Dispersed camping near Dolan Springs, Arizona offers access to public lands at elevations ranging from 2,500 to 4,000 feet, where temperatures can vary by 15-20°F between day and night. The terrain transitions from Mojave Desert scrub to rocky outcrops near Lake Mohave and Lake Mead, with numerous undesignated campsites scattered throughout Bureau of Land Management territories. Wildlife includes desert tortoises, jackrabbits, and occasionally wild burros that approach campsites.
What to do
Kayaking to hidden coves: Access Emerald Cave for paddling adventures on the Colorado River. "We decide to rent a kayak for the weekend so we can explore Emerald Cave and its surroundings," reports camper Alex B., who notes the striking emerald green water colors.
Wildlife viewing: Watch for desert wildlife, particularly at Kingman Wash where one camper reports, "A herd of Burros roaming around. Incredible views of lake mead and the surrounding elevation!" Wild burros are descendants of animals abandoned by miners decades ago.
Stargazing: The minimal light pollution at most dispersed sites creates optimal night sky viewing conditions. At W Big Wash Road Dispersed, one camper noted "Fantastic sky at night" while another mentioned the "beautiful sunset on our nights stay" despite being only 1.5 miles from the highway.
What campers like
Private beach access: Arrowhead Cove offers secluded waterfront camping without crowds. "Total privacy at this hidden beach on Lake Mead... no signs of human life were detected during my two night stay," shares Charlie C., who appreciated the crystal-clear water and isolation.
Wildlife encounters: Multiple sites report visits from local fauna. One Kingman Wash camper shared: "The burrows were a very welcome plus that added to the enjoyment of the trip. I'll definitely be back." Another camper at W Big Wash Road noted: "The cows are super cute to wake up to. I didn't smell them at all."
Vehicle accessibility: Many sites have improved road conditions recently. At Kingman Wash, a camper noted, "They have since fixed it and any 2wd can make it," referring to the access road that was previously challenging. Another mentioned: "Road was gravel and decently accessible for my van!"
What you should know
Snake precautions: Be aware of wildlife hazards, especially rattlesnakes. At W Big Wash Road, one camper warned: "We ran into a Western Diamondback Rattlesnake within feet of the campsite. They are aggressive and fatal. We left to go find somewhere else. Be careful."
Crowds vary seasonally: Telephone Cove fills quickly during peak seasons. A camper at Lake Mohave - Nevada Telephone Cove advised: "I arrived Friday at 3:00 p.m. and found the last spot." Another mentioned: "We visited on a Tuesday in early April. Although it seemed somewhat crowded for a weekday, everyone we encountered was friendly."
Variable road conditions: Access changes with weather and maintenance schedules. One camper described the Kingman Wash road as "about 3 miles, but takes about 25 minutes to traverse. It's hilly, bumpy and holey. High clearance vehicle suggested, but we made it in a Kia Soul!"
Tips for camping with families
Safety precautions: Bring proper footwear and first aid supplies. At Arrowhead Cove, a camper noted: "Bring water shoes as most of the coastline is rocky." Others mention bringing extra water and sunscreen as necessities.
Lake access timing: For Pot Cove in Lake Mohave, early arrival is recommended. "About 18 miles on a dirt road! But well worth it. The road is very easy to maneuver and any vehicle can get there. Crystal clear water. Amazing experience," reports Brendan M.
Noise considerations: Some sites experience unexpected noise. A camper at Old Kingman Highway reported: "I saw it was secluded but there is traffic from the dirt road next to it. I did hear vehicles but couldn't see them." Another site reported being "under flight path for airport and motorcycles up early on weekend."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Finding flat sites can be difficult. At Hwy 193 BLM Dispersed, a camper noted: "Sand is soft and we had a hard time getting and keeping our RV level." At Kingman Wash, another warned: "Rough road in but larger rigs can make it without getting stuck if careful. Only issue is with the water so low the level stuff is way back."
Length restrictions: Consider your rig size when selecting sites. One Telephone Cove reviewer advised: "Do not recommend trying to take anything bigger than a 35 ft RV down there." Another at W Big Wash Road simply stated: "Not for a big rig."
Arrival timing: Daytime arrival is strongly recommended. A Kingman Wash camper advised: "Very long bumpy road - so do this in the daytime unless you have a high clearance vehicle. You need to be able to see the road, the holes and the edges."
