The Colorado River region near Blythe creates a stark contrast between desert and waterfront camping environments. Summer temperatures in this area range from lows around 75°F to highs exceeding 115°F, while winter highs typically reach 65-75°F with overnight lows sometimes dropping to freezing. Water levels along this stretch of the Colorado River fluctuate seasonally, affecting beach access and water activities throughout the year.
What to do
Kayaking and paddleboarding: Access the Colorado River directly from Hippie Hole Camping Area, where campers can launch from small beaches. "We paddle boarded, watched the night stars, the blue haring in the morning," notes a visitor to Hippie Hole Camping Area.
Wildlife viewing: Visit the adjacent Cibola Wildlife Refuge from Wiley Wells Dispersed camping area to spot migratory birds. According to a camper at Wiley Wells Dispersed, it's a "Gorgeous area and far from noisy freeway" with opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Desert exploration: Navigate the surrounding desert terrain for hiking and off-road adventures. One visitor at BLM Oxbow Campground shared: "We went out into the desert by the Hart Mining area and saw Big Horn Sheep and a Log Cabin from 1910."
What campers like
River access: Many campgrounds offer direct Colorado River frontage with small beaches for water activities. A camper at BLM Oxbow Campground noted, "We were lucky to get a spot right on the river. The dirt roads getting back there were a bit rough especially for my brother whose van and trailer were low to the ground, but it was worth it."
Spacious sites: Dispersed camping areas provide more room between campers than developed campgrounds. At Midland LTVA, a reviewer observed: "The LTVA is very large and open..little shade. There is a host onsite and you can purchase LTVA stickers at the host trailer, cash or check...goes in an iron ranger locked box."
Desert sunsets: The open landscape creates spectacular sunset viewing opportunities. "Gorgeous camp, clean. Clean pit toilets right there. Gorgeous sunset & sunrise," according to a visitor at Oxbow Campground.
What you should know
Permit requirements: Long-term visitors need permits at certain BLM sites. At Midland LTVA Dispersed, "You can purchase a two week permit for $40 or a season pass (september - april) for $180 that can be used at a variety of other long term blm spots in CA and AZ."
Limited facilities: Most dispersed camping areas require self-contained setups. "No water no bathrooms. Self contained only. Perfect if you just need a place to be for a while but not much to do within walking distance," notes a Midland LTVA camper.
Sandy terrain: Several camping areas have soft sand that can challenge vehicles. A visitor to Wiley Wells warned: "There is a lot of soft sand you cannot get around. Recommend ONLY 4WD and knowledge of how to drive on sand. I had traction mats & compressor to pump tires back up."
Tips for camping with families
Resort amenities: For families wanting more facilities, some RV parks offer recreational options. At Arizona Oasis RV Resort, a reviewer found "Nightly activities, pool, beach, river, play area. If the local towns were a little more interesting it would better, but overall, a good place to stay."
Cabin options: Several riverfront campgrounds offer cabin rentals as alternatives to tents or RVs. One camper at Arizona Oasis noted: "From rv with full hooks ups, cabin rentals which are basic, beds and air with community shared showers and bathrooms. Mini houses to rent which we stayed in and they are perfect for a few couples and small Children."
Swimming areas: Look for protected swimming spots along the river. "The river area became packed from people setting out tents as soon as the sun came up," reported a family at Arizona Oasis, adding that "River was awesome for the kids."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full hookup sites are essential during summer months. At The Cove RV Resort, a reviewer found "The spots are a bit tight but once we found out the parking in the front (15 steps away) was free to park in the whole time we moved our truck and had plenty of room."
Cell service: Coverage varies throughout the area. At Midland LTVA, a camper reported "Limited cell on TMobile" while noting the area was "not very crowded end of Jan."
Dump stations: Plan where you'll empty tanks, especially when boondocking. At Midland LTVA there is "a RV black tank dump...but NO DUMP RINSE WATER AND NO POTABLE WATER," requiring campers to manage water resources carefully.
