Due to the Laguna Fire that burned through Betty’s Kitchen Recreation Area in May 2011, the temporary closure in the area continues to be in effect for public safety reasons. Ash pits continue to be a problem in the area which can cause leg injuries. Due to the restoration efforts, numerous types of mechanical equipment and crews work in the area daily and the public cannot be in the area while the work is being accomplished. The temporary closure should be in effect for approximately two years.

DIRECTIONS TO SITE: From Yuma, go seven miles east on U.S. Highway 95 to Avenue 7E (Laguna Dam Road). Turn north and follow this road for nine miles to just past Laguna Dam. Turn left and follow the signs to Betty's Kitchen. 

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF SITE: Betty's Kitchen is a wildlife interpretive area along the Colorado River just upstream of Laguna Dam.  Heavy vegetation and access to water attracts herons, songbirds, waterfowl, and egrets.

FACILITIES PROVIDED: Betty's Kitchen includes a parking area, shady picnic tables, a small outdoor classroom, ramadas, and a fishing pier. The 0.5 mile fully-accessible interpretive trail was designated a National Recreation Trail in 1993.

FEATURES: The Betty's Kitchen Interpretive Trail winds through dense riverbottom vegetation past a fishing pier and over a rugged metal bridge. Interpretive panels along the walk familiarize the visitor with the natural and cultural features of "The Kitchen."  Waterfowl, including Spotted Sandpipers, Cinnamon Teal, and American Coots are common in the winter and spring. Other commonly-seen birds include Abert's Towhee, Green Heron, egrets, Harris' Hawk, and a variety of migrating warblers in the spring including Wilson's, Yellow-rumped, Orange-crowned, Black-throated Gray, and Nashville.

FEES/PERMITS REQUIRED: The fee is $10 daily per vehicle or $75 annually per vehicle for up to 5 people per vehicle. There will be a $1 per person fee charged for each person over the 5 person limit. Visitors must pay daily fees at self-registration fee pipes located at the site or at the BLM Yuma Field Office; annual permits are currently available for purchase at the Yuma Field Office.

LIMITATIONS: Betty's Kitchen is open for day use only. All pets must be kept on a leash. Cooking fires are permitted in the provided grills only.  A valid Arizona license is required for taking wildlife (including fish) in Arizona. Details are available at the Arizona Game and Fish License Page.  

ACCESSIBILITY: The facilities, including the National Recreation Trail at Betty's Kitchen Wildlife and Interpretive Area are fully accessible.

For further Information contact:

  Yuma Field Office
2555 East Gila Ridge Road
Yuma, AZ 85365-2240
Phone: (928) 317-3200
Fax: (928) 317-3250
E-mail: YFOWEB_AZ@blm.gov 
Field Manager:  John MacDonald
Hours:  7:45 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., M-F