Imperial Dam Long Term Visitor Area
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
Located on the California side of the Colorado River less than an hour from Yuma, AZ, Imperial Dam offers an exciting RV camping opportunity, especially for experienced and adventurous RV drivers. The Imperial Dam Long-Term Visitor Area (LTVA) is open for long-term camping from Sept. 15 through April 15 each year. The area has no marked sites, but campers have established informal camping spots across nearly 3,500 acres of scenic desert. Camping sites are first-come, first-served. The Imperial Dam LTVA is a great spot for snowbirds, long-stay boondockers and anyone with a self-contained rig of any size.
Quick Facts About RVing in Imperial Dam LTVA
• RV Friendly:Yes • Max RV Length: Big rigs are common in the area, no posted limits • Reservations: None, campsites are first-come, first-served • Hookups: None • Dump Station: Blackwater dump with water; graywater sites available • Water: Potable water at the south Mesa service area • Permits: $40 for 14 days or $180 for the season, from Sept. 15 through April 15 • Other Amenities: Outdoor showers and two restroom facilities
Why RV Travelers Love This BLM Area
• Single permit allows you to camp for seven months • The LTVA permit is valid at other BLM LTVA locations throughout Arizona and California • Dark skies and the reliable winter sun provide a comfortable rural desert camping experience • Nearby Yuma accessible to stock up on essentials • Water recreation at Senator Wash Reservoir and Xanyō Xamshré Lake • LTVA hosts a volunteer thrift shop that includes propane and a lending library
What to See and Do
Hiking and Biking
East Wetlands Interpretive Trail
Open year-round, this trail near Yuma is available for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. As it runs along the water, it is also a great spot to go bird-watching.
Length: 2.6 miles
Intensity: Easy
Jester's Trail
For something a bit more challenging, head to Jester's Trail, a narrow out-and-back trail in the Gila Mountains. The path is rocky and steep and provides a great place for those who want to get away from the crowds. Because of the heat in the area, the best time to explore Jester's Trail is between October and May.
Length: 2.8 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Fishing and Boating
There are a variety of boating options available at the Senator Wash Recreational Area near the Imperial Dam LTVA. There are four boat launches offering access to Senator Wash and the nearby Colorado River. The launches are located at Three Forks, Two Forks, Laughlin Gulch, and Pierce Ferry. The most popular activity on the river is fishing, and anglers can catch a variety of fish, including striped bass, catfish, largemouth bass, and crappie. Boaters can also enjoy tubing, swimming, and kayaking in the calm waters of the river.
Climbing
While the landscape surrounding the Imperial Dam LTVA is more suited to hiking than climbing, there are a few rock climbing opportunities nearby. One option is Castle Dome Peak in the Kofa Wildlife Refuge just east of Yuma. The area offers a number of bouldering opportunities and a few short Class 3 pitches.
Wildlife Viewing
The Imperial Dam LTVA provides opportunities for year-round wildlife viewing. The landscape supports a variety of habitats, including wetlands, riparian areas, and uplands. More than 150 species of birds have been observed in the area along with mule deer, coyotes, rabbits, and other small mammals.
Picnicking
This BLM site is a great spot to set up a picnic. It offers access to tables, grills, and restrooms. There is a designated day-use area specifically designed for picnickers.
Stargazing
This area of Arizona is away from lights and other obstructions, so it's an excellent spot for stargazing. It's also home to clear skies over 90 percent of the year, which means that you will rarely have to worry about clouds blocking your views of the stars.
Bureau of Land Management Camping
RV Camping 
As it is designed to support camping for seven months of the year, the Imperial Dam LTVA is home to many Bureau of Land Management campgrounds. Also, just south of the dam is the North Picacho Recreation Area, which has 17 sites for tents and RVs. This RV camping area includes wheelchair-accessible restrooms and showers as well as a playground and horseshoe pits. The South Picacho Recreation Area is on the south side of Imperial Dam and offers 49 sites. Senator Wash North Shore Recreation Area is the main recreation area for Imperial Dam. Amenities include restrooms, showers, a dump station, and a small convenience store. There are also several fishing piers and boat ramps available for use.
Developed Campgrounds
The Imperial Dam LTVA has no developed campgrounds. However, there are options about four minutes to the east at the T.K. Jones Campground near Xanyō Xamshré Lake. Be aware that the name of the lake has changed. T.K. Jones campground has 125 RV sites with parking-style pads, flush toilets, token showers, a boat ramp and a picnic area. Fees are $10 for day use, $15 overnight and $75 annual. The Senator Wash North Shore Recreation Area is the main recreation area for Imperial Dam. Amenities include restrooms, showers, a dump station, fishing piers and boat ramps. Your LTVA permit does allow day use in this area, but your vehicle may be towed if it stays overnight in the recreation area.
Dispersed Camping
The Imperial Dam LTVA is the definition of dispersed camping. Please keep a distance of at least 15 feet from other dwelling units. There is more than enough room to stretch your legs. There are no designated sites. Be aware this is a self-contained camping area only. If your RV isn't fully equipped for self-contained camping, consider finding a different vehicle or another location. The BLM strongly recommends a fixed wastewater tank of at least 10 gallons. Check out our tips on boondocking and dry camping for more information. Roads into the LTVA are paved, but the surface turns to gravel before you arrive at the site. The area is a dry American Southwestern desert, so pay close attention to daily fire notices and burning restrictions. Review our guide on responsible camping in free public areas for more details. When camping on public land, abide by Leave No Trace guidelines: Remove all your trash and waste from the campsite, and leave natural objects where you find them. If you are camping outside of designated camping areas, look for flattened spots that have served as campsites for previous campers rather than disturbing untouched ground.
Is This BLM Area Good for Your RV?
The flat space with room to roll makes the Imperial Dam superb for any kind of RV. There are no low-clearance areas along the nearby roadways either. The big thing to watch out for is stiff winds coming off the exposed mesas. • Camper Vans: Camper vans are fine for this journey but only if they're self-contained units. • Travel Trailers: A travel trailer is great for a long stay at the LTVA. Likewise, the relatively easy-to-negotiate off-road surfaces make getting around with a travel trailer fairly simple. • Fifth Wheels: Many campers strongly prefer to bring a towed vehicle because most services are 35-45 minutes away in Yuma. The area's flat terrain is excellent for fifth wheel driving. • Class A Motorhomes: These large RVs can all navigate the region with ease. • Class B Motorhomes: Smaller RVs can be great for getting around the area, but make sure yours has a self-contained design. • Class C Motorhomes: Class C vehicles are great, but ones more you need to be sure you're using a self-contained setup.
Free Camping 
While most of the BLM RV camping sites near the Imperial Dam LTVA charge a small fee, the Mittry Lake Wildlife Area to the south of the dam offers Bureau of Land Management free camping available on a first-come, first-served basis. RV hookups are not available, but there are trash receptacles and pit toilets onsite. To find other campsites, search online for "BLM camping near me."
RV Rentals Near Imperial Dam Long Term Visitor Area Plan your next adventure
Planning your Imperial Dam Long Term Visitor Area BLM trip
When camping at the Imperial Dam LTVA, be sure to bring plenty of water and food because there is no grocery store or restaurant in the area. Because of the sunny climate, you will also want to bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses regardless of the time of year. With the water nearby, insects can be a problem in the area, so be sure to bring along insect repellant as well.
Whether you are planning to just stay overnight or are heading to the area for an extended trip, you should purchase your camping permit ahead of time. For stays of more than 14 days, you will need a long-term pass, but keep in mind that these are only valid from September 15th to April 15th. Day-use and overnight passes are also available between April 16th and September 14th for $10 and $15 per vehicle, respectively. Passes can be purchased online or picked up at the Imperial Dam LTVA or the Yuma BLM Field Office.
Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
What RV Travelers Should Know Before Arriving
Be aware that the LTVA is fairly isolated. Hilltops and mesas are the only locations with dependable cellphone service. Many campers bring a CB radio. Likewise, groceries, fuel, pharmacies and hardware stores are 35-45 minutes away in Yuma. Your decal goes in the lower right of your windshield and needs to be displayed prominently at all times. Water, a dump, and a trash dropoff are all available at the South Mesa service area. Generators are allowed, but quiet hours are in effect between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. Winter sees highs in the low 70s and lows in the 40s. Whether you are staying overnight or heading to the area for an extended trip, purchase your camping permit ahead of time. For stays of more than 14 days, you will need a long-term pass, and those are only valid from September 15 to April 15. Day-use and overnight passes are available between April 16 and September 14 for $10 and $15 per vehicle. Passes can be purchased at the Imperial Dam LTVA or the Yuma BLM Field Office.
Leave No Trace 
When camping on public land, it is important to clean up after yourself. This includes removing all your trash and waste from the campsite. Cleaning up your garbage helps protect water sources and the wildlife and vegetation that depend on them. It's also important to leave all natural objects where you find them. If you are camping outside of designated camping areas, be mindful of where you set up camp. In particular, avoid untouched areas and look for flattened spots that have served as campsites for previous campers. This limits the impact you have on the area.
Imperial Dam Long Term Visitor Area Location
There are a few different ways to get to the Imperial Dam LTVA, but the easiest way is to take Highway 78 east from Yuma until you reach the sign for the LTVA. There is also a small dirt road that runs north from Highway 78, but it can be difficult to find and is only recommended for four-wheel drive vehicles.
Ready to visit Imperial Dam LTVA? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day exploring, you'll have your RV to return to for the night, where you'll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here's a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.
Plan Your Day at the Imperial Dam LTVA
• Morning: Fill up your coffee mug at your rig and check out the sunrise over the Chocolate Mountains. Start the day with a walk or bike ride. • Afternoon: Kayak, fish or swim at Senator Wash Reservoir or Xanyō Xamshré Lake. • Evening: Take in dinner at camp, do some stargazing and pack your stuff for the trip home. Many people use a Yuma dump station on their way back.
Nearby Attractions
• Joshua Tree National Park: This gorgeous location is 2.5 hours northwest of the Imperial Dam LTVA, making for an excellent day trip. Take in the beautiful view of the Coachella Valley and the Cholla Cactus Garden. • Mittry Lake Wildlife Area: It offers free camping on a first-come, first-served basis, about 45 minutes around to the Arizona side. RV hookups are not available, but there are trash receptacles and pit toilets onsite. • Picacho State Recreation Area: Travel approximately an hour and 15 minutes northwest to reach this remote park that lies along the Colorado River in the southeastern region of California.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to camp at Imperial Dam LTVA? Yes, and a full-season permit is available for the period from September 15 to April 15. You can also get a 14-day permit for $40. How long can I stay? With a season permit, you can stay the entire stretch from September 15 to April 15. However, no campers should leave their site unoccupied for more than five consecutive days. Is there water and a dump station on site? Yes. Your permit covers water and use of a dump station. You also have access to a blackwater dump, graywater sites, two restroom facilities and outdoor showers. Can I bring a large motorhome or fifth wheel? Yes. The Imperial Dam LTVA posts no length limits. The area's flat terrain also makes it very accessible for all kinds of RVs. Does my LTVA permit cover the lakes and campgrounds nearby? Yes, but it is day-use only. Also, access to the Senator Wash North Shore, South Shore and T.K. Jones costs separate fees. Can I have a campfire? Seasonal fire restrictions apply. Always check the alerts for fire and burning conditions in the area before starting a campfire.
Rent the Right RV for This Trip
The right RV for the Imperial Dam LTVA is a self-contained unit of any size. Camper vans may be helpful for reaching some tighter pockets in the park. Be aware that there are no hookups at the LTVA. Waste tank size matters, so make sure you get an RV with at least a 10-gallon capacity. Renting an RV is a superb way to avoid the long tows that the desert requires. Browse our Yuma RV rental listings now to find the right ride for your Imperial Dam LTVA stay.