Icy B.
Guide
GuideW Big Wash Road Dispersed
Decent Spot
Decent spot for overnight. Nothing special. Cows and donkeys everywhere so thats pretty cool.
Camping near Willow Beach, AZ
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Camping options around Willow Beach, Arizona include several established campgrounds within the Lake Mead National Recreation Area, offering sites for both RVs and tents along the Colorado River. Willow Beach Campground and RV Park provides full hookups with waterfront access, while nearby dispersed camping can be found at locations like Arizona Hot Springs and Emerald Cave. The surrounding desert landscape creates a striking contrast with the river, providing opportunities for boating, fishing, and paddling activities. Several campgrounds in the area feature amenities like showers, restrooms, and picnic tables, while others offer more primitive experiences.
The region experiences extremely hot temperatures, particularly during summer months when highs regularly exceed 100 degrees. As one visitor noted, "We went in June and hit a heat wave and it was 110 degrees. There is no shade in the campground and the lake is down a steep hill." Access to most developed campgrounds requires traversing paved roads, though some dispersed areas may need high-clearance vehicles. Many campgrounds in this area require advance reservations, especially during cooler seasons when demand increases. The National Recreation Area entrance fee applies in addition to camping fees at most locations. Cell service is limited throughout the region, though some developed campgrounds offer WiFi connectivity. Water access points vary in difficulty, with some requiring steep descents to reach the river.
Waterfront access represents the primary draw for most visitors to the Willow Beach area. A camper described the experience as "unexpected beauty," noting they were "blown away by the water oasis hidden in the otherwise barren landscape." The contrast between the desert mountains and clear Colorado River creates distinctive camping experiences. Wildlife sightings, including bighorn sheep and coyotes, are frequently mentioned in reviews. Most developed campgrounds maintain clean facilities, with several reviews specifically mentioning well-maintained bathrooms and showers. Campgrounds near the water often fill quickly, with some requiring reservations months in advance. While daytime temperatures can be extreme, the area offers excellent stargazing opportunities after sunset. River activities like kayaking to Emerald Cove and fishing for trout are popular among visitors staying at the mixed-use campgrounds.
Best Campgrounds near Willow Beach (116)
1. Willow Beach Campground and RV Park
"This review is for the boat in site at Arizona Hot Springs along the Colorado, just before Willow Beach. We camped here with about 4 other parties and had plenty of privacy."
"Nice cold water, WiFi, clean bathroom, Fishing, rental kayaks, picnic area, and very clean willow Beach."
from $80 / night
Check Availability2. Kingman Wash — Lake Mead National Recreation Area
"Used this as my base camp for exploring other nearby areas such as Arizona Hot Springs and Goldstrike Canyon. I prefer to camp naked and everyone was cool with it. "
"One of the many little coves in Lake Mead that has access from the main freeway."
3. Boulder Beach Campground — Lake Mead National Recreation Area
"Took my kids and my mom camping for a little vacation away from the hustle and bustle of Las Vegas. I chose Boulder Beach campground as it was our first time and didn't want to be too far from home."
"Nice flat RV parking with hook ups and some spots have Wii Fii although with all the beauty around you you should find no need to use it."
from $20 / night
Check Availability4. Government Wash — Lake Mead National Recreation Area
"There are trash dumpsters at the entrance to the dispersed camping area and we saw BLM folks out patrolling. Many off road paths around to take your jeep or side by side. "
"Big dispersed camping site right on the southwest corner of Lake Mead. Being the nearest to the NRA entrance from Vegas it gets crowded, especially weekends and holidays."
5. Arizona Hot Springs — Lake Mead National Recreation Area
"Arizona Hot Spring campground is located just below a dramatic slot canyon that joins the river just downstream of Ringbolt Rapids and the Arizona Hot Spring."
"Arizona Hot Springs is located at Mile Marker 4 US 93 South Of Hoover Dam, Lake Mead National Recreation Area, Boulder City, NV 89005. Those directions will take you to the parking lot trailhead."
6. Lake Mead RV Village — Lake Mead National Recreation Area
"These are closest to the lake, but when we visited, lake mead was very low, so the shoreline was about 1/4 mile away. Sites had decent spacing."
"Store, propane and great views of Lake Mead. If you are able to reserve a rv pad nearest the lake, you will be in for a treat. All spots have full hookup and picnic table."
7. Canyon Trail RV Park
"We came in December and even with the cold weather we really enjoyed the MTB trails directly behind the RV park. Short walk to shopping. The park was very clean and the people super nice."
"Well maintained and there is a walking path just out the back gate."
8. Emerald Cave Dispersed — Lake Mead National Recreation Area
"The pin took us off-road to a private BLM spot that went to a dead end in which you can get out of your vehicles and hike .8 miles down to the river."
"Located 45 minutes outside of Vegas, Emerald Cave is an absolute beauty. If you’re looking to get out of the city, enjoy the nice weather and warm lake water, this is the place for you."
9. Road Runner Cove — Lake Mead National Recreation Area
"It’s very isolated and secluded and it surrounded by trees. If you can make it you can camp and have A whole lake to yourself. Huge fish everywhere and cliffs to jump from."
10. Las Vegas Bay Campground — Lake Mead National Recreation Area
"All sites has prefect views of the surrounding mountains. All sites that are situated on the outer rim of the campground, be weary. Most have a good steep decline not to far away from the pavement."
"Quiet beautifully maintained campground with a dump station, portable water, spigots near restrooms and flush toilets. Firings and picnic tables at each site. Very few sites for rigs over 26’."
Drive Time
- 52 min from Las Vegas, NV
- 1 hr 41 min from Lake Havasu City, AZ
- 2 hrs 21 min from St. George, UT
- 2 hrs 59 min from Prescott Valley, AZ
Recent Camping Photos near Willow Beach, AZ
225 Photos of 116 Willow Beach Campgrounds
Leah W.
Willow Beach Campground and RV Park
Shari G.
Black Canyon of the Colorado Dispersed — Lake Mead National Recreation Area
Cresta P.
Arizona Hot Springs — Lake Mead National Recreation Area
Dan X.
Moonscape Canyon Dispersed Camping — Lake Mead National Recreation Area
Stoney P.
Kingman Wash — Lake Mead National Recreation Area
Lane H.
Canyon Trail RV Park
Michael C.
Lake Mead RV Village — Lake Mead National Recreation Area
Colette K.
Boulder Beach Campground — Lake Mead National Recreation Area
DJ Jazzy W.
Boulder Beach Camp Grounds
Haley D.
Callville Bay Campground — Lake Mead National Recreation Area
Brittney C.
Callville Bay RV Park — Lake Mead National Recreation Area
Chelsea K.
Crawdad Cove Dispersed Camping — Lake Mead National Recreation Area
Recent Reviews near Willow Beach, AZ
1122 Reviews of 116 Willow Beach Campgrounds
- jjenny S.Guide
Arch Rock Campground — Valley of Fire State Park
Arch Rock campground at Valley of Fire
Stunning camp sites nestled among the red rock cliffs. Tables, shelter and fire rings. Bathrooms ( pit toilets). Stopped on way back from Utah on trip to San Diego. Pulled in after sunset and had to drive through to see what sites were available. They left a sign out saying campground full from weekend but had not taken it down yet and there were plenty of sites open. Self pay campground after hours. So warm that we slept in bed of truck with no tent to watch the stars!
- sstephanie K.
ScoutKnob Hill BLM Dispersed Camping
Great overnight
We found out about this area on this site. Traveling from AZ to OR with our toy hauler and dogs. We hate hotels with dogs. We always seem to get a smelly room. Once we arrived and picked a spot we really enjoyed our space. Getting here was a bit of a puzzle. The directions led us to a space that seemed to be private property. There were faded out private property signs. We kept going and went past a makeshift fence with huge wooden posts. No more private property signs. We drove a ways to find a flat spot. Once settled in, loved our stay:) on the way out we saw where most people stay. It is well before the fence we went through and the gps destination. Nice level space. If we come back, that’s where we will stay. Also, we have AT&T and had no cell service.
- MMary H.Guide
Desert Eagle RV Park - Military Only
Oasis in the desert
Easy after hours check-in. I made a reservation about a month ago requesting Trees. They assign your site when you arrive. I got number 38 in the Trees, next to a beautiful desert garden. Long pull-thru, level concrete, FHU, picnic table. About half the park has small trees with no shade, the other half mature trees with shade. At 2 PM, 97° outside with a breeze. Will stay here again.
- bbill H.
TravelerRed Rock Canyon National Conservation Area - Red Rock Campground
Clean campground, high desert
It is hot and beautiful. I might stay again if passing through, it was 35$. I originally gave it four stars, but as the sunset, I appreciated the natural beauty around me. there is a climbing area and tonight the stars will be amazing. I think if you really need it a layover on a long trip you should be able to find a parking space here, there are about 15 parking lot spaces forbovernighters along with more spacious campsites some have sun shelter. Bathrooms are clean, limited water and no trash disposal
- jjenny S.Guide
Valley of Fire Dispersed
Valley of Fire Road
Open desert with some hills and mountains in distance. Site is off first main road pull off to the right from main road. Hard packed gravel and sand. Drive for thirty seconds to a minute to find large flat campsite with campfire ring. Very quiet. Lots of stars. Some light pollution from Vegas visible to the southwest. Only ones here midweek.
Joe M.ScoutGovernment Wash — Lake Mead National Recreation Area
Great disperse campground, but closed due to extreme heat until October 1st
Great campground - quiet and accessible, paved road in, though a bit far (20 min). Fit my 22ft camper just fine.
Just wanted to let everyone know that I just tried to pull in last night, May 18th, and it is apparently closed due to extreme heat until October 1st.
Good luck finding another site this summer everyone.
- Michele H.
RangerWillow Beach Campground and RV Park
Impeccable Desert Campground
This is our second time at Willow Beach campground, the last time was many years ago and it’s dramatically improved since then. Extremely clean bathrooms and beautifully maintained desert landscaping. We saw the maintenance staff raking and cleaning the spaces every day. We were able to spend the days paddle boarding and rest in our trailer in the afternoon and evenings. Be warned, the wind can really get moving, tent camping would be very challenging. We saw several popups and poorly staked tents taking a beating. Our space was quite private with a great view of the stark landscape.
Tomáš K.ScoutMain Street Station RV Park
Nice camp for a good price
Nice camp with clen showers, toilets and loundry room. The location is relativly close to strip, but also near a loud highway. We had no problem with any individuals but it looks like thay can be in this place.
Guide to Willow Beach
Dispersed camping options near Willow Beach, Arizona extend beyond the immediate marina area to several lesser-known spots along the Colorado River. Kingman Wash offers direct water access via a 3-mile dirt road with a primitive vault toilet on site. Summer temperatures in this region regularly exceed 110°F during daylight hours, though nights cool considerably to around 70-80°F, especially in canyon areas.
What to do
Kayak to secluded beaches: From Willow Beach Campground and RV Park, paddle to nearby hidden coves. The Colorado River corridor features dramatic canyon walls and clear, cold water. "Great campground, the facilities are impeccably clean. Camp sites are spacious, level and really well maintained," notes Steve C.
Hike to natural hot springs: Access the thermal pools at Arizona Hot Springs via a 3-mile trail that requires climbing a 20-foot ladder. The springs form several pools with water reaching 111°F. "Although 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," advises Alex B.
Wildlife observation: Early mornings at campsites near Willow Beach provide opportunities to spot wild burros, a remnant population from historic mining operations. At Kingman Wash, campers report regular visits from these animals. "Access to lake mead, plenty of little pull offs scattered throughout a small valley to set up camp in, a vault toilet, and a herd of Burros roaming around," describes Tim R.
What campers like
Waterfront accessibility: Kingman Wash offers direct beach access for those with appropriate vehicles. "This campground is amazing! There are bathrooms, but I did not use them. Donkeys roam around and the bugs are pretty extra. The 3 mile off road was a little intimidating with my 20ft camper but we made it! So worth it!" reports Peaches E.
Desert night skies: The dark skies at Las Vegas Bay Campground provide excellent stargazing conditions despite relative proximity to urban areas. "At night I've always heard coyotes and owls. Access to Lake Mead is a 15 minute drive away. Restrooms are flush facilities and clean," shares Lance E.
Privacy between sites: Many camping locations around Willow Beach feature natural vegetation barriers. "They have planted lots of trees in the campground for shade in the middle of the desert. So from the highway you come in at, it looks like a little oasis in the middle of the desert," notes Theresa R. about Las Vegas Bay Campground.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: The access road to Kingman Wash requires careful navigation. "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!" explains Amy G.
Hot springs accessibility is seasonal: Road Runner Cove and other backcountry areas close during extreme summer conditions. "This place is hard to get to but worth it. It's very isolated and secluded and it surrounded by trees. If you can make it you can camp and have a whole lake to yourself," reports Overland Pioneer.
Water levels affect campsite availability: Lake Mead's fluctuating water level impacts beach camping areas. "Only issue is with the water so low the level stuff is way back," notes Mike M. about Kingman Wash, while other campers mention former lake-adjacent sites now require longer walks to reach water.
Tips for camping with families
Choose established campgrounds with shade: Boulder Beach offers reliable amenities for families. "Boulder Beach was a reasonably priced and decently quiet campground with a wonderful view of Lake Mead. Most if not all of the sites had shade trees, which was also a plus. The campground had flush toilets, sinks, and potable water," shares Ashlee L.
Pack extra water for children: The desert environment demands significantly more water than typical camping trips. "Weather wise be prepared for the heat. It was 101°F when we arrived, 80° at night. Bring lots of water to drink!" warns Peaches E. about conditions at Kingman Wash.
Consider timing for water activities: Morning hours provide calmer conditions for paddling with kids. "The water is great and is perfect for my paddleboard!" notes Peaches E., while other campers mention afternoon winds can create challenging conditions for younger paddlers.
Tips from RVers
Measure access roads carefully: Some dispersed sites have size limitations. "Rough road in but larger rigs can make it without getting stuck if careful," advises Mike M. about Kingman Wash. Other campers recommend scouting ahead before bringing larger rigs down unpaved roads.
Hook-up availability: Canyon Trail RV Park in nearby Boulder City offers full amenities for those needing services. "Very clean park with mostly level gravel pull thru sites. Dog areas and common areas were clean. Did not use the facilities but other campers were enjoying the pool and spa," reports Lane H.
Tank management strategy: Limited dump stations means planning water usage carefully. "Free dump station and potable water. Dispersed spaces asphalt pads, concrete picnic tables, fire rings and gorgeous views," notes Robin P. about Las Vegas Bay Campground, making it a good option for refreshing tanks during longer stays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you camp at Willow Beach in Arizona?
Can you camp at Willow Beach in Arizona?
Yes, you can camp at Willow Beach Campground and RV Park in Arizona. This campground is part of the Lake Mead National Recreation Area and offers developed camping options with scenic views of the Colorado River. There's an entrance fee to access the area, which is waived if you have an America the Beautiful pass. For those seeking more primitive options, Black Canyon of the Colorado Dispersed offers backcountry camping opportunities downstream of Hoover Dam with existing fire rings and beautiful emerald green waters.
What amenities are available at Willow Beach Campground?
What amenities are available at Willow Beach Campground?
Willow Beach offers numerous amenities for campers. The campground features clean bathrooms, WiFi access, and well-maintained facilities with a helpful camp host. The marina area includes a camp store/market for supplies, boat rentals (kayaks and paddleboards), and fishing opportunities for trout, striped bass, and other species. Arizona Hot Springs is accessible nearby, adding natural hot springs as an attraction. The campground provides spacious sites with scenic views, and the entire area is pet-friendly. Picnic areas are available, and the facilities are consistently described as clean and well-maintained.
Is RV camping allowed at Willow Beach?
Is RV camping allowed at Willow Beach?
Yes, RV camping is definitely allowed and well-accommodated at Willow Beach. The Willow Beach Rv Park offers spacious sites suitable for recreational vehicles, with reports of excellent maintenance and beautiful views. Sites are well-maintained with helpful staff to assist with check-in. For those seeking alternative RV options in the Lake Mead area, Emerald Cave Dispersed is accessible from Willow Beach and provides access to scenic areas along the river. Remember that RV camping requires paying both the entrance fee and camping fees unless you have an America the Beautiful pass.
How do I make reservations for Willow Beach Campground?
How do I make reservations for Willow Beach Campground?
To make reservations for Willow Beach, check in at the marina/camp store after entering through the main gate. Camping fees start at $50 per night, plus the $25 entrance fee to the recreation area (waived with an America the Beautiful pass). For alternative options in the region, consider Meadview RV Park, which offers reservations when other nearby campgrounds are full. For water-based adventures, Moonscape Canyon Dispersed Camping offers information on guided tours from Hoover Dam to Willow Beach, which can be arranged through NPS-approved outfitters.
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