C
Cindy L.
Traveler
TravelerHavasu BLM Dispersed
Large gravel lot
This is a large flat gravel lot with many sites. Nothing special but it was good to get away from the hubbub of Lake Havasu City during Desert Storm weekend.
Best Campgrounds near Needles, CA
Campgrounds for various types of camping can be found in multiple areas near Needles, California, a desert community along the Colorado River. The region includes established RV resorts like Desert View RV Resort and Needles KOA, as well as mixed-use campgrounds that accommodate tents, RVs, and cabins. Pirate Cove and Fenders River Road Resort offer waterfront camping with cabin options approximately 3-5 miles from downtown Needles. For those seeking more primitive experiences, Craggy Wash Dispersed Camping Area provides free camping about 30 miles northwest in Arizona. Most campgrounds in the Needles area feature amenities such as electric hookups, water access, and shower facilities, while the dispersed camping areas offer more basic, self-contained experiences.
"This would be our first stop as a RV camper. KOA in Needles CA and I would have to say we loved it! Friendly staff, nice clean swimming pool, and the amenities and facilities clean," noted one visitor. The extreme desert climate significantly impacts camping conditions, with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 110°F from June through September. Winter months (October-April) provide more moderate temperatures ideal for camping. Many campgrounds remain open year-round despite the heat, though visitors during summer should prepare for extremely hot conditions. Water access is a critical consideration, as most established campgrounds provide hookups while dispersed sites require campers to bring their own supply. Cell service varies throughout the region, with stronger signals near town and more limited coverage in outlying areas.
Several visitors mentioned the Colorado River access as a primary attraction for camping in this area. Campgrounds along the river offer swimming, boating, and fishing opportunities that provide relief from the desert heat. A camper wrote, "The sites are kinda tight but well worth it if you can get a river view! Dog friendly with a nice dog beach." Public lands near the city support a range of camping styles from fully-developed resorts to primitive sites with no facilities. Campers report high satisfaction with sites near the Colorado River, though many note the importance of stocking up on supplies before arrival as services in Needles are limited. Reviews consistently mention the stark beauty of the desert landscape, wildlife viewing opportunities including wild burros, and the exceptional stargazing conditions due to minimal light pollution in the surrounding desert.
Best Camping Sites Near Needles, California (161)
1. Desert View RV Resort
16 ReviewsNeedles, CA3 milesWebsite+1 (760) 326-4000"This site is a walk away from Needles KOA, so if you need anything small, it's a very short walk to their store (where they carry some foods and drinks)."
"A quiet little mom and pop campground in Needles Ca.with a laundry room and restrooms even a pool everything well kept and clean."
2. Needles KOA
12 ReviewsNeedles, CA3 milesWebsite+1 (760) 326-4207"Rough crowd around and needles is a disgusting town. It will suffice if you need to stop for a night. Level spots descent size. Well stocked store with very friendly staff"
"KOA in needles ca and I would have to say we loved it ! Friendly staff nice clean swimming pool , and the amenities and facilities clean . The park overall I would say a 10 out of 10"
3. Pirate Cove
12 ReviewsNeedles, CA9 milesWebsite+1 (760) 326-3831"We camped with a group out on one of the points for some good off roading. LOTS of nice trails to go, lots of desert to cover. Some sand, some rocky areas, a nice assortment."
"The RV spots are full hook up and on dirt / sand....and right next to the water. You typically share a beach with three other RV sites though we had the beach mostly to ourselves during our stay."
4. Big Bend of the Colorado State Recreation Area
10 ReviewsNeedles, CA10 milesWebsite+1 (702) 298-1859$10 - $40 / night
"This was a small, 24-site campground near the Colorado River. The sites are not reservable so first come first served. The grounds and bathroom were clean."
"Its FCFS and the sites are usually full or nearly full. Mostly with the snowbirds during the winter months. The sites are fairly large and spaced out."
5. Fenders River Road Resort
5 ReviewsNeedles, CA2 milesWebsite+1 (760) 326-3423"Stock up on your groceries before you get to Needles California as there are no grocery stores, I would also suggest getting your fuel across the river in Arizona as the fuel prices here are beyond outrageous"
"Get gas before you get to Needles or you will pay a lot more. On the river, great beach to walk on. We avoided all the bad winter weather. Would definitely go back."
6. Needles Marina Resort
3 ReviewsNeedles, CA1 mileWebsite+1 (760) 326-2197"Super dope place right on the river with little sandy beaches on the river and a cool water inlet that is surrounded by grass for a fun family day."
"Close to restaurants, gas stations, attractions."
7. Craggy Wash - Dispersed Camping Area
29 ReviewsLake Havasu City, AZ22 milesWebsite+1 (928) 505-1200"Found a great spot away from the main campground areas. Road is very rough going in. Recommend high clearance vehicles. Made a great fireplace protected within the the rocks."
"The entrance is just north of Walmart on the east side of the road. We drove up about 2.5 miles and found a fairly flat open space with fabulous cellular service."
8. Needle Mountain Road
6 ReviewsNeedles, CA13 milesWebsite"the place to park and explore for sure... this place was PACKED RVs as far as the eye can see... every nook and cranny someone was in there, but the image of the river I showed is right before this needle"
"Nice spot , pretty close to the main road but plenty of room to drive further away from road noise"
9. Rainbo Beach Resort - PERMANENTLY CLOSED
2 ReviewsNeedles, CA3 milesWebsite+1 (760) 326-310110. The Palms River Resort
1 ReviewNeedles, CA4 milesWebsite+1 (760) 326-0333
Recent Camping Photos near Needles, CA
89 Photos of 161 Needles Campgrounds
Alex M.
Needles KOA
Bare Soul W.
Havasu Heights
John S.
Lone Tree Dispersed Camping BLM
Kathy M.
Craggy Wash - Dispersed Camping Area
Michele H.
Davis Camp Park - Mohave County
Brittney C.
Katherine Landing North Campground
marycatmathis ..
Old Kingman Highway Dispersed Camping near Bullhead City
Steve M.
Lake Mohave - Nevada Telephone Cove — Lake Mead National Recreation Area
Bernadette H.
Piute Range Dispersed Camping — Mojave National Preserve
Kevin J.
Lake Havasu State Park Campground
Lyle F.
Arrowhead Cove — Lake Mead National Recreation Area
Brittney C.
Crazy Horse Campgrounds
Recent Reviews near Needles, CA
736 Reviews of 161 Needles Campgrounds
Leslie Alan C.
ScoutDesert View RV Resort
Campground
Awesome facility with secluded sites and awesome bathrooms and showers
- JJohn R.
LegendCattail Cove State Park Campground
Clean.
Stayed in upper campground. Lower campground is older and more mature trees. Upper is new and very clean. Upper has better views. Some spots still need some leveling. Nice beaches.
- TThomas B.Scout
Griffith Road
Griffin Rd camp
Don’t park next to the railroad tracks. The train police will make you move maybe in the middle of the night!
Christian G.ScoutCircle S Campground
That home feel!!
We where looking around for a good place to stay and let me tell you we found it the office staff where so help full I felt like part of the committee as soon has we met they. Went out off there way to make us feel welcome, and safe the trees here are beautiful and there is no trash blowing around also minimal surveillance no gate code. Perfect placement everything you need within .5 mile the pric e was more than fair. Thank you guys we will meet agin.safe travels.
Claire W.ScoutRiver Island State Park Campground
Nice established camping
Pleasantly surprised! We usually go dispersed but it's quiet and beautiful here tonight, got a site by the water. #32. Recommend.
- CCorey W.
GuideChloride Western R.V. Park
Quiet Campground
Very quiet campground. Perfect for relaxing. Super friendly staff! Located within a short walk to the town of Chloride. Really enjoyed the little market. Restaurant is open Thursday through Sunday 9:00 am to 5:00 PM. A lot of history in this little town. Laundry onsite and the cheapest we have experienced on our travels.
- WWalker A.Scout
Craggy Wash - Dispersed Camping Area
Tent Campin' in Craggy
Nice and quiet the further you go in. Lots of RV's here this weekend. If you already love the desert this place has some nice spots for your weekend adventure!
BlueEye B.ScoutCattail Cove State Park Campground
Awesome park
Beautiful! Next to Colorado River. Clean, hot showers, friendly staff, paved sites for rvs, dog run with river access, shade trees.
Guide to Needles
Located along the Colorado River, Needles, California provides both established campgrounds and dispersed camping areas for travelers. The region includes several riverside options like Needles Marina Resort, Fenders River Road Resort, and Pirate Cove that offer cabin accommodations alongside traditional tent and RV camping. Desert View RV Resort features sites separated by oleander bushes providing privacy between spaces. Most established campgrounds in the area provide full hookups, showers, and toilets, while areas like Craggy Wash near Lake Havasu City offer more primitive dispersed camping experiences.
Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F, making air conditioning essential during warmer months. As one visitor noted, "We avoided all the bad winter weather. Would definitely go back," highlighting the appeal of the region during cooler seasons. Most campgrounds maintain year-round operations, though reservations are recommended, particularly for riverfront sites during peak periods. Camping in this border region benefits from access to services in both California and Arizona, with many reviews mentioning significant fuel price differences across state lines. Cell coverage is generally reliable near established campgrounds, though it may diminish in more remote areas.
Riverside camping represents the most popular option near Needles, with campers frequently praising water access. "Great little store. Very clean accommodations. Well kept grounds. Close to restaurants, gas stations, attractions," wrote one reviewer about Needles Marina Resort. Several campgrounds feature designated dog beaches and swimming areas, while privacy varies considerably between locations. Desert View RV Resort receives positive reviews for its hedges between sites that create a sense of privacy not found at neighboring facilities. Campers frequently mention the value of shade structures in this desert environment, with established sites offering varying degrees of protection from the intense sun. The contrast between the arid landscape and Colorado River access creates a distinctive camping environment that attracts visitors year-round.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Needles, CA?
What camping is available near Needles, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Needles, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 161 campgrounds and RV parks near Needles, CA and 57 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Needles, CA?
Which is the most popular campground near Needles, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Needles, CA is Desert View RV Resort with a 4.3-star rating from 16 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Needles, CA?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Needles, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 57 free dispersed camping spots near Needles, CA.
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