Betty's Kitchen Watchable Wildlife Viewing Area and National Recreation Trail

Show on map 928-317-3200 blm_az_yfoweb@blm.gov

Bureau of Land Management, Yuma Field Office, 2555 East Gila Ridge Road
Yuma, AZ 85365

The Betty's Kitchen Watchable Wildlife Viewing Area and National Recreation Trail supports a diverse array of birds, plants and wildlife in a lush, shady environment along the lower Colorado River in Arizona. This makes it a great location for observing nature.

Betty's Kitchen is enjoyed by many for wildlife observation, picnicking, and fishing throughout the year. Visitors can kick off their shoes while casting a line and fishing from the pier, pack a lunch and barbecue in the picnic area, or take a stroll along the 0.5-mile interpretive trail. The trail was designated a National Recreation Trail in 1993.

This oasis in the desert has a variety of plants and wildlife that may be seen along the interpretive trail. Some of the animals that call the area home include Mexican free tail bats, Giant hairy scorpions, desert spiny lizards, coach whip snakes, and the southwestern willow fly catchers. The best time of year for bird watching is during spring migration in April and May.

There are two picnic tables. There are no grills or fire pits. There is no small watercraft launching available.

The area now known as Betty’s Kitchen takes its name from a small riverside café operated by local resident Betty Davidson in the 1930s. Her café served anglers, travelers, and workers along the lower Colorado River and became a well-known gathering spot near Laguna Dam.

The site has an even older story: archaeologists link the river terrace to ancient agricultural fields cultivated by early Indigenous communities, followed later by mining, homesteading, and small farms. Most of the mid-century settlement was eventually lost to flooding, but the name endured.

Today, the Betty’s Kitchen Watchable Wildlife Viewing Area honors that history while providing a peaceful place to enjoy the river’s natural beauty.

Hours and Seasons

Betty's Kitchen Watchable Wildlife Viewing Area and National Recreation Trail is open year-round. It is best visited during the spring, winter, and fall.

Features and Services

Access and Parking: There is space for about 10 vehicles in the dirt parking lot.

Cell Phone and Internet: Cell phone reception is generally good. There is no public internet or Wi-Fi.

Pets: Service dogs are legally permitted anywhere that visitors can go. Please pack out all waste.

Safety and Conditions

You are responsible for your own safety while visiting Betty's Kitchen Watchable Wildlife Viewing Area and National Recreation Trail. Call 911 to contact local law enforcement, obtain emergency services, or report a fire.

While enjoying your visit, keep in mind that there is no first aid available on-site. Hazards include venomous snakes, monsoon storms, and extreme heat.

Be prepared for changes in weather and stay informed on weather warning alerts. Make sure you have the appropriate gear, food and water.

Respect and Protect

Please remember to practice outdoor ethics and recreate responsibly. Help us protect this unique environment by observing wildlife from a distance and leaving no trace during your visit.

Check for fire restrictions before your visit. Using exploding targets, fireworks, sky lanterns, tracer ammunition and other incendiary devices is prohibited on BLM-managed public land in Arizona.

Directions

The Betty's Kitchen Watchable Wildlife Viewing Area and National Recreation Trail is about 12.5 miles from the Yuma International Airport. From Yuma, take State Highway 95 (16th Street) east 5 miles to Avenue 7E. Turn north on Avenue 7E, following it 9 miles to a point just past Laguna Dam. Turn left at the sign for Betty's Kitchen.

Fees

Commercial, competitive, and large organized group events require a special recreation permit. Contact the Yuma Field Office for more information about special recreation permits.