Buckskin Mountain State Park RV & Campground Guide
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Located a short drive from Lake Havasu, Buckskin Mountain State Park is an excellent place for a Colorado River adventure. Marvel at the ruggedness of the California and Arizona desert as you cruise comfortably on the 18 miles of river between Parker and Headgate dams. Explore isolated coves along the river by boat, or view the unique ecosystems that develop where water meets desert. Buckskin Mountain State Park is a perfect destination any time of year. Warm and dry winters are ideal for hiking and wildlife watching, and hot summer days make water sports a cool attraction. Nearby cities: • Lake Havasu City, AZ • Parker, AZ • Kingman, AZ • Laughlin, NV
Spring 50-92 F
Summer 76-105 F
Fall 75-100 F
Winter 42-70 F
RV Resorts & Campsites in Buckskin Mountain State Park
Buckskin Mountain Campground • Water hookup: Yes • Electrical hookup: Yes • Sewer hookup: Yes • Wi-Fi: Yes • Pet-friendly: Yes • Max RV length: No posted length limit • Other amenities: Showers, restrooms, boat ramp, dog park
What to Do at
Buckskin Mountain State Park
Water sports, hiking, and enjoying nature are the main attractions in Buckskin Mountain State Park. Water lovers can enjoy playing in or on the water. Anglers can launch their boat or find a quiet shoreline to test their skills. Nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts will find no lack of spectacular views and wildlife throughout the park.
Inside Buckskin Mountain State Park
The best way to get up close and personal with the spectacular wilderness is on the park’s network of hiking trails. If you want a mini-challenge, check out the Lightning Bolt Trail, which runs for a half-mile through fields of wildflowers and gorgeous panoramic views. The 1-mile Buckskin Loop Trail is a fun way to immerse yourself in the mountains, and the Lamb Springs Trail offers a 4.6-mile out-and-back into the remote, rugged countryside. If you're with kids, check out the Copper Mines Trail and the Market Trail; you’ll pass the historic mines that played an important part in the local history. Be sure to bring plenty of water, particularly in the summer (shade is minimal, and the sun is intense), and keep an eye out for the birds, foxes, and lizards that make their home in the park.
Fishing
Fishing on the river is considered good year-round. Serious anglers can test their skills with smallmouth and striped bass. Catfish and panfish are a great way to introduce kids to fishing. Drop a bobber and enjoy the fun.
Nature Watching
Though the desert may not look alive at first glance, plenty of wildlife exists there. A keen eye can spot bighorn sheep moving freely across rocky cliffs. Bobcats, coyotes, foxes, and ringtails are at home in the trees and bushes along the water's edge. Bird watchers know the Colorado River is a critical flyway for migratory birds and waterfowl. You can expect to see osprey and egrets in the river shallows. Various raptors and owls make their home in the park, as do three hummingbird species.
Stargazing
The dark desert sky is perfect for stargazing.
Flora and Fauna
Water in the desert creates a lush oasis. Cottonwood and willow trees may seem out of place in a desert setting. But, they thrive with moisture from the river. Reeds and cattails proliferate in quiet corners of the riverbank. In late summer, cacti of every variety bloom, producing bright red, purple, and yellow flowers. With spring rains come wildflowers of every shape and hue.
Hiking
Set out on one of the park's five trails. The Lightning Bolt Trail (0.5-mile loop) is steep in spots, but the view of the river and spring wildflowers is worth the effort. The Copper Mines Trail (0.6 miles out and back) presents Arizona's copper mining history. The Buckskin Loop, Lamb Springs, and Market Trails give hikers a feeling of the remoteness the desert can instill.
Boating
Put your boat, jet-ski, kayak, or canoe in at the Buckskin Mountain Boat Launch. Enjoy the day on an 18-mile stretch of the iconic Colorado River.
Swimming
The Buckskin Mountain Campground has a designated swimming area in the day-use area. You can enjoy a swim along the shoreline, and dry off on the sandy beach. Note that there's no lifeguard on duty.
Biking
If you arrive at the park on a bike, you can enter for a discounted fee. Then, enjoy exploring the many trails winding through the beautiful landscape.
How to Get to
Buckskin Mountain State Park
From Parker, AZ, take State Highway 95 north. The park is 12 miles from town on the road's north (left) side. From Lake Havasu City, AZ, take State Highway 95 south. The park is 27 miles from town and is on the road's north (right) side.
Entering Buckskin Mountain State Park
Parking is only allowed on paved areas within the campground. Refrain from using the market's parking area. Avoid driving or leaving vehicles on grassy surfaces.
Buckskin Mountain State Park One vehicle : $10.0
1-4 people
Buckskin Mountain State Park Bike : $3.0
per individual
Frequently Asked Questions About Buckskin Mountain State Park
The mild climate makes any time of year an excellent time to visit the park. Anglers and hikers may prefer the cooler temperatures of winter, spring, and fall. Those planning a jet-ski or other water sport may want to visit in summer and early fall when air and water temperatures are warmer.
The park is home to some unique desert inhabitants and common wildlife. Bighorn sheep populate the cliffs and mountainous areas above the river. Coyotes, bobcats, ringtails, and foxes shelter in bushy washes along the river shoreline.
Yes. The park has 80 paved RV camping sites. Sites include electricity, water, picnic tables, grills, showers, and toilet facilities.
Reservations are recommended year-round. RV site fees range from $35-$45 a night. There is a non-refundable reservation fee of $3.20. An extra vehicle fee for an additional vehicle in a campsite is $15.
Pets are welcome in the park. They must be on a leash that is a maximum of 6 feet long. The north beach is the only beach area where pets are permitted.