About Oxbow Recreation and Wildlife Area
Warning: Navigational HazardThe Oxbow Bridge was destroyed in a fire and is currently impassable. Do not travel north from the boat ramp.Debris from the bridge may become dislodged, creating potential navigational hazards. Boaters are advised to exercise caution in the area.Oxbow Recreation and Wildlife Area provides RV and tent camping sites, a boat launch, and a day use area on old river channel (oxbow) of the Colorado River. The site is heavily used on summer and holiday weekends, and is popular with winter visitors.Jet skiing, water skiing, and other fast paced boating activities occur within the Colorado River. Slower paced boating activities, such as fishing, kayaking, and canoeing are more common within Oxbow Lake.
How to Get There
The site is located approximately 23 miles south of Blythe, CA and 68 miles northwest of Yuma, AZ.From I-10: Exit at Neighbours Blvd. /CA-78 in Blythe, California, heading south on Highway 78.From I-8: Exit north on Ogilby Rd. Turn right on Highway 78 heading north. The site is approximately 3 miles south of Palo Verde, California, at Colorado River mile 100. Turn east onto the gravel road at sign marked "Colorado River." Oxbow is ? mile east of Highway 78.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Oxbow Recreation and Wildlife Area
Heading to Oxbow Recreation and Wildlife Area? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Oxbow Recreation and Wildlife Area?
No central reservation system listed for Oxbow Recreation and Wildlife Area. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/201887) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Oxbow Recreation and Wildlife Area?
The site is located approximately 23 miles south of Blythe, CA and 68 miles northwest of Yuma, AZ.From I-10: Exit at Neighbours Blvd. /CA-78 in Blythe, California, heading south on Highway 78.From I-8: Exit north on Ogilby Rd. Turn right on Highway 78 heading north. The site is approximately 3 miles south of Palo Verde, California, at Colorado River mile 100. Turn east onto the gravel road at sign…
How do I contact Oxbow Recreation and Wildlife Area?
You can reach the park at phone: 928-317-3200 or email: BLM_AZ_YFOWEB@blm.gov.
References & Official Resources
