Last updated: May 17, 2021
Place
Colorado River State Historic Park
Colorado River State Historic Park
Quick Facts
Location:
Yuma, AZ
Significance:
Historic site, Arizona State Park, Anza expedition historic campsite
Designation:
Arizona State Park
Amenities
5 listed
Gifts/Souvenirs/Books, Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Information, Parking - Auto, Restroom
Located on Quechan and Cocopah lands, the Colorado River State Historic Park interprets and perserves a significant site in the history of Arizona and the American West. The first non-indigenous contact with the Quechan happened in 1540, when Hernando de Alarcón sailed passed this site. Alarcón became the first to navigate a Spanish ship from the Gulf of California up the Colorado River in his mission to resupply the Coronado overland expedition. Many years later, Padre Eusebio Kino may have looked out over the river from this site in 1683.
The Anza expedition crossed the Colorado River near Colorado River State Historic Park with the help of the local Quechan guides in November of 1775. Padre Font wrote in his expedition journal: "I estimated the width of the river, where we forded it, at some three or four hundred yards, and this at a time when the water is at its lowest, for when the river rises it is leagues wide". When the expedition members safely reached the other side, they were treated to a feast of watermelon courtesy of the Quechan leader Salvador Palma. Padre Garces of the expedition chose to stay in this area only to see the relationship between the Spanish and Quechan erode. In 1781, the newly established Catholic mission across the river was destroyed and Garces was killed.
The area began to experience the American westward surge when countless immigrants crossed by ferry from Yuma on their way to the California gold fields in 1849. In 1850, a military post was established at Yuma, and when rich placer gold strikes on the Colorado River precipitated a gold rush in 1858, Yuma experienced a boom. In 1871 Yuma incorporated and became the county seat of Yuma County.
Learn more about the diverse history of this place by visiting the Visitor Center or visit the park's website. An Anza Trail passport stamp (#12) is located behind the front desk at the visitor center. Check with the state park for more info on operating hours.