Hippie Hole Camping Area

The sound of military aircraft buzzing overhead mixes with the Colorado River's gentle flow at this free dispersed camping area managed by the Bureau of Reclamation. Hippie Hole sits directly on the riverbank next to Cibola Wildlife Preserve, drawing a mix of short-term travelers and winter snowbirds who settle in for extended stays despite the official 14-day limit.

Campers can drive right up to riverside spots, though the sandy terrain requires careful navigation to avoid getting stuck. Vault toilets and covered picnic tables serve the camping area, while trash service runs weekly with varying reliability. "Camp alongside the river and take a swim," notes Brad B., highlighting the direct water access that makes this spot popular for kayaking and fishing.

The entrance can be tricky for larger rigs. Several reviewers recommend using the wider entrance across from Baseline Road rather than the first turn, which has a steeper grade. The closest full services are in Blythe, about 30 minutes north, though a small store down Baseline Road stocks basic supplies. Cell service reaches the area, and both pets and alcohol are permitted.

For those exploring the region, campgrounds around Cibola provide additional options. This riverside spot works best for self-sufficient campers comfortable with basic amenities who don't mind the occasional aircraft flyover.

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Location

Dispersed Camping

Hippie Hole Camping Area is located in Arizona

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

33.378594 N
114.706378 W

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Connectivity

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    T-Mobile
    Possible Coverage
    Verified by 14 users
    Last on 4/30/26
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 1 user
    Last on 2/6/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Good Coverage
    Verified by 13 users
    Last on 4/30/26

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    Possible Coverage
    Verified by 14 users
    Last on 4/30/26
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 1 user
    Last on 2/6/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Good Coverage
    Verified by 13 users
    Last on 4/30/26

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Phone Service
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Big Rig Friendly

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Hippie Hole Camping Area needs a permit.

Drive Time


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Reviews

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4.5

out of 5

8 Reviews

Many campers appreciated the scenic riverside locations with private spots and beach access. Visitors often highlighted the peaceful atmosphere and basic amenities like vault toilets and trash service. Several guests observed uneven terrain and occasional aircraft noise.

Reviewed Apr. 14, 2026

Best boondocking.

They cleared the river side and created more sites. Can't get better boondocking. Vault toilets, did not use. Trash cans. Great beaches.

SiteBoondocking
Month of VisitApril
  • Review photo of Hippie Hole Camping Area by John R., April 14, 2026
  • Review photo of Hippie Hole Camping Area by John R., April 14, 2026
  • Review photo of Hippie Hole Camping Area by John R., April 14, 2026
Reviewed Oct. 28, 2025

Riverside camp in the desert

Camp alongside the river and take a swim. There's a pit toilet, trash cans, a dumpster, and several covered picnic tables. There were only 2 campers here when I arrived on a Tuesday afternoon. Seems to be boat ramps as well, but I don't know the angles or depth.

Month of VisitOctober
Reviewed Mar. 1, 2025

Hippie Hole

Love it here We paddle boarded, watched the night stars, the blue haring in the morning. Garbage cans and vault toilet. Will stay here again

Siteby the water
Month of VisitMarch
  • Review photo of Hippie Hole Camping Area by Imerie T., March 1, 2025
  • Review photo of Hippie Hole Camping Area by Imerie T., March 1, 2025
  • Review photo of Hippie Hole Camping Area by Imerie T., March 1, 2025
  • (9) View All
Reviewed Dec. 27, 2024

Hidden Gem for River and Nature Lovers

Hippie Hole is a fantastic boondocking spot with easy access to the Colorado River and plenty of nearby walking trails. The campground is right next to the Cibola Wildlife Preserve, making it perfect for anyone who loves nature and wildlife.

Getting There: If you’re using Google Maps, I recommend skipping the first suggested right turn into the campground and instead pulling in the other entrance across from Baseline Road. This route is much wider and less steep, making it a safer option—especially for larger rigs.

Planning Ahead: The closest town is Blythe, about 30 minutes north, so stock up before arriving. That said, there’s a little store just down Baseline Road with last-minute essentials. The staff there are incredibly kind; they even gave us some free, fresh lemons during our visit!

The Campground: Technically, there’s a 14-day stay limit, but it’s clear that many campers spend most of the winter here. Vault toilets are available, though they come with their fair share of spider friends. There’s supposed to be weekly trash pickup, but it’s inconsistent, so we packed out as much as we could. If you plan to stay a while, be prepared to manage your own trash.

The Vibe: The relaxed, friendly atmosphere makes this spot stand out. You’ll find a mix of travelers and snowbirds enjoying the simple life here. The easy river access and proximity to wildlife make it ideal for kayaking, fishing, and birdwatching.

Overall, Hippie Hole is a laid-back spot for those seeking a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature. Just plan ahead and pack out your trash to keep this gem clean and enjoyable for everyone!

Month of VisitDecember
  • Review photo of Hippie Hole Camping Area by Paulina B., December 27, 2024
  • Review photo of Hippie Hole Camping Area by Paulina B., December 27, 2024
  • Review photo of Hippie Hole Camping Area by Paulina B., December 27, 2024
  • (10) View All
Reviewed Dec. 28, 2023

Lazing on the river.

Great spot on the river. Private spots or group. Vault toilet and trash. Fantastic sunsets.

Sitedispersed
Month of VisitDecember
  • Review photo of Hippie Hole Camping Area by John R., December 28, 2023
  • Review photo of Hippie Hole Camping Area by John R., December 28, 2023
  • Review photo of Hippie Hole Camping Area by John R., December 28, 2023
  • (9) View All
Reviewed Apr. 11, 2023

Hippie hole

Not a bad free campground, love the jet and helicopters that buzz the area. Some campsite at the river are not level and most campers stay longer then 2 weeks. But trash service and outhouse for your convenience. Couple of stores with in 10 minutes. Sandy so be careful where you drive.

Siteno site number
Month of VisitFebruary
  • jet buzzing us
    Play button icon
  • Review photo of Hippie Hole Camping Area by Gary  V., April 11, 2023
  • Review photo of Hippie Hole Camping Area by Gary  V., April 11, 2023
Reviewed Mar. 28, 2023

Great stay

We rolled up at around 19:30 as the sun was going down. We weren’t really sure what to expect and we were very pleasantly surprised. Lots of free spots, one right next to a bench with cover which was right by the river

Month of VisitMarch
  • Review photo of Hippie Hole Camping Area by Name , March 28, 2023
Reviewed Mar. 16, 2023

On the river.

Pulled up and had choice of spots. Picked one right on the river with a fire pit. Spot has it's own little bit of beach.

SiteRiver
Month of VisitMarch
  • Review photo of Hippie Hole Camping Area by John R., March 16, 2023

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping options are available at or near Hippie Hole in Arizona?

Hippie Hole Camping Area offers free boondocking with a variety of camping spots. You can choose between riverside sites with small beach areas, sites near covered benches, or more private spots scattered throughout the area. Some campers stay longer than two weeks, so availability may vary. The campground provides basic amenities including vault toilets and trash service. The sandy terrain accommodates both tent camping and vehicles, though you should be careful where you drive due to the sandy conditions.

Where is Hippie Hole located in Arizona and how do I get there?

Hippie Hole Camping Area is situated along the Colorado River in Cibola, Arizona. It's located right next to the Cibola Wildlife Preserve, making it an excellent spot for nature enthusiasts. When navigating to the campground, be aware that the terrain is sandy, so appropriate vehicles are recommended. The location is relatively accessible, with a couple of stores within a 10-minute drive for supplies. For precise directions, using a navigation app is advisable, though be prepared for possible spotty cell service in the area.

Are there any photos or what should I expect to see at Hippie Hole Arizona?

At Hippie Hole, expect stunning riverside scenery with direct access to the Colorado River. The area features fire pits at many sites, small beach areas along the river, and beautiful sunset views over the water. You'll enjoy a natural setting with walking trails nearby and opportunities to observe wildlife, including blue herons and other birds from the adjacent Cibola Wildlife Preserve. The campground itself offers a mix of open and private spots, some with covered benches. The night sky provides exceptional stargazing opportunities. Military aircraft occasionally fly over the area, adding an unexpected element to the experience.