Dispersed camping areas near Parker Dam offer free and low-cost camping options across varied desert terrain. Several BLM and Arizona State Trust land sites provide camping on hard-packed desert surfaces ranging from 1,000-1,200 feet in elevation. Winter temperatures typically range from 45-75°F, making October through April the most comfortable camping season. Road conditions vary dramatically between locations, from relatively smooth gravel to extremely rough and rocky terrain requiring high-clearance vehicles.
What to do
Explore ghost towns: At Swansea Ghost Town, campers can explore ruins from an early 19th-century mining town. "This was an educational, surreal and fun find! We explored the ruins of this early 19th century mining town... There are informational pedestals in front of the numerous foundations in the area," reports Lyle F.
Off-roading access: Multiple sites provide direct access to off-road trails. At Craggy Wash, campers mention "cool spot to fly the drone, caves and weird stuff left behind by previous campers." The area has numerous OHV trails connecting to larger networks.
Stargazing: Clear desert skies make for excellent stargazing opportunities. A camper at Shea Road BLM noted "camping here was awesome! It was very quiet and secluded and the stars in the evening were amazing!" Light pollution is minimal at sites farther from Lake Havasu City.
What campers like
Privacy options: Some areas offer more seclusion than others. A camper at The Steps Dispersed Camping mentioned it was "private and hot" with "lots of space with great views." Sites farther from main roads typically offer more privacy.
Convenience to town: Many campers appreciate the proximity to supplies while still being in nature. Chris M. at Havasu BLM noted you're "only minutes from Lake Havasu City. Lots of room to find a semi level spot. You can park far enough off the highway no highway noise."
Wildlife viewing: The desert ecosystem supports various wildlife. Jessica at Shea Road BLM mentions, "Did see some coyotes so be careful with small animals during the night." Early mornings and evenings are best for wildlife spotting, particularly for desert birds and small mammals.
What you should know
Permit requirements: Not all areas are free. Arizona State Trust Land requires permits ($20/year). A camper at AZ State Land Recreational Area notes: "This dispersed camping area which requires a ridiculously inexpensive online permit ($20 per year), was perfect for what we needed."
Varying road conditions: Road quality varies significantly between sites. John R. at Arizona State Trust Land mentions "Easy access with fair roads. Had choice of many level spots," while at Swansea Ghost Town, Jeffrey F. warns "This location is very remote and a high clearance vehicle is needed. The drive in is a dirt road and very tough the last couple of miles."
Cell service considerations: Coverage varies by location and carrier. Linda M. at Havasu BLM notes "Only problem is cell service. Way out in the back no Verizon or little and A T&T is what worked for us. Would suggest cell booster."
Stay limits: BLM land typically has a 14-day limit. A camper at BLM mp 138.0 mentions: "There are full timers not moving after 14 days as is required by law. Some have really set up shop."
Tips for camping with families
Location selection: For families, sites closer to amenities are often preferable. At BLM mp 138.0 spur, a camper notes this area is "closest BLM to Earp/Parker" which makes supply runs more manageable.
Water planning: No sites offer water access, requiring careful planning. Matt at Swansea Ghost Town emphatically advises: "Take water. TAKE WATER!" Plan for 1-2 gallons per person per day minimum in this desert environment.
Educational opportunities: Turn the trip into a learning experience. Charlie C. describes Swansea Ghost Town: "It was like you were camping in a museum. Walking around at night exploring the abandoned structures was surreal. You could almost hear the voices of the past."
Weather considerations: Desert temperatures fluctuate dramatically. John R. at The Steps Dispersed Camping warns the area "can be very hot." Winter and early spring offer the most comfortable temperatures for family camping.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Finding level spots requires scouting. A camper at Shea Road BLM advises: "You can get stuck in some sand but if you stay in more gravel area you should be fine."
Generator etiquette: Generator noise can be an issue in some areas. Danny T. reports some campers "running their generator all day and into the night," suggesting setting up away from others if planning to use a generator.
Access road considerations: RV accessibility varies greatly. Leonie D. warns about one Arizona State Trust Land area: "The entrance road almost impossible to access. The GPS coordinates for the entry must be off. There is only a steep angled gravel road. Impossible to access with an RV or larger rig."
Rig size limitations: Not all areas accommodate larger RVs. Jeff B. describes Havasu BLM as "A massive, old gravel quarry from the look of it. Relatively flat, a lot of space to find a spot to park. Surfaces are hard packed generally with gravel base."
