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Best Tent Camping near Parker, AZ

339 Reviews

Dispersed tent camping dominates the landscape around Parker, Arizona, with several Bureau of Land Management (BLM) areas offering primitive sites. BLM dispersed camping spur at MP 133.8 and BLM Earp-Parker to Needles Wagon Road Dispersed provide free tent camping options on the California side of the Colorado River. Havasu Heights, located north of Parker, offers additional tent camping opportunities with views of the surrounding desert terrain.

Tent campers should prepare for minimal amenities at these dispersed sites. Most areas have no drinking water, toilets, or trash service, requiring campers to pack in all supplies and pack out all waste. A 14-day stay limit applies to BLM lands. Access roads vary in quality, with some requiring careful navigation. The BLM spur at MP 133.8 features a wide graded gravel road leading to several dispersed sites, while the Earp-Parker to Needles Wagon Road has a rocky two-track dirt road that can be challenging to navigate. Campers report that bringing a shovel is essential for BLM camping to smooth out entry points from main roads.

The tent camping experience near Parker offers open desert landscapes with limited shade. Sites farther from highways provide more solitude and less traffic noise. Cell service is generally good throughout the area, making these locations suitable for remote workers seeking primitive tent camping. The area north of Rovey's Rock features large graded areas overlooking the Colorado River, though one visitor noted it resembles "a really big dirt parking lot" with RVs and trailers spaced about every 300 feet. At Havasu Heights, campers can find more isolated spots by traveling deeper into the area. A camper mentioned, "If you go a little farther in on the trail you get a little more space... for your own slice of heaven."

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Best Tent Sites Near Parker, Arizona (5)

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Parker, AZ

2 Photos of 5 Parker Campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Parker, AZ

339 Reviews of 5 Parker Campgrounds

  • Deborah C.
    May. 27, 2019

    Crossroads

    Crossroads BLM California , May, 2019

    First, you get what you pay for, this tent site was 5.00 per night! The location is great, right on the Colorado River. We made reservations ahead of time using reservation.gov. We knew there were no amenities but were ok with it.

    I use a rating scale based on amenities, location, cell service, cleanliness and campsite.

    There is no running water available at the site, only one vault toilet, obviously no showers.

    The campsite itself was great, nice shady spot with a grill, picnic table and did I mention right on the water.

    Cell service was spotty, usually one bar with AT&T.

    There are wild burros that roam the area and we were quite surprised that they walked through our campsite down to the water.

    We stayed on a Friday night and there were people riding motorcycles or ATVs through the park chasing the burros, making a lot of noise. Also people on the river all through the night making lots of noise.

    We rented kayaks in Parker AZ, Parker watercraft and it was great, we loved every minute.

    While there we also made the quick trip to Lake Havasu city to see the London Bridge.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 4, 2018

    Crossroads

    Only BLM Overnight Campground on Parker Strip. Earp, CA

    Crossroads Campground is located on the riverfront of the beautiful Lower Colorado River. This campground is popular with winter visitors looking to enjoy the warm winter temperatures and relax on the riverfront. This campground has great access to fishing, boating and off-roading.

    Natural Features:

    The campground is situated on the shoreline of the Lower Colorado River. The river runs through a backdrop of steep rocky terrain, and wind shaped sand dunes. The area is teeming with wildlife, especially fish, migratory birds and small mammals.

    Recreation:

    The Lower Colorado River offers excellent boating, fishing, canoeing and swimming opportunities. The campground provides river front views and a beach.

    Just follow the Parker Dam Road Scenic Backcountry Byway to various recreation sites along the river. The Rock House Visitor Center and Boat Launch are within a mile of the campground, and offers information and a free boat launch open year-round.

    Other popular activities in the Parker Strip Recreation Area include hiking, biking, rock hounding and off-road vehicle travel.

    Facilities:

    This small campground contains individual campsites and one accessible campsite. All of the sites are dry camping (no water) and provide a picnic table and grill. 

    One vault toilet is available. There is a Campground Host available to answer questions.

    Nearby Attractions:

    The Copper Basin Dunes and Crossroads Off- Highway Vehicle Open Areas offer miles of off-road adventures. Rock hounders enjoy hiking and driving through the area to search for unique rocks. 

    Rock House Visitor Center has a free boat launch and a visitor center stocked with brochures and information about the area.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 2, 2021

    BLM Big River

    Simple and quiet

    Lots of sites for rvs and tents, usually quite a few folks out there but it is quiet. There are rock fire rings and if you go a bit further down the road there are secluded sites. Would not attempt to get to those sites with a car though. Not too far from Parker AZ and Lake Havasu.

  • Wayne B.
    Jan. 16, 2023

    River Island State Park Campground

    Clean & friendly

    River Island State Park was full when we checked in and they offered us overflow camping instead until a hook up site became available. Very affordable at only $20 a night with a noon checkout time. Very clean Park with flush restrooms,showers,dump stations,fresh potable water places around the park. Hiking trail overlooking Park and beach area for swimming and fishing. Gas station/ convenient store half mile up road,with free air and grill (burgers,pizza). Prices were amazing!

  • Wayne B.
    Jan. 12, 2023

    Lake Havasu State Park Campground

    Clean & friendly

    Arrived at Lake Havasu State Park on the evening of 1-6-23 to stay one night. The campground was full but they offered me overflow camping (no hookups) for $25 a night. My site ended up being right on the lake/beach and so beautiful. They have clean restrooms (flush) with showers, potable water and dump stations free for guests and close to parks and many amenities. The Park Staff and volunteers were super friendly and we're genuinely happy to help out or answer questions. Needless to say, I booked 6 more days after my one night was finished (7 day limit). I highly recommend Lake Havasu State Park in Arizona!!

  • Greg L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 11, 2021

    Crossroads Campground

    Great small CG on the river

    This is a great small BLM CG along the river. Used to be mostly reserve only but as of Nov 11 2031 there was no host and the site seems to have reverted to a first come arrangement. There are 26 sites with 1-20 on the lowered level by the river and many sites have shade. Sites 21-26 are on the upper level and there is no shade there but are away from the water where day use happens on weekends. Vault toilet, trash dumpster, tables and fire rings. Cell signal is very good. Sites are still only $5/$2.50 senior and that is incredible!! Usually has a host onsite but none present Nov 2021.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Feb. 5, 2023

    Gateway Ranch RV Resort

    Good campground

    Nice campground. Sites are good size. Clean area. Quiet place except for road noise. Close to Quartzite and Parker.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Feb. 20, 2024

    Shea Road BLM Dispersed

    Felt sketch initially but was great

    Tons of campers. I headed out on the road toward the coordinates but ended up camping about 4 miles before even getting to them. Maybe it gets more secluded? Once I lost cell service I turned back to find a spot within range, given that there were so many campers I didn’t feel totally safe and there was nowhere to have unseen privacy. Big groups and ATVs set up with really loud music but everyone observed quiet hours and the ambiance ended up being entertaining.

  • Greg L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 8, 2024

    Kofa National Wildlife Refuge - Crystal Hill Free Campsites

    Crystal hill rock hounding

    Crystal Hill-Kofa National Wildlife Refuge.

    Free remote dispersed camping. South of Quartzite along hwy 95.

    NEVERMIND the BLM no camping sign at the hwy turnoff, go 3.1 mi to Kofa Refuge boundary and then to the 5.7 mi point and you reach Crystal Hill. There is a loop with about several back in remote style campsites. No signs, no toilets, no water, no trash, no tables, no fire rings. However cell seems good. 14d camping limit. The road in is washboard rocky gravel. Also more camping spots between the Kofa boundary and Crystal Hill.

    Important note! The turnoff from hwy 95 is between mp 96 and mp 95. As of Nov 2024 there is a significant dip leaving the hwy that may be problematic for trailers or long RVs, causing you to drag the rear end or hitch... Recon first..

Guide to Parker

Parker, Arizona, offers a variety of options for tent camping enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying the great outdoors.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

  • The BLM Earp- Parker to Needles Wagon Road Dispersed site allows for free camping with features like fires and pets being welcome, making it a great choice for those seeking a laid-back experience.

Tent campers like these nearby activities

  • Havasu Heights provides access to stunning views and sunsets, perfect for those who enjoy scenic landscapes while camping, along with the freedom to explore the surrounding area.

Local attractions for tent campers

  • The BLM Empire Landing offers convenient access to drinking water and showers, making it an ideal spot for campers who want to enjoy the beauty of nature without sacrificing comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Parker, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Parker, AZ is BLM dispersed camping spur at MP 133.8 with a 3.7-star rating from 3 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Parker, AZ?

TheDyrt.com has all 5 tent camping locations near Parker, AZ, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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