Overview:
Senator Wash is a great place to boondock on the Colorado River. The recreational area is approximately 60 acres in size. There are many trees of various types and several secluded camping areas on the water and further inland. Gravel beaches provide access to the reservoir. A dump station is available nearby at South Mesa but requires a fee from September 15 through April 15. Boat ramp available nearby, small watercraft can be launched from shore.
Adventure:
Day-use parking and boat ramp on a water storage reservoir near Imperial Dam in California. This site provides opportunities for picnics, swimming, fishing, boating, skiing, and wildlife viewing. Wildlife species include waterfowl, shorebirds, coyotes, quail, and reptiles.
The site also provides access by boat to camping areas at Senator Wash North Shore and Senator Wash South Shore. Use is limited to day use only, 6 am to 10 pm. There are no lifeguards in the swimming area. Other rules are posted or available from the on-site host. The site does not have boat access to the Colorado River. A valid Arizona license is required for taking wildlife (including fish) in Arizona.
Camping
Imperial Dam BLM Long Term Visitor Area (LTVA) provides van lifers an option to camp for up to an extended period of time in the desert. The LTVA area is approximately 60 acres in size where there are many trees of various types and several secluded camping areas both on the water and further inland. Gravel beaches provide access to the reservoir. A dump station is available at nearby at South Mesa, but requires a fee from September 15 through April 15. Boat ramp available nearby? small watercraft can be launched from shore.
Fee: $10 day-use; $15 overnight; $75 annually
- Facilities: Two restrooms with flush toilets, outdoor showers, and drinking water are available for use.
Directions:
Use Interstate 8 to Yuma, AZ. Take the 4th Avenue exit to Imperial County Road S24. Go north approximately 22 miles to Senator Wash Road. Turn onto Senator Wash Road and follow it for approximately 3 miles to the South Mesa campground. Turn left, then proceed straight through the campground until arrival at the directional signing which will provide directions to North Shore.
References and Links:
Sony Bono Salton Sea Wildlife Refuge
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Imperial Sand Dunes
The Imperial Sand Dunes, or Glamis, as the locals call it, is worth a visit for any van or RV nomad looking to explore one of SoCal’s greatest natural attractions. The dunes are the largest mass of dunes in California. The dune system extends more than 40 miles long and averages 5 miles wide and often reaches 300 feet above the desert floor.
