Senator Wash and Squaw Lake Recreation Area
A serene lakeside escape perfect for picnics, RV stays, and fishing, offering calm waters and scenic views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for outdoor fun
Senator Wash and Squaw Lake Recreation Area
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for outdoor fun
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene lakeside escape perfect for picnics, RV stays, and fishing, offering calm waters and scenic views.
"This is the perfect shore to park your RV or go for a fun day trip. "
🚗 Daily Entrance Fee
Expect a $10 per car entrance fee for day use. Consider an annual pass if you plan to visit often! :moneybag:
🥶 Water is Cold!
The lake water can be quite chilly, even on warm days. Be prepared if you plan to swim! :snowflake:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Calm Lakeside Beach
Senator Wash and Squaw Lake
A serene shoreline perfect for picnics, swimming, or just relaxing by the water. Great views await!
RV Camping Friendly
Senator Wash and Squaw Lake Recreation Area
Ideal spot to park your RV for a day trip or longer stay. Enjoy the convenience and scenic surroundings.
Fishing Hotspot
Senator Wash and Squaw Lake
Cast a line and enjoy a day of fishing in this popular local spot.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Value: Annual Pass
Road Conditions Can Vary
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Daily Entrance Fee
Expect a $10 per car entrance fee for day use. Consider an annual pass if you plan to visit often! :moneybag:
🥶 Water is Cold!
The lake water can be quite chilly, even on warm days. Be prepared if you plan to swim! :snowflake:
🐶 Pet-Friendly Spot
Fara approved! This is a favorite swimming spot for pets, so bring your furry friends along. :dog:
🌳 Shade is Limited
There's a bit of shade available, but it can be scarce. Bring your own umbrella or canopy for comfort. :umbrella:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Daily Entrance Fee
Expect a $10 per car entrance fee for day use. Consider an annual pass if you plan to visit often! :moneybag:
🥶 Water is Cold!
The lake water can be quite chilly, even on warm days. Be prepared if you plan to swim! :snowflake:
🐶 Pet-Friendly Spot
Fara approved! This is a favorite swimming spot for pets, so bring your furry friends along. :dog:
🌳 Shade is Limited
There's a bit of shade available, but it can be scarce. Bring your own umbrella or canopy for comfort. :umbrella:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Senator Wash and Squaw Lake for its calm, scenic shoreline, making it a perfect spot for picnics, RV parking, and fishing. It's a beloved local gem, especially appreciated for its pet-friendly atmosphere. However, potential visitors should be aware of variable road access and the cold water temperatures.
"Cute little beach with pit toilets and a bit of shade"
Christie Mason Powers
"This is the perfect shore to park your RV or go for a fun day trip. It’s a super calm shore with a great view. If you live in the foothills or yuma you should totally make the trip up there to have a picnic or if you’re brave enough go into the lake (it’s pretty cold). There’s restrooms and the entrance is 10 bucks for car. Great hidden spot."
Mar Wood
"Fara approved, this is her favorite swimming spot.
75 dollars a year for a pass if you are local. It's worth it even if you never go.
Edit 9/6/25: normal road is closed, backway is washed out for regular cars"
Kurt Christ
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Access can be tricky as the normal road is sometimes closed and the backway may be washed out for regular cars. It's best to check current road conditions before heading out.
Not always. The backway can be washed out, making it difficult for regular cars. High-clearance vehicles might be necessary depending on road conditions.
Specific directions can vary due to road closures. It's recommended to use a GPS and be prepared for potential detours or difficult terrain.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The daily entrance fee is $10 per car.
Yes, locals can purchase an annual pass for $75, which offers great value for frequent visitors.
While specific hours aren't always listed, it's generally accessible during daylight hours for day trips and recreation.
Entry is typically on a first-come, first-served basis at the entrance station. Advance booking is not usually required.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy swimming, picnicking, RV parking, and fishing. It's a great spot for a relaxing day outdoors.
Yes, pit toilets are available for visitors.
There is a bit of shade, but it's limited. Bringing your own shade like an umbrella or canopy is recommended.
Yes, it's a popular swimming spot, though the water can be quite cold.
Absolutely! It's a favorite spot for pets, and they are welcome to enjoy the lake.
🍽️ 🎣 Food & Dining
There are no on-site food services. It's recommended to bring your own picnic or snacks for your visit.
The shoreline offers scenic spots for picnics. Look for areas with a bit of shade for a more comfortable experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the serene lake views, especially when the water is up. The calm shoreline and surrounding desert landscape offer beautiful photographic potential.
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light for landscape photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's also a fantastic place to bring pets, making it a fun outing for the whole family, furry members included!
💰 Budget Travelers
Be prepared for basic amenities like pit toilets and limited shade. Bringing your own shade structure can enhance your experience without extra cost. The main consideration for budget travelers is ensuring your vehicle can handle potential road conditions, as getting there might require some flexibility.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Access to Senator Wash and Squaw Lake
For those planning multiple visits or living nearby, the $75 annual pass is highlighted as a worthwhile investment. It offers significant savings compared to daily fees and ensures you can enjoy the area whenever the roads permit.
When road conditions are favorable, the area is described as a 'cute little beach' with a calm shore and great views, making it a perfect destination for a picnic or a day trip.
Enjoying the Lakeside Experience
For those who enjoy aquatic activities, the lake is a popular swimming spot, though visitors should be aware that the water can be 'pretty cold,' even during warmer months.
While the natural beauty is a major draw, it's worth noting that shade is limited. Visitors are advised to bring their own umbrellas or canopies to ensure comfort, especially during the hotter parts of the day.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit