Best Dispersed Camping near Bullhead City, AZ
Dispersed camping opportunities exist on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands surrounding Bullhead City, Arizona, with several free primitive sites located along the Colorado River corridor and in the nearby desert terrain. Old Kingman Highway Dispersed Camping area offers sites approximately 20-30 minutes from Bullhead City, while other options include The Y Dispersed Campsite, W Big Wash Road Dispersed, and BLM OHV Designated Dispersed Campsite. Lake Mead National Recreation Area also permits dispersed camping at several coves and beaches, including Telephone Cove and Arrowhead Cove, though these areas fall under different management regulations.
Access roads to most dispersed sites require careful navigation, with many campers reporting rough, washboarded dirt and gravel surfaces. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for reaching many areas, particularly after rain when washes may become impassable. Most BLM sites have a 14-day camping limit and provide no amenities—no water, toilets, or trash service. Fire restrictions frequently apply, especially during summer months. Cell service varies significantly by location, with some areas reporting strong signals while others have none. "The road is very smooth and well worn as of this review, my prius had no problem," noted one camper about Cerbat Foothills, while another described W Big Wash Road as "about 1.5 miles off the highway on a dirt road" with "beautiful sunset on our nights stay."
The dispersed camping experience near Bullhead City combines desert solitude with proximity to water recreation. Many sites feature panoramic mountain views and dark night skies ideal for stargazing. A camper described one area as "quintessential AZ mountains" with "beautiful open desert." Sites near Lake Mohave and the Colorado River provide water access, though summer temperatures can be extreme. Winter and spring are generally considered the best seasons for camping in this region. Campers should practice Leave No Trace principles, as several reviews mention trash problems at popular sites. Those seeking more remote experiences can find quieter locations by traveling further on secondary roads, though road conditions deteriorate accordingly.