The Colorado River area near Earp sits at approximately 390 feet elevation in the Mojave Desert, creating dry, hot summers with temperatures routinely exceeding 110°F and mild winters. The Parker Strip section where Earp is located features desert landscape with riverside vegetation, limited natural shade, and steep terrain in surrounding areas. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting beach access and water recreation opportunities.
What to do
Water activities on Lake Havasu: Located about 30 miles north of Earp, Lake Havasu State Park provides extensive water recreation beyond the Colorado River. "Spacious spots with great views. Boat ramp, rentals, beaches, trails, cabins and a wonderful desert garden," notes John R., highlighting additional amenities beyond just water access.
Desert hiking trails: Several campgrounds offer hiking opportunities with varying difficulty levels. At Buckskin Mountain State Park, "Beautiful mountain ranges in the background. Full amenities at this park including showers and restrooms... This campground is near a lot of incredible hiking opportunities," reports Kelsey G., though noting tent sites can be uneven.
Wildlife viewing: The desert landscape hosts diverse wildlife. "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! We did as he said and had a blast," shares Jen H. about Buckskin Mountain State Park, pointing out safety considerations for water activities.
What campers like
Riverside camping options: Cattail Cove State Park provides alternatives to the luxury glamping scene in Earp. "Super nice, boat launch and several beaches right there. Lots of trees for shading your rig. The sites do have some shoulder room for neighbor privacy," David M. notes, emphasizing the natural shade that can be scarce in the area.
Less crowded alternatives: For those seeking quieter accommodations than popular glamping in Earp, California, some prefer Cattail Cove. "I love this park because it is small and less crowded than most. If you have a boat there is plenty of room for you to ski or whatever you want without being in the main part of the lake," writes Patti S.
Unique bird watching: The river corridor attracts diverse birdlife. "We woke up to birds that sounded like nothing I've ever heard. Pretty sure the one we called the alarm bird was a myna or some other starling because it sounded exactly like someone's alarm clock followed by a chirp!" reports RichMichelle M. at Cattail Cove State Park.
What you should know
Water quality concerns: Several campgrounds report issues with water taste and quality. "I would give the park 5 stars except for one thing. Wow, the water really tastes bad. They are apparently not on city water," reports david M. about Buckskin Mountain State Park. Another camper noted, "We took showers and it had the smell of sewer. I'm not sure what that is about but after a day in the sand you need a shower!"
Campsite privacy varies significantly: Mayflower Park has an unusual layout. "Reserved ahead in campground near next to the river. There are day use picnic spots between the campsites and the river which was unique. Since there was only one other camper in that section and day users it was no problem. On a crowded weekend it could get weird," writes David P.
Membership requirements: Some resorts in Earp operate on a membership model. At Havasu Springs Resort, "Love the springs! Just far enough away from the city and also close to Parker strip! Awesome pool and spa. Motel rooms, par 3 golf course, Marina, camp store and restaurant/bar! Winter crowd is mostly snowbirds & remote workers," Hannah S. explains.
Tips for camping with families
Best beach options: For families seeking upscale glamping in Earp alongside beach time, consider alternatives with better beach access. "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," notes Manny D., though mentioning "the dog beach being a small rocky area."
Kid-friendly activities: Beyond water recreation, look for campgrounds with additional amenities. "Good fishing. There is a boat ramp and swimming area. Hiking trail available. General store," shares Sheryl B. about Buckskin Mountain State Park, highlighting options for families beyond swimming.
Weather considerations: Summer temperatures are extreme. "Now I do NOT recommend going in June, July or August unless you have a boat and plan to be out all day long. Our trip they said hit record temps that day…June 118 degrees," warns Martha S. about Cattail Cove, suggesting off-season visits for families.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Big River RV Park offers waterfront access similar to glamping options in Earp. "Great service and super welcoming campground was clean and close to water," notes Michael D., though offering limited additional details about specific sites.
Connectivity challenges: Cell service varies widely across campgrounds. A camper at Alamo Lake State Park reports, "I heard a rumor there was good cell coverage with Verizon, but that was false," while others note stronger signals at Lake Havasu. For those needing to stay connected during upscale glamping experiences, research specific campground connectivity beforehand.
Hookup variations: Some parks offer full hookups while others have limitations. "The sites are very close together with nothing to separate your site from the next, more specifically, nothing to separate your neighbors septic hose from being the first thing you see and smell when you step out of your door," Brandy La Shea S. cautions about Emerald Cove Resort, a contrast to the luxury glamping image.
