & Park Features
As a BLM-managed site, the amenities focus on the essentials rather than luxury. While there are no individual electrical or sewer hookups at the sites, the park provides the following features to ensure a comfortable stay:
- Vault toilets and regular trash collection
- Centrally located potable water spigots
- A paved boat ramp for easy water access
Several designated sites are equipped with picnic tables and fire rings for evening gatherings. While sites are primitive, a dump station is conveniently located nearby at Senator Wash to accommodate those planning longer stays.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The primary draw at Squaw Lake is the water. Anglers often frequent the area for largemouth bass fishing, while paddlers enjoy exploring the calm inlets by kayak or canoe. Just a short distance away, the Senator Wash Reservoir offers additional recreation options like swimming and jet skiing. For those interested in local history and wildlife, the nearby Imperial National Wildlife Refuge provides excellent opportunities for birdwatching, hiking, and nature photography along the riverbanks, where migratory birds are frequently spotted.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is ideal for self-contained RVers who are comfortable with dry camping and value scenery over resort-style amenities. It appeals to budget-conscious travelers looking for a warm winter base and outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize direct water access for fishing or boating. If you enjoy falling asleep to the sounds of desert wildlife and do not mind a gravel or dirt site, Squaw Lake offers an authentic and tranquil desert camping experience for the adventurous traveler who wants to disconnect from the grid.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- Hunting Nearby (within 20 miles)
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Flying2sofa
Pristine spot in the middle of the desert. 15$/night for camping, 10 spots. Shower, restrooms and garbage bins. Great for a refreshing swim
Itza S
Great place, not too crowded. You can easily find a shaded spot. I love that it has a lot of parking and bathrooms.
Den Usa
Watch out for the burro "patties" is what I want to add to the conversation. Also leaving anything outside especially anything "tasty" or even only salty like wet clothes is a bad idea as the burros love to chew on such items. T would also caution about fire bans and the sometimes high winds that come through the area especially with nearby thunderstorms. Not guaranteed, but the burros often like hang out here around the campground and the lake. Limited shade but drinking water available here which is much better than the surrounding area which mostly is boondocking. We visited May 2025.
James Hebert - YT: MotoHoboJim
One of my all around favorite places to camp in the Winter. $75 for a years pass that is also good for 5? other campgrounds in California. Two week limit per 4 weeks. Bathroom and showers and fresh water. Last year I videoed a nice Bobcat along the lakeshore and this year I managed to catch a few Raccoons swimming. No ATV’s allowed and paved dead end location means lower dust and quieter (when the noise polluting generators, A/C units, and heaters aren’t running).
Blaine Wherley
Wear shower shoes. Could use a restoration. Good price. Not an easy hike from N Florida Flats. Take the dirt road to the trail next to the electric generation plant. The road is the long way. And inside the guard rails. Don’t walk the road.