The dispersed rustic camping near Earp, California takes place primarily on desert pavement and rocky terrain with elevations typically between 400-600 feet. Winter temperatures range from 40-70°F, while summer can exceed 110°F. Camping options extend across both the California and Arizona sides of the Colorado River, with access roads varying from well-graded dirt to challenging rocky paths that require careful navigation.
What to do
Desert hiking and exploration: The area surrounding BLM dispersed camping spur at MP 133.8 offers opportunities for desert walks through scrubland terrain. As one camper notes, "Decent BLM site if you don't mind a bit of desert scrubland camping. No shade, no wind break, but plenty of road to get away from the highway noise if you're willing to drive a bit."
Stargazing: The clear desert skies create ideal conditions for night sky viewing at most primitive camping areas. The lack of light pollution makes constellations particularly visible. At Parker Pit Road Dispersed, campers find "lots of room at turnaround easy room for 20+ larger units, privacy and still maintain the turnaround."
Off-roading: Many campers bring ATVs and other off-road vehicles to explore the network of desert trails. The rocky terrain provides challenging routes for experienced riders. At Craggy Wash, visitors mention that "people seem respectful on the UTVs" while enjoying the extensive trail network.
What campers like
Proximity to supplies: While camping sites are primitive, most are within reasonable distance of towns for resupplying. At Havasu BLM, campers appreciate being "only minutes from Lake Havasu City. Lots of room to find a semi level spot. You can park far enough off the highway no highway noise."
Cell service: Unlike many remote areas, most dispersed sites near Earp maintain usable cellular connections. At Shea Road BLM Dispersed, a camper reported having "ATT 4G 2 bars. A lot of fire rings and not very busy!"
Spaciousness: The open desert landscape allows campers to spread out for privacy. A visitor at AZ State Land Recreational Area described having "multiple choices for spots. Private, views, groups, high or low. Roads very rocky but not too bad."
What you should know
Variable road conditions: Access to campsites ranges from easy to challenging depending on recent weather and specific location. At Hi Jolly BLM Dispersed Camping Area, a visitor noted that "it is BLM and it's FREE! You do have to register with the host when you pull in. It's the first camper on the left. It's rocky ground but that never bothered us."
Sand hazards: Some access roads contain sections of deep sand that can trap vehicles, particularly after rain. A camper at Shea Road BLM warned: "You can stop earlier than this just be cautious about the no camping signs. I went back to the empty tanks area and then went in from there. You can get stuck in some sand but if you stay in more gravel area you should be fine."
Trash issues: Several rustic camping sites near Earp suffer from litter problems. One reviewer at Craggy Wash reported: "There is a lot of trash, and it has been here for some time. The trash attracts bugs, so the fly situation is higher than some other places we have been."
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife awareness: Desert camping brings encounters with local fauna. A camper at Shea Road BLM Dispersed mentioned: "Did see some coyotes so be careful with small animals during the night."
Noise levels: Some locations experience varying noise from other campers, highway traffic, or recreational vehicles. At Shea Road BLM, a visitor observed: "Tons of campers. I headed out on the road toward the coordinates but ended up camping about 4 miles before even getting to them. Big groups and ATVs set up with really loud music but everyone observed quiet hours."
Finding level ground: While the desert appears flat, many camping areas have subtle slopes or uneven terrain. At Havasu BLM, one camper advised: "Been here often and love the spot especially for big rigs. Close enough to go to beach, groceries, activities."
Tips from RVers
Rig placement strategies: Position your vehicle strategically for comfort and access. At BLM mp 138.0 spur Dispersed, one camper noted: "This is a cool spot and it's much quieter than plasmas road or spots closer to quartzite. There's only about 20 spots and they are all pretty decent."
Water and waste management: With no services available, planning for water needs is essential. Parker Pit Road Dispersed offers convenient access to town amenities, as one visitor shared: "Services are close by in Parker, AZ, including dumping stations and water filling stations. There are several dumpsters around town, and a transfer station."
Sand management: Bring tools for potential sandy conditions. At Parker Pit Road, a camper advised: "2 areas right b4 the 2nd cattle guard were almost washed out during last rain but just mostly sand 4 to 6 inches deep. Just accelerate a bit, no problem."
