Camping near Kingman ranges from high-desert terrain to pine forests, with elevations spanning from 3,500 to nearly 8,000 feet. Summer temperatures vary dramatically between lower and higher elevation sites, with a 15-20 degree difference common between downtown Kingman and mountain campsites. Road conditions deteriorate rapidly on many access roads, requiring appropriate vehicles for backcountry sites.
What to do
Nighttime wildlife viewing: Hualapai Mountain Park offers excellent opportunities to observe nocturnal desert wildlife. "I got to see reptiles like tarantulas and scorpions" during a night hike at Hualapai Mountain Park, reports one camper who rates this activity as a must-do experience.
Disc golf in the mountains: The disc golf course at Hualapai Mountain Park provides a unique recreational opportunity at elevation. "We played a bit of disc golf between rain showers, saw an elk, explored the area," notes a visitor who appreciated this activity despite variable weather conditions.
Explore Route 66 attractions: The historic highway runs through Kingman with multiple access points from nearby camping areas. "The location is close to a lot of things going on from route 66 to hiking trails," mentions a reviewer at Zuni Village RV Park, which offers convenient access to these historic sites.
What campers like
Temperature differences: The rapid climate change when ascending to higher elevations is particularly valuable during summer months. "Pine forest at 6-8,000 ft... $20 a night, dry camp will get you out of the blast furnace of the Kingman summer," explains a camper at Hualapai Mountain Park.
Wildlife encounters: The opportunity to observe native animals in their natural habitat ranks high with visitors. "I have never been so close to wild life before. The elk and deer roam the area, especially in the morning hours," reports a camper who appreciated these encounters.
Privacy between sites: At Kingman KOA, natural barriers create separation between camping areas. "Wide, level spaces with bushes in between... Close to town but in a quiet neighborhood," notes one visitor who valued both the site layout and convenient location of the Kingman KOA.
What you should know
Vehicle requirements for dispersed sites: Many BLM locations require appropriate vehicles. At Hualapai Mountain Road, a camper reports: "Beautiful spot overlooking Kingman. You are about 8deg cooler than in the city. There are very few spots in the front that a 2wd can get into all the ones further in need 4wheel drive."
Seasonal facility closures: Even year-round campgrounds have seasonal limitations. "I was expecting to maybe play some mini golf but the course looked unmaintained like it too was in the off season," notes a visitor to Kingman KOA during winter months.
Road conditions: Access roads to prime camping spots can be challenging. "The sites were great, but they were not level, and the turnaround area was under construction so I didn't really have room and nearly jackknifed it," reports a camper at Hualapai Mountain Park.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Family-oriented campgrounds offer recreational facilities for children. "Lots of amenities including rec room, playground, dog area, and mini golf... a lot of trees and tons of things to do with the kiddos," mentions a reviewer at Kingman KOA.
Child-specific activities: Some campgrounds provide unique features for younger campers. "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," writes a parent who found these amenities enhanced their family stay.
Weather planning: Temperature variations affect comfort levels for family camping. "We headed to the Kingman KOA during the KOA customer appreciation weekend... Bathrooms were clean and the dog park was nicely maintained," notes a visitor who found the facilities accommodating for their needs.
Tips from RVers
Site width considerations: Space between RV sites varies significantly across facilities. At Blake Ranch RV Park, one RVer reported: "Nice pull through site with easy access and very quiet grounds. Adding Blake Ranch RV Park to our favorites for future planning."
Hookup availability: Full-service hookups are available at several locations near Kingman. "From the moment we called the lady was the sweetest and most helpful! Sites are gravel and pretty level!" shares a camper who appreciated both the service and site quality.
Late arrival options: Several campgrounds accommodate after-hours check-in. "It was nice to check in late after a long day of driving. My dog enjoyed the dog run," mentions a visitor who found the process straightforward despite arriving outside regular hours.
