Dispersed camping sites make up the majority of free camping options near Oatman, Arizona, with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) overseeing approximately 75% of the surrounding terrain. At 2,700 feet elevation, Oatman experiences large temperature fluctuations, with overnight lows often dropping 30-40 degrees below daytime highs, even in summer. Night temperatures can dip below freezing between November and March, requiring campers to prepare for both heat and cold.
What to do
Exploring old mining roads: The Black Mountains surrounding Oatman contain numerous off-road trails leading to abandoned mines. At Old Kingman Highway Dispersed Camping, campers find "great dispersed sites. Nice morning views and if you're on your way to joshua tree it provides an interesting route down to it." Many trails require high-clearance vehicles.
Watersports at Lake Mohave: Located 22 miles northwest of Oatman, Lake Mohave - Nevada Telephone Cove offers shoreline camping with water access. "Beautiful spot especially if you have kayaks or small fishing boats, easy to launch from camp," notes one visitor. The lake maintains stable water temperatures year-round due to cold water releases from Hoover Dam.
Wildlife photography: Wild burros frequently visit camps near Oatman. At The Y Dispersed Campsite, "Burros frequent the area looking for food from travelers and often stand in the middle of the road. They also gather among the campers." Morning and evening provide optimal lighting conditions for photography.
What campers like
Desert night skies: The Black Mountains block light pollution from nearby Laughlin and Bullhead City, creating exceptional stargazing conditions. Campers at the higher elevation sites report minimal artificial light interference. One visitor at Katherine Landing North Campground notes it's "quiet, beautiful and just the right balance of amenities to campsites."
Diverse camping options: The region offers everything from primitive sites to full-service resorts. At Davis Camp Park, "We always get the yearly pass for seniors $20.00. Late night the donkeys walk through the park." The campground provides riverside sites with mountain backdrops.
Solitude during weekdays: Even popular camping areas see significant decreases in visitors Monday through Thursday. During these periods, many campers report having entire sections of dispersed camping areas to themselves. One camper at Old Kingman Highway Dispersed Camping shared: "We loved our stay so much we had to return. The sunsets are just amazing."
What you should know
Limited cell coverage: Service varies dramatically across the region. While Oatman proper has consistent coverage, signal strength drops quickly in surrounding canyons. Campers should download offline maps before arrival. At Desert View RV Resort, one visitor notes: "I couldn't get their internet to work, but I had enough bars with Verizon to use my cell phone for a hotspot."
Water availability challenges: No public water sources exist in dispersed camping areas. The nearest reliable water access is in Bullhead City, 25 miles from Oatman. Summer campers should plan for at least 2 gallons per person per day. When camping at Katherine Landing North Campground, visitors appreciate that it has "concrete picnic tables, fire rings with cooking grills, modern restrooms, showers, with laundry facilities close by."
Flash flood awareness: The desert terrain channels rainfall quickly through washes and low-lying areas. Never camp in arroyos or washes, even during dry weather. Afternoon thunderstorms can produce dangerous floods miles away from rainfall. One camper at Old Kingman Highway Dispersed Camping observed: "Road in is definitely not RV friendly. We did alright coming in and did find a spot to pull off about a mile in."
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife education opportunities: Turn burro encounters into learning experiences about desert adaptation and mining history. Children should maintain safe distances (at least 50 feet) from wild animals. At The Y Dispersed Campsite, one camper warns: "Just beware the coyotes are hunting your little dogs. An occasional Donkey will walk thru & your dog looks like there enemy, Wile E Coyote!"
Temperature management: During summer, plan activities before 10am and after 4pm to avoid peak heat. Keep cooling towels and spray bottles accessible for children. At Davis Camp Park, one camper advises: "The beaches were VERY crowded so we had to get to the water early to secure a spot. It was also really windy so be prepared."
Accessibility considerations: Not all sites require off-road driving. Several designated camping areas near Oatman can accommodate standard passenger vehicles. When visiting with mobility-limited family members, consider Katherine Landing North Campground where "the roads are paved and great for biking."
Tips from RVers
Generator etiquette: In dispersed camping areas, observe quiet hours from 10pm to 7am. Position generators away from neighboring campsites and use noise-dampening equipment when possible. At Riverside Casino and RV Park, campers appreciate that "guests can enjoy shuttle service to the casino, restaurants, and movie theater, making it a great blend of outdoor relaxation and vibrant nightlife."
Leveling challenges: The desert terrain around Oatman features gradual slopes. Bring extra leveling blocks as many dispersed sites require significant adjustment. At Davis Camp Park, visitors note: "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."
Shade requirements: Few natural shade options exist in dispersed areas. Portable awnings or shade structures are essential for summer camping. During winter months, RVers often position vehicles to block prevailing northwest winds. At Desert View RV Resort, "Nice tall Oleander shrubs provide shade and privacy between sites. Generous sized pull through sites."
