Best Tent Camping near Bullhead City, AZ
The desert landscapes surrounding Bullhead City, Arizona offer several tent camping options for outdoor enthusiasts seeking primitive experiences. Tent-only sites can be found at Windy Point Campground near Kingman and BLM Wild Cow Springs Recreation Area, while dispersed tent camping is available at Havasu Heights and Mid-Basin Cove in Lake Mead National Recreation Area. These locations provide varying levels of accessibility and amenities, with most sites situated within 30-45 minutes of Bullhead City.
Road conditions to tent campgrounds vary significantly, with several requiring high-clearance vehicles. Windy Point Campground features a steep, winding dirt road with loose gravel extending 11 miles from the paved road, making 4WD vehicles strongly recommended. Sites typically include basic amenities such as fire rings and picnic tables, with vault toilets available at established campgrounds. Summer temperatures can reach 110°F at lower elevations, though higher elevation sites like Windy Point may be 15-20 degrees cooler. Most tent camping areas lack potable water, requiring campers to bring their own supplies.
Tree coverage varies by location, with BLM Wild Cow Springs offering substantial shade. According to reviews, "Trees cover almost everything, there is a little creek, and plenty of opportunities to go exploring on hikes." Sites at Wild Cow Springs are well-spaced, providing privacy for tent campers. Campers noted that Windy Point offers exceptional views due to its elevation, though wind can be problematic for tent setup. Havasu Heights provides minimal light pollution, making it ideal for stargazing. Those seeking backcountry tent camping experiences can find more seclusion at Mid-Basin Cove, which one visitor described as "more secluded than its sister site up the road" with beach camping available. Most primitive tent sites in the region permit campfires and allow pets, though regulations vary by location.