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Squaw Lake (BLM)
Overview
Overview
Squaw Lake, managed by the Bureau of Land Management, serves as a quintessential desert destination for those seeking a rustic, back-to-nature escape near the Colorado River. This dispersed and developed camping area is defined by its serene desert landscapes and direct access to the water, offering a stark contrast to typical manicured RV resorts. Travelers find a peaceful, wide-open environment perfect for stargazing and enjoying the quiet solitude of the California desert.
Location & Surroundings
Situated in Winterhaven, California, just a short drive from the Arizona border, Squaw Lake sits along the banks of the Colorado River. The park is nestled within a stunning desert valley, providing guests with immediate access to river recreation while maintaining a secluded feel. Its proximity to Yuma, Arizona, allows visitors to balance the remoteness of the site with quick trips into town for any essential supplies or modern conveniences.
Amenities & Park Features
Because Squaw Lake is a Bureau of Land Management site, the focus remains on essential functionality rather than luxury amenities. The park provides basic amenities including vault toilets and designated camping pads for those arriving in RVs or trailers. While the site is largely primitive, it offers high-value access to boat launches, making it a favorite for water enthusiasts who appreciate having direct river access without the crowds of a private resort.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The area surrounding Squaw Lake is a playground for outdoor adventurers. Visitors frequently take advantage of the Colorado River for boating, kayaking, and fishing right from the water’s edge. For those who prefer land-based activities, the vast surrounding desert is ideal for off-roading and hiking. Additionally, the historic sites and unique desert botanical gardens in nearby Yuma provide excellent options for day trips when you want to explore the local culture.
Who This Park Is Best For
Squaw Lake is best suited for self-contained RV travelers who prefer natural, unpretentious surroundings over modern resort amenities. It is a fantastic choice for anglers, boaters, and off-road enthusiasts looking to set up a base camp in a quiet, rugged setting. If you value scenic views and tranquility over swimming pools and clubhouse activities, this BLM managed location will likely feel like the perfect destination for your next desert excursion.
Features & Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- Hunting Nearby (within 20 miles)
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
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.