The best camping near Searchlight with wildlife watching

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South of Las Vegas near the California-Arizona border, Searchlight was once a mining town, but now attracts visitors with its proximity to Lake Mohave, Cottonwood Cove, and the Colorado River, which provides plenty of options for water recreation, including fishing, boating, and paddling. Nearby, Wee Thump Joshua Tree Wilderness and the Dead Mountains Wilderness Area both provide options for outdoor adventures on land. While camping options in Searchlight are limited to RV parks and overnight RV parking, tent, RV, and primitive camping options can be found in nearby parks, recreation, and wilderness areas.

88% (392)

Top-rated campgrounds

Vintage camper with full deck, hammock, and lounge chairs.

1. Retro Camper with Mountain Views

98%
(161)
38mi from Searchlight · 3 sites · Lodging · Jean, NV
Welcome to your peaceful, desert getaway. This little Retro Camper is only about 35 minutes from the Strip. The property is home to Joshua trees, desert mountain views, beautiful sunsets, and some of the best star gazing around. The camper comes with a full kitchen, a refrigerator, microwave, and gas stove. Dishes and utensils are provided as well as bedding and towels. The bed is about a full size bed, maybe a bit smaller, cozy for two people to sleep in. The camper comes with two space heaters and extra blankets for the winter, an overhead air conditioning unit for the summer. The shower has cold water only and is an outdoor shower. Check out our "Extras" to reserve firewood and a S'mores Kit to enjoy under the stars! Head across the street to the Pioneer Saloon for some great food and live music. Enjoy the beautiful scenery just outside of one of the biggest travel destinations in the USA! IG: @nvretrocamper
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$77
 / night
Mojave Desert Ranch

2. Mojave Desert Ranch

98%
(243)
45mi from Searchlight · 7 sites · Lodging · Sandy Valley, NV
We have a unique property with glamping accommodations located in Sandy Valley NV. One hour outside south Las Vegas off of US 15. We operate on a dude ranch with horseback riding, cattle drives and rodeo events ( When available ) Search Sandy Valley Ranch. Come stay at our beautiful desert hideaway. Enjoy the tranquility of the Mojave Desert and gaze at the sea of stars. We are near Death Valley, Tecopa hotsprings and GoodSprings home of the famous Pioneer Saloon.Enjoy the  activities offered on the ranch such as horse rides, cattle drives, rodeo's and cowboy games or just enjoy some quiet time going on hikes or a drink at the oldest Saloon in Nevada only 20 minuets away.  A portion of all proceeds go to:The Native Wellness Institute exists to promote the well-being of Native people through programs and trainings that embrace the teachings and traditions of our ancestors.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$130
 / night
Desert Mountain Base Camp

6. Desert Mountain Base Camp

41mi from Searchlight · 1 site · Tent, RV · Phoenix Lake, AZ
Embark on an unforgettable camping adventure at the base of Mount Tipton, where the rugged allure of the Arizona desert beckons. For the ultimate experience, we recommend a 4-wheel-drive vehicle to conquer the untamed, winding roads that lead you deep into the heart of this wild landscape. Picture yourself navigating dusty trails framed by towering cacti and dramatic rock formations, the open road stretching toward the horizon, where every twist and turn reveals the raw, untamed beauty of the desert—perfect for 4x4 exploration. Spanning 31,520 acres of pristine wilderness managed by the Arizona Bureau of Land Management, this haven invites you to hike through sprawling vistas, find solace in the shade of iconic Joshua trees, and lose yourself under a boundless desert sky ablaze with stars. The warm embrace of the desert air wraps around you as you gaze at constellations shimmering with unparalleled clarity, unmarred by city lights. Tailored for hikers of all skill levels, this adventure offers trails to suit every pace. Challenge yourself with a strenuous trek to Mount Tipton’s summit, where panoramic views reward your effort, or savor a leisurely stroll through the desert’s vibrant ecosystem, alive with unique flora and fauna. After a day of exploration, retreat to your spacious campsite, where the serene silence of the desert invites relaxation. As night falls, gather around a crackling campfire to share tales of your day’s adventures or tilt your head back to marvel at the Milky Way’s celestial glow. While there’s no swimming hole here, you can cool off with a refreshing splash of water or simply bask in the desert’s tranquil embrace. This is more than a trip—it’s a journey into the soul of the Arizona wilderness, where every moment feels like a love letter to nature’s grandeur.
Pets
from 
$24
 / night
Desert Style Living

7. Desert Style Living

91%
(16)
45mi from Searchlight · 13 sites · RVs · So Hi, AZ
Open flat land with some desert plants and cactus. Open fire pits with picnic tables for fun camping. Large pull thru spaces for a more open feeling. Close to BLM Land to ride your razors, or go to an open area to do some target shooting with your guns. Mountains to your reach, many gold mines to explore. 6 miles from Kingman or 20 miles to Laughlin Nv. 20 minutes to Oatman, an old gold mining town with wild donkey that roam the town. 2 miles to gas or convince stores. We are located in Golden Valley, a small recreation area for RVers and campers. Enjoy the flickering lights at night of Golden Valley, and look up to millions of stars. This place is a hidden secret to be explored!Learn more about this land:Stay on a beautiful two acre on our property. We will soon be putting septic and water on property you can run your quiet generators. Land is next to BLM land so the use of razors has 100s of acres of open land to ride on. Mountain views all around. Easy access in and out. Gun shooting area to practice at. Lots of Jack rabbits ,cotton tails, coyotes and cows. Close to shopping and gas approximately 2 miles from property. Closest neighbors are not too far away.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$15
 / night
Rollo Ranch

13. Rollo Ranch

39mi from Searchlight · 12 sites · RVs · Chloride, AZ
Primitive camping! This 2 acre property is on flat, open, desert terrain and is accessed off road, so please be sure your RV or vehicle can drive off road. Located off I-40 ( old Route 66 ) in Holbrook, Arizona. No power, toilet, water, or sewage. You will need to drive ~1 mile or so off road to get to the provided coordinates.Just 49 miles away you have Castle Mountains National Park. You'll need a high-clearance, 4WD vehicle to get into this extremely remote national monument in the eastern Mojave Desert. Accessible only by dirt roads, Castle Mountains is surrounded on three sides by the Mojave National Preserve. It's the northernmost of the desert region's three new national monuments designated by the President in 2016. This park in northeastern San Bernardino County protects 20,920 acres, located between the interstates I−15 and I−40. There are no facilities, developed campgrounds, or established trails within the monument. Backcountry camping is allowed. Castle Peaks is one of the stars here—a cluster of imposing spires that climb skyward. The peaks are composed mainly of volcanic tuff, and the deep erosion of the rocks has created distinct, sharp summits. You're also rewarded for your efforts to get here by lush grasslands, Joshua tree forests, mountain vistas, and abundant wildlife. The rugged Mojave Desert is home to mountain lions, bighorn sheep, golden eagles, coyotes, and bobcats. Castle Mountains National Monument is always open, but the best times to come are spring and fall. March and April are peak times. The spring rains turn the desert into a carpet of vivid, vibrant wildflowers. Summers are very hot, with daytime temps in excess of 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
Pets
from 
$16
 / night
Joshua Tree Overlook

14. Joshua Tree Overlook

42mi from Searchlight · 1 site · Tent, RV · Dolan Springs, AZ
Discover a rare desert land offering with expansive views, abundant sky, and boundless potential. This 1.25-acre property in Mohave County, Arizona, provides a unique combination of seclusion and accessibility, situated just 1.5 hours south of Las Vegas, within an hour of Lake Mead, and 45 minutes from Grand Canyon West. The land borders 480 acres of Bureau of Land Management terrain, creating a vast backdrop of open space. Here, you’ll find opportunities for exploration and quiet reflection, whether it is walking desert trails, observing native wildlife, or simply experiencing the brilliance of a star-filled night sky. The environment is shaped by iconic vegetation such as Joshua trees, cholla, and prickly pear, along with rugged terrain that reflects the dramatic beauty of the American Southwest. This is more than a property. It is a canvas: a place to imagine, design, retreat, observe, and create. The expansive setting invites those who value space, privacy, and the freedom to shape their own experience. Morning sunrises over Mount Tipton, long afternoons under desert skies, and evenings surrounded by silence and stars provide the rhythm of life here. While the property is not currently listed for public bookings, private access or future opportunities may be available upon discussion. It is being presented for consideration by enthusiasts, creators, and investors who see potential in the desert horizon. Whether envisioned as a personal retreat, a gathering space, or an innovative project site, this land offers a foundation for possibility. If you are drawn to landscapes that inspire and locations that leave room for vision, this property stands ready. Please reach out to learn more and to explore how it may align with your goals.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$25
 / night
Katherine Landing Marina

15. Katherine Landing Marina

27mi from Searchlight · 26 sites · Bullhead City, AZ
Katherine Landing Marina at Lake Mohave is a unique destination that combines breathtaking desert landscapes with the vibrant blue waters of the lake, making it a true oasis for outdoor enthusiasts. This stunning location offers an array of water sports that attract visitors from around the globe, including world-class boating, wakeboarding, water skiing, kayaking, scuba diving, and fishing for largemouth, smallmouth, and striper species. At Katherine Landing, guests can take advantage of a variety of amenities designed to enhance their experience. The marina provides boat and water sports rentals, comfortable lodging options, and camping facilities. Visitors can also enjoy dining at nearby restaurants, shop at the fully stocked marina store, and access essential services like a fuel dock and boat repairs. Whether you're seeking adventure on the water or simply want to relax amidst the natural beauty of the Arizona desert, Katherine Landing Marina offers an unforgettable experience. Discover why this water sports paradise continues to draw guests year after year, providing the perfect backdrop for both relaxation and adventure.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets

South of Las Vegas near the California-Arizona border, Searchlight was once a mining town, but now attracts visitors with its proximity to Lake Mohave, Cottonwood Cove, and the Colorado River, which provides plenty of options for water recreation, including fishing, boating, and paddling. Nearby, Wee Thump Joshua Tree Wilderness and the Dead Mountains Wilderness Area both provide options for outdoor adventures on land. While camping options in Searchlight are limited to RV parks and overnight RV parking, tent, RV, and primitive camping options can be found in nearby parks, recreation, and wilderness areas.

88% (392)

Top-rated campgrounds

Vintage camper with full deck, hammock, and lounge chairs.

1. Retro Camper with Mountain Views

98%
(161)
38mi from Searchlight · 3 sites · Lodging · Jean, NV
Welcome to your peaceful, desert getaway. This little Retro Camper is only about 35 minutes from the Strip. The property is home to Joshua trees, desert mountain views, beautiful sunsets, and some of the best star gazing around. The camper comes with a full kitchen, a refrigerator, microwave, and gas stove. Dishes and utensils are provided as well as bedding and towels. The bed is about a full size bed, maybe a bit smaller, cozy for two people to sleep in. The camper comes with two space heaters and extra blankets for the winter, an overhead air conditioning unit for the summer. The shower has cold water only and is an outdoor shower. Check out our "Extras" to reserve firewood and a S'mores Kit to enjoy under the stars! Head across the street to the Pioneer Saloon for some great food and live music. Enjoy the beautiful scenery just outside of one of the biggest travel destinations in the USA! IG: @nvretrocamper
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$77
 / night
Mojave Desert Ranch

2. Mojave Desert Ranch

98%
(243)
45mi from Searchlight · 7 sites · Lodging · Sandy Valley, NV
We have a unique property with glamping accommodations located in Sandy Valley NV. One hour outside south Las Vegas off of US 15. We operate on a dude ranch with horseback riding, cattle drives and rodeo events ( When available ) Search Sandy Valley Ranch. Come stay at our beautiful desert hideaway. Enjoy the tranquility of the Mojave Desert and gaze at the sea of stars. We are near Death Valley, Tecopa hotsprings and GoodSprings home of the famous Pioneer Saloon.Enjoy the  activities offered on the ranch such as horse rides, cattle drives, rodeo's and cowboy games or just enjoy some quiet time going on hikes or a drink at the oldest Saloon in Nevada only 20 minuets away.  A portion of all proceeds go to:The Native Wellness Institute exists to promote the well-being of Native people through programs and trainings that embrace the teachings and traditions of our ancestors.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$130
 / night
Desert Mountain Base Camp

6. Desert Mountain Base Camp

41mi from Searchlight · 1 site · Tent, RV · Phoenix Lake, AZ
Embark on an unforgettable camping adventure at the base of Mount Tipton, where the rugged allure of the Arizona desert beckons. For the ultimate experience, we recommend a 4-wheel-drive vehicle to conquer the untamed, winding roads that lead you deep into the heart of this wild landscape. Picture yourself navigating dusty trails framed by towering cacti and dramatic rock formations, the open road stretching toward the horizon, where every twist and turn reveals the raw, untamed beauty of the desert—perfect for 4x4 exploration. Spanning 31,520 acres of pristine wilderness managed by the Arizona Bureau of Land Management, this haven invites you to hike through sprawling vistas, find solace in the shade of iconic Joshua trees, and lose yourself under a boundless desert sky ablaze with stars. The warm embrace of the desert air wraps around you as you gaze at constellations shimmering with unparalleled clarity, unmarred by city lights. Tailored for hikers of all skill levels, this adventure offers trails to suit every pace. Challenge yourself with a strenuous trek to Mount Tipton’s summit, where panoramic views reward your effort, or savor a leisurely stroll through the desert’s vibrant ecosystem, alive with unique flora and fauna. After a day of exploration, retreat to your spacious campsite, where the serene silence of the desert invites relaxation. As night falls, gather around a crackling campfire to share tales of your day’s adventures or tilt your head back to marvel at the Milky Way’s celestial glow. While there’s no swimming hole here, you can cool off with a refreshing splash of water or simply bask in the desert’s tranquil embrace. This is more than a trip—it’s a journey into the soul of the Arizona wilderness, where every moment feels like a love letter to nature’s grandeur.
Pets
from 
$24
 / night
Desert Style Living

7. Desert Style Living

91%
(16)
45mi from Searchlight · 13 sites · RVs · So Hi, AZ
Open flat land with some desert plants and cactus. Open fire pits with picnic tables for fun camping. Large pull thru spaces for a more open feeling. Close to BLM Land to ride your razors, or go to an open area to do some target shooting with your guns. Mountains to your reach, many gold mines to explore. 6 miles from Kingman or 20 miles to Laughlin Nv. 20 minutes to Oatman, an old gold mining town with wild donkey that roam the town. 2 miles to gas or convince stores. We are located in Golden Valley, a small recreation area for RVers and campers. Enjoy the flickering lights at night of Golden Valley, and look up to millions of stars. This place is a hidden secret to be explored!Learn more about this land:Stay on a beautiful two acre on our property. We will soon be putting septic and water on property you can run your quiet generators. Land is next to BLM land so the use of razors has 100s of acres of open land to ride on. Mountain views all around. Easy access in and out. Gun shooting area to practice at. Lots of Jack rabbits ,cotton tails, coyotes and cows. Close to shopping and gas approximately 2 miles from property. Closest neighbors are not too far away.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$15
 / night
Rollo Ranch

13. Rollo Ranch

39mi from Searchlight · 12 sites · RVs · Chloride, AZ
Primitive camping! This 2 acre property is on flat, open, desert terrain and is accessed off road, so please be sure your RV or vehicle can drive off road. Located off I-40 ( old Route 66 ) in Holbrook, Arizona. No power, toilet, water, or sewage. You will need to drive ~1 mile or so off road to get to the provided coordinates.Just 49 miles away you have Castle Mountains National Park. You'll need a high-clearance, 4WD vehicle to get into this extremely remote national monument in the eastern Mojave Desert. Accessible only by dirt roads, Castle Mountains is surrounded on three sides by the Mojave National Preserve. It's the northernmost of the desert region's three new national monuments designated by the President in 2016. This park in northeastern San Bernardino County protects 20,920 acres, located between the interstates I−15 and I−40. There are no facilities, developed campgrounds, or established trails within the monument. Backcountry camping is allowed. Castle Peaks is one of the stars here—a cluster of imposing spires that climb skyward. The peaks are composed mainly of volcanic tuff, and the deep erosion of the rocks has created distinct, sharp summits. You're also rewarded for your efforts to get here by lush grasslands, Joshua tree forests, mountain vistas, and abundant wildlife. The rugged Mojave Desert is home to mountain lions, bighorn sheep, golden eagles, coyotes, and bobcats. Castle Mountains National Monument is always open, but the best times to come are spring and fall. March and April are peak times. The spring rains turn the desert into a carpet of vivid, vibrant wildflowers. Summers are very hot, with daytime temps in excess of 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
Pets
from 
$16
 / night
Joshua Tree Overlook

14. Joshua Tree Overlook

42mi from Searchlight · 1 site · Tent, RV · Dolan Springs, AZ
Discover a rare desert land offering with expansive views, abundant sky, and boundless potential. This 1.25-acre property in Mohave County, Arizona, provides a unique combination of seclusion and accessibility, situated just 1.5 hours south of Las Vegas, within an hour of Lake Mead, and 45 minutes from Grand Canyon West. The land borders 480 acres of Bureau of Land Management terrain, creating a vast backdrop of open space. Here, you’ll find opportunities for exploration and quiet reflection, whether it is walking desert trails, observing native wildlife, or simply experiencing the brilliance of a star-filled night sky. The environment is shaped by iconic vegetation such as Joshua trees, cholla, and prickly pear, along with rugged terrain that reflects the dramatic beauty of the American Southwest. This is more than a property. It is a canvas: a place to imagine, design, retreat, observe, and create. The expansive setting invites those who value space, privacy, and the freedom to shape their own experience. Morning sunrises over Mount Tipton, long afternoons under desert skies, and evenings surrounded by silence and stars provide the rhythm of life here. While the property is not currently listed for public bookings, private access or future opportunities may be available upon discussion. It is being presented for consideration by enthusiasts, creators, and investors who see potential in the desert horizon. Whether envisioned as a personal retreat, a gathering space, or an innovative project site, this land offers a foundation for possibility. If you are drawn to landscapes that inspire and locations that leave room for vision, this property stands ready. Please reach out to learn more and to explore how it may align with your goals.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$25
 / night
Katherine Landing Marina

15. Katherine Landing Marina

27mi from Searchlight · 26 sites · Bullhead City, AZ
Katherine Landing Marina at Lake Mohave is a unique destination that combines breathtaking desert landscapes with the vibrant blue waters of the lake, making it a true oasis for outdoor enthusiasts. This stunning location offers an array of water sports that attract visitors from around the globe, including world-class boating, wakeboarding, water skiing, kayaking, scuba diving, and fishing for largemouth, smallmouth, and striper species. At Katherine Landing, guests can take advantage of a variety of amenities designed to enhance their experience. The marina provides boat and water sports rentals, comfortable lodging options, and camping facilities. Visitors can also enjoy dining at nearby restaurants, shop at the fully stocked marina store, and access essential services like a fuel dock and boat repairs. Whether you're seeking adventure on the water or simply want to relax amidst the natural beauty of the Arizona desert, Katherine Landing Marina offers an unforgettable experience. Discover why this water sports paradise continues to draw guests year after year, providing the perfect backdrop for both relaxation and adventure.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best camping near Searchlight with wildlife watching guide

Where to go

Lake Mead National Recreation Area

Lake Mead National Recreation Area offers 1.5 million acres of mountains, canyons and two lakes, Lake Mohave and Lake Mead. Lake Mohave and Cottonwood Cove is the closest to Laughlin and offers 200 miles of shoreline, and hundreds of secluded coves, along with hiking and biking trails. More than a dozen campgrounds offer some 900 tents and RV sites, along with vehicle, horseback, shoreline, and backcountry camping options.

California and Mojave National Preserve

Just over the California border, north of Needles, the mountains and deserts of Dead Mountains Wilderness offer options for primitive camping, hiking, horseback riding, rock hounding, and hunting. Further east, the Mojave National Preserve offers a vast open land with dramatic terrain of sand dunes, canyons, mountains, and Joshua tree forests, along with three developed campgrounds and plenty of backcountry for dispersed camping.

Arizona

RV parks can be found across the Colorado River on the Arizona side at Bullhead City. Campgrounds can also be found along Lake Mohave at Katherine Landing. At Moabi Regional Park, along the Colorado River at the California and Arizona state line, dispersed and developed campsites are available, along with fishing, hiking, boating, and off-roading. Further south, camping can be found at Lake Havasu State Park, near Lake Havasu City

When to go

Searchlight’s location in the desert of southern Nevada means hot summers with soaring temperatures, making outdoor activities other than water play a bit dangerous. Spring and fall offer the best weather for outdoor recreation, including camping. The best time for largemouth bass is between March and June, striped bass is between April and November, and rainbow trout is between November and March.