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Best Dispersed Camping near Willow Beach, AZ

308 Reviews

Lake Mead National Recreation Area offers several dispersed camping options near Willow Beach, Arizona. Kingman Wash, located about 3 miles down a dirt road from Exit 2, provides free lakeside camping with no facilities except one vault toilet. The road requires careful navigation - while passenger cars can make it, high-clearance 4WD vehicles are recommended. "The 3 mile dirt road in a Prius was not optimal but it happened. One or two hills on the way back were tough," noted one camper.

Black Canyon of the Colorado and Arizona Hot Springs offer backcountry camping accessible primarily by water or hiking. These sites feature sandy beaches along the Colorado River below Hoover Dam. Campers must pack in all supplies and pack out all waste. Water levels can change dramatically when the dam releases, so boats should be secured well above the shoreline. Emerald Cave Dispersed also offers primitive camping, though reviews indicate confusion about fees and locations. A camper shared, "If it wasn't for one hill that had us question if we should chance it or not, we probably could have made it to the end of the road. Hiking the few miles down from our campsite with a kayak on my back was not fun but it was worth it."

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Willow Beach, Arizona (39)

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Willow Beach, AZ

308 Reviews of 39 Willow Beach Campgrounds

  • Shari G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 25, 2019

    Black Canyon of the Colorado Dispersed — Lake Mead National Recreation Area

    The River Between Two States

    Along this gorgeous stretch of the Colorado River downstream of Hoover Dam, you will find numerous backcountry camping options on both the AZ and NV sides, many with existing fire rings. In addition, you’ll find emerald green waters, hot springs/hot waterfalls, sauna cave, slot canyons and interesting features along the sides of the canyon.   All camping is first-come, first-served and no permit is needed.  Water can be filtered in an emergency, but it is the Colorado River; so we’d recommend bringing 1 gallon of fresh drinking water per person per day. Please Leave No Trace by bringing Wag Bags or other poop removal method, including your toilet paper. 

    **Weather & River Concerns: **

    • If you are camping in a wash, be sure to keep an eye on the weather as flash flooding is a major concern during the rainy season.  
    • We launched from Willow Beach marina (AZ side) and paddled up stream to the dam and back over 4 days. We had an amazing weather window, but have heard from locals that this place can be VERY windy (25-50mph), making it impossible to travel against the wind. 
    • When the dam releases, it can also make upriver travel quite difficult (not impossible but difficult depending on your boat and paddling skills). Also, the river can rise 4-6 vertical feet when the dam releases water from Lake Mead, so haul your boats at least 50 feet up the washes and don’t camp close to the water or you’ll find yourself floating downstream in the middle of the night.
    • Cell service in the canyon is very limited. We found a bit near the dam, but otherwise it was emergency calls only.

    Note: If you’ve never done backcountry kayak camping, hire a guide or go with a group. There are numerous companies taking groups down the river each day.

  • Jeff
    Jan. 4, 2021

    Kingman Wash — Lake Mead National Recreation Area

    Dispersed Camping

    Great place to disperse Dry camp. Spots are scattered along the main road. You can camp close to the interstate or 3 miles away at the lake. The lake shore gets crowded. The road is bumpy but we saw cars all the way down to the lake. The sign recommends 4x4 high clearance vehicles. The mine road offers good views and a few camp spots. 4x4 is definitely recommended for this road. There is no garbage collection so pack it out. One vault toilet near the lake. Bring your own firewood. No trees for wood in this area. Wood can be purchased at the Lake Mead National Recreation Area Campground Store. We spoted motor homers near the interstate, ground tenters, rooftop tenters, van campers and pull behind campers at the lake. We camped up the N Mine Road with our RTT trailer.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 30, 2020

    BLM dispersed camping west of Valley of Fire

    Private boondocking site away from the clusters of other RVs

    We couldn't get a spot inside Valley of Fire State Park so we decided to boondock on the BLM land outside the park. We knew there were plenty of spots but a lot were out in the open where everyone can see you. We wanted a bit of privacy and wanted to feel like we were out in nature not just parked in an empty desert. We decided to go searching for a better option and went down a dirt road, crossing our fingers. Lo and behold we found what we feel is a primo campsite! It's just outside the park of a dirt road. The coordinates are 36.413656-114.616805 and there's actually 2-3 spots back there. The first one is the easiest for bigger rigs or regular cars. The other two are up steep, sandy hills that are more suitable for a Jeep or ATV. There are rock fire pits(but be careful about fire restrictions) to designate the camping areas. It's private with hills all around. You can faintly hear the road and if you need better cell reception hike up one of the hills. It's a fantastic private spot that felt remote and special. The ONLY negative we encountered was trash. We did a sweep and picked up a lot of broken glass bottles, some aluminum cans, a bunch of bullet casings, and other trash. And nearby there's an old washer or dryer that someone dumped and used for target practice. We didn't clean that up because obviously, that's just too big. Anyway, the spot is so close to Valley of Fire you can just head on into the park for hiking and day use or head back out to the freeway for more supplies. For us, this spot was absolutely perfect and we had zero troubles, but I can imagine if it rains or shortly after it's been raining that this particular spot might be terrible. DO NOT CAMP HERE IF RAIN IS IN THE FORECAST.

  • Brendan M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 12, 2025

    Kingman Wash — Lake Mead National Recreation Area

    Great place to stay

    We took our camper van down to the water. About 3 miles on the dirt road. Some spots are bumpy but we made it without ever getting stuck. Beautiful view. Worth it.

  • Rachel A.
    Jul. 6, 2020

    Kingman Wash — Lake Mead National Recreation Area

    Basic but lovely proximity to the Hoover Dam

    We stayed here on our way to the Hoover Dam and had a fine time. Nothing fancy, super basic free camping on public lands. Highlight was our visit to the dam itself

  • bThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 9, 2025

    Kingman Wash — Lake Mead National Recreation Area

    4x4 needed

    This place for sure needs a high clearance vehicle. We came in at night and was hard to tell what were spots and which ones were occupied. Road is very rough so ended up staying near the beginning of this road. No amenities here.

  • Steve M.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 17, 2025

    Lake Mohave - Nevada Telephone Cove — Lake Mead National Recreation Area

    Nice, quiet water spot w/limited spaces

    Beautiful area just outside of Laughlin, Nevada. Right on a Cove of Lake Mead. Four Mile unpaved Road to get down to the lake and anywhere between 15 to 20 camping spots depending on group size. Small boat launch for jet skis but not for bigger boats. Do not recommend trying to take anything bigger than a 35 ft RV down there. Two vault toilets and a garbage dumpster. Road is recently grated and other than a little bit of noise until 10:00 p.m., a great place for a night or several. Stay limit here is 7 days. I arrived Friday at 3:00 p.m. and found the last spot.

  • Ryan N.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 10, 2024

    W Big Wash Road Dispersed

    Perfect for a quick overnight stay

    The two spots are about 1.5 miles off the highway on a dirt road, you'll see a spot off the right on a narrow trail. BLM property. Free-roaming cows, didn't bother us at all. Beautiful sunset on our nights stay. The second spot is just around the first corner after the first one, less used, but probably flatter. Could hear the highway, but wasn't bothersome.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 9, 2022

    BLM dispersed camping west of Valley of Fire

    Lots of Spots Along This Road

    We stayed a bit closer to Valley of Fire than this spot, at 36.414344,-114.605350.
    It's basically a big pullout along the road but it's fine for an overnight. After we got there two more vans pulled up later in the evening and there was plenty of room for everyone. There is a little dirt road that continues down, and we walked it but wouldn't recommend driving it unless you have a 4x4 and high clearance. The spots down there aren't that great anyway, they're tiny and hilly.

    But the whole area has plenty of boondock opportunities so check it out on Google Earth or satellite and proceed at your vehicle's ability. Great place to stay the night before heading into Valley of Fire.

    Ok cell reception for both Verizon and att.

Guide to Willow Beach

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Willow Beach, Arizona, where stunning landscapes and serene waters await outdoor enthusiasts. This area offers a variety of options for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and immerse themselves in nature.

Dispersed campers should check out Kingman Wash

  • Located within the Lake Mead National Recreation Area, Kingman Wash provides a picturesque setting with rocky terrain and clear waters, perfect for a peaceful retreat.
  • Visitors have noted the presence of friendly burros roaming the area, adding a unique charm to your camping experience.
  • The site is accessible via a bumpy drive, making it ideal for smaller trailers or vehicles, but be cautious if you're considering larger RVs.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Willow Beach, Arizona

  • Always pack in what you need, as many spots, like Eight Mile Dispersed Camping, lack amenities such as water and trash disposal.
  • Be prepared for rough roads; some areas may require a vehicle with good clearance, especially if you venture further into the wilderness.
  • Respect the environment by following Leave No Trace principles, ensuring that you leave the area as beautiful as you found it.

Exploring the Arizona Hot Springs for dispersed campers

  • The Arizona Hot Springs offer a unique opportunity to combine camping with a visit to natural hot springs, making it a popular choice for those seeking relaxation.
  • Access to this area requires a hike or boat ride, so be sure to bring all necessary supplies, including plenty of water.
  • The hot springs can get crowded, especially during peak seasons, so arriving early can help you secure a more secluded spot for your camping experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Willow Beach dispersed camping area?

Willow Beach dispersed camping area is a primitive camping experience with minimal amenities. Similar to Kingman Wash — Lake Mead National Recreation Area and other dispersed sites in the region, you'll find no developed facilities like running water, hookups, or permanent restrooms. Many spots have existing fire rings, but you should come fully self-contained with all necessary supplies including water, food, and waste disposal options. The area follows typical dispersed camping rules—pack in, pack out all trash and waste. A high-clearance vehicle may be recommended for accessing some of the more remote camping locations near the water, especially if road conditions are rough.

Where is Willow Beach located on Lake Mead?

Willow Beach is located on the Arizona side of the Colorado River, approximately 12 miles downstream from Hoover Dam within the Lake Mead National Recreation Area. It's situated in the scenic Black Canyon of the Colorado Dispersed — Lake Mead National Recreation Area, which stretches along the river between Arizona and Nevada. This area is part of the larger Lake Mead complex and provides water access for boating and fishing. The location offers a beautiful setting with emerald green waters and is accessible via Willow Beach Road off of US-93.

What scenic views can I photograph at Willow Beach?

Willow Beach offers stunning photography opportunities with its emerald green waters of the Colorado River contrasting against dramatic canyon walls. The area features breathtaking views similar to those at Lake Mohave - Nevada Telephone Cove, with beautiful lake coves and distant mountain vistas. Photographers can capture spectacular sunsets over the water, rugged desert landscapes, and the unique Black Canyon formations. The area also provides opportunities to photograph wildlife including desert bighorn sheep, various bird species, and potentially wild burros. For more diverse landscapes, nearby Valley of Fire BLM Dispersed Site offers additional dramatic rock formations and desert scenery within driving distance.

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