Dispersed camping opportunities near Dolan Springs, Arizona provide alternatives to glamping with varied terrain from desert landscapes to mountainous pine forests. The area sits at elevations ranging from 2,000 to 6,000 feet, creating diverse camping environments within a 30-mile radius. Winter temperatures average 55-70°F during the day while summer months can exceed 100°F, making seasonal planning essential.
What to do
Desert recreation: ATV riding can be found at Packsaddle Recreation Site, where open terrain allows for motorized exploration. "Not to much to say but it's a desert and free camping. No hook ups. Atv heaven. Dirt bike fun. Big area to get dirty and have fun," notes Brittney C.
Hiking trails: Mountain exploration through pine forests is accessible at Hualapai Mountain Park. "I have been there many times over the years and have never been disappointed. I have been there in the snow and rain, and it is still a good time," writes Chris G. The park features over 10 miles of trails with the Aspen Peak trail particularly recommended.
Water activities: Lake access provides swimming and boating options. A Claudia B. review of Davis Camp Park notes, "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. So clear! Lots of families with jet skis, which we found entertaining although noisy."
What campers like
Wildlife viewing opportunities attract nature enthusiasts to mountain areas. "I have never been so close to wild life before the elk and deer roam the area, especially in the morning hours," reports a Hualapai Mountain Park visitor. The park's higher elevation creates habitat for mountain wildlife not found in lower desert regions.
Private water access at Arrowhead Cove provides seclusion for water-based glamping close to Dolan Springs, Arizona. "The water is the clearest I've ever seen and the water fowl dive freely along the banks. There is a treasure trove of wildlife here apparent just from the birds singing," notes Lyle F.
Shade availability matters in this desert region. At Las Vegas Bay Campground, Lance E. appreciates that "Lots of big trees and bushes make the campground feel like an oasis. Easy access from Las Vegas, but feels a world away."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly across the region. For luxury camping experiences near Dolan Springs, consider road requirements. At Arrowhead Cove, Charlie C. advises: "You wouldn't think of getting as much privacy as one can in a National Park. The drive off the paved road isn't as long/bad as you'd expect. I had a little trouble getting in... there is one particular steep, rocky hill on the drive in."
Seasonal water levels affect access at Lake Mead locations. "It used to be a convenient place to camp close to the Las Vegas Bay Marina. The marina is now closed to docking, but there is dry storage for watercraft," reports Colette K. regarding Las Vegas Bay Campground.
Campsite sizes and privacy vary between locations. At Davis Camp Park, Lane H. observes, "The sites are mostly level but could use some maintaining. The grounds are very dusty and the roads are a mix of dirt and old pavement."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: At Kingman KOA, families find dedicated recreation options. "This a great experience since we were originally not planning on camping on our way back to California, but it got late and we were tired. 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," shares Katherine T.
Space considerations: Some sites provide room for children to spread out. Lane H. comments about Kingman KOA: "My full hook up site was close to our neighbors but the hedge rows in between them have us a nice private setting."
Family safety concerns: Location selection matters when glamping with children near Dolan Springs. "This park is in a bad area. I asked the waitress at Cracker Barrel about the area looking a little scary and she said do not worry. You are safe," mentions Annell N. regarding Kingman KOA.
Tips from RVers
RV site selection: Choose based on privacy and shade. At Davis Camp Park, Scott W. shares, "We are new to RVing and recently purchased a 2018 Jayco Greyhawk 29MV and wanted to take it some where close, so Davis Camp it was! Staff was great, neighbors were great, and the trip was very enjoyable!"
Utility access: Full hookups are available at limited locations. "FHU's, wifi, cable TV. Very clean bathrooms and showers. Excellent customer service. Sabrina and Wayne both helped us get hooked up, and helped with our cable TV issues," notes Cinda R. about Colorado River Oasis RV Resort.
Pull-through considerations: Site dimensions vary by campground. Rachel H. notes about Kingman KOA: "These pull throughs are narrow if you have slideouts on both sides. Forget using an awning, we barely have room for the slides or walking between slide and hedge."
