This Stunning Mountain State Park In Arizona Is A Dream Destination For Hiking & Camping

Sitting along the Colorado River, just on the border between Arizona and California, is the stunning Buckskin Mountain State Park. This scenic spot is a lesser-known getaway destination that offers a mix of jaw-dropping mountain views, beautiful hiking trails, fun water activities, and great options for those looking for a desert camping spot. This park experiences year round sunshine and little rain, and with moderate temperatures during winter, it provides the perfect escape for those looking to get away from the cold.

The park sits on the Parker Strip, between Parker and Lake Havasu City, and is within a 30 minute drive of both of these destinations. It is located less than a two hour drive from the nearby Laughlin/Bullhead International Airport, which receives a handful of flights from across the country. Most visitors choose to fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, located around a three hour drive away. It's typically the airport of choice thanks to it seeing inbound flights from a wide range of destinations, and is often referred to as the friendliest airport in America.

Many visitors choose to drive into the park from nearby cities. It makes a perfect road trip destination from Phoenix, Las Vegas, or even Southern California. Being the perfect place to escape to for a weekend in the desert, it's a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. Buckskin Mountain State Park also offers convenient parking and campsites with RV hook ups, making it a top choice for those driving in with a camper.

Buckskin Mountain State Park is home to one of the most beautiful beaches in Arizona. This makes for a beautiful spot to relax, and there is a designated swimming area for those who prefer to spend their time in the water. For those looking to enjoy other water activities, non-motorized boating is permitted and the Colorado River is considered the No. 1 U.S. destination for an epic kayak adventure. For those interested in fishing, there's plenty of opportunities to catch bass, catfish and panfish.

If you prefer to spend your getaways on dry land, and hiking up mountains for great views, Buckskin Mountain State Park is a great choice for this too. The most popular trail is the Buckskin Trail, a short, 1.3-mile loop trail that takes less than an hour to complete. It's a popular choice thanks to its native vegetation, mountainous terrain, and stunning springtime wildflowers. Another rewarding trail, particularly for those interested in history and heritage, is the 0.6-mile (one way) Copper Mines Trail, where you can see a series of abandoned copper mines.

There's plenty of other great things to do in the area, including the ever popular River Island State Park. This second unit of Buckskin Mountain State Park is connected by a short, two minute drive, and is a must-see spot for those looking to explore additional hiking trails and quiet picnic spots. It provides a welcome respite from the crowds on weekends and holidays.

Buckskin Mountain State Park features 80 different campsites, with some right by the Colorado River. All campsites are well equipped, with a fire ring, barbecue grill, and a picnic table, making it super convenient for those camping with just a tent. While there is no maximum length of RV stays at most sites, riverfront sites are available on a first-come-first-serve basis for tent campers only, and are limited to a 14-night stay. Summer and early fall campers should take note that the park is currently under a temporary construction from July 7 to September 15, 2025, so campsites may be limited during this time (via the Arizona State Parks website).

For those looking to visit the park during the day and stay indoors nearby there is a selection of options not too far from Buckskin Mountain State Park. These include resorts such as the gorgeous Castle Rock Shores, located less than a 20 minute walk away, and the cheap and cheerful Harbour Inn, less than a five-minute drive away. Guests looking to stay in a nearby town can stay at one of the great chain hotels in Parker, or one of the sought after hotels and resorts in Lake Havasu City.

When planning your visit to Buckskin Mountain State Park, it's important to visit when temperatures are comfortable, rather than during the peak of summer. Fall through spring is the best time to visit, as the weather is typically warm, even during the winter season. It's also best to ensure you pack accordingly for the weather, so be sure to bring sunscreen, water shoes, hiking boots, and bug spray.