The Colorado River border region near Earp, California sits at approximately 400 feet elevation in the Mojave Desert. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 110°F from June through September, while winter highs average 65-75°F. The area features desert pavement terrain with minimal vegetation, creating challenging conditions for tent stakes and requiring additional cooling considerations during warmer months.
What to do
Water recreation access points: At Crossroads Campground, the Colorado River offers multiple entry points. "I think it was site 19, but it felt very private but open to the water and had a little walkway to the river so it was like we had a private beach," notes Kate W. The beach areas provide swimming, kayaking, and fishing opportunities.
Miniature golf and arcade games: La Paz County Park provides family entertainment beyond water activities. "Very nice employees," mentions Diane B., who appreciates the recreational facilities. The park maintains miniature golf, arcade options, and organized activities for campers throughout winter months.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Wild burros frequent many camping areas along the Parker Strip. "We've been to this campground twice, tent camping, and love the river access... There were also burros who came down to the river. They didn't mess with us, though one pregnant looking one stared at us a long time," reports Rachel W. from Crossroads Campground. Morning and evening hours offer the best wildlife viewing times.
What campers like
Affordable camping options: Shea Road BLM Dispersed offers completely free camping with generous spacing between sites. "This is a really nice area with lots of available spots. We were about 75 yards from the next camper which was a little close and I think that's gonna be the norm at this location," says Danny T. Most campers report finding suitable spots even during busier periods.
River beach access: Water entry points receive consistent praise from campers. "There are 26 sites with 1-20 on the lowered level by the river and many sites have shade. Sites 21-26 are on the upper level and there is no shade there but are away from the water where day use happens on weekends," explains Greg L. about Crossroads Campground's layout. River access varies between developed and undeveloped entry points.
Stargazing opportunities: The desert setting creates excellent night sky visibility. "Stay up late and turn off your lights to enjoy the stargazing," recommends Rachel W. The minimal light pollution in dispersed camping areas particularly enhances astronomical viewing, with campers reporting excellent visibility of the Milky Way during new moon phases.
What you should know
Water quality concerns: Non-potable water exists at some campgrounds. "Very nice $30 full hookup. Dry camping also available... Marked down because of water," notes Pamela K. about La Paz County Park. Many experienced campers recommend bringing drinking water rather than relying on campground supplies.
Wind considerations: Exposed desert locations experience significant wind events. "We've been to this campground twice, tent camping, and love the river access. Both times it got very windy, which made certain activities like cooking difficult," reports Rachel W. Secure tent stakes, proper RV stabilization, and protected cooking areas become essential during windier periods.
Weekend crowding patterns: Popular water access points fill quickly during peak periods. "Dry camping also available. Usually booked Fri and Sat in winter as big swap meet there," mentions Pamela K. Weekday arrivals significantly improve site selection possibilities, particularly at riverfront locations.
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly beach options: Pet amenities vary between locations near Earp. "There is a beach access area that's quite nice," notes Andi F. about Crossroads Campground, while mentioning the interactions between pets and wildlife: "There are tons of burros and burritos this time of year which is a delight!" Always maintain control of dogs around wild burros to prevent negative interactions.
Protected swimming areas: River conditions create family-friendly swim zones. "A small beach for swimming or kayaking. Peaceful, with desert trails across the road for ATVs," says Richard B. about the designated swimming sections. Water depth varies seasonally, requiring parental supervision regardless of swimming skill.
Dust management techniques: Desert environments create challenging dust conditions. "Dusty when it blows, burros come to water once or twice a day," notes Steve C. Families should pack protective cases for electronics, designated clean clothing, and utilize vehicle storage for sensitive items during windier periods.
Tips from RVers
Campsite selection strategy: Riverfront sites balance amenities with exposure. "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," warns Brandy La Shea S. about Emerald Cove Resort. Requesting sites further from main thoroughfares improves overall experience.
Cell service considerations: Digital connectivity varies dramatically by location. "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... ATT 4G 2 bars," reports Jessica about connectivity at Shea Road BLM Dispersed camping. Higher elevation camping spots typically provide better signal strength for remote work needs.
Seasonal timing recommendations: Temperature extremes dictate optimal camping periods. "Was there last October for two nights and was very warm in hi 90's but this time was 115° to 120°," reports Craig & Linda L. Most experienced RVers recommend November through March for comfortable outdoor conditions, avoiding May through September entirely unless exceptional cooling capabilities exist.