Nestled along a 18-mile stretch of the Colorado River known as the Parker Strip, Buckskin Mountain State Park is one of Arizona’s best-kept secrets, offering visitors the rare opportunity to experience both desert mountain landscapes and refreshing waterfront activities in a single destination. What many travelers don’t realize is that this 1,677-acre park sits at the convergence of two distinct desert ecosystems—the Sonoran and Mojave—creating a uniquely diverse environment where saguaro cacti stand sentinel over sparkling blue waters.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Buckskin Mountain State Park is located approximately 23 km (14 miles) north of Parker, Arizona, along State Route 95. The park is positioned right on the Colorado River, which forms the border between Arizona and California. For travelers flying in, the closest major airports are:
- Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport – 283 km (176 miles), approximately 3-hour drive
- Las Vegas McCarran International Airport – 306 km (190 miles), approximately 3.5-hour drive
- Palm Springs International Airport – 241 km (150 miles), approximately 2.5-hour drive
The drive to Buckskin Mountain State Park offers scenic desert views, especially as you approach the Colorado River area. The roads are well-maintained, making it accessible for most vehicles. If you’re traveling with an RV or planning to camp, reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak seasons, as the park’s 80 campsites can fill up quickly.
Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips
Buckskin Mountain State Park experiences extreme temperature variations throughout the year, with summer temperatures often exceeding 43°C (110°F) and winter lows occasionally dipping to 4°C (40°F).
Recommended Seasons
- Spring (March-May): Ideal temperatures between 21-32°C (70-90°F) with wildflowers blooming
- Fall (September-November): Pleasant 18-29°C (65-85°F) with fewer crowds
- Winter (December-February): Mild days around 15-21°C (60-70°F), perfect for hiking
Seasons to Avoid
- Summer (June-August): Extreme heat with temperatures regularly exceeding 38°C (100°F)
- Holiday Weekends: Extremely crowded, especially Memorial Day and Labor Day
Weather Tips
- Pack plenty of water (at least 4 liters per person per day)
- Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
- Layer clothing for winter visits as temperatures drop significantly at night
- Check weather forecasts for wind conditions, especially if boating
Getting Around Locally
Once you’ve arrived at Buckskin Mountain State Park, getting around is relatively straightforward. The park itself is compact enough to explore on foot, with well-marked trails connecting various amenities and viewpoints.
Within the Park
- Walking is the primary mode of transportation within the park boundaries
- Hiking trails are well-maintained and range from easy to moderate difficulty
- The campground and day-use areas are connected by paved pathways
- Bicycles are permitted on designated roads but not on hiking trails
Exploring the Area
- A personal vehicle is essential for exploring nearby attractions
- Parker, Arizona (23 km/14 miles south) offers supplies and services
- Lake Havasu City (66 km/41 miles north) has additional attractions
- Boat rentals are available in Parker for exploring the Colorado River
For those interested in exploring the Colorado River, the park features a boat launch ramp that provides easy access to the water. Kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards can be rented from outfitters in Parker if you don’t bring your own. The river’s calm waters in this section make it suitable for water recreation of all kinds.
Where to Stay
Buckskin Mountain State Park offers several accommodation options, with camping being the most popular choice for experiencing the full beauty of this riverside desert oasis.
Campground Options
- Riverfront Campsites: 21 premium sites with direct river access
- Standard Campsites: 59 sites with water and 30-amp electric hookups
- Full Hookup Sites: 15 sites with water, electric, and sewer connections
- Tent-Only Sites: Several sites designated for tent camping along the beach area
Campground Amenities
- Clean restrooms with hot showers
- Picnic tables and fire rings at each site
- Dump station for RVs
- Camp store with basic supplies
- Boat ramp and beach access
- Shade trees throughout the campground
Nearby Accommodations
- River Island State Park: Alternative camping 5 km (3 miles) north
- Parker, Arizona: Budget motels and hotels 23 km (14 miles) south
- Lake Havasu City: Full range of accommodations 66 km (41 miles) north
Camping fees range from $35-$40 per night, with riverfront sites commanding premium rates. Reservations can be made up to one year in advance and are strongly recommended, especially for weekend stays and during the peak seasons of spring and fall. Many visitors recommend booking riverside campsites for the best experience, as they offer stunning views and easy water access.
Dining & Local Cuisine
While Buckskin Mountain State Park doesn’t have restaurants within its boundaries, there are several dining options in the surrounding area, and many visitors enjoy preparing their own meals at their campsites.
At the Park
- Camp store offers snacks, ice cream, and basic grocery items
- Each campsite includes a picnic table and fire ring for cooking
- Picnic areas with grills available in day-use sections
- Potable water available throughout the campground
Nearby Dining
- Desert Bar (Nellie E Saloon): Unique outdoor bar open weekends (Oct-Apr)
- Parker, Arizona: Various restaurants, fast food, and grocery stores
- Roadside Cafes: Several options along Highway 95
- Lake Havasu City: Full range of dining options 66 km (41 miles) north
Many experienced visitors recommend bringing a cooler with food supplies from larger towns, as options near the park are limited and tend to be more expensive. For those staying multiple days, the Safeway supermarket in Parker is the best option for stocking up on groceries and supplies.
Local Tip: The Desert Bar (Nellie E Saloon) is a must-visit attraction located about 8 km (5 miles) from the main highway on a rough dirt road. This solar-powered bar is only open on weekends from October through April, serving burgers, hot dogs, and cold drinks in a unique desert setting built from recycled materials. A 4WD vehicle is recommended for accessing this hidden gem.
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities
Buckskin Mountain State Park offers a perfect blend of water and land activities, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds.
Water Activities
- Swimming: Designated beach area with gentle river access
- Boating: Boat ramp with access to the Colorado River
- Fishing: Popular for bass, catfish, and trout
- Kayaking/Canoeing: Calm waters perfect for paddling
- Jet Skiing: Popular in summer months
Land Activities
- Hiking: Five trails ranging from easy to moderate
- Wildlife Viewing: Desert bighorn sheep, roadrunners, and various bird species
- Stargazing: Minimal light pollution for excellent night sky viewing
- Photography: Stunning desert and river landscapes
- Picnicking: Shaded ramadas available
Nearby Attractions
- Parker Dam: World’s deepest dam, 8 km (5 miles) north
- Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge: 16 km (10 miles) northeast
- Desert Bar: Unique weekend destination 8 km (5 miles) east
- London Bridge: Famous attraction in Lake Havasu City
Must-Try Hiking Trails
Buckskin Trail
This 11 km (6.8 mile) round-trip trail is the park’s longest and most challenging hike. It connects Buckskin Mountain State Park to River Island State Park, offering panoramic views of the Colorado River and surrounding mountains. The trail features moderate elevation gain and takes approximately 3-4 hours to complete.
River View Trail
A favorite among visitors, this 2.4 km (1.5 mile) trail leads to a spectacular overlook facing southwest along the river. The trail passes several rare saguaro cacti and offers stunning sunset views. It’s rated as moderate due to some elevation gain but is manageable for most hikers.
Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals
While Buckskin Mountain State Park itself doesn’t host museums or regular cultural events, the surrounding area offers several opportunities to explore the rich history and culture of western Arizona.
Nearby Cultural Attractions
- Colorado River Indian Tribes Museum: Located in Parker, showcasing the heritage of four Native American tribes
- Lake Havasu Museum of History: Exhibits on the London Bridge relocation and local history
- Parker Area Historical Society: Preserving the history of the Parker area
- Swansea Ghost Town: Abandoned mining town accessible via 4WD vehicles
Seasonal Events
- Parker Tube Float: Annual event in June where thousands float down the Colorado River
- Buckskin Fire Department BBQ: Community event typically held in spring
- Desert Bar Live Music: Weekend performances during their October-April season
- Parker 425 Off-Road Race: Major desert racing event held in February
The park’s visitor center offers educational displays about the local ecosystem, geology, and wildlife. Rangers occasionally conduct interpretive programs during peak seasons, including guided hikes and evening presentations about the natural and cultural history of the area.
Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences
Buckskin Mountain State Park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of activities against the backdrop of stunning desert mountain scenery and the refreshing Colorado River.
Water Sports
The Colorado River is the main attraction for many visitors, offering excellent conditions for various water activities:
- Swimming in designated beach areas with gentle slopes
- Fishing for bass, catfish, crappie, and trout (Arizona fishing license required)
- Kayaking and canoeing on calm waters
- Jet skiing and water skiing in designated areas
- Pontoon boating for leisurely river exploration
Land Activities
The park’s desert landscape provides numerous opportunities for land-based recreation:
- Hiking on five distinct trails with river and mountain views
- Mountain biking on designated routes north of Desert Bar Road
- Horseshoe pits and cornhole games available for checkout
- Beach volleyball on sandy areas near the river
- Photography, especially during sunrise and sunset
Nature Experiences
The unique convergence of desert and river environments creates special nature viewing opportunities:
- Birdwatching with over 300 species documented in the area
- Desert wildflower blooms in spring (March-April)
- Stargazing under dark skies
- Wildlife viewing including desert bighorn sheep
- Botanical garden with labeled desert plants
Wildlife Viewing Tips
The park is home to a diverse array of wildlife adapted to the unique desert-river ecosystem. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times for wildlife viewing, when animals are most active. Keep an eye out for:
Common Birds
- Great blue herons and egrets along the riverbank
- Roadrunners darting through the desert vegetation
- Red-tailed hawks and ospreys soaring overhead
- Vermilion flycatchers with their brilliant red plumage
- Migratory waterfowl in winter months
Desert Wildlife
- Desert bighorn sheep on rocky slopes
- Coyotes and kit foxes in early morning
- Desert cottontails and jackrabbits
- Various lizards basking on rocks
- Nocturnal creatures like ringtails and skunks
Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs
Enjoying Buckskin Mountain State Park safely requires awareness of the desert environment and respect for both natural resources and fellow visitors.
Safety Considerations
- Heat Safety: Temperatures can exceed 43°C (110°F) in summer; stay hydrated and avoid midday activities
- Water Safety: Wear life jackets when boating; be aware of river currents
- Wildlife: Watch for rattlesnakes and scorpions; shake out shoes and bedding
- Sun Protection: Use sunscreen, wear hats and sunglasses
- Flash Floods: Avoid washes during rain; check weather forecasts
Park Etiquette
- Quiet Hours: Observe 10 PM to 6 AM quiet time in campgrounds
- Leave No Trace: Pack out all trash; use designated fire rings
- Pet Rules: Keep pets leashed; clean up after them
- Trail Etiquette: Stay on designated paths; yield to uphill hikers
- Water Courtesy: Maintain safe speeds and distances when boating
Local Customs
- Conservation: Water is precious; use it sparingly
- Respect for Nature: Don’t collect plants, rocks, or artifacts
- Neighborly Camping: Respect others’ space and privacy
- Tribal Lands: Obtain permits before entering nearby reservation lands
- Local Businesses: Support small businesses in Parker and surrounding communities
Important Safety Note: Cell phone coverage can be spotty in the park, especially in canyon areas. Download maps and important information before your visit, and consider bringing a portable charger for emergencies. The nearest medical facilities are in Parker (23 km/14 miles) and Lake Havasu City (66 km/41 miles).
Visitor Comments About Buckskin Mountain State Park
“We loved camping at Buckskin Mountain State Park! The riverside campsites are absolutely worth the extra cost. Waking up to the sound of the Colorado River and watching the sunrise over the mountains was magical. The hiking trails were well-maintained and offered spectacular views. We even spotted desert bighorn sheep on the mountain slopes! The park was clean, and the staff were friendly and helpful.”
“As international travelers, we found Buckskin Mountain State Park to be a perfect introduction to the American Southwest. The contrast between the desert landscape and the blue river was stunning. We particularly enjoyed the River View Trail hike and cooling off in the river afterward. The campground facilities were excellent, with clean showers and helpful rangers who gave us great tips for exploring the area.”
“This was our third visit to Buckskin Mountain, and it never disappoints. We come for the boating and fishing but stay for the beautiful scenery and peaceful atmosphere. The campground is well-designed with plenty of space between sites. Pro tip: bring a good book from home or borrow one from the park’s lending library and spend an afternoon reading by the river. Pure bliss! We’ll definitely be back next year.”
Practical Travel Tips
What to Pack
- Plenty of water and refillable bottles
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, lightweight long-sleeved clothing)
- Sturdy hiking shoes and water shoes
- Binoculars for wildlife viewing
- Camera for capturing stunning landscapes
- Swimwear and quick-dry towels
- Insect repellent (especially for evenings)
- First aid kit with blister treatment
Money & Connectivity
- Park entrance fee: $10 per vehicle
- Camping fees: $35-$40 per night
- Cash is recommended as credit card machines can be unreliable
- ATMs available in Parker, not in the park
- Cell service is limited; Verizon tends to work best
- WiFi available near the park entrance ramada
- Download maps and information before arrival
Insider Tips
- Book riverside campsites well in advance (up to a year)
- Visit the Desert Bar on weekends (Oct-Apr) for a unique experience
- Bring a book or borrow one from the park’s lending library
- Stock up on groceries and supplies in Parker before arrival
- Weekdays are significantly less crowded than weekends
- Early morning and late afternoon offer the best lighting for photography
- Consider a day trip to Lake Havasu to see the London Bridge
Location & Map
Buckskin Mountain State Park is located at 5476 North Highway 95, Parker, AZ 85344, approximately 23 km (14 miles) north of Parker and 66 km (41 miles) south of Lake Havasu City.
Your Desert Oasis Awaits
Buckskin Mountain State Park represents the best of what Arizona has to offer—a harmonious blend of rugged desert beauty and refreshing waterfront recreation. Whether you’re hiking the scenic trails to panoramic overlooks, cooling off in the crystal-clear waters of the Colorado River, or simply relaxing at your campsite beneath the shade of a desert tree, this hidden gem delivers an authentic Southwestern experience that will leave you with lasting memories. As the sun sets behind the Buckskin Mountains, painting the sky and river in brilliant hues of orange and purple, you’ll understand why visitors return year after year to this perfect desert oasis. Pack your sense of adventure and prepare to discover one of Arizona’s most captivating state parks.
The above is subject to change.
Check back often to TRAVEL.COM for the latest travel tips and deals.
