A brush fire in Yuma’s West Wetlands Park forced the closure of the Park Loop, Stewart Vincent Wolfe Creative Playground, and beaches. Yuma Parks and Recreation employees and firefighters were on scene in less than an hour. They smothered the flames before they spread to more than three acres. The fire caused a hazardous situation for local residents and shut off access to the river. The park is located at 282 N 12th Ave, Yuma, AZ 85364.
The 110-acre West Wetlands Park is a popular recreation spot in Yuma. The park features a boat ramp, beach, disc golf course, equestrian trail, gardens, grills, walking trails, and playgrounds. The pond is about 15 feet deep at its center and is stocked with game fish from the Arizona Game & Fish Department. Visitors to the Park will be treated to a great experience, whether they are looking for a family outing or just a quiet spot for a romantic stroll.
The West Wetlands Park is about half a mile up the road from the campground. It is a wonderful place to hike, bike, or walk. You will see native plants, including Salt Cedars, as you go along the trail. There are multiple parking options in the area. The wetlands are an important part of the area, so visitors are encouraged to take time to explore. You can find plenty of wildlife in this park if you know what to look for.
The Heritage Area led the effort to develop the park. It received three major grants over a three-year period to advance the park’s development. A $95,000 grant from the State of Arizona Heritage Fund, a $372,500 SLIF grant, and a $547,500 LRSP grant were all used to advance the park’s construction. The City of Yuma also provided a $1 million grant to complete the park’s infrastructure. Additionally, all Public Works projects were directed to use clean fill.
The park’s playground is a great place for kids to play. The playground is spacious, padded, and features a large toy area with swings and tunnels. There is a separate area for little ones. A bronze statue honors the Mormon Battalion and the historic crossing ground used by the Juan Bautista de Anza expedition. While the park may have been an eyesore, it is now a beautiful place for children of all ages.
Birds can be seen all year round. A white-faced ibis has been observed returning to the park, as has a snowy egret. Other birds that are common during the winter months include the hooded gnat catcher and the great-tailed grackle. Some butterflies also nest in the park, such as the monarch butterfly (Danaus gilippus), the painted lady butterfly, and the funereal duskywing. The park also features a hawk. More about gardens here.
Driving Directions To Yuma Smiles – Yuma, AZ From West Wetlands Park
Driving Directions To Yuma Conservation Garden
