Yuma

Yuma’s geography shaped the Southwest. Because this was the safest spot to cross the Colorado River, all roads led to Yuma for travelers from Spanish explorers to Okies fleeing the Dust Bowl. Today, this unique meeting point of the Colorado River and the Sonoran Desert still offers vibrant variety.  

Yuma’s the perfect jumping-off spot to hundreds of square miles of wilderness in the Imperial, Kofa and Cibola national wildlife refuges, and the gateway to the Imperial Sand Dunes. And with a river running through it, there’s always water fun, from a quiet paddle to waterskiing.

The restored riverfront features two state historic parks, city parks with river beaches and a lush wetlands area alive with birds and other native wildlife, all just steps from the historic downtown and linked by paved and lighted paths. Get a closer look at the riverfront on a Segway tour or learn about Yuma’s early days and first residents at Sanguinetti House Museum or Cocopah Museum and Cultural Center. With so much to do, you’ll want to stick around – and Yuma has accommodations for every budget and taste, from 23,000 RV spots to nearly 4,000 hotel rooms.