Picacho State Recreation Area

RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES

Camping—The main campground, located in the eastern section of the park, has 54 primitive campsites, a group campground, and two boat-in group sites. The sites have picnic tables and fire rings with drinking water and chemical toilets located nearby, and a solar shower. Upriver are five smaller campgrounds with no available drinking water.

Canoeing and Kayaking—Autumn and early spring are best for a peaceful float down this scenic stretch of the Colorado River.

Fishing—Black bass, channel and flathead catfish, striped bass and bluegill are the fish most commonly taken from the river here.

Boating—Shallow draft powerboats, canoes and kayaks carefully navigate the Colorado River’s shifting sandbars. Waterskiing and swimming are popular summer activities.

Exploring (4WD and Hiking)—The area’s complex geology invites exploration of such sights as the plug dome volcanic outcropping at Picacho Peak—formed when viscous lava hardened over and around a volcanic vent. Many other land features tell the story of both ancient and fairly recent volcanic activity. Four-wheel-drive vehicles must be legal for highway use in California, and all drivers must be licensed.

BOATING
Boating
Boat Ramps

OVERNIGHT FACILITIES
Family Campsites
Group Campsites
Primitive Camping
Boat-in/Floating Camps
RV Access

TRAIL USE
Hiking Trails

DAY-USE ACTIVITIES & FACILITIES
Historical/Cultural Site
Picnic Areas
Exhibits and Programs
Fishing
Guided Tours
Interpretive Exhibits
Beach Area
Swimming
Vista Point
Family Programs
Geocaching