Buckskin Mountain State Park
Buckskin Mountain State Park is a riverside Arizona state park near Parker, Arizona, offering camping, hiking, and Colorado River recreation since 1967 — bring a tee that tells show your love for Arizona outdoors.
Who and What
Buckskin Mountain State Park is a public Arizona state park on the Colorado River, two miles below Parker Dam. The park includes a second developed area called the River Island Unit. It offers camping, boat launches, hiking trails, and shoreline access for anglers and paddlers.
When and Where
The park opened and was dedicated on October 29, 1967. It sits in La Paz County, along US Highway 95 near Parker, Arizona. The park covers roughly 1,677 acres and sits at about 420 feet elevation.
Why It Matters
Buckskin Mountain blends desert solitude with waterfront fun. The Colorado River’s Parker Strip creates an 18-mile playground for boating and fishing. Hikers find short, steep trails and longer loops that reveal river overlooks and old mine sites. The park connects visitors to local tribal history and the Colorado River Indian Tribes.
A Short History
State leaders identified the Buckskin area as a priority park site in the 1960s. The Bureau of Reclamation leased river lands to the state, and construction began in 1965. Over the 1970s and 1980s, campsites, boat services, and the River Island Unit were added. The park’s boundary changed in 1995 through agreements with federal agencies.
Buckskin Mountain: What to Do There
Campers can reserve sites with hookups and showers. Hikers can choose from the Lightning Bolt Trail, Buckskin Loop, and longer Buckskin Trail. Water lovers launch boats, paddle, swim, and fish for bass and catfish. Winter and spring are ideal for hiking; summer is for river play.
Cultural Relevance
The park sits near the Colorado River Indian Reservation. Visitors can learn about Mohave and Chemehuevi traditions at local museums and events. The landscape preserves both natural and cultural stories of Arizona’s west coast.
Pack This, Wear That
Bring sun protection, water, and sturdy shoes. Also bring a shirt that says you belong to this place. Arizona Addict apparel captures the desert’s grit and river calm. A comfortable Arizona Addict tee is perfect for trail photos, boat days, and campfire stories. It’s practical and makes a statement about loving Arizona outdoors.
Buckskin Mountain Quick Tips
Arrive early on holiday weekends. Respect tribal lands and seasonal conditions. Rent boats in Parker if you don’t bring one. Winter camping is mild and popular.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The park is open year-round; fees and passes vary by season and vehicle type. Check Arizona State Parks for current rates.
Yes. Both Buckskin and the River Island Unit provide boat ramps and shoreline access.
Pets are generally allowed but must be leashed. Confirm rules before visiting.
Late fall through spring offers cooler temperatures and wildflowers on the Buckskin Loop.
Parker and Lake Havasu City offer lodging and outfitters for river gear. Consider camping inside the park for waterfront views.