Tent campers near Parker Dam, California have multiple dispersed camping options on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land. These desert sites provide direct access to the Colorado River region with minimal facilities. Winter temperatures range from 40-70°F, making it a popular cold-weather destination. Summer camping becomes challenging when temperatures regularly exceed 100°F between June and September.
What to do
River activities: The Colorado River corridor offers fishing, kayaking and swimming opportunities. BLM Earp-Parker to Needles Wagon Road Dispersed provides access points near the canal system. According to Greg L., the area has "good views and sunsets" with sites that extend "along the rocky two track dirt road for a mile or so and then ends at the water canal."
Stargazing: The limited light pollution creates excellent nighttime viewing. At Havasu Heights, camper Bare Soul W. noted, "There's not a lot of light pollution so you can get great stars and moon pictures."
Supply runs: Parker town is 10-15 minutes from most camping areas with essential services. Steven S. mentions at Havasu Heights, "Bullhead oneway lake havasu the other," highlighting the convenience of nearby towns for supplies.
What campers like
Isolation options: Campers appreciate finding secluded spots away from main roads. At BLM dispersed camping spur at MP 133.8, Lily S. noted, "plenty of road to get away from the highway noise if you're willing to drive a bit," and only saw "one ATV'er while we were out there (we were about a mile or so off the highway)."
Cell connectivity: Despite remote settings, digital connectivity remains strong. Greg L. confirmed that "Cell service is good" at MP 133.8 spur road, making it practical for remote workers or those needing to stay connected.
Cost-free camping: All dispersed sites in the area operate under free BLM camping rules with 14-day limits. Greg L. notes these are "Free, 14d limit, no water, trash, tables" sites, providing budget-friendly alternatives to developed campgrounds.
What you should know
Weather challenges: Spring brings moderate temperatures but significant winds. Lily S. described camping at North of Rovey's Rock during mid-spring when "the wind was fairly constant with some decent gusts, got pretty chilly at night."
Road conditions: Access roads vary significantly in quality. Michael S. advised, "I learned quick that I need to add a shovel to my essential supplies for BLM camping. My van was able to negotiate making an entrance, but I am leary of getting stuck."
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some sites more than others. Greg L. mentioned, "Hwy 62 has some noise" at the MP 133.8 site, suggesting campers select spots farther from main roads for quieter experiences.
Site selection: The area around Parker Dam resembles "a really big dirt parking lot overlooking the river" according to Michael G., who noted, "From Parker all the way to I-40, you have large graded areas that have an RV, Toy Hauler, or 5th wheel trailer parked about every 300 ft."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose locations with level ground and adequate space. At Havasu Heights, Savannah A. observed "lots of flat areas for easy setup, but there are also quite a few areas that would be challenging to level."
Supply planning: No services exist at dispersed sites, requiring complete self-sufficiency. Parker, located 10 minutes from most sites, provides all necessary supplies according to Greg L., who noted "Parker is nearest town with a Walmart, Safeway, gas, etc."
Weekend timing: Expect more crowded conditions Friday through Sunday. Savannah A. found the area "was not overly crowded, except for the area right off of the main road. If you go a little farther in on the trail you get a little more space."
Tips from RVers
Site scouting: Walk potential sites before driving in. Savannah A. advises, "Depending on your rig you may want to walk the area first" when camping at Havasu Heights.
Level site location: Many areas offer naturally flat spots suitable for RVs. Savannah reports, "I full time in a class c and flat tow my Jeep and was able to get about half a mile off the main road for my own slice of heaven."
Distance considerations: Better sites require driving deeper into access roads. Michael G. described the North of Rovey's Rock area as having rigs "parked about every 300 ft" along the roadside, suggesting moving further in for better experiences.
