Mittry Lake
Just 30 minutes northeast of Yuma, the Colorado River spills over Imperial Dam and pools behind Laguna Dam to form Mittry Lake and the Laguna Division Conservation Area. This area is a magnet for resident and migrating birds. From the Mittry Lake Overlook, there is a great view over a watery marsh that is very good for hearing Common Moorhen, American Coot, Least Bittern, Virginia Rail, and Sora. Migration season can bring all kinds of unusual birds.
This area contains some of the largest populations of Yuma Clapper Rails and California Black Rails in the southwest and is one of the most accessible settings for wildlife viewing in the Colorado River floodplain.
Site Information
Region: West Coast
County: Yuma
Directions: East on 16th Street (Hwy 95) in Yuma for 5.5 miles to Avenue 7E. Turn left and drive until asphalt turns to gravel. The winding gravel road will pass a picnic area and boat launch. Continue on to the overlook and then it will eventually dip down to the lake.
Latitude: 32.8201411
Longitude: -114.4701028
Operational Hours: Open all year, 24 hours a day
Admission or Fees: None
Habitats: Desert, Marsh or Wetland, Lake or Pond, Stream or river
Know Before You Go
There is an overlook above Mittry Lake. Restrooms are located at the boat launch.
Safety First! Arizona has many beautiful places to explore and we’d like to help you make it a safe and enjoyable experience. Check out our recommendations for hiking precautions.
Species Highlights
Speciality: Abert’s Towhee, Ladder-backed Woodpecker
Charismatic: Gambel’s Quail, Gila Woodpecker, Lesser Nighthawk, Loggerhead Shrike, Western Kingbird
Contact Information
Bureau of Land Management
Phone: 928-317-3200
Website: https://www.blm.gov/visit/mittry-lake-wildlife-area
Additional Resources
Learn more about birds reported at this location at eBird:
https://ebird.org/hotspot/L269932
Additional Resources:
Arizona Important Bird Areas Program
