Dispersed camping near Temple Bar Marina, Arizona requires navigation across high desert terrain typically at elevations between 1,200-2,000 feet. The area experiences wide temperature fluctuations with winter lows occasionally dropping below freezing and summer temperatures that can reach 115°F. Wind patterns in this region can be unpredictable, especially on mesa tops where gusts frequently exceed 30 mph during spring and fall months.
What to do
Kayaking to Emerald Cave: Access the Colorado River from dispersed sites for paddling adventures to nearby caves. A camper at Emerald Cave Dispersed shared, "We decide to rent a kayak for the weekend so we can explore Emerald Cave and its surroundings. The water felt amazing and is so clear with the emerald green color to it."
Hiking desert canyons: Multiple trail systems connect dispersed camping areas to hot springs and river access points. At Arizona Hot Springs, one visitor notes, "It's only a 6 mile round trip hike, make sure to bring plenty of water as it gets extremely hot in the canyon. A bathing suit and water shoes are highly encouraged as you will pass multiple hot springs."
Wildlife observation: The area hosts desert bighorn sheep and wild burros that frequently visit campsites. A camper at BLM dispersed camping west of Valley of Fire reported, "We saw Bighorn Sheep and got to explore Valley of Fire."
What campers like
Desert solitude: Secluded camping spots away from crowds provide quiet nights under dark skies. At Pierce Ferry Rd Dispersed, a visitor described, "It's an absolutely beautiful spot with breathe taking views. So quiet and serene. There are no hookups, no restrooms, no showers. Just peace and quiet."
Elevated viewpoints: Mesa top sites offer panoramic views of Lake Mead and surrounding mountains. One camper at Snowbird Mesa mentioned, "Great spot when visiting the Valley of Fire. Tons of space to spread out large flat areas. It is windy!"
Accessible water recreation: Despite challenging access roads, lakefront camping remains popular. A visitor noted, "If you enter through the south or west side of the park you pay to get into the Lake Mead National Recreation Area. If you drive through the north side of the park you will drive through the valley of fire state park which has its own entry fee."
What you should know
Road quality varies drastically: Many access roads deteriorate significantly during wet weather. One camper at Kingman Wash shared, "Rough road in but larger rigs can make it without getting stuck if careful. Only issue is with the water so low the level stuff is way back."
Water levels affect camping experience: Falling lake levels have changed shoreline camping options. A camper explained, "Of course it was hot then, but that's perfect weather for me since I'm nude all the time when I travel, camp and hike. Water level was very low so access there was a hike."
Weekend crowding: Popular areas fill quickly Friday through Sunday. "Really fun spot, but don't get there later at night or it could be hard to get a spot. Super pretty to wake up and see in the morning though," one visitor reported about their experience.
Tips for camping with families
Fire safety preparation: Bring proper containment equipment for campfires where permitted. A camper at Valley of Fire Dispersed noted, "There are some fire rings if you're interested," but many areas have seasonal fire restrictions.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare children for potential burro and coyote sightings. One camper warned, "Beware of coyotes lurking around fire rings looking for food!! I have two dogs that I take with me to run around, and swim and they love being able to play off of the leash."
Water access considerations: Plan for potentially long hikes to reach water during low lake levels. A visitor shared, "Hiking the few miles down from our campsite (dispersed) with a kayak on my back was not fun but it was worth it once you get down to the water."
Tips from RVers
Generator usage: Noise carries across open desert terrain, especially at night. One RVer noted, "Big sparse leveled area but kind of busy. On the other hand, busy all year round with people running their generators all night, be aware."
Terrain challenges: Many prime spots require high clearance vehicles. "You can manage easy with a 2 wheel drive vehicle. I parked right along the water but beware, there are lots of bugs," advised one experienced RVer.
Solar capability: The area receives abundant sunshine for solar power systems. "We outfitted our travel trailer with solar so we can RR at dispersed sites like this (free roam camping)," mentioned one solar-equipped camper, though they also warned it was "WINDY."
