Dispersed camping areas near Earp, California extend beyond the main highway corridors, offering additional options for overnight stays in the Colorado River region. Most sites sit on Bureau of Land Management property and require varying levels of vehicle clearance to access. Winter temperatures typically range from 40-70°F, making this season more comfortable for tent campers compared to the extreme summer heat that regularly exceeds 110°F.
What to do
Explore back roads with 4WD: Sites accessible from the Parker to Needles Wagon Road provide more seclusion when travelers venture deeper on secondary routes. According to Greg L. at BLM Earp-Parker to Needles Wagon Road Dispersed, "Lots of campsites along the rocky two track dirt road for a mile or so and then ends at the water canal."
Evening photography: Desert sunsets and night skies are particularly vivid in this low-humidity environment. A camper at Havasu Heights notes, "There's not a lot of light pollution so you can get great stars and moon pictures."
Supply runs to Parker: Most campers plan regular trips to nearby Parker, Arizona for necessities. Greg L. mentions that "Parker is nearest town with a Walmart, Safeway, gas, etc." The town is approximately 10 minutes from most camping areas, making it convenient for resupplying during longer stays.
What campers like
Distance from highway noise: Camping areas set back from Highway 62 offer more peace and quiet. Lily S. at BLM dispersed camping spur at MP 133.8 recommends, "Plenty of road to get away from the highway noise if you're willing to drive a bit. Mid Spring the wind was fairly constant with some decent gusts, got pretty chilly at night."
Cell connectivity: Despite the remote setting, most camping areas maintain reliable telecommunications. Greg L. confirms "Cell service is very good on all providers" near the wagon road sites, while another review mentions "good cell service" at the MP 133.8 location.
Convenient overnight stops: These dispersed camping areas serve travelers passing through the region. Savannah A. at Havasu Heights explains, "I stayed two nights and found the area to be perfect. It was not overly crowded, except for the area right off of the main road. If you go a little farther in on the trail you get a little more space."
What you should know
Vehicle preparation: Many tent camping spots require careful navigation over uneven terrain. Michael S. advises, "I learned quick that I need to add a shovel to my essential supplies for BLM camping. My van was able to negotiate making an entrance, but I am leary of getting stuck."
Density patterns: Sites closest to main access points tend to fill quickly. One camper describes the scene at North of Rovey's Rock as "large graded areas that have an RV, Toy Hauler, or 5th wheel trailer parked about every 300 ft."
Spring conditions: Weather can be unpredictable during transitional seasons. According to Lily S., "Mid Spring the wind was fairly constant with some decent gusts, got pretty chilly at night, but only saw one ATV'er while we were out there."
Tips for camping with families
Site scouting: When arriving with children, take time to walk potential camping areas before committing. Savannah A. recommends, "There are lots of flat areas for easy setup, but there are also quite a few areas that would be challenging to level. Depending on your rig you may want to walk the area first."
Weather readiness: Temperature swings between day and night can be significant. Pack appropriate clothing layers, especially during spring when one camper noted "got pretty chilly at night" despite warmer daytime temperatures.
Location selection: For families seeking quieter sites with less traffic, follow Greg L.'s advice: "Hwy noise not too bad if you camp up by the canal" at the wagon road camping area.
Tips from RVers
Road quality awareness: Access roads to dispersed tent camping sites vary significantly in condition. Greg L. gives three stars to one area "due to slow rocky road access," suggesting larger rigs proceed with caution.
Level site hunting: RVers should scout for naturally level areas to minimize setup challenges. One experienced camper mentions, "I full time in a class c and flat tow my Jeep and was able to get about half a mile off the main road for my own slice of heaven."
Stay duration planning: Most BLM sites enforce a 14-day limit, requiring travelers to relocate periodically. Steven S. shares personal experience: "I was given the boot at a 14 day spot and i wasnt ready i had to choose between craggy crowded or lone tree loud."
