BLM Imperial Dam Long Term Visitor Area, near Yuma, California, is a sprawling location perfect for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors with a bit of freedom. This area is popular for its access to water, RV dump facilities, and proximity to lakes ideal for fishing and paddling.

The site is known for its large, open spaces where campers can spread out and find their own slice of paradise. Visitors have noted that the views from the bluffs are spectacular, especially at sunrise and sunset, but be prepared for some strong winds—60 mph gusts are not uncommon. As one camper put it, “The views from the bluff are spectacular! But with the elevation comes very strong winds.”

Amenities include drinking water, trash disposal, and toilets, making it a comfortable spot for longer stays. There’s also a volunteer center nearby that offers propane, a thrift shop, and a lending library, which adds a nice community touch to your camping experience. Campers have appreciated the convenience of having these resources close by, especially during winter months when many choose to stay for an extended period.

For those who enjoy a bit of adventure, the area is great for kayaking and fishing, with several lakes just a short distance away. Whether you’re looking to relax by the water or explore the surrounding desert landscape, this location has plenty to offer.

Overview The Imperial Dam Long Term Visitor Area (LTVA) was created in 1983 to fulfill the needs of winter visitors and to protect the local desert ecosystem from overuse. The campground is approximately 3,500 acres in size, flat landscape, sparsely vegetated with plants such as creosote bushes, palo verde trees, ironwood trees, mesquite trees and various species of cacti. Imperial Dam LTVA offers solitude in a unique desert landscape and a variety of recreational opportunities such as hiking, swimming, boating, and fishing. Facilities Two restroom facilities with outdoor showers, trash services, grey water dump sites, black water dump site with water, dance floor and ramadas.

BLM Imperial Dam Long Term Visitor Area (LTVA)

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Winterhaven, CA has a lot to offer. Winterhaven is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your California camping adventure.

Winterhaven

The Best Camping Near Winterhaven, California

We would go  back....     Only three analog channels with one coming in clearly that being Court T.V.

8 Water Spouts & 4 Dump Stations great Mountain Views and as the title states a dam with a large body of water 

The imperial dam ltva has everything you need to Winter over in the warmth. There are swimmable lakes in the area so also bring your kayak!  There's a volunteer center that sells propane, runs a thrift shop, and sets up a lending library. Park as far from or close to others as you'd like. Trash and water are on site.

Great spot for winter

This campground is part of the long-term visitor area by imperial dam outside of the Yuma proving ground. 

You turn off 95 into  the east Imperial Dam road. You'll feel like you were turning onto an army base because you go betweentwo large pieces of military hardware and I decided the road. Then on your left you will see the human proving ground visitor center with examples of military hardware dating from world War II on. And interesting stop. See pictures and video.

The road has recently been reasshphalted and is actually smooth. Last year it was not. You will turn left at the sign for the Christian center. That spot has fresh highly filtered water for sale, propane, help with solar panels, a postal box you can use all season for your mail, and a little thrift store. You can also store your RV or ATV or boat there for $30 a month. Year-round.

The camping spot is back out the road on a ridge overlooking the lake. It does get windy in January, hence the name hurricane ridge.

Across from the campsite at the senator wash area is a dump station, huge trash bins with weekly pickup, portable water for your water tanks, toilets with running water and the check-in station to get your 7-month pass. They also set up a free table where people drop things they no longer need and also a library that is pretty well stocked with books and puzzles. Pay showers are available at the Squaw Lake campground just past the senator wash boat ramp.




Lake view $180 for 7 month stay

There are different sections to the area...LTVA and special BLM.  Know where you are... look at maps and talk to the rangers/volunteers....although they weren't super helpful.   Different passes for different areas.   

Cell service is strong during the day,  perfect for remote work,  but at 3-4pm good luck!  

Views from the bluff are spectacular! But with the elevation comes Very stong winds.  60 mph sustained winds pummeled us for +24 hours...damaged the slide covers... so beware!  

Spectacular views, but confusing layout.  Can be very windy! 

This is a popular LTVA due to water, RV dump and proximity to a couple lakes to fish or paddle in.  The LTVA is large and seems to be mapped into a bunch of user named "neighborhoods".  Cell signal depends on your location.  No designated sites, no tables, no steel fire rings...just spread out boondocking with  1000 other campers. Lots of solar setups out here. 

Photos of BLM Imperial Dam Long Term Visitor Area (LTVA)

Real photos from real campers