Dispersed camping near Parker Dam offers sites where rocky dirt roads lead to campsites with elevation ranging from 400 to 800 feet. The Colorado River defines camping possibilities in this border area between California and Arizona, with summer daytime temperatures regularly exceeding 110°F. Winter temperatures remain mild with daytime averages of 65-75°F, making it popular with seasonal campers.
What to do
Colorado River access: Crossroads Campground provides direct river frontage with small beaches for swimming and kayaking. The campground offers 26 sites, many bordering the river with Salt Cedar trees for shade. Richard B. notes there are "desert trails across the road for ATVs" and that the campground has a "2 week limit" for stays.
Fishing opportunities: Black Meadow Landing offers excellent fishing access from docks. According to past visitor Natasha H., "We used to fish from the docks and catch Large Mouth Bass and Catfish. Crayfish are plenty around the area and can be caught easily. You will see Carp and Perch and Bluegill as well."
Golfing: Echo Lodge includes river access plus recreational facilities. A visitor mentions, "Echo Lodge also offers a bar/restaurant in the kiddie pool/wade pool compound on site." For campers interested in more golfing options, other resorts in the area provide par-3 courses suitable for casual players.
What campers like
Riverside camping: Crossroads Campground sites directly on the Colorado River receive positive reviews for their atmosphere and water access. Kate W. shares: "The spot they put us in had the neighbors truck parked in it... They gave us a few new spots to choose from... We got site 19, but it felt very private but open to the water and had a little walkway to the river so it was like we had a private beach."
Affordable camping options: Havasu BLM Dispersed camping areas provide budget-friendly camping close to amenities. Jeff B. explains it's "relatively flat, a lot of space to find a spot to park. Surfaces are hard packed generally with gravel base. Only 6 miles from Lake Havasu City makes for a great location."
Wildlife viewing: Encounters with local wildlife enhance camping experiences in the area. Christine C. at Crossroads Campground mentions: "I showed up alone and met 7 other solo women vanlifing as well as a few other super friendly couples... and the daily visitors are cute (but watch your dogs, these burros are friendly with humans, not with dogs)."
What you should know
Intense summer heat: Temperatures regularly exceed 110°F during summer months, affecting camping comfort. Jesse R. at Echo Lodge notes: "It was extremely hot (for us) 110+ but staying in the cool clean river made it tolerable."
Limited cell service: Mobile connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. Linda M. at Havasu BLM Dispersed explains: "Only problem is cell service. Way out in the back no Verizon or little and AT&T is what worked for us. Would suggest cell booster."
Permit requirements: Some dispersed camping areas require permits. James C. explains about AZ State Land Recreational Area: "This area does require a yearly AZ permit. For one person and one vehicle it was $17.00 for the year. This can be purchased online."
Water conditions: Water levels fluctuate seasonally affecting access. David T. notes: "The lagoon from pictures looked great for young children to play in. When we got there the water level was low throughout the river and the lagoon was only about half full."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access considerations: When seeking dog-friendly campgrounds near Parker Dam, check specific beach conditions. Rachel W. from Crossroads Campground advises: "We've been to this campground twice, tent camping, and love the river access... There were also burros who came down to the river. They didn't mess with us, though one pregnant looking one stared at us a long time."
Kid-friendly water access: For families with children, look for gradual water entry points. However, Natasha H. cautions about Black Meadow Landing: "Since this is Lake Havasu, be forewarned that during holiday seasons it can get pretty crazy busy and the crowds are plenty- on the water and at the lake even at this campground."
Evening entertainment options: Some campgrounds provide activities for children. Gustavo C. describes Emerald Cove Resort: "Miniature golf, arcade, poker room, darts, and overall an awesome site. It is a membership site, but if you check out their presentation you get hooked up."
Nighttime activities: Take advantage of clear desert skies for stargazing. Kate W. suggests at Crossroads: "Perfect on a clear night to stargaze!"
Tips from RVers
Spacing between sites: Site spacing varies considerably between pet-friendly campgrounds around Parker Dam. Greg L. from Crossroads Campground explains: "This is a great small BLM CG along the river... There are 26 sites with 1-20 on the lowered level by the river and many sites have shade. Sites 21-26 are on the upper level and there is no shade there but are away from the water where day use happens on weekends."
Power considerations: Plan for electricity limitations. David T. notes about Black Meadow Landing: "We found that we were unable to run our A/C and microwave without tripping the power supply."
Navigating rough roads: Access to some dispersed camping areas requires careful driving. Shari G. advises regarding AZ State Land Recreational Area: "The roads in from the highway are rough and rocky, but doable if you take it slow... we recommend parking and walking the roads before committing to the drive in."
Parking issues: Some campgrounds have limited parking for tow vehicles. James C. shares about Havasu BLM: "There are two major turnoffs within a mile of each other. The northern one at about mile 175 is more suited for very large rigs as it is flat with plenty of room to park."
