Carrizo Boat-in Campground
00 reviewCarrizo Boat-in Campground, Picacho State Recreation Area, Winterhaven, CA 92283
Carrizo Boat-in Campground
$25.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping fees for Carrizo Boat-in Campground are $25 per night for one motor vehicle and $35 per night for two motor vehicles. Senior citizens aged 62 and over receive a $2 discount per night.
About this campground
Hidden along the Colorado River's edge, Carrizo Boat-in Campground offers adventurous souls a true escape from civilization. This remote outpost within Picacho State Recreation Area can only be reached by boat, rewarding those who make the journey with two pristine riverside campsites. Each site comes furnished with the essentials—a sturdy picnic table, fire ring for evening gatherings, and chemical vault toilets—though visitors should note that bringing their own water is essential for this primitive camping experience.
Carrizo Boat-in Campground is one of several boat-in camping options within the Picacho State Recreation Area. It is remote and accessible exclusively by boat.
Historical SignificanceThese lands echo with centuries of human history, serving as the ancestral home of the Quechan people who first navigated these waters and desert valleys. The late 1800s brought a different kind of explorer—gold prospectors who scoured the surrounding hills, leaving behind tales of fortune and hardship that still whisper through the desert winds. Today's visitors camp where cultures have intersected for generations, adding their own stories to this timeless landscape.
Weather and SeasonsDesert extremes define the climate here, where winter nights can plunge to a crisp 20°F while summer days soar to an intense 120°F. Savvy travelers plan their visits between mid-October and April, when the desert transforms into a comfortable playground with mild days perfect for exploration and cool nights ideal for campfire stories under star-filled skies.
ElevationPerched at river level where the mighty Colorado River carves its path between California and Arizona, the campground sits at the desert floor's embrace with the life-giving waters that have sustained this region for millennia.
Natural Features and SceneryNature puts on a spectacular show at Carrizo, where the California shoreline meets the Colorado River in a dramatic display of contrasts. Desert gardens showcase the vibrant paddles of beavertail cactus, while overhead, majestic bald eagles patrol the skies. Lucky visitors might spot elusive bighorn sheep navigating the volcanic cliffs that frame this riverside sanctuary. The raw beauty of this rugged landscape creates an unforgettable backdrop for those seeking authentic desert wilderness.
Geological RegionCarved from the ancient Colorado River Basin within the greater Colorado Desert, Carrizo showcases nature's volcanic artistry at every turn. Jagged formations tell the story of Earth's fiery past, while hardy desert survivors like palo verde trees and mesquite bushes demonstrate life's tenacity. The distinctive beavertail cactus dots the landscape, creating a living tapestry that changes with the seasons in this remarkable geological wonderland.
Campsite details
AccessibilityOne campsite and vault restrooms are reported as accessible at Carrizo Boat-in Campground.
Sites SizeInformation about the size of campsites is not detailed beyond stating they are large and flat.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels are not explicitly mentioned, but the campground's remote location suggests higher levels of seclusion.
Total Campsites2 campsites
Recommended CampsitesVisitors should bring all necessary supplies, including potable water, as no services are available on-site. Arrive early to secure one of the two sites.
Best CampsitesNo specific campsites are identified as superior due to the campground's small size with only two sites.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Self-registration upon arrival.
Check-out
No official check-out time specified.
Stay Limit
No specific stay limit is mentioned for Carrizo Boat-in Campground, but general park rules indicate a maximum of eight people per site.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each site is limited to eight people.
Groups
Carrizo Boat-in Campground does not have designated group camping sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground features two designated sites, each equipped with a picnic table, fire ring, and chemical vault toilet.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open year-round, though accessibility may be impacted by flash flooding during summer thunderstorms.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not supported electronically. All sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites at Carrizo Boat-in Campground are available on a first-come, first-served basis, with no reservations accepted.
Cancellation PolicyNo electronic reservations are available. Campers must self-register upon arrival. Fees are non-refundable once paid.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Carrizo Boat-in Campground offers activities consistent with the Picacho State Recreation Area's broader offerings, including kayaking, fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing, and nature exploration. The remote, riverside location makes it particularly appealing for boaters and anglers.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are plentiful in the Picacho State Recreation Area. Trails such as the Stamp Mill Trail and Stewart Lake Trail offer varying levels of difficulty and scenic views. Carrizo Boat-in Campground itself does not have directly associated trails, but surrounding areas provide access to hikes.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity in the area. Species include black bass, channel catfish, striped bass, and bluegill. "Fishing at Picacho and on the Colorado River is great!" notes one source. "Huge flathead and blue catfish have been caught off both Picacho docks."Swimming
Swimming is available along the Colorado River, though no designated swimming areas are explicitly mentioned for Carrizo Boat-in Campground.Boating
Carrizo Boat-in Campground is accessible only by boat, making boating integral to the camping experience. Canoes, kayaks, and shallow-draft powerboats are commonly used.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant, with sightings of bighorn sheep, feral burros, migratory waterfowl, and desert-native species common in the recreation area.Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities are detailed for the campground.Water Sports
Kayaking and canoeing are popular water sports in the area, aligned with the boat-in nature of Carrizo Campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are permitted only in designated fire rings provided at each site. Gathering wood is prohibited.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include extreme summer heat, venomous wildlife such as snakes and scorpions, and flash flooding during thunderstorms.
Active alertsThere are currently no active alerts specific to Carrizo Boat-in Campground.
Weather forecast
90
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 55%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 16.9 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are available in Winterhaven, CA, located approximately 24 miles from the campground. For emergencies, dial 911.
Good to know
Peak season datesVisitation is recommended during cooler months from mid-October to April due to extreme summer temperatures.
Trash and recyclingNo trash collection services are provided at the campground. Visitors must pack in and pack out all waste.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to the Colorado River, providing direct access for boating and fishing activities.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include the lack of potable water and the challenging access road conditions. Some visitors cite extreme heat during summer as a drawback.
HostNo campground host is present at Carrizo Boat-in Campground.
Campground Map
Carrizo Boat-in Campground, Picacho State Recreation Area, Winterhaven, CA 92283
Driving directionsTake the 24-mile road north from Winterhaven near the Mexican border. The first 6 miles are paved, but the remaining 18 miles consist of an unpaved dirt road. Flash flooding during summer thunderstorms can render short sections impassable temporarily. Visitors towing trailers should access the park exclusively via Picacho Road.
The road to Picacho is paved for the initial 6 miles and transitions to an 18-mile dirt road. While passable for cars and vehicles towing small trailers, flash flooding during summer can make sections impassable. High-clearance, 4x4 vehicles are recommended for safe travel.Nearby places
Winterhaven, CA - approximately 24 miles (travel time varies depending on road conditions)
Yuma, AZ - approximately 25 miles.
Nearby supplies
The nearest locations for supplies, including groceries and fuel, are located in Winterhaven, CA, approximately 24 miles from the campground. Visitors should ensure they are fully provisioned before arriving due to the park's remoteness.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Carrizo Boat-in Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
No user reviews specific to Carrizo Boat-in Campground are provided. Broader reviews for Picacho State Recreation Area highlight the remote, scenic beauty and the appeal of activities like fishing and boating. Accessibility features receive mixed feedback.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Positive reviews emphasize the park's natural beauty, remote atmosphere, and excellent opportunities for fishing and wildlife viewing.
Common Concerns
Complaints generally center around the lack of potable water, limited facilities, and challenging access requiring boat transportation.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
"Bring extra water and pack out all trash," is commonly advised for visitors to the boat-in campgrounds. Another tip is to ensure all equipment is in good order for boat access.
Seasonal Insights
The best time to visit is mid-October through April due to extreme summer temperatures reaching up to 120 degrees.
Camper Quotes
"Fishing at Picacho and on the Colorado River is great!" "Huge flathead and blue catfish have been caught off both Picacho docks." "Vault restrooms and one campsite at Carrizo Boat-in Camp are...
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Site-Specific Reviews
No user reviews specifically addressing individual campsites within Carrizo Boat-in Campground have been provided.
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features such as vault toilets and one accessible campsite are mentioned; however, no reviews from disabled users are included.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed in developed areas, with restrictions against beaches and trails. "Dogs must be on a leash no more than six feet long and under the owner's immediate control at all times."
Last updated August 10, 2025