Camping spots near Palo Verde, California sit within a desert ecosystem with elevations ranging from 250-400 feet above sea level. Summer nighttime temperatures rarely drop below 80°F even after sunset, creating challenging sleeping conditions for tent campers. The area's shallow water table contributes to higher humidity than surrounding desert regions, especially near the Colorado River's edge.
What to do
Kayaking the Colorado River backwaters: Access calm water sections at Hippie Hole Camping Area where the river creates shallow inlets perfect for beginners. "We paddle boarded, watched the night stars, the blue haring in the morning," reports camper Imerie T.
Wildlife photography in Cibola refuge: The Cibola National Wildlife Refuge offers prime bird watching from November through March. "Short drive to the wildlife refuge for bird watching. Lots of birds!" notes Kathy B. Morning hours provide the best lighting conditions for photographers.
Desert hiking at Mule Mountain: The terrain around Wiley Wells Dispersed camping area offers hiking with elevation gain of 300-500 feet. "Gorgeous area and far from noisy freeway," writes Graham W., who recommends bringing traction mats for vehicles navigating soft sand sections.
What campers like
Colorado River swimming spots: The beach area at BLM Oxbow Campground provides safe river access with gradual entry points. "We were lucky to get a spot right on the river. The dirt roads getting back there were a bit rough especially for my brother whose van and trailer were low to the ground, but it was worth it," shares Dee S.
Dark sky stargazing: Minimal light pollution makes night sky viewing exceptional, particularly at sites furthest from highways. "Glorious sunsets each night. We were there in January 2021 and the weather was nice in my opinion; a bit chilly at night," adds Dee S. who stayed at Oxbow for over 10 days.
Off-road vehicle trails: Access desert terrain directly from camping areas with minimal driving. "We went out into the desert by the Hart Mining area and saw Big Horn Sheep and a Log Cabin from 1910," reports Miles K. Trails range from beginner to advanced with varying terrain conditions.
What you should know
Water availability limitations: Most dispersed sites require bringing all water supplies. At Walter's Camp RV Park & Campground, "Expect to dry camp. There are no power hookups. The campground does have a central RV dump station, so you can dump before you hit the road. There are water hose hookups, but I would not introduce this water into your RV. It is basically river water from a shallow well that ran through a sediment filter," warns Bob D.
Military aircraft noise: Several camping areas experience regular flyovers from nearby training routes. "The only negative was that around 5 or 6 pm most evenings very loud military planes flew over. It was a bit startling the first time, but we got used to it," notes Dee S.
Vault toilet conditions: Facilities at dispersed sites receive irregular maintenance. "The Vault bathrooms are Really Bad. Luckily I brought my privacy pop-up tent and Lowes bucket with a toilet seat. That was way better than the stench of the toilet," advises Miles K. who camped at Oxbow.
Tips for camping with families
River safety precautions: Colorado River currents vary significantly throughout the year. "The current was flowing way to fast and boats were driving by at high speed so we never got to use them [kayaks]," cautions Julie A. at Arizona Oasis RV Resort, suggesting early morning water activities before motorboat traffic increases.
Insect protection: Mosquitoes become problematic along riverfront sites, particularly at dusk. "The mosquitoes were TERRIBLE as soon as the sun began to set. Kids had so many bites from the first night we did not enjoy going out once the sun began setting. We tried sprays, candles, and other products and they helped a little but still bad," warns David T.
Heat management strategies: Temperatures often exceed 100°F by 10am during summer months. "Mid-October -- still need your A/C full tilt," notes Linda L., indicating that even fall camping requires cooling solutions for family comfort.
Tips from RVers
Site selection priorities: Riverfront sites offer better airflow but may have accessibility challenges. At Coon Hollow Campground, "There's about 30 spots with a few that have trees" according to R M., making those shaded sites highly sought after during hot months.
Generator restrictions: Check individual campground policies regarding generator use times and quiet hours. "We choose a site sort of close to the store and showers. Well the store has a noisy compressor that runs pretty much 24 hours a day. Seemingly never cycles on and off. Very annoying," reports Bob D. who suggests selecting sites away from facilities with mechanical equipment.
Dirt road access: Most access roads are unpaved with varying conditions. "Roads were graded last week and pretty decent drive, although its posted that 4x4 is sometimes recommended," shares Larry B. about Walter's Camp, indicating conditions change frequently based on maintenance schedules.
