The Mohave Desert surrounds Golden Valley, Arizona with elevations ranging between 3,300 and 8,400 feet across the region. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F while winter nights can drop below freezing in higher elevations. Camping sites in this area require adequate water supplies as natural sources are scarce and unreliable.
What to do
Nighttime wildlife viewing: At Hualapai Mountain Park, visitors can spot nocturnal desert creatures during evening hikes. "I came night hiking here and the star will amaze you. I got to see reptiles like tarantulas and scorpions," notes a reviewer at Hualapai Mountain Park.
Mountain hiking: The Hualapai Mountains offer 10 miles of trails through pine forests and granite boulders. "Gorgeous area set in mountains covered with mature pine trees and huge granite boulders just 10-minutes off I-40," states a camper who visited the park.
Water recreation: Lake Mead's Arrowhead Cove provides secluded swimming spots with clear water. "This Cove is sheltered from wind by trees and tall grass. A small peninsula also blocks direct site from the water so this is a very private site," explains a visitor at Arrowhead Cove.
Off-road adventures: For those bringing horses or ATVs, dirt trails abound near Golden Valley. "Atv heaven, dirt bike fun, big area to get dirty and have fun. If your lucky you may find some bulls hanging around," mentions a camper at Packsaddle Recreation Site.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer natural separation between campsites. "My full hook up site was close to our neighbors but the hedge rows in between them have us a nice private setting," reports a camper from Kingman KOA.
Wildlife encounters: The chance to see wild animals draws many campers. "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. I have never been so close to wild life before the elk and deer roam the area, especially in the morning hours," notes an enthusiast at Hualapai Mountain Park.
Clear night skies: The desert region offers exceptional stargazing opportunities. "We could hear the Elk mating call a few times throughout the night but it did not disturb us. We also cooked a bomb meal and slept super hard over the night, and woke up to a beautiful sunrise where we watched on top of a large rock that was in our site."
Temperature relief: Higher elevation campsites provide cooler conditions during hot months. "$20 a night, dry camp will get you out of the blast furnace of the Kingman summer. 10 gorgeous miles of hiking trails."
What you should know
Horse-friendly dispersed camping: For equestrian camping near Golden Valley, Arizona, BLM land offers the best options for bringing horses. "This is a good spot if you just need to stop for the night. It's a great alternative to a truck stop or a Walmart," reports a camper at Searchlight BLM.
Steep access roads: Some camping areas require capable vehicles. "The trip is a bit challenging pulling a trailer as it is steep and winding," notes a visitor to Hualapai Mountain Park.
Limited water sources: Many dispersed camping areas lack water facilities. "Only drawback is we couldn't find any drinking water," reports one Hualapai Mountain camper.
Seasonal considerations: Temperature extremes affect camping comfort. "We headed to the Kingman KOA during the KOA customer appreciation weekend... My full hook up site was close to our neighbors but the hedge rows in between them have us a nice private setting."
Tips for camping with families
Recreation amenities: Some campgrounds offer activities specifically for children. "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. We got a KOA basic cabin which fit my husband and I and a bunk bed which our son loved. The campground also had a pool, hot tub, play ground, mini golf and a little train that kids to ride in around the park starting at 9:30am," shares a family that stayed at Kingman KOA.
Swimming options: During summer months, pools provide essential relief from heat. "The pool was an absolute lifesaver in the August heat! Friendly locals (we needed a tin opener!) and several chatted to us in the pool and social room," mentions a visitor at Riverside Adventure Trails RV Resort.
Cabin alternatives: For families new to horse camping near Golden Valley, cabins offer comfort while exploring equestrian options. "Rent a 1930's stone cabin for $90," suggests a reviewer at Hualapai Mountain Park.
Tips from RVers
Site size considerations: Check campground layouts for larger rigs. "We have a Cyclone 4270 (44' 5th wheel) and in truck and we're around 60'. This means we hunt for alternative camp sites with larger layouts and entry points," explains an RVer at Blake Ranch RV Park.
Late arrival protocols: Many campgrounds accommodate after-hours check-ins. "From the moment we called the lady was the sweetest and most helpful!! She explained where they were located and where to go and what to do when we arrived for late check in. There is a map that shows what spots are still available, you mark out what spot you want and put your 40-50 dollars in an envelope with a slip containing your info."
Hookup options: For horseback riders bringing living-quarter trailers, know what connections are available. "We spent a week at Blake Ranch RV Park and enjoyed it a lot. We arrived after hours, but our check in papers and map of the park were easily located at the office. The RV spots were large, flat and easy to get into with enough room to park our truck after we unhooked."
Traveler
