Camping options near Salome, Arizona range from riverside sites to desert locations with mountain views. At 1,800 feet elevation, this area experiences hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 100°F and mild winters that attract seasonal campers. The region offers diverse terrain for camping including lakeside locations, desert landscapes, and riverfront sites with varying levels of amenities.
What to do
Explore desert trails: At Alamo Lake State Park Campground, visitors find extensive trail networks throughout the surrounding desert. "I've been riding here over 15yrs and always find new trails," notes one camper, while another mentions, "If you like to explore, look no further. There are loads of trails heading every which way."
Fishing opportunities: Alamo Lake provides productive fishing grounds, particularly for those with watercraft. "The fishermen on boats bring in a ton of fish, so if you have a boat then you'll have better luck," explains one visitor, though shore fishing may be less successful.
Water recreation: At Emerald Cove Resort, the Colorado River offers swimming and boating activities. "It's hot in the summer but the river is right there to jump in and stay cool. They also have 2 pools near the tiki bar and that's where we spent a lot of time with the kids," shares a camper. The resort includes water access within walking distance from most sites.
Wildlife watching: The area hosts diverse wildlife, including wild burros. "There are tons of wild burros, coyotes, and other desert creatures," notes a visitor to Alamo Lake, while another camper at Emerald Cove Resort warns, "There are some wild burros that stroll around at night and we found them dumping on our mat in the morning. Make sure to block your area off with chairs."
What campers like
Stargazing conditions: The remote location of Alamo Lake State Park Campground creates excellent night sky viewing. "The night sky is AMAZING!" exclaims one camper, noting the minimal light pollution compared to more developed areas.
Spacious campsites: Many visitors appreciate the site layout at various campgrounds. At Alamo Lake, "Camping with our Class c RV. First night was dry camping. Cost $15. Included a cement pad, great view, picnic table & fire grate," reports one camper. Site spacing varies between campgrounds.
Riverfront access: Buckskin Mountain State Park Campground offers direct Colorado River access. "Full amenities at this park including showers and restrooms. Our site had a nice fire pit and grill, where you could simultaneously cook over coals while still having a nice fire," notes one visitor, while another mentions, "Great beach areas to beach boats and play in the water for the kids."
Yurt camping options: For those interested in yurt camping near Salome, Arizona, Emerald Cove Resort offers alternative accommodations including yurts. "They have cottages you can rent if you don't have an RV or have extra people visiting with you," explains one visitor, making this an accessible option for those seeking yurt-style camping without bringing their own gear.
What you should know
Remote location: Alamo Lake requires planning due to its distance from services. "It's quite a drive to what feels like the middle of nowhere, but totally worth the trip," explains one visitor, while another cautions, "The closest gas station is 45 minutes away. There is a shop up the road that sells 10 gallons in case of emergencies."
Variable lake levels: Water levels at Alamo Lake fluctuate significantly based on rainfall. "This lake is not fed by any dedicated water source and it was designed for flood control, so its level varies greatly from year to year based on winter rain/snow fall during the previous winter," explains one camper who witnessed dramatic changes between visits.
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies by location and provider. At Havasu Springs Resort, being "Just far enough away from the city and also close to Parker strip" creates a balance of seclusion while maintaining reasonable access to services, though cell coverage may be limited.
Seasonal considerations: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F, making winter the preferred season. "The weather is close to perfect in the winter, gets pretty cold at night. I wouldn't recommend going in the summer as the temps reach well over 100," advises an Alamo Lake visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Recreational amenities: Big River RV Park provides family-friendly facilities. "Great service and super welcoming campground was clean and close to water," notes one visitor, making it suitable for families seeking water activities.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare children for local wildlife, including the numerous donkeys. "Never camped before in my life, so I have nothing to compare this to. Having said that - the staff were great, bathrooms very clean. The weather was quite warm, so we didn't do much exploring. Also - the donkeys!! Everywhere!" reports a first-time camper at Alamo Lake.
Swimming areas: At Buckskin Mountain State Park, families appreciate the designated swimming zones. "Great beach areas to beach boats and play in the water for the kids," notes one visitor, while another mentions, "Very nice State Park campground. Sites are spaced far apart. Nice rangers and volunteers. Clean all around; two shower areas, two beaches, one dogs can go on."
Entertainment options: For families at Emerald Cove Resort, structured activities provide entertainment options. "Kids clubhouse, playground, miniature golf. Nicely stocked Camp store," lists one visitor. Another mentions, "Their food is good and very affordable. So are the drinks. Karaoke in the evenings is fun and it's nice to have a store to buy ice etc."
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: RV sites offer different utility connections depending on location. At Pattie's RV Park, "Small… but cute and quaint. They have a smoothie, coffee and tea bar, propane fill up, full hook ups, dump station available. Definitely call ahead of time to make a reservation to make sure that there is space available. All the sites are back in."
Site selection: Choose sites based on specific needs and season. At Alamo Lake, "We pay $22 per night for water and electric. Spots are pretty close to each other," while another RVer advises, "If you plan on staying overnight with an RV do not reserve the Ramada sites. They're meant for day use and are super tiny and squished together."
Wind conditions: Prepare for desert winds at certain locations. "It's always very windy at night, so remember to put your awnings up! We made that mistake our first time there," warns an RVer at Alamo Lake.
Water quality issues: Some locations have problematic water. A visitor at Buckskin Mountain State Park notes, "I would give the park 5 stars except for one thing. Wow, the water really tastes bad. They are apparently not on city water." Consider bringing drinking water if staying at locations with water quality concerns.
