T.K. Jones Campground

Are you a California local seeking a unique camping experience that blends desert tranquility with refreshing lake activities? Look no further than T.K. Jones Campground, often referred to as Squaw Lake Campground, nestled in Winterhaven, California. Operated by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), this campground offers a distinct desert oasis feel, providing access to the backwaters of the Colorado River and a host of outdoor adventures. It's a popular spot, especially for those looking to escape colder climates during the winter, but offers beauty and recreation year-round for Californians.

T.K. Jones Campground stands out for its direct access to Squaw Lake, a backwater of the Colorado River directly above Imperial Dam. This proximity to water transforms the typical desert camping experience, allowing for a variety of aquatic activities that are a welcome respite from the arid surroundings. Campers often praise the stunning sunrises over the lake, creating a picturesque start to any day. It's not just a place to set up camp; it's a gateway to enjoying water sports, fishing, and simply soaking in the serene natural environment.

While some visitors describe the RV sites as having a "parking lot" arrangement, the focus here is truly on the access to the lake and the outdoor opportunities. Despite its somewhat rustic nature as a BLM site, it provides essential amenities like flush toilets, potable water, and coin-operated hot showers, which are highly valued by campers after a day of exploration. The campground fosters a friendly atmosphere, drawing a loyal following of repeat visitors who appreciate its simplicity, affordability, and the fantastic recreational access it provides. For those who prioritize water access and outdoor adventure over resort-style luxuries, T.K. Jones Campground is a highly appealing choice.

T.K. Jones Campground is located on Senator Wash Rd, Winterhaven, CA 92283, USA. While the mailing address is in California, the campground is situated on the backwaters of the Colorado River, directly above Imperial Dam, and is often associated with Yuma, Arizona, which is just across the river. This strategic location offers a unique blend of California desert landscape and Colorado River recreation.

For California locals, particularly those in Southern California, accessing T.K. Jones Campground is relatively straightforward. From major Southern California hubs like San Diego, the drive is approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, making it an excellent option for extended weekend trips. From Los Angeles, the journey is typically around 4 to 5 hours, offering a more significant but still manageable drive for a week-long or longer stay, especially during the cooler winter months when the desert climate is more pleasant.

The campground is found by taking the 4th Avenue exit from Interstate 8, then heading north on Imperial County Road S24 for approximately 22 miles to Senator Wash Road. A left turn onto Senator Wash Road leads directly to the campground area. This well-established route ensures easy access for RVs and other vehicles. The location offers a sense of being "away from it all" while still being within reasonable driving distance of essential services in Yuma, Arizona, or larger towns in Imperial County, California. Its position makes it an ideal base for exploring both the desert landscape and the diverse recreational opportunities of the Lower Colorado River.

T.K. Jones Campground provides a range of essential services and facilities, typical of a well-maintained Bureau of Land Management (BLM) site, aimed at enhancing the outdoor experience for both RV and tent campers.

• Campsites: The campground offers approximately 125 RV sites and numerous dispersed tent camping sites. RV sites are often described as being in a "parking lot" arrangement, while tent sites can be more secluded. All sites are generally first-come, first-served.
• Flush Toilets: There are four restrooms equipped with flush toilets, which are a significant amenity for a BLM campground in a remote desert setting.
• Hot Showers: Showers are available for a separate use fee, typically requiring a $1 token. Tokens can be purchased from camp hosts, though availability might vary.
• Potable Water: A central potable water point is available for drinking water, crucial in a desert environment.
• Trash and Gray Water Disposal: Receptacles for trash and gray water disposal are provided, promoting cleanliness and responsible waste management.
• RV Dump Station: An RV dump station is conveniently located nearby at South Mesa, usually for a separate fee during certain seasons.
• Boat Launch and Docks: The campground features a paved boat launch with docks, providing direct access to Squaw Lake and the Colorado River for various watercraft.
• Canoe/Kayak Launch Area: A dedicated area for launching car-top canoes and kayaks caters to paddlers.
• Picnic Tables and BBQ Grills: Dispersed picnic tables and BBQ grills are available throughout the site for outdoor cooking and dining.
• Camp Hosts: Camp hosts are on-site to assist visitors, provide information, and help with passes, though their availability may be intermittent.
• Day Use Area: A dedicated day-use area is available for visitors not staying overnight, offering picnic facilities and access to the lake.
• Annual Permits: Annual passes are available for purchase, offering cost savings for frequent visitors.

T.K. Jones Campground's appeal lies in its unique combination of desert scenery and direct water access, offering several key highlights for outdoor enthusiasts.

• Direct Lake & River Access: Its primary highlight is its location on the backwaters of the Colorado River (Squaw Lake), offering excellent opportunities for boating, fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. The spacious boat ramp is particularly noted.
• Stunning Desert Sunrises and Scenery: Visitors frequently praise the beautiful sunrises over the lake, creating a picturesque backdrop for camping. The surrounding desert landscape offers a distinct and serene environment.
• Fishing Hotspot: Squaw Lake and the connected Colorado River are known for excellent fishing, with species like striped bass, black bass, channel catfish, and sunfish, making it a favorite for anglers.
• Hiking and Biking Trails: The surrounding area boasts various posted hiking and biking trails, allowing campers to explore the desert terrain and enjoy wildlife viewing.
• Essential Amenities Provided: Despite being a BLM site, the presence of flush toilets, potable water, and hot showers (for a fee) significantly enhances comfort, especially for longer stays.
• Friendly Atmosphere: Customer reviews highlight the presence of "great folks" and a welcoming environment, contributing to a pleasant stay.
• Affordable Camping: As a BLM campground, the fees for day use and overnight camping are generally considered very reasonable, especially compared to private RV resorts.
• Winter Escape: Its location in the milder desert climate makes it an ideal destination for "wintering" and escaping colder temperatures in other parts of the country or state.
• Wildlife Viewing: The area is home to various wildlife, including birds, reptiles, and wild burros, offering opportunities for nature observation.
• Day Use Opportunities: The dedicated day-use area allows visitors to enjoy the lake access and picnic facilities even without overnight camping.

For additional information, current conditions, or inquiries about passes and fees, you can contact the Bureau of Land Management office responsible for T.K. Jones Campground.

Address: Senator Wash Rd, Winterhaven, CA 92283, USA (Note: The BLM Yuma Field Office, which manages this site, is located at 7341 E. 30th St., Suite A, Yuma, Arizona, 85365).

Phone: (928) 317-3200 (This is the phone number for the BLM Yuma Field Office, which manages the area and permits).

Mobile Phone: +1 928-317-3200 (Same as above, directs to the Yuma Field Office).

It is always advisable to contact the BLM office or check their official website for the most up-to-date information on operating status, fee changes, and any specific regulations, especially regarding the shower token system.

For California locals, T.K. Jones Campground presents an appealing and highly suitable option for a unique outdoor adventure, especially if you reside in the southern part of the state. Its primary advantage is its direct access to Squaw Lake and the Colorado River, transforming the typical desert camping experience into a refreshing aquatic escape. For Californians who appreciate both the stark beauty of the desert and the recreational opportunities of a large body of water, this campground offers the best of both worlds within a reasonable driving distance.

The affordability of T.K. Jones, as a BLM-managed site, makes it an accessible option for many, especially compared to more expensive private resorts. The availability of essential amenities like flush toilets, potable water, and coin-operated hot showers significantly enhances comfort, allowing for longer and more enjoyable stays. For families, the opportunity to swim, boat, and fish in a relatively safe and expansive water body directly from the campsite is a major draw.

Furthermore, for Californians seeking a reliable winter escape, T.K. Jones Campground offers consistently mild temperatures, making it a favored spot for "wintering" and extended stays. The sense of community among fellow campers, combined with the stunning sunrises and opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing, creates a well-rounded and deeply satisfying outdoor experience. It's a place where California residents can disconnect from urban life, reconnect with nature, and build lasting memories by the water's edge in a truly distinctive desert oasis.