Paddlewheel Boat-in Campground
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Paddlewheel 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 range from $25 for single vehicle sites to $35 for sites accommodating two vehicles. Seniors (age 62 and over) receive a $2.00 discount per site, per night.
About this campground
Escape to the serene isolation of Paddlewheel Boat-in Campground, where the only way in is across the shimmering waters of the Colorado River. This hidden gem rewards adventurous paddlers and boaters with pristine primitive camping far from the crowds. Your waterfront site comes equipped with the essentials—a sturdy picnic table, fire ring for evening gatherings, and chemical toilets—while the absence of potable water ensures you'll experience true backcountry camping. Here, under vast desert skies, you'll find the perfect blend of river tranquility and desert solitude that makes every paddle stroke worth the journey.
Paddlewheel Boat-in Campground caters exclusively to boaters and canoe campers, with no vehicular access or amenities for RVs or tents. The campground is remote and designed for those seeking a primitive camping experience.
Historical SignificanceLong before your boat glides across these waters, paddlewheel steamers churned up the Colorado River, their decks laden with supplies for the bustling gold mining town that once thrived here at Picacho. The echoes of prospectors' dreams still whisper through the canyon walls, mingling with the far older stories of the Quechan people who first called this river corridor home. Every sunset here connects you to centuries of Colorado River Basin history—from indigenous trade routes to mining boom towns, from steamboat captains to modern-day river runners seeking the same timeless connection to this ancient waterway.
Weather and SeasonsThe desert's dramatic personality shines through in every season at Paddlewheel. Winter nights can dip to a crisp 20°F, perfect for campfire stories, while summer days blaze with the intensity of a 120°F furnace—a testament to the raw power of the Colorado Desert. Savvy adventurers time their visits for the sweet spots of spring and fall, when gentle temperatures invite exploration and the desert blooms with life. These golden months offer clear skies, comfortable camping conditions, and the kind of weather that makes you want to linger just one more day by the river.
ElevationPerched at a modest 350 feet above sea level, the campground rests in the heart of the Colorado Desert's low country, where the river has carved its patient path through millennia of rock and sand. This low elevation creates a unique microclimate where desert meets river, fostering an ecosystem found nowhere else in the Southwest.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to the gentle lapping of the Colorado River against the shore, where ancient cottonwoods provide patches of shade and frame views of the water's endless journey south. The landscape tells a story of resilience—hardy palo verde trees splash the terrain with green even in the driest months, while beavertail cacti display their paddle-shaped segments like natural sculptures. During the magical migration seasons of spring and fall, the sky comes alive with the calls of countless waterfowl, transforming the campground into a front-row seat for one of nature's greatest traveling shows. Desert sunsets paint the river in shades of gold and copper, creating moments of beauty that linger long after you've paddled home.
Geological RegionThe Colorado Desert reveals its volcanic past at every turn around Paddlewheel Campground, where ancient lava flows have created dramatic outcroppings that punctuate the horizon. This remarkable corner of the lower Colorado River Basin showcases millions of years of geological drama—from fiery eruptions to patient erosion. The rugged volcanic formations provide a striking backdrop to the softer river corridor, where beavertail cacti cling to rocky slopes and migratory birds find refuge in this desert oasis. It's a landscape that tells the story of fire, water, and time—a living geology textbook written in stone and sand.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features include vault toilets, but overall accessibility for individuals with disabilities is limited due to the remote and rugged terrain.
Sites SizeSites are described as large and flat, catering to boaters and canoe campers, but further specific measurements are not provided.
Sites PrivacySites are relatively isolated, given the nature of boat-in camping, which typically offers higher privacy compared to drive-in camping.
Total Campsites2 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites for proximity to river access or shade based on preference for privacy or scenery.
Best CampsitesBoth campsites offer direct access to the Colorado River, making them ideal for boaters seeking solitude.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Self-registration upon arrival.
Check-out
Self-registration upon departure.
Stay Limit
Maximum of 14 nights per stay.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 people per site.
Groups
Two large group sites are available, accommodating larger parties of boat-in campers. Additional details on limitations are not provided.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutTwo campsites accessible by boat only, with picnic tables and fire rings.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations must be made through the Ocotillo Wells District Special Events Coordinator via email or phone.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll campsites at Paddlewheel Boat-in Campground are first-come-first-served except group campsites, which require prior reservation.
Cancellation PolicyReservations for group campsites must be made 48 hours prior to arrival. The campground does not offer electronic reservations.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Paddlewheel Boat-in Campground offers activities centered on river and desert recreation. Popular activities include canoeing, kayaking, wildlife viewing, hiking, and fishing. Swimming and other water-based activities are accessible but are informal.
Hiking
The surrounding area provides hiking opportunities with trails leading to historical sites such as Stamp Mill Trail and natural features like Stewart Lake Trail. Trails vary in difficulty and highlight volcanic and desert scenery.Fishing
Fishing is a significant activity along the Colorado River, with species such as black bass, channel catfish, and bluegill available. Fishing is permitted 24 hours a day with a valid California license.Swimming
Swimming is available but not within designated areas, making safety precautions essential due to the river's shifting sandbars.Boating
Boating activities are central to Paddlewheel Boat-in Campground, with canoeing and kayaking being particularly popular. The area is navigable for shallow draft boats, but shifting sandbars require careful maneuvering.Wildlife viewing
Visitors have the opportunity to observe desert wildlife, including bighorn sheep, burros, migratory waterfowl, and other species native to the Sonoran Desert.Winter Activities
Winter activities are limited but include hiking and wildlife viewing, as the area becomes less hospitable during summer due to extreme heat.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as canoeing and kayaking are prominent activities at Paddlewheel Boat-in Campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted only in park-provided fire rings. Gathering wood is prohibited.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsFlash floods during summer thunderstorms can temporarily render parts of the access road impassable. Mosquitoes are active March through October.
Active alertsNo current alerts specific to Paddlewheel Boat-in Campground.
Weather forecast
79
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 84%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 2.9 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
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
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services are available in Winterhaven, CA, approximately 24 miles away. Emergency contact while at the campground: Dial 911.
Good to know
Peak season datesMid-October through April is considered the ideal season for camping due to moderate temperatures.
Trash and recyclingThere is no trash or recycling collection at Paddlewheel Boat-in Campground, requiring campers to pack out all waste.
Proximity to water featuresCampground is directly on the Colorado River, with easy access for boating and fishing.
Common complaintsLack of potable water and trash collection facilities require campers to pack in and pack out supplies and waste.
HostNo host information available at Paddlewheel Boat-in Campground.
Campground Map
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Driving directionsTake the 24-mile (mostly unpaved) road north from Winterhaven near the Mexican border. The road is paved only for the first 6 of 24 miles. The last 18 miles consist of a dirt road that is passable for cars and vehicles with trailers and motorhomes. Visitors towing trailers are advised to use Picacho Road instead of Indian Pass Road due to sandy terrain and steep challenges.
Access includes 6 miles of paved road followed by 18 miles of dirt, requiring careful driving to avoid flash floods during summer thunderstorms. Picacho Road is recommended for vehicles towing trailers due to sandy terrain challenges on Indian Pass Road.Nearby places
Winterhaven, CA (24 miles)
Yuma, AZ (25 miles)
Blythe, CA (approx. 70 miles)
Nearby supplies
Winterhaven, CA, approximately 24 miles away, offers groceries, fuel, and essential supplies.
Camper Reviews
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0 reviews
Paddlewheel Boat-in Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews generally praise Paddlewheel Boat-in Campground for its unique boat-in access and serene environment. However, the lack of potable water and trash collection are mentioned as limitations.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Campers appreciate the remote and quiet setting, opportunities for wildlife viewing, and access to the Colorado River for boating.
Common Concerns
Complaints center around the lack of potable water and trash collection, necessitating extra preparation for waste management and supplies.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing ample drinking water and planning ahead to pack out all trash. It's also noted to check weather conditions due to potential flash flooding during summer.
Seasonal Insights
Seasonal reviews highlight spring and winter as ideal times for visiting due to more moderate temperatures. Summer visits are discouraged due to extreme heat exceeding 120°F.
Camper Quotes
"The quiet serenity of Paddlewheel Boat-in Campground is unmatched, but be prepared to bring your own water and pack out your trash." "This is a fantastic spot for kayaking and fishing, but the lack...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Reviews do not provide specific information about individual sites.
Accessibility Features
Accessibility reviews are not specifically available, but the remote nature of the campground suggests limited accessibility features.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed at all times. Reviewers note the importance of cleaning up after pets and ensuring they are not left unattended.
Last updated August 10, 2025