Picacho State Recreation Area
Picacho State Recreation Area is a 9-mile section of the lower Colorado River that features camping, boating, and other recreational opportunities near the former gold mine town of Picacho. A hundred years ago, the area now known as Picacho State Recreation Area was home to a thriving gold mining community. A glimpse of the original southern California desert landscape is preserved here today. The Colorado River meanders through the park, providing a scenic spot for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing.
Due to its desert setting, Picacho State Recreation Area experiences a wide range of temperatures. It can be as low as -20 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter. Highs in the summer can get up to a scorching 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Midway through October through April, according to the park rangers, you’ll find the mildest weather. Many different kinds of animals live in the park.
Fishing At Picacho State Recreation Area
Fishing is a year-round favourite at Picacho State Recreation Area on the Colorado River. Anyone of any age can spend the day fishing for the catch of a lifetime. Black bass, striped bass, bluegill, and channel and flathead catfish, are the most common. Set up your fishing gear on the shore or cast your line from a boat. Anyone above 16 who wants to cast a line into the water must have a fishing license.
Animal Spotting At Picacho State Recreation Area
Picacho State Recreation Area is a great place to see local species because of its secluded setting. Bald and golden eagles soar overhead while thousands of ducks, geese, ibises, and cormorants pass through on their annual migrations. Bighorn sheep, mountain lions, wild burros, bobcats, coyotes, and raccoons can all be spotted roaming the park’s trails. The river is home to beavers and muskrats, while snakes, lizards, and amphibians inhabit the rocks of the desert.
Picnicking At Picacho State Recreation Area
Picnics at Picacho State Recreation Area are enjoyable at any time of year. Early morning visits to the park in the summer are preferable due to the lower temperatures. From early March through late October, mosquitoes are typically active, so park rangers advise visitors to take precautions by dressing appropriately and using insect repellent. Campsites, the Upper Dock, the Lower Dock, and riverside campgrounds accessible by boat all include picnic tables for your convenience.
Hiking At Picacho State Recreation Area
There is a trek and vantage point in the park’s trail system for everyone. Hikers can follow the Stamp Mill Trail to the stamp mill ruins used for crushing ore during the heyday of mining in the Picacho area. It see the Colorado River and the surrounding volcanic landscape as you travel. Hike the route to Red Rock Canyon for a one-of-a-kind desert formation: a dry waterfall made of striking red and yellow volcanic tuff. The Railroad Canyon Trail is an easy hike that leads to a historic narrow-gauge railroad route.
Boating At Picacho State Recreation Area
Picacho State Recreation Area provides visitors access to the Colorado River in short-draft powerboats, canoes, and kayaks. Many people visit the river specifically to go water skiing. Sandbars in rivers can and do move. Therefore, caution is advised. According to park rangers, the most peaceful periods to float along the beautiful river are in the late fall and early spring. There are five group campsites accessible by boat along the river’s edge.
Swimming At Picacho State Recreation Area
On a sweltering day in the desert, the Colorado River is the place to go for a refreshing swim. Anywhere along the river’s edge is fine for swimming; however, guests should know that no guards are on duty. Float at your peril. The 4S Beach is reachable through a gravel road, allowing a place to swim and use the facilities. Campers can drive or stroll to the river access points at Upper and Lower Dock.
Address: Picacho Rd, Winterhaven, CA 92283, United States
Open: 24 hours
Phone: +1 760-996-2963
Email: Board@Friends4picacho.org
