Explore the Colorado River Nature Center: 500 Acres of Bullhead City's Wild Side

Just minutes from the heart of Bullhead City, there’s a place where the pavement gives way to desert trails, quiet ponds and the Colorado River.

The Colorado River Nature Center stretches across 500 acres at the south end of Bullhead City, with eight trails giving visitors plenty of room to wander. Some lead through open desert and river habitat, while a paved educational trail winds around the backwater ponds with wildlife signs, benches and a shaded ramada along the way.

Pick a Trail and Start Exploring

Not sure where to start? Two kiosk parking areas provide access to the Nature Center’s eight trails, and signs along the way help point you in the right direction.

For an easy walk, start with the paved educational trail around the ponds. Slow down enough and you may notice butterflies, birds and plenty of signs that you’re sharing this landscape with wildlife.

And there is a lot that could be out there.

Bobcats, coyotes, beavers, bald eagles, peregrine falcons and other wildlife have all been documented in this habitat. There are no guarantees about what you’ll spot, of course. That’s part of the fun.

Take the View from Above

Don’t skip the observation platform.

Climb the stairs and you’ll get a bird’s-eye view across the ponds, river and surrounding desert. The viewing binoculars offer an even closer look across the Colorado River toward Nevada.

It’s one of those places that makes you stop for a minute before heading back down the trail.

Follow the Trail to the River

The Nature Center isn’t just about hiking. Rio Lomas Beach offers access to the Colorado River in a quieter, more natural setting, making it easy to turn a walk into some time beside the water.

Depending on the light and time of day, the scenery can change completely. Still water reflects the surrounding desert, birds move through the wetlands and the landscape has a way of making you notice the little things you might normally walk right past.

Know Before You Go

The Colorado River Nature Center is open daily from sunrise to sunset and is for day use only.

Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months, and stay alert for desert wildlife, including rattlesnakes. Dogs should remain leashed for their protection. Fishing is also permitted in accordance with Arizona regulations.

Most importantly, help keep the Nature Center wild. Pack out what you bring in, respect the wildlife and leave this beautiful place just as you found it.

Keep Exploring Bullhead City

See It for Yourself

Eight trails. 500 acres. Desert, wetlands and the Colorado River all in one place.

You may head out expecting a simple walk and discover there’s a lot more hiding at the Colorado River Nature Center than you knew.

Come see what you find.

Adventure Awaits.