Best Dispersed Camping near Temple Bar Marina, AZ
Temple Bar Marina, Arizona sits within the Lake Mead National Recreation Area, where dispersed camping dominates the landscape. Kingman Wash offers free primitive camping with spots scattered along the main road, from near the interstate to three miles away at the lakeshore. The surrounding region features numerous free boondocking opportunities on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and National Park Service (NPS) lands. Most sites lack amenities but provide direct access to Lake Mead's shoreline. Government Wash, Stewart's Point, and Pierce Ferry Road dispersed areas accommodate various camping styles from tent camping to RVs, with many sites featuring existing fire rings and spectacular desert views.
Road conditions significantly impact accessibility throughout the region. As one camper noted, "The road is about 3 miles but takes about 25 minutes to traverse. It's hilly, bumpy and holey. High clearance vehicle suggested, but we made it in a Kia Soul!" Many access roads require high-clearance vehicles, especially after rain when washes can become impassable. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F, making fall through spring the preferred camping seasons. Cell service varies widely, with better reception typically found at higher elevations. Most dispersed sites enforce a 14-day stay limit and operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Vault toilets exist at some locations, but campers should prepare to pack out all waste and bring sufficient water.
Lakefront camping receives consistently positive reviews despite challenging access. Wild burros, descendants from mining operations, frequently visit campsites and can be heard "talking" near the water in evenings. Sunset and sunrise views across Lake Mead rank among campers' favorite experiences. Several reviewers mention trash as an ongoing issue, with one noting, "We did a sweep and picked up a lot of broken glass bottles, aluminum cans, and bullet casings." Proximity to attractions like Hoover Dam, Valley of Fire State Park, and the Grand Canyon Skywalk makes these sites popular basecamps for regional exploration. Wind can be significant in exposed areas, particularly on mesa tops, and campers should secure equipment accordingly.