Yuma: Desert Landscapes, River and History

Yuma County brings together desert country, rugged mountains and fertile river valleys. This offers more than just a range of landscapes to consider when planning your trip: you can focus on nature, activities on the water or history. Which of these appeals to you most is a good starting point for your search for a vacation rental in Yuma.

Desert, River Valleys and the Colorado River

Much of Yuma County consists of desert country with rugged mountains. Several river valley regions contain fertile farmland irrigated with water from the Colorado River. The Gila River and the Colorado River are the county’s most important rivers. Together, these features create a landscape where dry terrain and cultivated river valleys stand side by side. The county borders California to the west and Mexico to the south.

Excursion destinations in Yuma County include Martinez Lake and Mittry Lake. In the Yuma area, the Colorado River offers year-round opportunities for boating, jet skiing, kayaking, stand-up paddling and tubing. This makes it possible to plan a stay around different interests, such as spending time on the water or taking in the landscapes along the rivers.

History Along the River and in Yuma

The Ocean-to-Ocean Bridge, also called the Old Highway 80 Bridge, was the first vehicle bridge across the Colorado River. Yuma Crossing Historic Park and the Territorial Prison are among the most notable sights in Yuma County. At Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park, two-foot-thick adobe walls and cramped, poorly ventilated cells offer a vivid glimpse into the history of buildings and prisons.

In Yuma, Pivot Point Plaza marks the spot where the first train arrived in Arizona in 1877. The concrete pivot that allowed the original railroad swing bridge to turn for passing boats is also preserved there. Colorado River State Historic Park occupies the former site of an army depot that operated from 1864 to 1883. Each of these places highlights a different aspect: bridge and railroad history, a former depot site or the history of the Territorial Prison.

Yuma Crossing National Heritage Area covers seven square miles along the Lower Colorado River. It includes Yuma Crossing National Historic Landmark, Yuma Territorial Prison and the Colorado River State Historic Parks. The area also encompasses more than three miles of connected riverfront parks and trails, as well as 400 acres of restored wetlands. These figures give the historic river area a scale of its own, distinct from individual structures and memorial sites.

Market, Dates and a November Event

Yuma Farmers Market offers fresh produce such as fruits and vegetables, as well as handmade goods. As market offerings and operations can change, check the latest information before visiting. Martha's Gardens serves Medjool shakes made with Medjool dates grown on the property. Tours of the grounds are offered seasonally from November through March.

The Colorado River Crossing Hot Air Balloon Festival can also influence when you travel: it takes place over three days every November, with mass launches in the morning. If you want to plan your trip around it, confirm the specific event dates for your preferred travel dates.

Choose the Right Focus for Your Accommodation Search

When searching for a vacation rental, it helps to first decide what kind of trip you want. Activities on the Colorado River, landscapes and lakes, historic sites, local produce or a November event can each lead to different day plans. If you’re traveling together, this choice can also help bring everyone’s interests together without giving every outing the same priority. Let your next choice of location depend on which side of Yuma you most want to experience during your stay.

Discover more destinations: Yuma, Somerton, Wellton, Pima, Graham County, Santa Cruz, Boone, Gila County.

For the broader travel overview: Arizona.