11 Lake Havasu Boondocking Locations Guide for Remote Camping: If you’re looking to experience Lake Havasu boondocking, you’ll find several great dispersed camping spots managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The area offers over 70 boat access campsites and plenty of dispersed sites where you can camp for free or cheap, so you’ve got options whether you want a simple, quiet outdoor stay or something a little more adventurous. These spots are a solid pick if you’d rather skip the crowds and just relax in nature at your own pace.
Some Lake Havasu boondocking sits close to places like Quartzsite, a favorite for RVers and gear hounds. Arizona’s national and state parks—including the Grand Canyon and Ajo—aren’t far off either, so you can easily mix in a day trip or two. If you’re after nightlife, you’ll find more of that in Lake Havasu City, but the actual camping areas? They’re peaceful, usually tucked far from the city’s buzz.
Coming in from Nevada or even Lake Mead? These dispersed sites offer a different, more chill desert vibe. There’s a ton of open space, shoreline views, and easy access to outdoor fun without the typical rules and crowds of formal campgrounds. Knowing where these BLM boondocking locations are can really help you plan your trip.
Description And Information About This Location
The area has a bunch of Lake Havasu boondocking for folks who want free, primitive camping. Most of these dispersed camping areas sit on BLM land, usually north and south of Lake Havasu City.
When you pull in, you’ll spot campsites with the basics—maybe a picnic table if you’re lucky. There aren’t any hookups or fancy services, so you’ll need to bring your own water and whatever else you need.
Boaters and anglers especially love this area. You can camp right near the water, with quick access to boat ramps and fishing holes. The Lake Havasu Field Office manages a lot of these shoreline campsites.
A few things to know about Lake Havasu boondocking:
- Location: Mostly on BLM land, north and south of the city
- Sites: Primitive, no hookups, some have picnic tables
- Access: Good for all rig sizes, with boat ramps nearby
- Activities: Boating, fishing, swimming, exploring canyons
If you want something more developed, Lake Havasu State Park has campsites with extra amenities, but that’s not really boondocking.
Weather can change fast out here, so pack accordingly and don’t count on finding services in the wild spots.
Location And Access
You’ll find plenty of boondocking options on BLM land near Lake Havasu City, Arizona. These areas dot the shoreline and stretch into desert washes and flats nearby. BLM land typically means free or low-cost camping, but there aren’t any hookups.
You get in mostly via well-kept dirt roads. Some favorite sites: Craggy Wash, Havasu Road, Standard Wash, and Lone Tree. If you want to roam off the main routes, you’ll want a vehicle with decent clearance.
The Lake Havasu Field Office oversees a lot of these dispersed sites, managing around 73 campsites along the Arizona shore, especially near boat launches. That makes it pretty easy to get your watercraft in the lake.
Lake Havasu boondocking is convenient if you need supplies, but don’t expect water or electricity at most boondocking spots. Plan ahead.
If you want to stay right by the lake, watch for access points—some spots only allow camping for a set number of days. Always check the latest rules, especially for fire bans and trash disposal.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | BLM land near Lake Havasu boondocking |
| Road access | Dirt roads, some rough |
| Amenities | None on BLM land, city nearby |
| Popular areas | Craggy Wash, Lone Tree, Havasu Road |
| Managed by | Lake Havasu Field Office (BLM) |
Directions: How To Get There And What To Expect
To reach Lake Havasu boondocking spots, drive toward Laughlin if you’re coming from Nevada. From there, you’ll take dirt roads heading west or south into BLM territory. These roads can get rough, so take it slow and use a high-clearance vehicle if you can.
Craggy Wash is a popular area. To get there, leave Highway 95 and follow dirt roads toward the wash. The terrain gets rocky and uneven, so expect a slower drive. GPS coordinates or a good map help you avoid getting turned around.
Another common route: from Highway 95, take the dirt road near London Bridge. This one heads west onto open BLM land with several dispersed camping options. The roads aren’t paved, so expect dust and bumps.
When you arrive, don’t count on services like water, electricity, or trash pickup. Bring everything you’ll need. Cell signal isn’t always great, but you can usually get a bar or two in some spots.
Here’s what you should expect:
| What to Expect | Notes |
|---|---|
| Road type | Dirt and rocky roads |
| Vehicle needed | High-clearance recommended |
| Facilities | None (no water, no toilets) |
| Cell service | Limited but possible |
| Terrain | Rocky, sandy, and uneven |
Be ready for sudden weather shifts and make sure you’ve got enough gas. Try to keep the place clean—Leave No Trace, right?
Amenities And Activities
When you’re trying Lake Havasu boondocking, you’ll find basic amenities at many dispersed and shoreline sites. Most campsites come with a picnic table and maybe a barbecue grill. Some have trash bins and restrooms nearby, but honestly, you should bring your own water and supplies just in case.
If you’re in an RV, don’t expect full hookups at dispersed spots. Verizon and other cell carriers usually give decent coverage, though it really depends on where you park.
As for activities near Lake Havasu boondocking there is got a lot going on. You can fish, boat, jet ski, or even hit the golf course. The calm water and sandy beaches are great for swimming or just hanging out.
Plenty of hiking trails snake through the area, so you can wander the desert landscape. Some campgrounds have picnic areas for group hangouts. If you’re craving more structure, Lake Havasu State Park and other RV parks have extra facilities like boat ramps and cabins by the beach.
Whether you’re just passing through or settling in for a while, the mix of outdoor fun and basic comforts makes camping at Lake Havasu work for all kinds of travelers.
Camping Regulations And Restrictions
Camping near Lake Havasu boondocking on BLM land comes with a few rules. Camping’s allowed on a first-come, first-served basis, but you can’t stay longer than 14 days in any 28-day stretch.
Don’t leave personal property behind when you pack up—take everything with you, trash included. Dispersed camping is the norm, so expect no hookups or facilities.
Campfires are usually fine, but check for any fire restrictions first. Weather and fire danger can change things fast. Always use existing fire rings and make sure your fire is out before you go.
Here’s a quick rules rundown:
| Regulation | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum Stay | 14 days per 28-day period |
| Personal Property | Don’t leave gear or trash behind |
| Fires | Allowed unless fire restrictions apply |
| Camping Spots | First-come, first-served |
| Facilities | No hookups or developed sites |
Water and restrooms might not be anywhere nearby, so plan for that. Stick to Leave No Trace—pack out everything and keep your impact low.
Leave No Trace
When you’re Lake Havasu boondocking, Leave No Trace isn’t just a suggestion—it’s a must. Pack out everything you bring, and don’t leave trash or waste behind.
Stick to existing fire rings or stoves. Please don’t make new fire pits; it really does mess up the soil and plants. Always drown your fire and check that it’s totally out before you leave.
Deal with human waste properly. Use a portable toilet, or if you have to, dig a small hole at least 200 feet from water. Cover it up well to avoid polluting the area.
Respect the wildlife—watch, don’t bother or feed. Keep the noise down so you don’t ruin the vibe for animals or other campers.
Always check local rules. Some spots need permits or have limits on how long you can stay or when you can have fires. Better to know before you go.
| Leave No Trace Tips | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Pack out all trash | Keeps the area clean and safe |
| Use existing fire rings | Prevents landscape damage |
| Dispose of waste properly | Protects water and soil quality |
| Keep distance from wildlife | Maintains natural animal behavior |
| Follow local regulations | Ensures you camp legally and safely |
Helpful Information Links
Bureau of Land Management
Recreation.Gov
National Park Service
Arizona Park Service
Arizona Trust
Arizona Fish and Game
Over 10,000 Free Boondocking Locations
Boondocking Recipes for 1000’s Of Camping Meals
Lake Havasu Boondocking Locations Guide for Remote Camping
Needle Mt Road – Arizona Boondocking
34.714174, -114.435396
Needle Mountain Road is a quiet, wide-open Lake Havasu boondocking area located just outside of Topock, Arizona. Situated on BLM land near the Colorado River, this location provides a peaceful desert escape with easy access to nearby recreation areas. The terrain is mostly flat and sandy, with scattered vegetation and distant views of the Needles Mountains, making it suitable for both short- and long-term stays.
Things to Do:
Outdoor recreation is the main draw in this area. Visitors can explore nearby desert trails for hiking, biking, or off-road vehicles. The Colorado River is just a short drive away, offering fishing, swimming, kayaking, and boating opportunities. Topock Marsh and Havasu National Wildlife Refuge are also close, providing additional birdwatching and nature-viewing options. For those seeking amenities, Bullhead City and Lake Havasu City are within an hour’s drive.
Directions:
Use GPS coordinates 34.714174, -114.435396. From I-40, take exit 2 toward Oatman-Topock Highway (Route 10) and follow signs toward Needle Mountain Road. The turnoff is unmarked, so use a GPS or downloaded maps to avoid confusion. The dirt road is generally accessible in dry conditions.
Vehicle Access:
This site is suitable for most vehicles, including RVs, trailers, vans, and tents. However, the road can become rough in spots, so lower-clearance vehicles should proceed with caution. There are no services or amenities, so campers must pack in all supplies and pack out all waste. Cell service is generally fair, and the area sees moderate use during peak months.
Havasu Heights – Arizona Boondocking
34.664853, -114.308924
Havasu Heights is a dispersed Lake Havasu boondocking area located just north of Lake Havasu City, Arizona. This site lies off Havasu Heights Boulevard and is well-known among RVers for its easy access, level parking, and views of the surrounding desert and mountains. The land is BLM-managed and offers a wide open, dry camping environment with plenty of space for large vehicles.
Things to Do:
This site places campers within 15–20 minutes of Lake Havasu City, where boating, fishing, and swimming are easily accessible. Lake Havasu State Park is a popular destination, and the London Bridge is just a short drive away. The surrounding desert also supports ATV riding, hiking, and stargazing. Several off-road trails begin near this location, making it an ideal stop for OHV enthusiasts.
Directions:
Use GPS coordinates 34.664853, -114.308924. From Highway 95, head north out of Lake Havasu City and turn onto Havasu Heights Blvd. Follow the road east, and dispersed camping opportunities will appear on both sides as you approach the open BLM land.
Vehicle Access:
Accessible to RVs, travel trailers, vans, and trucks. The terrain is flat with hard-packed dirt and gravel. Larger rigs will find multiple turnarounds and ample space to set up. There are no facilities, so campers should be prepared to be fully self-contained. Cell service is typically strong in this area, and nearby Lake Havasu City provides grocery, fuel, and supply options.
BLM Lone Tree North – Lake Havasu City Boondocking
34.627505, -114.33077
BLM Lone Tree North is a popular Lake Havasu boondocking spot located on BLM-managed land north of Lake Havasu City, Arizona. This location is known for its scenic setting, desert tranquility, and proximity to both town amenities and outdoor recreation. The site gets its name from the solitary tree visible from many vantage points in the otherwise open desert terrain.
Things to Do:
The site is close to Lake Havasu City, allowing easy access to the lake for boating, swimming, and fishing. The area is also surrounded by trails for hiking, mountain biking, and OHV use. Wildlife such as coyotes, jackrabbits, and desert birds are often seen. Attractions like the London Bridge and Rotary Community Park are just a short drive away for those wanting a change of pace from the desert setting.
Directions:
Use GPS coordinates 34.627505, -114.33077. From Highway 95, turn west onto a dirt road that leads into the BLM land. There are multiple pull-outs and spurs where campers can park. The area is unsigned, so using GPS is recommended.
Vehicle Access:
This site is accessible by most vehicle types, including RVs, trailers, and vans. The roads are generally firm and manageable when dry, but larger rigs should scout ahead for space and road width. No amenities are available—no water, dump station, or trash—so all campers must be self-sufficient. Verizon and AT&T typically have good coverage here.
Havasu Road – Arizona Boondocking
34.433919, -114.217258
Havasu Road is a dispersed camping area located southeast of Lake Havasu City, Arizona. This site is positioned on public BLM land and is accessed via Havasu Road, offering a wide-open desert setting with mountain views and excellent solar exposure. The Lake Havasu boondocking area is spacious with room for large rigs and is popular with seasonal boondockers due to its convenient location and easy access.
Things to Do:
Outdoor recreation includes desert hiking, OHV riding, wildlife watching, and star-gazing. The nearby SARA Park trail system offers well-marked hiking and mountain biking trails. Lake Havasu itself is only a short drive away and offers water-based activities like kayaking, fishing, and paddleboarding. Lake Havasu City also offers shopping, dining, and sightseeing, including visits to the London Bridge and lakeside parks.
Directions:
Use GPS coordinates 34.433919, -114.217258. From Highway 95, take Chenoweth Drive east and then turn south on Havasu Road. The boondocking area is several miles down Havasu Road on BLM-managed land. The road is unpaved but generally in good condition.
Vehicle Access:
Suitable for RVs, travel trailers, vans, and tents. The surface is hard-packed dirt with occasional rocks and small washes. Larger rigs should scout for space before settling in. There are no services on-site—campers must bring their own water, food, and power. Cell signal is usually reliable, and the area provides a solid mix of solitude and convenience to nearby amenities.
Boondocking Standard Wash – Havasu
34.419613, -114.19883
Standard Wash is a designated boondocking area managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), located southeast of Lake Havasu City. This location is known for its spacious layout and official recognition by the BLM, meaning it’s one of the few dispersed camping zones with clearly marked boundaries and designated areas for parking. It lies just off Highway 95, making it easily accessible for travelers passing through the region or those wanting to stay close to the city while still enjoying off-grid camping.
Access and Conditions:
The entrance road is unpaved but well-traveled, and most RVs and trailers can manage the drive in dry conditions. The surface consists of compact dirt and gravel with some sandy patches. Sites are not numbered, and visitors are allowed to choose a spot within the designated boundary. There are no water, sewer, or electricity hookups, and campers must be fully self-contained.
Activities and Nearby Amenities:
Standard Wash is popular with OHV riders, and trails connect directly to the Standard Wash OHV Area. Lake Havasu City is less than 10 minutes away, offering access to restaurants, grocery stores, fuel, and attractions like London Bridge. The area is ideal for hiking, biking, off-roading, and desert wildlife observation. Cell coverage is strong for most carriers.
Stay Limits and Fees:
Camping is free with a 14-day limit within any 28-day period as per BLM rules. Be sure to follow Leave No Trace guidelines, as there are no trash services.
Boondocking The Sand Pit – Lake Havasu
34.41186, -114.18836
The Sand Pit is an informal, user-established Lake Havasu boondocking area situated just east of Highway 95, south of Lake Havasu City. This open desert location is less defined than Standard Wash but remains a well-known spot among full-time RVers and van dwellers. The area consists primarily of packed dirt and sand flats, with enough room to accommodate a range of vehicles from smaller vans to large fifth-wheels.
Access and Conditions:
The Sand Pit is reached by taking an unpaved side road off Highway 95. The surface is a mix of dirt and deep sand in some areas. While many rigs can access the site with care, low-clearance vehicles should proceed cautiously. The terrain is flat and open, allowing for good solar exposure and flexible parking arrangements. No formal signage is posted, but the site is heavily used during peak winter months.
Activities and Proximity:
The site is close to off-road trails, making it popular with dirt bikers and OHV riders. It’s also conveniently located about 10 minutes from downtown Lake Havasu City. From here, visitors can access Lake Havasu, SARA Park, and numerous local eateries and stores. Despite the lack of official management, the area tends to remain clean due to self-policing by regular users.
Camping Details:
Free with a BLM-standard 14-day stay limit. No services are provided—campers must pack in and pack out everything. Verizon and AT&T service is generally reliable.
The Steps – Lake Havasu Campground
34.334599, -114.136092
The Steps is a popular dispersed camping site located on BLM land south of Lake Havasu City. It is named for the terraced appearance of the desert ridges that provide level camping areas for RVs and trailers. The area is one of the most well-known and frequently visited boondocking spots near Lake Havasu due to its proximity to town, excellent cell coverage, and panoramic views.
Terrain and Vehicle Access:
The site is situated off BLM Route 7170 and accessible via gravel roads. The “steps” are natural desert shelves that offer level parking spots. Most RVs, from Class A motorhomes to smaller tow-behinds, can access the area easily in dry conditions. Caution is advised during or after rain, as the roads may become slick.
Recreational Opportunities:
This area is heavily favored by OHV users thanks to direct trail access. Other activities include hiking, desert exploring, and visiting Lake Havasu for swimming, boating, and fishing. It’s also a great base for visiting the Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge or the Parker Strip.
Stay Information:
Camping is free with a 14-day limit under BLM regulations. There are no amenities—no water, no trash collection, no restrooms. The site is wide open and very popular during the winter snowbird season, so early arrival is recommended to find the best spots. Good cell reception supports remote work or digital nomad setups.
Cienega Springs BLM – Parker Boondocking
34.18992, -114.20827
Cienega Springs is a BLM-managed Lake Havasu boondocking area located just north of Parker, Arizona. This riverside desert location offers sweeping views of the Colorado River and surrounding desert mountains. It’s a well-loved destination for both short- and long-term boondockers, especially in the cooler winter months when RVers from northern states travel south.
Access and Terrain:
This Lake Havasu boondocking access road is dirt and gravel, generally suitable for all types of RVs and tow vehicles. The terrain is a mix of packed sand, gravel, and small desert shrubs. The camping area is vast, with spots directly overlooking the river or tucked back into the desert for more seclusion. Because of the area’s openness, solar setups work very well here.
Activities and Area Features:
Boondockers staying here enjoy water activities such as kayaking, fishing, and paddleboarding on the Colorado River. The area is also popular for off-roading and desert hiking. Parker is nearby and offers grocery stores, fuel, laundromats, and restaurants. Just across the river lies Earp, California, and several casinos within a short drive.
Boondocking Details:
Cienega Springs follows standard BLM rules, including a free 14-day stay limit. The site has no hookups or facilities, so campers must bring everything they need. There is a strong boondocking community presence here during the high season, with some regulars returning each winter. Cell service is generally reliable with major carriers.
Boondocking Shea Rd BLM Parker
34.148354, -114.180336
Shea Road is one of the most popular BLM-managed Lake Havasu boondocking areas near Parker, Arizona. Located a short drive west of downtown, it offers ample space for RVs, trailers, vans, and tents in a wide-open desert setting. The road itself extends for miles, and multiple pull-offs and flat areas can be used for dispersed camping.
Access and Terrain:
The entrance to Shea Road BLM camping is just off Highway 95. While the first several miles of Shea Road are paved, the camping zones lie further down on graded dirt. The road conditions are typically manageable for most vehicles, but larger rigs may need to scout ahead, especially after rainfall. The terrain is mostly packed dirt and gravel, with scattered low shrubs. There’s no shade or vegetation cover, so solar setups perform well.
Recreational Opportunities:
This area is a hotspot for OHV and ATV users, especially during Parker 425 and other off-road events. Boondockers here often bring dirt bikes or side-by-sides and use the area as a base for riding. The views of the nearby mountains and desert flats are wide and unobstructed, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Amenities and Restrictions:
No services are available. Visitors must be self-contained, bringing their own water and packing out all waste. There are no fees, and the 14-day BLM limit applies. Parker is only 10–15 minutes away, making it easy to restock supplies or access propane, laundry, or dining. Cellular coverage is strong, including data for most major carriers.
Gibraltar Mt – Arizona Boondocking
34.121311, -114.061887
Gibraltar Mountain is a remote and rugged boondocking site located east of Parker and south of Earp, California. This BLM-managed area is less frequented than some others in the region, making it ideal for those looking for quiet, solitude, and true desert immersion. It’s located within the Gibraltar Mountain Wilderness Study Area, which features rough terrain, striking geology, and wide desert vistas.
Access and Vehicle Suitability:
The access road to Gibraltar Mountain is unpaved and can be rough, depending on recent weather and use. High-clearance vehicles are recommended. It’s not advised for large RVs or low-clearance trailers. The road is composed of compact dirt and gravel, and while some flat areas for parking do exist, they’re fewer than in more open BLM areas. Navigating this site requires careful driving and some scouting ahead.
Camping Conditions:
This is a dry camping zone—no water, power, or trash services are available. Visitors must be completely self-sufficient. The remoteness of the location ensures fewer visitors, even during high season, and there is plenty of open land for hiking and exploring. It’s also a good base for accessing the wilderness trails in Gibraltar Mountain and nearby volcanic formations.
Usage Details:
Boondocking here is free with a 14-day stay limit. The area receives minimal maintenance and is truly wild, so campers should prepare accordingly. There’s no cell service in many parts of this area, depending on your carrier. It’s well-suited for those wanting an off-grid experience without nearby crowds.
Craggy Wash – Lake Havasu City Boondocking
34.5863, -114.364586
Craggy Wash is a designated BLM dispersed camping area located just north of Lake Havasu City. It’s one of the most easily accessible and well-known Lake Havasu boondocking sites in the region, making it especially popular with RVers, van lifers, and overlanders. Despite its proximity to town, the area offers a scenic desert canyon experience with tall cliffs, sandy washes, and rocky outcrops.
Access and Site Details:
The entrance to Craggy Wash is directly off Highway 95, north of the airport. The initial stretch of the road is well-graded and suitable for nearly all vehicle types. As you travel deeper into the wash, the road becomes narrower and rougher, but there are multiple turnouts and flat areas suitable for parking and camping. Early arrival is recommended during winter months due to high usage.
Environment and Activities:
Craggy Wash sits in a scenic desert canyon surrounded by rocky hillsides. Hiking opportunities are plentiful right from camp, and there are numerous side trails to explore. Wildlife is common, including birds, rabbits, and occasionally bighorn sheep. The wash is dry most of the year but may experience flash floods during monsoon season—check the forecast before staying deep inside the wash.
Boondocking Info:
Camping is free with a 14-day stay limit. While there are no hookups or restrooms, the location’s proximity to town means you’re only about 10 minutes from shopping, fuel, groceries, and recreation around Lake Havasu. Cell signal is generally strong across carriers, and solar setups work well due to open exposure. Craggy Wash is a strong favourite for its blend of convenience and scenic isolation.
Frequently Asked Questions
You’ll find tons of boondocking spots Lake Havasu boondocking spots, both on public lands and near the shoreline. Some are easy to reach by road, others take a bit more effort and a drive down rougher terrain. Maps and online resources will help you locate spots and get up to speed on the rules.
What are the most popular Lake Havasu boondocking spots?
A lot of folks head northeast of the Lake Havasu airport on BLM land. Dispersed camping is also pretty common near mile marker 195 on AZ Highway 95. The BLM-managed shoreline campsites are another go-to.
Is there a map that shows Lake Havasu boondocking?
Yep. You’ll find maps on sites like Campendium and The Dyrt. The BLM Field Office for Lake Havasu boondocking also puts out maps showing boat access campsites and dispersed camping areas.
Are there boondocking options on BLM land near Lake Havasu?
Definitely. Most dispersed camping near the Lake Havasu boondocking spots happens on BLM land. Just double-check the land status so you don’t end up on State Trust land, which might have extra rules. BLM land usually lets you camp for free in a lot of places.
Can I find free camping areas in the vicinity of Lake Havasu?
Absolutely. Several free dispersed camping sites sit north and northeast of the city. Some are off AZ Highway 95, others near the river. Most are basic—no hookups, just you and the desert.
Are there specific regulations for the Lake Havasu boondocking area?
You’ll need to follow BLM rules, like the 14-day stay limit. Campfires might get banned during dry spells. And it’s always important to pack out your trash and avoid tearing up the landscape.
What amenities are available at Lake Havasu boondocking sites?
You usually won’t find amenities like water or toilets at most dispersed campsites. A few shoreline spots run by the BLM toss in picnic tables and fire rings, which is nice. Honestly, you should plan to haul in your own water and whatever supplies you need.