We’re from LA, and since the governor shut California down a second time due to the coronavirus, we decided to camp outside of California. We tried to find a spot somewhere in the hip section of Lake Havasu which is what everybody talks about. My wife and I have never been there, so we thought we’d try it. However, even in January, the lake area campgrounds were totally full. One of the people I talked with at Cattail Cove Campground (which was full also) recommended Buckskin Mountain State Park which is about 20 minutes south of Lake Havasu. It’s where the lake turns back into the Colorado River. We got the last spot available, site 56. The Rangers told us that this CG is pretty much full year-round, so be advised. We booked it the day before and got lucky with the one spot, but I’m guessing there are a few spots available each week, but book as early as you can.

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Upon our arrival at 7 pm, it was already dark and yet, we already knew we had discovered a gold mine of a campground. The site was very spacious with electric and water. However, there are only a few spots with full hookups, but we didn’t care since there was a dumping station. The next morning we woke up and the river was like 100 yards from our site and we were not in the closest row to the water. Just a beautiful location separated by a small mountain from the busy highway, so not much noise either. The tent sites are right on the river which is cool but there is like a red dirt for a floor so it wasn’t as pretty as one would think but still you’re right there on the water. Bathrooms were clean and well maintained. In fact, I’ve never seen more ranger coverage in a campground. There were at least two trucks driving by cleaning stuff up and doing whatever it is that they do. Very friendly rangers as well. There is a ten minute hike right at the entrance of the CG that takes you up a small hill where you get a great bird’s eye view of the campground. Probably a good place to catch a sunset with a glass of wine as well.

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The camp store is really limited, however, one mile up the highway is the River Island Market which has gas and an attached cafe of sorts. It has the best tasting, cheapest pizza you will ever find. A 14″ pizza with one topping only $7.52 out the door. Crazy. Other locals told me the burgers and fries were tasty as well. Highly recommend that if you don’t feel like cooking. You are also 12 miles east of the town of Parker, AZ, which has a Safeway, multiple gas stations and food options. I would imagine during the summer this CG would be a great place as well since you can just walk to the river and drop some chairs in the water and chill. Look forward to trying to do that later in the year. The CG is pretty basic with no frills but great views and away from the chaos that is Lake Havasu. If you want party madness then this is not the place for you, but still way worth the visit.