The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
In addition to managing millions of acres across the United States, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) also oversees thousands of miles of waterways. Waterway maintenance is shared with the EPA, U.S. National Forest Service, and other state and federal agencies. The BLM manages 81 rivers designated as wild and scenic. The designated waterways and adjacent land areas are maintained for environmental, historical, cultural, and recreational uses.
The Senator Wash North Shore is a waterway managed by the BLM for recreational use. The 60-acre area provides the opportunity to experience nature for just a day or an extended period. Located a short drive from Yuma, AZ, the site offers a wide array of wilderness recreation opportunities within reach of civilization. Though the site is located on the California side of the Colorado River, it is overseen by the Yuma BLM Field Office.
The trail begins in Senator Wash North Shore and climbs over 700 feet in elevation as it leads into the Little Picacho Wilderness Area. The trail is well-traveled and maintained, but the terrain is rough and rocky. Views of the Senator Wash Reservoir and surrounding area abound as the trail climbs into the foothills.
Length: 12 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Located in the Imperial National Wildlife Refuge, this trail offers spectacular views of the Colorado River Valley. Soil from ancient volcanic activity creates interesting rock formations and a rainbow of contrasting colors. Moisture from the river makes a habitat for water-loving plants and animals in a desert setting.
Length: 1.3 miles
Intensity: Moderate
The Senator Wash North Shore provides a great opportunity for fishing, swimming, and small craft boating. Canoes, kayaks, rafts, and other small craft can be put in all around the reservoir. A boat ramp is available at the Senator Wash South Shore area. Fishing opportunities include largemouth bass, black crappies, and channel catfish. Check with local officials as fishing regulations change by the season.
Betty's Kitchen Watchable Wildlife Viewing Area is located a few miles south of Senator Wash at the south end of Mittry Lake. The viewing area provides views of the Lower Colorado River and its associated riparian habitat. The Watchable Wildlife area includes an ADA-accessible interpretive trail and fishing pier. The site also has picnicking facilities.
The Mittry Lake Wildlife Area offers a quiet picnic spot. This minimally developed wilderness area has several day-use areas with lakeside picnic tables. Views include the lake and scenic views of three mountain ranges. The surrounding lake and marshes provide plentiful wildlife viewing opportunities.
BLM RV camping is available at Senator Wash North Shore and several Bureau of Land Management Campgrounds in the region. Senator Wash has several lakeside and inland dispersed campsites. There is an ADA-accessible vault toilet. There is no drinking water, picnic tables, or trash facility.
The T.K. Jones Campground provides 125 designated RV sites and dispersed tent sites. Four flush toilets are located around the area. Shower facilities are available for an additional fee. Potable water, trash, and RV dump facilities are nearby. Swimming, picnic tables, and grills are within walking distance.
The Imperial Dam Long-Term Visitor Area is a developed RV area that provides long-term (180 days) and short-term (14 days) permits. Facilities include restrooms, showers, trash service, gray and black water dump sites, and group areas. Lake facilities are within walking distance.
The Mittry Lake Campsite supplies Bureau of Land Management free camping. The facility includes several lakeside and inland sites. Dispersed sites for tent and RV camping are available. There are no water or trash facilities within the camp area. Lake access and picnic tables are within walking distance.
The Senator Wash North Shore is a minimally developed recreation area. In the summer, the region is hot and dry. Since no water is available at the site, bring plenty of drinking water. Be familiar with the signs of heat-related illness. In wet weather, the terrain can be muddy and difficult to navigate. Check weather reports before heading to the Senator Wash area.
Be sure to have appropriate clothing for the activities you plan to engage in. Hiking in the desert requires rugged shoes. In summer, lightweight long-sleeved shirts and long pants are recommended. Wearing sunblock and large-brimmed hats will help protect you from the sun. Sunblock is necessary if you plan to spend time on the water. Sunlight reflected off the water amplifies the burning power of the desert sun.
Spending time in the desert is a unique experience. The riparian habitats created by desert water sources can be seen in very few locations. Being prepared will help you enjoy your time in nature. Before heading into the region, check out our BLM camping blog for tips and information. If you have not pre-arranged a campsite, do an internet search for "BLM camping near me" when you are in the area. Before heading into remote areas, it is wise to check with the local BLM Field Office for conditions and restrictions.
The Senator Wash recreation area has thousands of visitors every year. The hot and dry environment makes the area sensitive to human impact. The vegetation and landscape can take years to recover from damage. Contribute to preserving nature while enjoying it. Pack out everything you pack in. Review the BLM Outdoor Ethics and Leave No Trace guidelines before heading out.
Take Interstate 8 to Yuma. Exit at 4th Avenue. Turn north on Imperial County Road S24. Travel 22 miles to Senator Wash Road. Turn left and take Senator Wash Road for approximately three miles. At South Mesa campground, turn left. Continue through the campground. Watch for signs directing you to the North Shore area.
Yuma Field Office: 7341 E. 30th St., Yuma, AZ 85365
Ready to visit Senator Wash North Shore? 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 of 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 RV Share.
