Martinez Lake sits in the Colorado River floodplain northeast of Yuma, part of a network of backwater lakes and channels that survived the damming of the river. It is a significant birding site — great blue herons, egrets, cormorants, and various duck species winter here in numbers, and the endangered Yuma clapper rail breeds in the surrounding marsh. The lake is also popular for fishing (largemouth bass, channel catfish) and small-boat exploration of the channels.
The area feels remarkably remote given its proximity to Yuma. The Colorado River Indian Tribes Reservation borders the lake, and the landscape — cottonwoods, marsh, and open water — contrasts sharply with the surrounding desert. Mittry Lake, a few miles to the north, is a designated wildlife area with good hiking along the water's edge. Neither lake has significant facilities, so bring supplies.
Getting there: From Yuma, take US Highway 95 north, then turn east on County Road S24. About 25 miles from downtown Yuma.