Glamping close to Yucca, Arizona offers a contrast of high-elevation pine forests and desert landscapes. The area surrounding Yucca transitions from low desert at 1,800 feet to pine-covered mountains reaching 8,000 feet, creating temperature differentials of 15-25 degrees between elevations. During summer months, nighttime temperatures at higher elevations can drop to 50°F while daytime temperatures remain moderate compared to the desert floor.
What to do
Night hiking under stars: Hualapai Mountain Park trails offer unique nocturnal experiences. "I came night hiking here and the star will amaze you. I got to see reptiles like tarantulas and scorpions," reports Kevin T. from Hualapai Mountain Park.
Water activities at Lake Havasu: The state parks along Lake Havasu provide multiple access points for swimming and boating. "We spent a great deal of time in the water as it was 100 degrees. The ranger warned us to stay on the side of the river as the speed boats are fast and don't look!" advises Jen H. from Buckskin Mountain State Park.
Disc golf between showers: The Hualapai Mountains offer recreational activities even in variable weather. "We played a bit of disc golf between rain showers, saw an elk, explored the area, and ate twice in Kingman, just 10 miles away," shares Willa J., highlighting the area's diverse recreational options.
What campers like
Wildlife encounters: The higher elevation camping areas frequently feature wildlife. "I have been there many times over the years and have never been disappointed. I have been so close to wild life before the elk and deer roam the area, especially in the morning hours," notes Chris G. about Hualapai Mountain Park.
Comfortable temperatures: Higher elevations provide relief from desert heat. "We stayed two nights for the maiden voyage of our RPod, just after the park opened for the season... We played a bit of disc golf between rain showers, saw an elk, explored the area," explains Willa J., highlighting the cooler mountain climate compared to surrounding desert.
Variety of accommodation options: Wild Cow Springs Recreation Area offers more remote camping experiences. "My boyfriend and I stayed 1 night here with our dog and we loved it. The sites are well spread out so each camp has privacy," explains Miranda T., describing the BLM-managed campground located in the mountains near Kingman.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Hualapai Mountain Park has limited operating seasons. "$20 a night, dry camp will get you out of the blast furnace of the Kingman summer. 10 gorgeous miles of hiking trails. Rent a 1930's stone cabin for $90," advises Jenny H., noting the temperature advantage of mountain camping.
Site selection impacts privacy: At Lake Havasu State Park, site selection can determine your experience. "I ended up staying 3 nights here. The first in the regular paid campground--$50 a night--yikes for water/electric. Then I discovered the overflow parking lot. $25 for dry camping. Much better views," reports Kathy B., detailing the cost differences.
Cash requirements: Late arrivals at some parks need exact cash. "We arrived after the rangers had left for the day so we had to put cash in an envelope at the pay station. It is not $15 like the app says, it is $30 a night for tent camping and if you arrive late, have exact change," warns Hunter I. about Hualapai Mountain Park.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Kingman KOA offers multiple family activities. "This a great experience since we were originally not planning on camping on our way back to California, but it got late and we were tired. We got a KOA basic cabin which fit my husband and I and a bunk bed which our son loved. The campground also had a pool, hot tub, playground, mini golf and a little train," shares Katherine T.
Boat launch access: Families with water toys benefit from dedicated launch areas. "Great spot right out side of town," notes Christian S. about Hualapai Mountain Park, while another camper at Cattail Cove mentions, "This place is awesome, good camp sites, great camp hosts. Nice beach area, hiking trails, volly ball court launch ramp... Fishing."
Beginner-friendly sites: Some locations cater specifically to new campers. "The Cattail Cove Campgrounds are perfect for a beginners camp site. The campsites are flat and easy to back in your car and set up your tent. The table on site is big enough to sit 6 people," explains Manny D.
Tips from RVers
Pioneer RV Campground challenges: The Hualapai Mountain Park RV area has some limitations. "The Pioneer RV Campground consists of about 10 sites terraced into a hilly area accessed via a steep, one-way but well maintained road. The sites were way too close together for privacy... it was worth it to have immediate access to the Potato Patch Loop trailhead," explains Craig J., noting the tradeoffs.
Full hookup considerations: Davis Camp Park offers various RV accommodations. "Stayed in B loop, spaces were nice and wide. Some have lots of trees but some have nothing. Some of the spaces nearest the river have a good water view but some are blocked by vegetation," notes Michele H., highlighting the variability of sites.
Leveling issues: Some mountain sites require leveling equipment. "We stayed two nights for the maiden voyage of our RPod, just after the park opened for the season. The campsites were great, but they were not level, and the turnaround area was under construction so I didn't really have room and nearly jackknifed it," cautions Willa J. about the Hualapai Mountain sites.
