Best Dispersed Camping near Lake Havasu City, AZ
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands surrounding Lake Havasu City provide multiple dispersed camping options, with several established areas including Craggy Wash, Havasu BLM Dispersed, Lone Tree, Havasu Heights, and Blankenship Wash. These primitive sites are located within a short drive of town, typically requiring no permits and offering no amenities. Most areas follow the standard 14-day stay limit common on public lands, with camping permitted year-round despite extreme summer temperatures.
Access roads to dispersed sites vary considerably in quality, from relatively smooth gravel at Havasu BLM Dispersed to rougher terrain at Blankenship Wash that requires high-clearance vehicles. Most areas feature hard-packed dirt or gravel surfaces with occasional ruts and washouts. Cell service is generally good throughout the region, particularly at higher elevation spots with line-of-sight to towers. No water, toilets, or trash services are available at any of these locations, requiring campers to pack out all waste and bring adequate supplies.
The dispersed areas provide varying degrees of solitude and scenery, with some sites offering views of surrounding mountains and desert landscapes. Proximity to Lake Havasu City makes these locations convenient for boaters and those needing supplies. Campers report mixed experiences regarding site conditions. "Havasu BLM is relatively flat, a lot of space to find a semi-level spot. You can park far enough off the highway with no highway noise," noted one visitor. However, others have observed challenges: "The main negative is the significant trash that is scattered around in bushes, side cubbies, etc." Weekend traffic from off-highway vehicles can be considerable in some areas, particularly at Craggy Wash, while more remote sites tend to remain quieter.
