With 400 miles of shoreline and an average of 300 sunny days each year, Lake Havasu is a perfect playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Technically a reservoir on the Colorado River, this desert oasis straddles the border between California and Arizona and is easily accessed from Phoenix or Las Vegas. There are endless ways to enjoy Lake Havasu, including boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, and golf. No matter how you choose to spend your days, camping at Lake Havasu is certainly the best way to spend your nights.
There are tons of great camping options on and near Lake Havasu, including developed campgrounds, boat camping, dispersed camping, and RV parks. Read more to find your perfect Lake Havasu campsite!
In This Post…
- Lake Havasu Camping Basics
- Developed Campgrounds on Lake Havasu
- Boat Camping on Lake Havasu
- Developed Campgrounds Near Lake Havasu
- Free Dispersed Camping Near Lake Havasu
Lake Havasu Camping Basics
The following sections contain all the basic information you need to ensure you have a great time camping on Lake Havasu. Before we dive in, there are a few important regulations to note:
- From April-September, there is a two-night minimum for weekend reservations and a three-night minimum for holiday weekend reservations at any of the Arizona State Park campgrounds near Lake Havasu.
- Only camp in designated campgrounds or backcountry areas.
- Always store your food so that it cannot be accessed by wildlife.
- Always practice Leave No Trace principles.
Detailed information on fires, pets, and more can be found in the sections below.
When to Camp at Lake Havasu
Spring: This can be a great time to camp at Lake Havasu. The weather in March is typically lovely, although there is definitely a party scene in late March and early April around spring break. By May, daytime temperatures average in the mid-90’s. The springtime wildflowers are spectacular.
Summer: It is extremely hot at Lake Havasu in the summer months. Expect daytime temperatures to soar above 100 degrees on most days between June-September, with nighttime lows in the 80’s. Camping can be difficult in this kind of heat, but it can be possible with proper cooling strategies and hydration. It’s also monsoon season, which brings with it afternoon clouds and occasional thunderstorms.
Fall: It remains quite hot at Lake Havasu until about mid-October, when daytime temperatures finally drop into the low 80’s. October and November are great times to enjoy all of the many activities that Lake Havasu has to offer.
Winter: Daytime highs in the winter tend to stay in the 60’s and 70’s, making this a wonderful time for hiking, biking, and birdwatching. Campers will need to be prepared for chilly nights in the low 40’s. Expect a bit more precipitation from January-March, although the desert climate still keeps most days dry and sunny.
What to Bring
Preparing for your Lake Havasu camping trip involves more than deciding which campground best fits your needs. There is also the important job of making sure you have all the right gear you’ll need to ensure a great trip.
We’re sure you’ll already have the essentials like a great tent, sleeping bags, and camp chairs, but below are some of our favorite items specifically for camping at Lake Havasu:
- Coleman Camping Stove – This classic piece of gear is perfect for cooking up deluxe campsite dinners. Propane stoves are permitted at all camping areas, even the boat-in sites.
- Portable water container – These portable water containers are a lifesaver, especially as some camping areas do not have water available.
- Cooler – Keeping food and drinks cool is essential when camping, particularly in the hot temps that are common at Lake Havasu. We can’t recommend Yeti enough!
- Shade Structure – The sun can be intense in Lake Havasu’s desert environment, and not all of the campsites have reliable shade. A pop-up canopy like this one is easy to pack and can be moved around to maximize shade at any time of day.
- Lake Havasu Fish-N-Map: This waterproof map shows detailed underwater contours and habitats. It’s a perfect companion for fisherman and other water enthusiasts.
- Waterproof phone case: Easily access your device for photos and texts while keeping it protected on the water!
Reservations and Permits
Permits are not required to camp along Lake Havasu, although you’ll need to purchase a pass to camp at the BLM and State Park shoreline boat camping sites. The one exception is dispersed camping on Arizona State Trust Lands; campers must purchase a permit to overnight in these areas. See the Dispersed Camping section for details.
It is possible to reserve your campsite in advance at all of the state park and private campgrounds near Lake Havasu. The shoreline boat camping sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Keep in mind that you’ll need to pay an entrance fee in addition to your camping fee to camp in any of the state parks.
In the busy seasons (spring, summer and holiday weekends), it is essential to reserve your campsite as far in advance as possible, as these sites fill up quickly.
Fires
Generally speaking, campfires are permitted at developed campgrounds and in designated fire pits or grills only. However, both Arizona and California are frequently under fire restrictions and may not allow campfires (only gas camping stoves). This website has updates and helpful tools for checking current fire restrictions. Alternatively, check with the ranger or campground host upon arrival.
Fires are never permitted at the Arizona State Park boat-in sites.
Pets
Pets are welcome at Lake Havasu, but keep in mind the following guidelines:
- Pets must be kept on a leash at all times.
- Be mindful of the heat’s effects on animals and prepare accordingly.
- Pets are not allowed on most developed beaches, including those at Lake Havasu, Cattail Cove, and River Island State Parks.
Where to Get Supplies
The most convenient place to stock up on camping supplies is the centrally-located Lake Havasu City, AZ. Here you’ll find grocery stores, restaurants, outdoor retailers, gas stations, a medical center, and more.
If camping on the southern end of Lake Havasu, the town of Parker, AZ is a nearby option where you’ll find grocery stores, gas stations, and restaurants.
Alternatively, Needles, CA is close to the northern edge of Lake Havasu, and it has restaurants, gas stations, and grocery stores.
Many of the campgrounds along the shores of Lake Havasu have small shops that provide snacks, souvenirs, and basic goods. There are shops at Buckskin Mountain State Park and Lake Havasu State Park.
Developed Campgrounds on Lake Havasu
There are several developed campgrounds along the shoreline of Lake Havasu, nearly all of which are located on the Arizona side of the reservoir. Campers can choose from privately-run campgrounds and RV parks, as well as two Arizona State Parks. Keep reading to see all of the developed camping options and find your perfect site.
State Park Campgrounds
Keep in mind that at all of the state park campgrounds, there’s a two-night minimum stay on weekends from April-September, and a three-night minimum for holiday weekends during this period.
Cattail Cove State Park
Number of sites: 61
Fee: $30-35/night
Capacity: 6 adults, 10 individuals max per site. $15 fee for second vehicle.
Type: Tent and RV (30 and 50 amp hookups available)
Reservations: Recommended. Click here to reserve.
Pets: Allowed
Located about 15 miles south of Lake Havasu City, Cattail Cove State Park is an excellent place to enjoy the best of what Lake Havasu has to offer. The park boasts a lovely white sand beach, boat ramp, kayak and paddleboard rentals, hiking trails, and shaded picnic areas. The campground is well-equipped for tents or RVs, as some sites can accommodate rigs up to 60 feet long.
Each site includes a picnic table and BBQ/fire pit, and the campground has a bathroom with flush toilets, showers, a dump station, and a fish cleaning station.
In addition to the 61 sites available within the developed campground, there are also several first-come, first-served primitive boat-in sites located along the park’s shoreline. Each site has a picnic table, BBQ, and access to pit toilets. There is a camping fee of $20/night for primitive boat-in sites which can be paid at the ranger station or self-service pay kiosk (known as the “iron ranger”).
Click here to view a map of the campground.
Lake Havasu State Park
Number of sites: 47
Fee: $35/night, $40/night for beachfront sites
Capacity: 6 adults, 12 individuals max per site. $15 fee for second vehicle.
Type: Tent and RV (50 amp hookups available)
Reservations: Recommended. Click here to reserve.
Pets: Allowed
This popular campground is located in the heart of Lake Havasu City, providing easy access to nearby services as well as great outdoor recreation. Lake Havasu State Park is a great place for fishing, swimming, and boating. The Mohave Sunset Trail and the Arroyo-Camino Interpretive Garden both offer great opportunities for scenic strolls.
The Windsor Beach Campground has 47 sites arranged in a loop, with many sites located along the beach. Each site has a picnic table, BBQ/firepit, potable water access, and 50 amp electrical hookups. Most sites also have a shade structure. Showers and flush toilets are available at the campground, and there’s a dump station nearby.
Click here to view a map of the campground.
Private Campgrounds
In addition to the two state park campgrounds described above, there are several more privately-run campgrounds that enjoy a waterfront location on Lake Havasu. This section covers all of the campgrounds that are directly on the lake. For more great options in the surrounding area, check out the Developed Campgrounds Near Lake Havasu section.
Campbell Cove RV Resort
Number of sites: 108
Fee: $43-52/night
Capacity: Fee for extra people
Type: RV ONLY
Reservations: Recommended. Click here to reserve.
Pets: Allowed (max 2)
One of the best parts about this RV park is its central location. Campbell Cove is located just steps from the beach and boat ramp at Lake Havasu State Park, and also near restaurants, shops, and other services. In addition to its convenient placement, it also offers great amenities at a good value. The deluxe sites have full water views, while the standard sites are a bit tight and have less of a view.
Amenities at the Campbell Cove RV Resort include a clubhouse, restrooms with hot showers, laundry facilities, cable, WIFI, and a convenience store.
Click here to view a map of the campground.
Crazy Horse Campgrounds
Number of sites: 812
Fee: $55-100/night
Capacity: Additional fee for more than two people
Type: Tent, RV, Cabins
Reservations: Recommended. Click here to reserve.
Pets: Allowed
This classic Lake Havasu campground has something for everyone. From deluxe waterfront sites with their own docks, to simple tent camping on grassy pitches, Crazy Horse Campgrounds can accommodate every style of camper. The campground’s location on the island near the London Bridge makes it easy to enjoy all of nearby activities in Lake Havasu City. The onsite beach, pool, and boat launch provide quick access to all sorts of water activities.
Amenities at the Crazy Horse Campgrounds include a pool, hot tub, recreation room, boat launch, bathrooms, showers, and convenience store. All sites have water and electric hookups, and all except for the waterfront sites have sewer hookups (a dump station is provided for waterfront sites).
Click here to view a map of the campground.
Sam’s Beachcomber RV Resort
Number of sites: Plenty!
Fee: $100/night
Capacity: None stated
Type: RV ONLY
Reservations: Recommended. Call 928-453-1550 to reserve.
Pets: Allowed
This is a great RV-only option, especially for those seeking plenty of amenities and comfort. The campground is located on the island, giving it easy proximity to Lake Havasu City and the London Bridge. The large waterfront property offers private beaches, boat launches, and docks.
Amenities include a pool, hot tub, billiards room, recreation room, restroom, showers, and laundry facilities.
Click here to view a map of the campground.
Islander Resort Lake Havasu
Number of sites: Plenty!
Fee: $52-95/night
Capacity: 6 people per site.
Type: RV ONLY
Reservations: Recommended. Click here to reserve.
Pets: Allowed (2 max)
The Islander RV Resort boasts over 1.5 miles of spectacular shoreline on Lake Havasu’s island. It is a great place to unwind and enjoy the plentiful beautiful views and well-maintained amenities throughout the park. Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the adjacent course next door. There are a variety of site types to choose from, including several with lake views, and all sites have 30/50 amp electrical, water, and sewer hookups.
Amenities at the Islander Resort Campground include a pool, marina, boat launch, swim beach, outdoor games, bathhouses, and laundry facilities. Free WIFI is available near the reception.
Click here to view a map of the campground.
Havasu Springs Resort
Number of sites: 136
Fee: $60/night (plus additional resort fee)
Capacity: None stated.
Type: RV ONLY
Reservations: Recommended. Click here to reserve.
Pets: Allowed
This attractive resort is located at the southern edge of Lake Havasu, just a couple miles from the Parker Dam. From the resort, you can drive to the town of Parker, AZ in less than twenty minutes or to Lake Havasu City in about thirty minutes. The location is perfect for boating, swimming, and fishing, as guests can utilize the numerous boat docks and beaches on the property. Each RV site features lake views, full hookups, and close proximity to all of the resort’s great activities.
Amenities at the RV resort include bathrooms, showers, beaches, laundry facilities, a pool, a restaurant/bar, outdoor games, and WIFI.
Click here to view a map of the campground.
Black Meadow Landing
Number of sites: Plenty!
Fee: $35/night (tents), $35-70/night (RVs)
Capacity: Extra fee for more than two people
Type: Tent, RV
Reservations: Recommended. Call (800) 742-8278 to reserve.
Pets: Allowed
Black Meadow Landing is located on the southern end of Lake Havasu, near the Parker Dam. This location gives the campground a quieter, more remote feel, although it’s still only a short drive from towns and services. Plus, the onsite water and land gas station, shop, diner, and propane sales make it even more convenient to set up camp on this end of the lake. The campground offers boat slips and a boat launch, making it easy to maximize your time on the water. There are a variety of full hookup RV sites, as well as several grassy tent sites to choose from. All sites have picnic tables. Keep in mind that the road to the campground is a bit rugged and could pose difficulties for certain vehicles.
Amenities at the Black Meadow Landing Campground include bathhouses, laundry facilities, a diner, gas station, marina, shop, boat storage, 5-hole golf course, fish cleaning station, and WIFI (extra charge).
Click here to view a map of the campground.
Havasu Landing Resort and Casino
Number of sites: 180
Fee: $20/night (tents), $45-65/night (RVs)
Capacity: None stated.
Type: Tent, RV
Reservations: Recommended. Click here to reserve.
Pets: Allowed
The only camping option on the California side of Lake Havasu, Havasu Landing offers tons of activities and campsites to suit every style. The adjacent casino and restaurant are a popular draw for campers here, as are the pool, beach, marina, and arcade. A ferry runs frequently between the campground and London Bridge, making it easy to explore other parts of Lake Havasu from your campsite. A variety of full hookup sites can accommodate RVs of all sizes, and there’s also dry RV and tent camping available on the waterfront.
Amenities include restrooms, showers, a pool, beach, casino, restaurant, grocery store, fuel station, ferry service, laundry facility, marina, and free WIFI.
Click here to view a map of the campground.
Boat Camping on Lake Havasu
Boat-in camping is a fantastic way to fully appreciate all of the beauty and recreation opportunities that Lake Havasu has to offer. Simply pack up your camping gear and explore the shoreline by boat until you find an open beach site. Park your vessel, set up your tent, and get ready to enjoy a perfect evening under the stars!
There are nearly 100 primitive beach campsites located along the Arizona shoreline of Lake Havasu. Most of these sites are managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), but there are also a couple dozen shoreline sites managed by Arizona State Parks. It’s important to pay attention to which type of campsite you’ve selected (BLM or state park) so that you can purchase the appropriate pass, as the two are not interchangeable. All sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and all include access to pit toilets, picnic tables, and BBQs.
Click here to view a map of all boat-in sites on Lake Havasu
BLM Boat-In Sites on Lake Havasu
Number of sites: 73
Fee: $10 for day use + additional $10 for overnight use
Capacity: 6 people ($2 for each additional person after that)
Type: Tent
Reservations: First-come, first-served
Pets: Allowed
Dotted along nearly twenty miles of shoreline on the Arizona side of Lake Havasu, there are plenty of great BLM sites for boat campers to choose from. If you’re visiting on a weekend or holiday, be sure to arrive early to ensure you can find an open site. You can pay for your campsite ahead of time online, or you can deposit cash into the iron ranger self-pay kiosk located near your campsite or at the Lake Havasu BLM field office. Campers can stay at their boat-in site for up to 14 days.
Each site has a picnic table, BBQ grill (check current fire restrictions before using), and trash can. Most sites also have a shade structure and toilet.
Click here to view a map of all BLM boat-in sites on Lake Havasu
Click here for GPS coordinates of all sites and for a .kml file of the area.
Arizona State Park Boat-In Sites on Lake Havasu
Number of sites: 32
Fee: $20/night
Capacity: None stated
Type: Tent
Reservations: First-come, first-served
Pets: Allowed
In addition to the BLM sites described above, there are 32 shoreline sites located in Cattail Cove State Park. Just like the BLM sites, the state park boat-in sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Upon arriving at an unoccupied site, you can pay the fee by depositing cash or check into the “iron ranger” kiosk located at the campsite. All sites have picnic tables, BBQ grills, and access to pit toilets. Fires are not permitted at any time of year, but propane stoves are allowed. Plan to pack out all of your trash so that you can do your part in leaving no trace.
Click here for GPS coordinates of all sites and for a .kml file of the area.
Developed Campgrounds Near Lake Havasu
If you’re willing to venture a bit further from the shores of Lake Havasu, there are tons of great camping opportunities in the surrounding area. Below are some of our favorites:
RV Parks Near Lake Havasu
Prospectors RV Resort
Number of sites: 87
Fee: $50/night
Capacity: 2 people (additional fee for extra people)
Type: RV ONLY
Reservations: Recommended. Call 928-764-2000 to reserve.
Pets: Allowed
This RV park gets good reviews for being clean, quiet, and well-kept, with nice facilities. It’s located about 15 minutes north of Lake Havasu City, making it easy to get to shops, services, and recreation. Prospectors is especially popular with off-roading enthusiasts, and guests can access miles of trails directly from the campground.
Amenities include a pool, spa, laundry facility, game room, clubhouse, fitness room, and WIFI. All sites have full hookups.
Click here to view a map of the campground.
Havasu Falls RV Resort
Number of sites: 93
Fee: $55/night (winter), $45/night (summer)
Capacity: 2 people (additional fee for extra people)
Type: RV ONLY
Reservations: Recommended. Call (928) 764-0050 to reserve.
Pets: Allowed
With beautiful mountain views, excellent facilities, and close proximity to Lake Havasu City and the waterfront, this is a great option for your RV vacation to Lake Havasu. There are lots of fun activities and events for guests, as well as plenty of nice places to unwind and relax throughout the campground.
Amenities include a pool, recreation hall, laundry facility, WIFI, and cable TV. All sites offer full hookups.
Click here to view a map of the campground.
River Lodge Resort
Number of sites: 400+
Fee: $65/night (riverfront), $45/night (all other sites)
Capacity: 4 people
Type: RV ONLY
Reservations: Recommended. Click here to reserve.
Pets: Allowed with $25 refundable deposit
Those traveling to the southern end of Lake Havasu might consider heading a bit further down the Colorado River to stay at the lovely River Lodge Resort. The campground’s location provides easy access to the Parker Dam, as well as River Island and Buckskin Mountain State Parks. The resort prides itself on maintaining an old-school low key atmosphere, while still providing modern amenities. All of the RV sites offer full hookups, and many are right on the river.
Amenities include a general store, yoga studio, fitness center, clubhouse, 9-hole golf course, boat launches, storage, and WIFI.
Click here to view a map of the campground.
State Park Camping Near Lake Havasu
River Island State Park
Number of sites: 37
Fee: $30/night + park entrance fee
Capacity: 6 adults, 10 individuals max per site. $15 fee for second vehicle.
Type: Tent, RV
Reservations: Recommended. Click here to reserve.
Pets: Allowed
Located on the banks of the Colorado River just south of Lake Havasu, this is an excellent option for campers seeking a peaceful waterfront setting. It’s especially great for tent campers and small trailers, as the eight grassy waterfront sites are not suited for larger RVs. While the remaining sites do not offer as good of views, they do provide water and 20, 30, and 50-amp electrical hookups. The park has a nice beach and connects to the large trail network in Buckskin Mountain State Park.
Amenities at the River Island State Park campground include restrooms, showers, water and electrical hookups, picnic tables, and BBQs.
Click here to view a map of the campground.
Buckskin Mountain State Park
Number of sites: 80
Fee: $35-40/night + park entrance fee
Capacity:6 adults, 10 individuals max per site. $15 fee for second vehicle.
Type: Tent, RV
Reservations: Recommended. Click here to reserve.
Pets: Allowed
Buckskin Mountain State Park is located just down the Colorado River from River Island State Park, and about half an hour’s drive from Lake Havasu City. It offers tons of great campsites to accommodate tents, big rigs, and everyone in between. The are twenty riverfront sites that can accommodate tents or small RVs, while the remainder of the sites can accommodate larger RVs. All sites have water and 30 amp electrical hookups, and 15 sites also have sewer hookups. When choosing a site, keep in mind that a few sites are close to a wastewater treatment plant and may have a strong smell. This is noted in the site information on the online reservation system.
Amenities at Buckskin Mountain State Park Campground include a park store, dump station, restrooms, showers, water and electrical hookups, picnic tables, and BBQs. The park has great hiking, swimming, fishing, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Click here to view a map of the campground.
Free Dispersed Camping Near Lake Havasu
Lone Tree BLM Campground
This a convenient and scenic dispersed camping area is located about twelve miles north of Lake Havasu City, just off Highway 95. The paved access road means that it can accommodate a variety of vehicle types. While it can get a bit busy in peak season, the area is quite scaious with plenty of flat sites, so it never feels too crowded. Shade is virtually nonexistent in the area, so bring your own shade structure. Water refills are available at the nearby Walmart.
Havasu Heights BLM
Havasu Heights is a quiet BLM camping area located north of Lake Havasu City, off Highway 95. The road can be a bit rugged at points, although most rigs should be able to access the area if they use caution. The area is known for its flat pitches, great mountain views, and spectacular sunsets.
Craggy Wash BLM
This is one of the closest and most popular dispersed camping areas near Lake Havasu. To reach it, continue north on Highway 95 just past the airport. Turn off the highway onto a dirt road and continue for a few miles. There are tons of spots to choose from, some closer to the highway and busier, while private spots can be found further up the road. Many campers have reported that the area has quite a bit of trash around, but the canyon, desert, and mountain views are still beautiful. Cell service can be spotty.
Havasu Road BLM
Located about 10 miles south of Lake Havasu State Park, this is another good BLM option that provides easy access from Highway 95. Pull off the highway onto Havasu Road (dirt, but not too rugged) and you’ll soon see several good campsites, many with fire rings. The area is very flat and can accommodate rigs of all sizes.
Standard Wash BLM
This large dispersed camping area is located about 12 miles south of Lake Havasu State Park, just off Highway 95. It is popular with ATV’s and can get crowded and noisy during peak times. That being said, the area is quite scenic and there are plenty of private, peaceful sites to choose from. The road to access the camping area is pretty rugged, and therefore not suitable for all vehicles.
“The Steps” Camping Area, Arizona State Trust Land
This camping area near the southern end of Lake Havasu gets its name from the way the landscape is carved into steps or terraces, allowing for privacy and great views at nearly every campsite. It’s important to note that a permit is required to camp on State Trust Lands. Permits are $15 per individual or $20 per family and allow users to camp up to 14 days total in the permit year. You can purchase your permit here. Additionally, those looking for other dispersed camping opportunities near Lake Havasu can refer to this State Trust Lands Map. Due to its proximity to Highway 95, traffic noise can be a bit of an issue.
Have a great trip!
That’s it!
We hope we’ve provided all of the information you need to plan your Lake Havasu camping trip, and we know you’ll find the perfect campsite for your upcoming adventure! Be sure to let us know in the comments below if you have any questions and be sure to tell us about your trip!
