The Gold Butte National Monument area sits at elevations between 2,000 and 8,000 feet in the Mojave Desert ecosystem near Bunkerville, Nevada. The region's diverse terrain includes red sandstone formations, desert washes, and Joshua tree forests. Winter temperatures typically range from 30-60°F, while summer months can exceed 100°F, making spring and fall the optimal camping seasons.
What to do
Explore Falling Man petroglyphs: Located near the Whitney Pockets area of Gold Butte National Monument, these ancient rock art sites offer historical insights. "Fun area with a bunch of spots to set up and great for exploring on ATVs," shares Jacob M.
Visit nearby Lake Mead: Just 10 minutes from Happy Trails Campground in Meadview, Arizona. "Lake Mead is only 10 minutes away! This campground is perfect for those with the outdoor bug like us. Hiking for miles atv trails everwhere you turn," notes Teresa M.
Stargazing opportunities: The remote location provides excellent night sky viewing. "Beautiful views and very peaceful. Excellent for star gazing! Lots of trails to explore with your off roading toys," reports Aimee K. about Happy Trails Campground.
What campers like
Remote solitude: Many horse camping areas near Bunkerville offer isolation. At Grand Canyon Parashant, "This is a very remote area if you go in far enough. I saw no other campers and only a couple 4 wheel drives going through the area," writes Ralph S.
Large, accommodating sites: Whitney Pockets provides ample space for equestrian camping setups. At BLM Whitney Pockets - Falling Man Camp, "These are open BLM camp sites... Some camp sites in the area, those with unobstructed views south to Lake Mead generally have cell phone coverage," explains Jeff R.
Desert wildlife viewing: The natural surroundings offer opportunities to observe native species. "The trek in is a bit plain and dry though you see a lot of desert wildlife," notes Deacon J. about the Paiute Wilderness Area.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Access to many equestrian camping sites requires preparation. "The paved portion of the road is really rough. But after spending the day on the dirt portion, it felt quite luxurious. I saw a few Subarus out there. High clearance would be good and 4x4 helpful," advises Michael G. about Gold Butte National Monument.
Cell service is limited: Coverage depends on location and elevation. "Some camp sites in the area, those with unobstructed views south to Lake Mead generally have cell phone coverage.. the others do not have any coverage," notes Jeff R. about Whitney Pockets.
Weather impacts access: Seasonal considerations affect horse camping near Bunkerville. "When it rains watch your step the ground will get muddy and there is a chance of having strong wind gusts," warns Miles T. about Paiute Wilderness Area.
Tips for camping with families
Bring all supplies: No amenities means thorough preparation for equestrian camping trips. "Be sure you're self sufficient in every way before you go too far in," cautions Ralph S. about County Hwy 5/BLM 1069 Dispersed.
Consider campground options: For families wanting some facilities, alternatives exist. "Free coffee in the mornings and clean bathrooms with a shower. I tent camped with 2 dogs, lots of space on the tent sites," shares Whitney W. about Happy Trails Campground.
Set up in established areas: Some spots are better maintained than others. "We chose to stay in the big communal area close to the entrance, even though we hate being close to people, because it was the only place that didn't have broken glass," advises Francisco F. about Mount Trumbull Loop Dispersed.
Tips from RVers
Choose sites carefully: Not all horse-friendly camping areas near Bunkerville accommodate larger vehicles. "We were able to go to a spot with the trailer off the road aways where there wasn't much junk. Nice enough base to explore the region where we could let the dog roam around," notes Bruce J. about Mount Trumbull Loop Dispersed.
Plan for self-sufficiency: Most dispersed camping sites have no hookups. "No water, power or cell phone connection in most areas. Must have good tires and high clearance.. many pot holes and hard gravel roads in the area," warns Jeff R. about Whitney Pockets.
Allow extra travel time: Roads require slow, careful navigation. "The road in is really rough (and gets rougher the further in you go), but the camping is nice. No amenities I saw besides a couple Port-o-Potties in the Whitney Pocket area," reports Meghan B. about Gold Butte National Monument.
