Colorado River camping and glamping in Bullhead City, Arizona offers direct water access with sites within 20 feet of shoreline at many locations. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 110°F between June and September, while winter lows rarely drop below 45°F. Riverside campsites provide opportunities for water recreation alongside desert exploration with several campgrounds offering boat launch facilities.
What to do
Waterfront activities: At Davis Camp Park, campers can enjoy immediate river access. "Loved being able to set up our Napier Sportz tent with our Subaru at the river's edge on the Colorado River just outside of Bullhead City, Az. (across from Laughlin, NV). So clear! Lots of families with jet skis, which we found entertaining although noisy," notes one visitor who appreciated the riverside camping experience.
Desert exploration: The surrounding terrain offers opportunities for day trips to nearby attractions. A visitor at Kingman KOA shared, "I wanted to find a place that was close to Oatman so I could make a daycation away from the house in Vegas... I was very happy with having proximity to the options I got to see so it made the campground worth it." Historic Route 66 attractions are accessible for day trips from most Bullhead City campsites.
Evening entertainment: Many campers take advantage of water taxis to visit Laughlin's casinos for nighttime activities. "If you take the water taxis across to the casinos and walk the boardwalk, there are so many bugs so be prepared," warns a reviewer who enjoyed the convenience of accessing evening entertainment from riverside camping.
What campers like
Private river beaches: Davis Camp Park - Mohave County features numerous waterfront sites with personal beach areas. "Davis Camp has gotten very populated over the years and gets really crowded, really quickly. If you want a nice spot, better get there early," advises one camper, highlighting the popularity of these premium locations.
Cooling options: With extreme summer temperatures, campers appreciate water proximity and pool access. At Needles Marina Resort, "This place has exceeded that by all means. The bathroom was immaculate as can be. Super dope place right on the river with little sandy beaches on the river and a cool water inlet that is surrounded by grass for a fun family day."
Seasonal variations: Winter visitors find the moderate temperatures ideal for glamping in Bullhead City. "My trailer is a 31 ft tt somewhat windy but trees break up the wind. 24 a night, 12 with senior access. Decent size sites, clean bathroom showers," notes a winter visitor at Katherine Landing South Campground, highlighting the value during cooler months.
What you should know
Heat management: Summer temperatures require serious planning. A camper at Needles KOA shared, "What is an issue today is the heat. As I write this at 10:11 at night, it is 100° F. When I arrived in Needles this afternoon, it was 114° F. The water that comes out of the spigots here is like bathwater." Visitors should plan activities during morning hours in summer months.
Site reservations: Many riverside locations fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. "Better get there early" is common advice, with holiday weekends often booked months in advance at premium glamping sites.
Wildlife awareness: Desert camping comes with natural residents. "Keep your food in containers because they have skunks and raccoons... I know crazy.. little fact the entire Laughlin area has them near the water and hotels because they want a quick meal," warns an experienced camper about necessary food storage precautions.
Tips for camping with families
Water safety: Current strength varies in the Colorado River. "We had a site right by the water but there are no guardrails or fences to keep children from the water," notes a family camper, emphasizing the need for constant supervision of children near the water.
Activity planning: Many campgrounds offer family-friendly facilities. At Kingman KOA, "The campground also had a pool, hot tub, playground, mini golf and a little train that kids to ride in around the park starting at 9:30am," reports a family who enjoyed the structured activities available.
Noise considerations: Jet ski activity creates consistent daytime noise at riverside sites. "We group camp here with fellow youth sports families. The kids love the open areas to run and play in though there are not great playgrounds," shares a visitor about Davis Camp Park, noting the balance between recreation space and limited formal play equipment.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: For RVers seeking premium glamping spots, Ridgeview RV Resort offers elevated locations with river views. "Some of the best spots were 122, 63, 55 they had some shade. They don't have tables so bring your own. They do have full hook ups and private little rentals if need be," advises a recent visitor about specific site recommendations.
Seasonal timing: Winter months provide more comfortable temperatures for RV camping. "This would be our first stop as a RV camper. KOA in needles ca and I would have to say we loved it! Friendly staff nice clean swimming pool, and the amenities and facilities clean," shares a winter visitor who found the cooler season ideal.
Utility considerations: Water pressure and temperatures vary significantly by season. "T-mobile has great cell service here, and the water pressure is fantastic. Just don't buy gas here in Needles. It's twice the price of any current gas station," advises a practical RVer about local conditions and cost considerations.
