Location: Yuma
Top Things to do in Yuma
Countries
Top 7 Nature & Wildlife Areas in Yuma, Arizona (AZ)
Once a busy river port sending military supplies shipped from California to forts and camps in the Southwest to fight the Apache wars, today Yuma is a winter retreat for thousands of visitors craving its warm, dry and sunny climate. With warm weather comes golf, and the city has several excellent courses. Bird watchers will enjoy the Imperial National Wildlife Refuge, which is rich in migratory bird life and also offers hiking, fishing and boating facilities. For a step back in time to the days of frontier justice, visit the Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park, whose prison dates back to 1876, or the Yuma Crossing State Historic Park, for a walk through restored historic buildings. If these sites whet your appetite for more pioneer lore, check out the Century House Museum, which is chock full of pioneer artifacts and exhibits. And, speaking of appetite, be sure to stop for burgers and fries at Lutes Casino, Arizona's oldest pool hall, where old movie memorabilia graces the walls.
Restaurants in Yuma
1. Imperial National Wildlife Refuge
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 51 reviews
Stretching 30 miles along the Colorado River, and encompassing desert and wetlands, this site has plentiful plant and animal life and is a great place for bird watching, hiking, boating and fishing.
Reviewed By Tetonsnow - Tulsa, United States
Super hiking trails, bring lots of water and sunscreen. Lots to see if you enjoy peace and quiet, nature and geology!
2. Cibola National Wildlife Refuge
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 22 reviews
3. Yuma East Wetlands
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 36 reviews
Reviewed By 466nickyl - Bury, United Kingdom
We spent a lovely couple of hours here walking a few trails along the wetlands, quiet and peaceful, wildlife haven and a lovely spot to picnic, unspoilt beauty
4. Mittry Lake Wildlife Area
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 37 reviews
Situated in and near the floodplain of the Colorado River, this more than 60-acre nature reserve offers the outdoor enthusiast such activities as hiking, boating, sport fishing, nature study and bird watching.
Reviewed By sallyjb882018 - Yuma, United States
I moved to Yuma Arizona from the California coast about a year ago and was bummed because there's been no place to take my dog for a swim. At least not until I found Lake Mittry! I was pleasantly surprised to see the beautiful lake. There are plenty of little private spots where you can park your car by the water and relax outside your car. Not a ton of restrictions. Do what you want. Totally relaxing and stress free! Lots of trees and shade too. You don't find that much in the middle of the desert. There is a boat ramp, covered picnic tables and free overnight camping. Very clean place. Would be great for hiking or mountain biking (when the temperature cools down usually from October to May). My dog was in his glory when he saw all the water and got in to fetch his ball! I am so happy to have found this place and will be going back soon!
5. Robert J. Moody Demonstration Garden
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 10 reviews
Reviewed By cmelk4re - Yuma, United States
Developed and maintained by garden club volunteers, this is a great place to learn about what grows well in the Yuma area. Interesting plants that thrive in the Sonoran Desert with good landscaping ideas. Frequent activities with Master Gardeners available to answer questions.
6. Betty's Kitchen National Recreation Trail
7. Yuma Conservation Garden
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 10 reviews
Reviewed By karenfurg
My family enjoyed our visit to this oasis in a desert town. I’m a photographer and had fun taking photos of desert scenery and plants; antique farm equipment; the old windmill among palm trees; and the shady oasis with ducks, turtles, and fish. Several desert plants were in bloom, including a saguaro cactus, ocotillo, and palo verde trees.The parking lot is a great place to watch Marine Corps aircraft taking off and landing. I got some photos of F35s and Ospreys. Thank you, Yuma, for proving this wonderful experience!
