Dispersed camping sites near Meadview, Arizona provide direct access to Lake Mead's Arizona shoreline and Grand Wash Cliffs. Located at approximately 3,600 feet elevation, this high desert environment sits at the junction of three ecosystems where Mojave Desert meets Great Basin and Sonoran influences. The region experiences temperature swings of up to 30°F between day and night during spring and fall camping seasons, requiring layered clothing and proper insulation for overnight stays.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Wild burros roam freely throughout the Kingman Wash area, descendants of animals abandoned by miners decades ago. At Kingman Wash, campers regularly encounter these animals near their sites. "We did get a visit from a burrow. Water is beautiful, views are beautiful," notes one visitor. The burros can often be heard "talking" near the water in the evenings.
Kayaking and paddleboarding: Despite low water levels, Lake Mead remains accessible for water recreation at several points. Kingman Wash provides shoreline camping with direct water access. "The water is great and is perfect for my paddleboard!" reports a camper. The lake's calm waters make it suitable for beginners, while more experienced paddlers can explore the numerous coves along the shoreline.
Off-roading and ATV trails: The desert terrain surrounding Meadview offers extensive off-road vehicle opportunities. At Happy Trails Campground, visitors note the abundance of accessible trails: "Lots of trails to explore with your off roading toys." These trails vary in difficulty from beginner-friendly flat routes to challenging rocky terrain requiring high-clearance vehicles.
What campers like
Night sky viewing: The area's minimal light pollution creates exceptional stargazing conditions that campers consistently highlight as a top experience. At Meadview RV Park, visitors enjoy "sit back and relax, or go fishing, swimming, kayaking or 4 wheeling...During the day there are many things you can do... get the fire pit going and cook some chow or just chill and star gaze."
Proximity to attractions: Campers appreciate the central location for accessing multiple recreation areas. At Happy Trails Campground, one visitor noted: "It has a great location 45 minutes from the West rim grand Canyon. There are several canyons minutes away that provide amazing sunsets." The campground's position makes it an effective base camp for exploring multiple attractions without changing accommodations.
Uncrowded camping experience: Compared to busier destinations, many camping areas near Meadview remain relatively undiscovered. Temple Bar Campground receives specific mention for its tranquility: "This CGs is one of the quietest I have ever experienced, 71 sites and like max of 7 sites taken." Weekday visits particularly offer solitude, with one reviewer noting, "Nice during the week for one night."
What you should know
Road conditions and access requirements: Many camping areas require traveling unpaved roads that demand preparation and appropriate vehicles. For Pierce Ferry Rd Dispersed, a camper advises, "I would not bring an RV down the short but rocky road. It was very tight and there was just enough room to turn around at the top." At Kingman Wash, another notes the "tricky road but slow is the key."
Limited level camping spots: Finding flat tent sites can be challenging, particularly near water. "Close to the water you may be on a slope if you are not sleeping in a van or RV. But up higher it was flat for a tent," explains a Kingman Wash visitor. The shoreline terrain often consists of uneven rocky surfaces, requiring careful site selection for comfortable tent camping.
Bathroom availability varies significantly: While established campgrounds offer maintained facilities, dispersed sites typically provide minimal amenities. One visitor to Kingman Wash notes, "There IS a bathroom here! Very rare for dispersed camping... The bathroom is a vault toilet with a door (take your own TP)." Pierce Ferry Rd Dispersed sites similarly have "no restrooms," requiring self-contained waste management.
Tips for camping with families
Pack multiple cooling solutions: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F with limited natural shade. A Kingman Wash camper advises, "Weather wise be prepared for the heat. It was 101°F when we arrived, 80° at night. Bring lots of water to drink!" Portable canopies, cooling towels, and battery-powered fans become essential when camping with children during warmer months.
Plan for terrain challenges: The rocky, uneven ground at most sites requires appropriate footwear and mobility considerations. A Kingman Wash visitor notes, "Lots of dogs and rocks so if mobility is an issue, the terrain is a bit challenging." For families with small children or those with mobility concerns, Boulder Beach Campground offers more developed facilities with "Most if not all of the sites had shade trees, which was also a plus."
Consider cabin options: For families seeking more comfort while maintaining outdoor access, several campgrounds offer cabin accommodations. Happy Trails Campground includes both traditional camping and cabin options, providing shelter from extreme temperatures while maintaining proximity to outdoor activities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: When bringing an RV to the area, careful site selection becomes crucial due to uneven terrain. At Temple Bar Campground, an RVer notes, "Campsite pads are relatively short. This campground was probably built in the early 1970s, well before the advent of big rigs." Arriving early in the day allows time to find suitable spots and properly level your vehicle.
Water and power planning: Most dispersed sites lack hookups, requiring self-sufficiency. At Meadview RV Park, full hookups are available with "power and water connection, dump station." Visitors advise filling tanks before arrival and bringing sufficient battery capacity or generators for extended stays at dispersed sites.
