Equestrians seeking horse campgrounds near Needles, California have limited designated options. The area's varied terrain ranges from 500 to 5,000 feet elevation with desert conditions requiring careful planning. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 110°F, making fall through spring the preferred camping seasons for both riders and horses.
What to do
Explore desert trails: At Wild Horse Road Dispersed, you can camp with basic amenities while accessing nearby riding paths. "Great spot just before Hole in the Wall. About 1/4 mile down a road marked '4x4 high clearance only.' But if you're just hitting the campsite you can make It in a lot less," notes camper Dan.
Mountain recreation: The Hualapai Mountains provide cooler temperatures and pine forests. "I have been there many times over the years and have never been disappointed. I have been there in the snow and rain, and it is still a good time. I have never been so close to wild life before the elk and deer roam the area, especially in the morning hours," writes Chris G. about Hualapai Mountain Park.
Night sky viewing: The dark skies in this region offer excellent stargazing opportunities. "Peace and loneliness. The site is small and basic; just a fire pit; perfect! Nice views of the nearby mountain and gorgeous sunsets," reports Gregory O. about Wild Horse Road Dispersed camping.
What campers like
Natural surroundings: Arrowhead Cove at Lake Mead offers waterside camping with wildlife viewing. "This Cove is sheltered from wind by trees and tall grass. A small peninsula also blocks direct site from the water so this is a very private site. The water is the clearest I've ever seen and the water fowl dive freely along the banks," reports Lyle F.
Water access: Water-based activities provide relief from desert heat. "Really a nice campground, nice big spots, tables and a fire pit as well as a laundry room and did I mention clean bathrooms!!! Perfect place to ride bikes and it's a good walking distance to the pier with restaurant, grocery store, fishing and boat rentals," writes Brittney C. about Katherine Landing South Campground.
Family facilities: Some campgrounds offer amenities specifically for families. "This a great experience since we were originally not planning on camping on our way back to California, but it got late and we were tired. We got a KOA basic cabin which fit my husband and I and a bunk bed which our son loved. The campground also had a pool, hot tub, playground, mini golf and a little train that kids to ride in," notes Katherine T.
What you should know
Weather preparation: Temperature fluctuations can be extreme. "Temp at night 36°F in February," mentions Gregory O. about Wild Horse Road Dispersed camping. "No protection from wind" is also noted, making proper gear essential.
Limited facilities: Most dispersed camping areas lack basic amenities. "No facilities, but beautiful quiet place to spend the night. No one else there, rings provided for fires," reports Tamara about Black Canyon.
Vehicle requirements: Many camping areas require appropriate vehicles. As Dan notes about Wild Horse Road Dispersed, some roads are marked "4x4 high clearance only," though main camping areas may be accessible with standard vehicles.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with amenities: Kingman KOA offers family-friendly facilities. "Wide, level spaces with bushes in between. Lots of amenities including rec room, playground, dog area, and mini golf. Very friendly staff," notes Rich J.
Plan for wildlife viewing: Morning hours offer the best wildlife spotting opportunities. Chris G. mentions that in Hualapai Mountain Park, "the elk and deer roam the area, especially in the morning hours."
Consider cabin options: For those new to camping or during extreme weather, cabins provide comfort. "We got a KOA basic cabin which fit my husband and I and a bunk bed which our son loved," shares Katherine T., adding that the campground had recreational facilities for children.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many sites require leveling equipment. "Sites were VERY small, had electric and water. Park had dump station, showers, flush toilets, wifi, cable and laundry," notes one RVer about campground conditions.
Alternative parking spots: For overnight stops, consider Searchlight BLM land. "This is a good spot if you just need to stop for the night. It's a great alternative to a truck stop or a Walmart because apparently there's an ordinance and Vegas Walmarts don't allow overnight parking and it's so quiet here," advises Laura M.
Access considerations: Check road conditions before bringing large rigs. Laura adds about Searchlight BLM, "Access from the freeway is doable for most rigs, just take it slow as there are some ruts and dips. It's .4 miles from the freeway to this spot."
